Courses Taken at Durham College

Semester I: FALL 2013

CAD 2136
Introduction to CAD
This foundation course focuses on topics related to the creation and interpretation of engineering drawings using
AutoCAD 2012 as a drawing tool. The content includes most topics related to the creation of a new product from
initial sketching to: detailed design definition in 2D and the creation of engineering drawing(s), detail and assembly,
including selection and creation of the necessary views, dimensioning, notes, and title block. Related topics and
concepts needed to complete drawings such as tolerancing and fasteners are visited.
The intent in this course is that the student will be able to produce a set of engineering drawings using a CAD
system that fully documents a design and can be used by the shop or trades personnel to implement the design.
COMP 1107
Computer Applications and Simulation
In this course, you will learn to design and test analog electronic circuits using the Multisim simulation software.
You will use the LabVIEW software to interface inputs, outputs and control a process. You will also learn to use
Microsoft Excel spreadsheet for technical applications, such as tables, calculations, graphing, and charts. You will
also learn about the Arduino Uno microcontroller and C programming. You will learn how to integrate Multisim,
MS Excel, MS Word documents into a formal technical report.
This course is configured as a 3 hour lab per week.
ELEC 1131
Electricity I
A one-semester course designed to educate the student in direct current electric circuit fundamentals. This course is
the foundation and prerequisite for multiple electrical and electronic courses, in your program of studies. The course
begins with the coverage of SI units, scientific notation, atom structure and electrical quantities. It proceeds with
Ohms law, electrical power, series, parallel and series-parallel circuits, which is the backbone of electric circuit
theory. The course concludes with an introduction to Magnetism/Electromagnetism, alternating current/voltage and
the mathematical analysis of sinusoidal waveforms.
This course has three hours of class time configured as one, one hour class, and one, two hours class as well as one
two hours lab per week.
MATH 1131
Mathematics for Technology I
The purpose of this course is to refresh and upgrade existing mathematical skills such as algebra, geometry,
trigonometry, and more. Emphasis is placed on developing problem solving techniques by applying these math
topics to related engineering problems. Portions of this course will be spent supporting the first year Physics course
PHYS 1131. It is configured as four one hour classes per week.
PHYS 1131
Physical Science Technology
This course introduces students to the concepts of kinematics, dynamics, gravity, work, energy, torque, power,
circular motion, fluid properties, temperature and heat through an extensive use of formulas to calculate various
physical quantities within these topics. As a result, the student gains the ability to perform algebraic manipulation,
using equations as tools for problem solving with the ability to specify the correct units for all calculations.
COMM 2113
Communication for Science & Technology
Todays employers give preference to job candidates who are team players with strong communication skills. This
course will help students find their voice and develop their ability to work in teams, giving them the competitive
advantage they need in todays job market. It will also strengthen reading comprehension, writing ability, and
presentation skills, all of which are fundamental to success in college and in the workplace.

