This approach to learning is embraced in the Digital Signal Processing area where students design, implement and test real-time DSP systems using industry standard equipment. Our current DSP boards are all in the Texas Instruments 6000-series. Our DSP lab is actively used and is quite popular with students.
Students design and implement numerous types of digital filters in the lab.
Design and analysis are accomplished with tools such as MatLab and DaDisp. We have 8 PCs outfitted with EVMs currently. A final project in the Senior-Level course is intended to bring to closure concepts involved in filter design and analysis. This project is also intended to give students an appreciation for how DSP modules can become part of a larger integrated system. In the final project, students must first perform spectral analyses of signals in order to define filter requirements.