6.331 Advanced Circuit Techniques (H) Analog Circuits in the REAL World (4.0--7.0--7.0) Lecturer: J.Roberge Response Rate: 11 out of 15 Next Term: not offered Difficulty: 6.0/7.0 Lecturer's Rating: 6.8/7.0 Overall Rating: 6.8/7.0 Prerequisites: 6.301, 6.302, 6.002, 6.012, lots of time Term Evaluated: Spring 94 6.331 is a graduate level analog electronics class. In it students design highly complicated, precision circuits such as A/D converters, D/A convert- ers, integrators, sample-and-holds, power amplifiers, etc. It assumes in- timate knowledge with feedback and control theory as well as the function- ing of op amps and such. The class teaches tricks and techniques for re- alizing these circuits in the real world. The professor and TA suggest that it be taken by motivated students who are willing to work hard and have a strong background in analog electronics. All students who took 6.331 praised it. They felt it was an incredible learn- ing experience. The class is challenging and informative. It has a large lab component; circuits are designed and built. Students say one should take this class if one really wants to learn how to design reliable, highly complex circuits. Prof. J. Roberge was universally praised by all of his students. He pre- sented interesting material in a clear and logical manner. Students were impressed by the breadth and depth of his knowledge. K. Lundberg, the TA and recitation instructor, was also highly praised. Stu- dents felt he was knowledgeable, available, concise, and thorough. A few students complained that he had a somewhat belligerent style. Others wished he would cover material that was more relevant to the problem sets. Problems sets were long and challenging. All students felt they were light on math and incredibly informative. Nevertheless with the amount of work in the class, some students felt the problem sets were extraneous. The labs in the class were also highly praised. Although the design projects are long, they helped teach the material thoroughly. Students felt lab space was sufficient. Some students wanted more recent data books available in lab. Overall students praised the lab section of the class highly. Most felt the design projects were among the best reasons to take the class. Students felt Roberge's book was a must. Most felt it was interesting. Some complained that is was very difficult to get a hold of. They suggested that it should be brought back in print. The grading was based on problem sets (30%), labs (30%), and design prob- lems (40%). The professor said that the class is basically A-centered. Those who stick with it through the term invariably do a tremendous amount of work and learn a great deal. Most students suggest that one should have a strong background in analog elec- tronics and a great deal of time before taking this class. If one is will- ing to give it the time it requires, it is very rewarding. ``This class is the zenith of the MIT EE curriculum.'' ``All of MIT should worship Roberge for his clear and interesting style.'' 1