Semester II: WINTER 2014

CAD 1133
CAD for Electronics
This course builds upon the generic computer aided drafting and design skills learned by the student in their
AutoCAD and Computer Applications courses in the first semester. This course consists of a single project where
the student creates from scratch a power supply unit that offers a fixed DC supply for digital applications and a
variable dual tracking supply for electronic applications. The activities include circuit simulation with Multisim,
Printed Circuit Board (PCB) design and layout with Eagle software and actual PCB production and electronic
project fabrication. The unit includes a digital voltage display and it serves well for students to use for performing
labs at home.
CIRD 1131
Digital Circuits I
This subject is made up of a 2 hours lecture and a 2 hours laboratory per week, so as to involve the student in both
the theoretical and practical applications of digital electronics. Emphasis will be placed on the practical application
of digital logic circuits. The TTL and CMOS type of logic families will be used and emphasized in the laboratory
component of the course. Topics will include analog and digital signals and their characteristics, the binary, BCD,
hexadecimal numbering systems, digital waveform timing, basic logic gates, Boolean algebra, and simplification of
combinational logic circuits such as binary adders, parity generation and parity check circuits and sequential circuits
such as Flip-flops including ripple counters. Basics of Microcontrollers will also be introduced.
CIRE 1131
Electronic Circuits I
In this course, you will learn the basics of Electronic circuits and devices. The course begins with the analysis of the
P-N junction, which is the foundation of most electronic devices. The course then proceeds with an in-depth analysis
of the diode, and its various circuit applications such as rectification, filtering, voltage regulation, voltage
multiplication, limiters, clampers and light-emitting diodes. Power supply regulators ICs are also introduced. You
will then study the basics of transistors, transistor biasing, and transistor amplifier configurations.
Throughout this course, the student is required to complete hands-on lab experiments to reinforce the theoretical
subject matter. Each student is required to submit a lab report in the proper format for each experiment assigned.
Electronic circuits will also be designed and tested using Multisim, the electronic simulation software.
This course is configured as 3 hours of lecture and 2 hours of lab per week.
ELEC 2131
Electricity II
This course is a continuation of Electricity I (ELEC 1131), which focused on DC fundamentals (series, parallel,
series-parallel and magnetism).
Electricity II begins with an introduction to the analysis of Capacitors and Inductors in DC and AC circuits. The
course proceeds with the study of Transformers, and AC RC and RL circuits. It concludes with the analysis of RLC
circuits, resonance and passive filters.
This course is configured as 3 hours of class and 2 hours of lab per week.
FLUD 1131
Fluid Power I
The use of fluid under pressure to transmit power and control motion are studied in this course. The principles of
fluid power are presented to relate the laws of physics to practical hydraulic control systems and applications. The
operation of various fluid power components (pumps, valves, actuators and system accessories) is covered in depth.
The fundamental concepts and basic skills necessary to develop a logical approach to the understanding and
troubleshooting of hydraulic control systems will be emphasized in this course.
MATH 2131
Mathematics for Technology II
This is the second of the two first year mathematics courses. Students develop problem solving skills by applying
topics of study to related practical problems. Topics of study include: quadratic equations; systems of linear
equations in two and three unknowns; trigonometric functions; exponents and radicals; direct and indirect variation;
complex numbers; sequences; exponents and logarithms; and analytical geometry. It is configured as four one hour
classes per week.

Semester III: FALL 2014

CIRD 2131
Digital Circuits II
This course is a continuation of CIRD 1131. Students gain a greater understanding of the principles and applications
of digital electronics through theory and practical applications. Topics include binary arithmetic including
complements for various arithmetic circuits: adder/ subtractor, BCD adders, and comparators; data circuits;
decoders, encoders, multiplexers and de-multiplexers; asynchronous and synchronous counters and their
applications in digital designs; data transfer circuits: shift registers; and data shaping circuits such as Schmitt trigger
to generate clock signals. Students will get to know how to design digital circuits from schematic diagrams, write
timing diagrams and apply their knowledge in designing complex digital circuits. Finally students will also learn
about advanced applications of microcontrollers and various troubleshooting techniques in digital design.
CIRE 2131
Electronic Circuits II
Electronic Circuits II is a continuation of Electronic Circuits I. Class A, B, AB, and C power amplifiers are
investigated to reveal their power efficiencies. The Field Effect Transistor (FET) and the MOSFETs (Metal Oxide
Field Effect Transistor) will be introduced; new parameters will be determined and different FET and MOSFET
biasing circuits such as self-bias, gate bias and voltage divider bias will be studied. Hence, different amplifier
configurations of common source, common drain, and common gate, will be presented.
Opto-electronic devices including photo cell, photo resistor, photo diode, photo transistor and opto-couplers will be
studied. The OP-AMP (Operational Amplifier) will be introduced. Thyristors (switching devices) such as SCR,
SUS, DIAC, TRIAC, and UJT will be covered.
Theoretical knowledge is integrated with lab exercises. Circuits are assembled and tested to observe whether they
comply with theoretical expectations.
This course is configured as 3 hours of lecture and a 2-hour lab per week. Electronic Circuit II uses the circuit
simulation software Multisim, the graphical programming development application LabVIEW and the Arduino
board for some lab applications.
CONT 3123
Industrial Controls I
Industrial Controls I is designed to educate the student in the theory of operation and practical implementation of
industrial control systems and PLC systems. Industrial electrical symbols, ladder diagrams, relays, motor starters,
human interface devices, industrial sensors, PLCs and motor control circuits will be covered in detail. The
laboratory component of this course provides practical experience with numerous control devices that can be
directly related to industrial control systems found in industry. This course is a prerequisite for Industrial Controls II.
A working knowledge of AutoCAD is a must! AutoCAD is used for documentation purposes throughout this course
and Industrial Controls II (CONT 3131) in semester 4.
FLUD 2132
Fluid Power II
This course provides the students with a practical working knowledge of pneumatic controls and the related
advanced systems that enhance pneumatic capabilities. Control devices most common in industry are studied and
used to develop basic control circuits through to more advanced PLC controlled systems. The course completes with
the integration of ladder logic code for programmable logic controllers and the pneumatic controls within the
electro-pneumatic systems.
MATH 3132
Calculus
This course covers topics relating to both differential and integral calculus. Throughout the course, emphasis is
placed on the student realizing that calculus offers a significantly different way of looking at many of the math
equations which describe the natural world. In differential calculus, this is achieved by investigating the significance
of the slope of a curve, primarily for algebraic expressions, and how this knowledge can help clarify the relationship
between variables such as distance, velocity and acceleration. In integral calculus, the significance of the area under
a curve is explored, in particular, its application to motion, areas, and volume problems.
MANF 1131
Manufacturing Sciences
This course introduces the student to a variety of conventional machining methods. The student will be exposed to
the theoretical and practical applications of conventional machining, including milling, layout, turning, drilling,
sheet metal fabrication, and grinding. Other topics essential to the above include safety, interpreting engineering
drawings, and measurement.

