What is hardware engineering

Techopedia Terms. Connect with us. Sign up. Term of the Day. Best of Techopedia weekly. News and Special Offers occasional. Hardware Engineer. They develop computer systems and equipment such as circuit boards, routers, processors, and memory devices. Computer hardware engineers analyze complex equipment to determine the best way to improve it, and design new types of information technology devices.

Computer hardware engineer's duties include: - Designing computer hardware - Creating blueprints - Testing models of computer hardware - Analyzing test results - Modifying designs - Updating existing computer equipment - Working with software engineers - Overseeing manufacturing process.

They also explore the best way to implement the new changes. Here are the key differences between hardware and software engineering:. Most hardware engineers work in labs or manufacturing plants to develop, produce and troubleshoot computer parts such as circuit boards, hard drives, Central Processing Units CPUs and keyboards.

Hardware engineers may also travel to various businesses to assist with hardware installation and maintenance. Software engineers typically work in offices and spend most of their time on the computer designing and developing the virtual and interactive aspects of computer programs.

Hardware engineering work environments are likely to include computer parts, testing areas and production lines. Software engineers tend to work in offices with the screen as the main point of focus. Hardware and software engineers both need strong problem-solving, critical thinking and operations analysis skills to excel in their fields.

However, both jobs also require different, specific sets of skills to be successful. Both hardware and software engineers need at least a bachelor's degree to work in the field.

Most computer engineers get their degrees in computer science, software engineering, computer engineering or related fields. Employers also may seek out computer engineers with master's degrees, internship experience and additional training certifications to find the most qualified and knowledgeable candidates. Both hardware and software engineers need to be extremely comfortable with computer operations to be successful in the industry.

Both hardware and software engineering job duties require extensive knowledge about computers, technology, electronics and mathematics. However, software engineers are also required to know about customer service processes, sales, marketing and design. Computer hardware engineers usually work at large companies within the computer systems design industry or a related sector; however, some computer hardware engineers work for small companies or as freelancers.

Computer hardware engineering positions tend to cluster in major metropolitan areas like Seattle; Washington, D. These companies typically hire the most advanced engineers and pay them the highest salaries, as well. According to BLS , California employs a staggering 20, computer hardware engineers — over six times more than any other state.

Colorado, Maryland, Texas, and Florida also appear on the list of top five states for employing hardware engineers; only California made it onto the top-paying list, as well. Other top-paying states include Maryland, Washington, and Massachusetts. Hardware engineers in this industry must understand both software programming and hardware engineering, and they often make the most money. As they earn their degrees, aspiring computer hardware engineers usually put together portfolios of their work.

Most good computer hardware engineering and related degrees include portfolio-building, and as engineers progress through their careers, they can continue building this portfolio. Computer hardware engineers are lifetime learners by necessity because the technology world changes so rapidly. Sites like Code Academy and Khan Academy offer online courses on coding languages and other relevant topics for computer hardware engineers.

Professionals seeking upper-level positions working with a specific type of hardware may pursue certifications particular to that hardware, such as the Cisco certifications or IBM certifications described below. Many professional organizations also offer continuing education opportunities.

For example, the National Society of Professional Engineers offers an excellent array of education opportunities, including live educational events, exam preparation, and 15 free courses.

Recent computer hardware engineering graduates often face steep competition for entry-level jobs, but job-finding tools and strategies can help. Existing mentors and professional connections may offer a good first step.

Many professional organizations offer mentorship opportunities, plus networking events, conferences, and other career-building resources, such as job boards. These organizations also feature useful certification programs and other continuing education opportunities involving specific skills training or industry preparation, which can help qualify new graduates for entry-level positions. Khan Academy offers online learning in web development, data management, and other relevant professional skill sets for computer science and IT professionals.

This online academy offers free coding courses geared toward computer programming, data management, and web development. A general site featuring courses in many subjects, Study. Busy students and working professionals alike can turn to professional organizations for help with career advancement opportunities such as continuing education courses and programs, conferences, mentoring, and job-seeking resources. These organizations also keep professionals current on relevant news, innovations, and market trends, and the online communities available often enable networking and problem-solving help.

Discover the best online coding bootcamp programs of with our list of top-ranked programs. Find out what it will take to break into the growing career field. Bachelor's programs in computer science CS cover the theoretical and mathematical underpinnings of computing. Schools offer various degree titles, including bachelor of arts in computer science, bachelor of applied science A bachelor's in computer science can lead to careers in a variety of fields.

Check out our list of 's top computer science programs. Hardware Engineer September 27, ComputerScience. Are you ready to find a school that's aligned with your interests? Top Online Programs Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level.