Due to the advancement of many available integrated circuit (IC) packages for analog and digital circuits, the emphasis of electronics lab has shifted from the traditional lab manual, which described the procedures for the measurements of device characteristics and verifications of theoretical results by practical measurements. With the rapidly changing technology and the job descriptions of engineering graduates, the engineering curriculum is undergoing major changes in order to introduce specific life-long learning skills for survival in the rapidly changing professional environment.The mathematical derivations are kept minimum by using approximate circuit models of operational amplifiers, transistors, and diodes. However, the significance of these approximations are established by computer-aided analysis. Due to the complexity of electronic circuits, computer-aided simulation has also become an integral part of an assignment involving design, development, and analysis. For example, simulation is essential for evaluating the performance of a proposed circuit under various conditions and for making any adjustments in order to meet certain design specifications. A laboratory is the ideal place to verify the theoretical development and to understand the effects of practical limitations. Computer simulation cannot substitute the practical lab experience. It is very highly desirable to include open-ended labs to meet certain design requirements/specifications rather than traditional labs with lab procedures. The open-ended labs help students develop skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, reasoning, analysis, and evaluations. Since engineering often involves innovation or invention, creativity is very important.
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