Semester IV: WINTER 2015

MECH 2103
Applied Mechanics
This course analyzes the static forces and moments that are created in a variety of structures due to externally
applied forces. Classroom examples will focus on problems commonly encountered within the industrial workplace
and problems will concentrate on static solutions where the body is both stationary and rigid. It is assumed that
students possess an understanding of algebra and trigonometry before attempting this subject and emphasis is placed
on a problem solving approach using mathematical and calculator methods combined with free body diagrams &
sketches.
CIRE 3131
Electronic Circuits III
Electronic Circuits III is a continuation of Electronics Circuits II. One of the most versatile and widely used
electronic devices in linear applications is introduced in this course, the operational amplifier or op-amp.
Different op-amps will be studied and given the data sheets of the component, its major characteristics including
open-loop gain, slew rate, input voltage range, input impedance, CMRR, input bias current, offset bias current, input
offset voltage and output impedance will be determined and compared to those of an ideal op-amp while evaluating
their impact on a circuit design.
Negative feedback op-amp circuits will be explained, analyzed and designed and many circuits such as analog
adders/ subtractors, constant current sources, current-to-voltage converters, voltage-to-current converters, phase
shifters, window detectors, instrumentation amplifiers, filters, oscillators and waveform generators will be designed
and troubleshooted.
The course is complemented by a lab program which will reinforce skills in electrical measurement and analysis of
observed data. The lab experiments will also allow the student to verify principles dealt with during the lecture
periods.
This course is configured as 2 hours of lecture and a 2-hour lab per week.
CONT 3131
Industrial Controls II
The course covers the theory of operation and practical implementation of three phase power, industrial control
systems and electric motors, as well as AC electronic drives and controls. A number of power electronic circuits are
covered in this area, such as three phase power rectification and pulse width modulated inverters. The student will
also program and integrate a commercially available AC adjustable frequency drive controller. The student is
required to integrate a PLC, operator controls, sensors, motors, electronic drives and other electrical components to
create a small scale automated system that includes a communications data link for data transfers. The theory
portion of this course is reinforced through practical laboratory experiments.
CONT 3141
Integrated Automation I
This is a one-semester course designed to further educate the student in numerous aspects of industrial automation.
The course builds upon the electric motors, industrial controls, AC drives and micro PLCs studied in Industrial
Controls I & II.
The course begins with an introduction to the hardware, programming, distributed I/O and networking architecture
of the Allen Bradley SLC 500 system. It continues with the hardware, programming and interfacing of humanmachine-interface (HMI) screens (PanelViews). Next an introduction to the hardware, programming and interfacing
of industrial robots (Fanuc) is provided. The course concludes with students programming and interfacing a
functional industrial work-cell using a SLC 5/04, PanelView touch screen, and industrial robot to create a simple
interactive automated work-cell. Theory classes will be re-enforced with practical laboratory experiments in each of
the three major subject areas.
COMM 2236
Technical Communication
Technical Communication is the art and science of making complex technical information accessible, usable and
relevant to most people in most settings. This course reinforces and expands on technical communication skills
introduced in first semester, which students will require in the workplace. Students will learn to select and use
appropriate research, language and layout for different technical documents, while further developing their written
and verbal communication skills and their ability to work in a team.

