Computer Hardware Engineers (commonly refered to as Computer Engineers) design, develop, implement, evaluate and maintain computer systems, and equipment that forms part of that system. In addition to design and development, computer hardware engineers may supervise the manufacturing and installation of all computer-related equipment.
The term hardware refers to all physical aspects of the computer, such as central processing units (CPU’s) computer chips, microprocessors, custom integrated circuits, and peripherals such as printers, disc drives scanners, keyboards, modems and related equipment. In some cases, they develop special purpose “embedded” products that use computer technology, for example, embedded computers are used in applications ranging from refrigeration equipment to car engines and aeroplanes.
Computer hardware engineering is a specialised field very closely linked to the field of electronics engineering. In South Africa most computer hardware engineers study electronics at university or a university of technology, with specialisation subjects in computers and computer-related equipment.
The rapid integration of mechanical and electronic systems means that all fields of engineering require some aspects of computer hardware knowledge. Computer hardware engineers are also required to have a strong all-round computer knowledge including some knowledge of support logic and programming. The rapid advances in computer technology are largely as a result of the research, development and design efforts of computer hardware engineers.
Consulting opportunities for computer hardware engineers tend to grow as businesses need help managing, upgrading and customising increasingly complex systems. Growth in embedded systems, a technology that uses computers to control other devices such as appliances or cell phones, will also increase the demand for computer hardware engineers.
Computer hardware engineers must have a 4-year degree in computer engineering or a related discipline such as electrical engineering. Some employers hire only computer hardware engineers who have a Master of Science (MSc) degree in electronic / electrical engineering. A doctoral degree in engineering is generally required for a career in research and development, or as a professor of engineering.
How to Enter
Schooling & School Subjects
Compulsory Subjects: Mathematics (if you intend studying IT degree at university)
Recommended subjects: Information Technology.
Additional:
- If you intend studying a degree or a diploma in IT at university then you need a matric with a Bachelor's pass or a Diploma pass.
- Meet the admission requirements (APS) set by the university.
- There are alternative routes into IT which do not require a Bachelor’s or a Diploma pass and which do not require Mathematics.
What to Study
Degree: BEng Computer Engineering - UP, NWU, or Electronic Engineering - most universities, e.g. NWU, UP, UJ, US, UKZN.
A person who has obtained a recognised BSc (Eng) or BEng degree is eligible for registration as Engineer in Training. After gaining at least 3 years of appropriate practical experience, a computer engineer may register as a Professional Engineer under the auspices of the Engineering Council of South Africa.
For Computer Scientists, Bachelor of Information Technology degrees are offered at some universities - RU, UCT, UWC, NMMU, UFS, Wits, US, UP, UNISA, UKZN, UJ. UZ, UFH, NWU, Monash.
The more theoretical majors lead to specialised work in computer science and programming.
Employment
- companies that supply and service computers
- government departments
- provincial administrations
- computer bureaus
- such companies as: Spoornet, Telkom, Denel
- universities and universities of technology
- any company or business using computer systems and networks
- self-employment, a registered engineer with the necessary experience and initiative, as consultant
Further Information
Computer Society of SA
ICT House
546 16th Road
Constantia Park [Unit No.3]
Midrand
Tel: (011) 315-1319
www.cssa.org.za
Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA)
1st Floor, Waterview Corner Building
2 Ernest Oppenheimer Avenue
Bruma Lake Office Park, Bruma
Johannesburg, 2198
Tel: (011) 607-9500
www.ecsa.co.za
Society for Professional Engineers
P O Box 78433
Sandton, 2146
Tel: 076 435 0892
The Director
Computer Users’ Council of South Africa
P O Box 1688
Halfway House, 1685
Tel: (011) 805-3151/2
Engineering News Magazine
www.engineeringnews.co.za
Project Management South Africa (PMSA)
PO Box 4328
Rivonia
Sandton, 2128
Tel: (011) 257-8003
https://www.projectmanagement.org.za/
Getting Started
- develop your mathematical, communication and computer skills
- arrange to take an aptitude test, to determine whether you have the necessary ability for this type of work
- speak to people in this field of work
- try to obtain vacation work in this field