GNED 1403
Short History of the World
Become a more global citizen by exploring the world as one planet through the broad patterns of our shared human
history. Our past can reveal much about our present and future. Discover how the modern world was shaped, how
globalization is taking hold, and what wisdom this can bring to your life and career choices. This is our story the
human story. It is forward looking and thoroughly modern, an exciting and inspiring big-picture course that includes
a student-designed website, dynamic communications-driven assignments, and an engaging talk show feature that
brings the world to the classroom.

Semester V: FALL 2015

AUTO 1100
Automation Systems
A single semester course designed to introduce the student to a broader range of automation systems/ components.
This course shall be studied concurrently with, and is complementary to, Instrumentation & Controls I (CONT
5131). The course begins with an introduction to the programming, integration and networking of the ControlLogix
family of Programmable Automation Controllers (PAC) and RSLogix 5000. Followed by the configuration and
programming of the DeviceNet network with RSNetWorx for DeviceNet software. The course proceeds with the
integration and analysis of a bar code scanner, vision system and RFID tags. The course concludes with the
configuration and programming of a servo drive system interfaced to a PAC. The theory section of this course will
be re-enforced through practical laboratory experiments. Throughout the course, students will be required to design
the programs for, and integrate the components outlined above in an automated process/ work-cell.
COMP 4131
Computers and Networking I
The Computers and Networking 1 course provides Electronics, Electro-Mechanical and Biomedical Engineering
Technology students with the fundamental skills to install and maintain small computer networks. The course also
looks at integrating small computer devices into a network through the Raspberry Pi computer. The course starts
with the PC and uses hands-on labs to master installation, upgrading, maintenance and basic troubleshooting of
workstations. We then look at small computing/ mobile devices through an investigation of the Raspberry Pi. This
includes some coding to connect the SC system to the environment. The course then continues with networking the
workstations, design of small local area networks, installation and maintenance of a small network. The student will
also look at wireless technology and specific applications in Industrial, Commercial and Medical environments.
CONT 4101
Integrated Automation II
This course is designed to further educate students in the integration of robotics, Programmable Logic Controllers
(PLCs) and Human Machine Interfaces (HMIs). This course is a continuation of Integrated Automation I (CONT
3141) and focuses on more advanced integration and programming aspects of industrial automation systems.
Students will utilize multiple programming packages for PLCs, HMIs and robotics in our networked automation
laboratory. Throughout the course, students will study Robotics and PLC hardware, installation and configuration
procedures. Advanced PLC programming techniques include Shift Registers and Sequencer control for material
handling applications. This course concludes with an introduction to Ontarios Pre-start Health and Safety Review
(PHSR) process for automated machinery. The theory section of this course will be re-enforced through practical
design and integration based laboratory experiments.
CONT 5131
Instrumentation & Control I
This course builds upon the electrical, electronics, automation and motor controls knowledge obtained from
previous courses. It focuses upon industrial instrumentation and the measurement of temperature, pressure, level and
flow in a process. The course begins with an introduction to instrumentation, units, instrument characteristics, P&ID
symbols/ diagrams and the ISA. The course proceeds with an introduction to a Compact Logix PAC, Human
Machine Interface (HMI) and VFD/ pump using Ethernet control. The course continues with the analysis of
temperature, pressure, level and flow measurement methods, common industrial instruments and the related physics
/ math/ fluid dynamics. During this course, the student is routinely required to integrate a measuring instrument to
the analog I/O of a PLC and develop the necessary math calculations and software for the PLC and HMI to display
the measured value (process variable). RSLogix 5000 and Factory Talk view will be used to program the PLC, HMI
and VFD, with an Ethernet interface. Theory classes are re-enforced with practical laboratory experiements, in each
of the major subject areas, using an industrial grade instrumentation and process control training station.
Professional documentation of programs and supporting technical data is required for multiple lab reports
throughout the course.
MANF 3131
Manufacturing Processes
Students learn about the production of finished parts in metal and non-metal substances, and how planning a
manufactured product can affect the decision to use or not to use a particular process. Topics include casting and
forming, non-metallic materials, non-traditional machining process, manufacturing systems and automation,
production systems, and jigs and fixtures.

GNED 1129
Classical Philosophy
Classical philosophy has had profound influences on the way we think, reason and exchange ideas, how we develop
new ideas and refine old ones, and how we discover the world around us and conceive of our place in it. Students in
this course will engage in discussions of logic, ethics, theories of knowledge and reality, and theories of well-being
and the good. They will come to appreciate the basis of much of Western through, to understand how these issues
continue to offer intellectual challenges for contemporary thinkers, and to develop strong analytical skills honed
from having to critically evaluate their own beliefs in light of the arguments offered by classical philosophy.
Students will be evaluated using a combination of short assignments, essays, online-discussions and personal
reflections.

Semester VI: WINTER 2016

AUTO 2100
Automation Project
This course is dedicated to a student created project in automation control systems, which is the capstone project for
this program. Each student is required to concept, propose, design, program, commission, document and
demonstrate a functional automation project. Each independent project must program and integrate a PLC/PAC.
Industrial Robot, material handling system, human machine interface and automatic identification system, as a
minimum. The system must provide a user-friendly order-entry system utilizing industrial networks to perform an
automated flexible task. The student showcases and enhances their previously gained automation controls
knowledge by independently designing and delivering a unique project (compared to current classmates). Milestones
and progress demonstrations will be set to keep the student on track through several stages. The course begins with
each student creating a project proposal in accordance with guidelines provided by the professor. The project will
focus upon the programming and integration of multiple automation technologies in our fully functional lab facility.
Students are required to demonstrate their automation project two weeks before the end of the semester, allowing
ample time for final project documentation.
CAD 3000
CAD for Electrical Controls Design
A one-semester course designed to expose the electro-mechanical engineering technology student to the drawing
requirements of an electrical control system for an automated machine/system. The course builds upon the
automation controls and AutoCAD skills acquired in integrated automation I (CONT 3141) and CAD for Electronics
(CAD 1133). The course begins with an introduction to typical drawing packages for industrial automation systems.
Throughout the course the student will be required to produce the necessary electrical/ electronic and layout
AutoCAD drawings for a PLCE based automated control system. The students will learn how to create electrical
controls layouts. Motor power schematics, control power schematics, input schematics, output schematics, control
station layouts, control panel layouts and bills of material. The student will also be required to select the necessary
parts for the controls system from automation & industrial control catalogues.
MACH 3132
Dynamics of Machines
A single semester course that examines the dynamic nature of machine elements and mechanisms, including
gearing, belt drives, linkages, cams and balancing. Gearing parameters are highlighted from the view of geometrical
compatibility, speed ratios, and power characteristics. Common linkage mechanisms are analyzed graphically and
by theoretical formula to determine relative and absolute velocities and accelerations. Belt drives and cam/ follower
mechanisms are investigated both in terms of theoretical formulas and critical design parameters. A final topic on
dynamic balancing of rotary systems is discussed using graphical techniques.
PLAC 1100
Field Placement
Placement is considered an important part of a technician/ technologists education, and students are required to
obtain a minimum of 80 hours on the job placement in their chosen field and 5 hours of required workshops. There
is no formal set of topics of instruction for placement but it must provide the student with practical experience in
their chosen field.
Students must be registered in PLAC 1100 before starting their placement.
Students must also be entering their final year of studies with a GPA of 2.0 or greater in order to be eligible.
Each placement will be different as there will be a variety of organizations participating.
Students may achieve their placement requirement in various ways by completing one of the following:
1. A summer position after second year related to their field of study if they have completed the safety
components and have registered into the course.
2. Working one day a week during the fall and or winter academic school year.
3. Working during a block period of time such as the Christmas break, Reading week or in May after all
Course work is completed.
4. Applying for a prior work experience with proper approval and documentation.
5. Other options agreed upon by student and employer with approval of placement coordinator.
Placement is approached as an actual job, with students attending interviews and being selected for positions by the
employer. A satisfactory completion is mandatory in order to graduate from Durham College. Placement
opportunities may be paid or unpaid. Students are encouraged to work with their Placement coordinator to seek
placement opportunities.

CONT 5131
Instrumentation & Control II
This course is a continuation of Instrumentation and Control I (CONT 5131). It begins with the analysis of common
flow measurement devices and centrifugal pumps. It proceeds with an introduction to digital trend recorders, process
graphing and an analysis of the dynamic characteristics of a process. It continues with the various control schemes
and tuning concepts that are typically employed in an industrial process; followed by an introduction to open and
closed loop control, process dynamics, control strategies, terminology and process tuning concepts. Final Control
elements are discussed and analyzed followed by the coverage of feedback control methods such as On/off,
Proportional, Integral and Derivative. The course proceeds with various tuning methods using an industrial process
controller and a PAC. It concludes with the introduction of Cascade, feed forward, limit and override controls.
Theory classes are re-enforced with practical laboratory experiments in each of the major topics, using an industrial
grade instrumentation and process control training system. The student is routinely required to extract dynamic data
from a process, connect, program, tune, analyze and demonstrate the operation of various process control strategies
utilizing a digital chart recorder, a PAC/HMI and a dedicated process controller, commonly found in industry.
RSLogix 5000 and Factory Talk will be used to program and interface the PAC/HMI/VFD. A Honeywell process
controller and associated software is also utilized to program and tune the dedicated process controller. Professional
documentation of programs and supporting technical data is required for multiple lab reports throughout the course.
SCAD 6100
SCADA
A one-semester course designed to educate the student in numerous aspects of Industrial Supervisory Control and
Data Acquisition systems. The course builds upon the Industrial Controls, AC drives and Allen-Bradley PACs and
PACs learned in Industrial Controls I, & II, and Integrated Automation I and concurrently with IA II. The course
begins with an introduction to the philosophy and programming of the SCADA system using Wonderware software.
It continues with the design, programming and interfacing of the virtual SCADA system. It then proceeds with an
introduction to conversion process of existing systems. The course concludes with the student programming and
interfacing a working SCADA application with Control Logix processors, controlling and supervising various
industrial situations. Theory classes will be reinforced with practical laboratory experiments in each of the subject
areas. It concludes with a mandatory project. This course is a final semester element stemming from and running
concurrently with Integrated Automation Controls II, which continues with advanced PACs, robotics and work-cell
integration.
COMM 2232
Communications for Career Development
The goal of this course is two-fold. Primarily it assists students in developing a well-planned and organized job
search plan. In order to accomplish this, students develop professional cover letters, resumes, portfolios and career
action plans. The second goal of this course is to introduce students to subject matter which will assist them to meet
todays workforce challenges. An introduction of Organizational Behaviour is explored including; Understanding
and working with management to attain company and career goals, working and communicating in a team
environment, functioning and managing stress in todays workplace and understanding why organizational change
and development take place.
GNED 1213
The Heros Journey: Frodo, Luke and Harry
This course will examine the timeless and enduring theme of the heros journey as expressed in The Hobbit/Lord of
the Rings, Star Wars, and Harry Potter series. What is it about this narrative that continues to draw our

imagination? What are its roots in ancient mythology and legend? What is the impact of the
visualization capabilities of film on our experience of these stories? These questions will be examined
through an exploration legend, literature, and film. Familiarity with the stories of these three narratives
(through books and/or movies) will be assumed the course will not require the student to read all the
books. However, students will compare one of the books to the film version in relation to one aspect of
the works under study, so at least one book must be read during the course.