.png&w=1920&q=75)
M-TECH in Vlsi And Embedded System at B. S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology
Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is VLSI and Embedded System at B. S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology Chengalpattu?
This M.Tech VLSI Design and Embedded Systems program at B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology focuses on equipping students with advanced knowledge and practical skills in the design, analysis, and implementation of very large scale integrated circuits and embedded systems. With India''''s rapidly growing electronics manufacturing and design sector, this specialization is highly relevant, addressing the increasing demand for skilled engineers in semiconductor industries and product development. The program integrates theoretical foundations with hands-on lab experience, preparing graduates for complex engineering challenges in a competitive global market.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for engineering graduates, particularly those with a B.E./B.Tech in ECE, EEE, EIE, CSE, or IT, who aspire to build a career in the cutting-edge fields of semiconductor design, embedded product development, and related research. It also caters to working professionals seeking to upskill in areas like ASIC/FPGA design, real-time operating systems, and IoT, crucial for advancing their careers in the rapidly evolving electronics industry in India. Prior knowledge in digital electronics and microprocessors is beneficial but the curriculum is structured to build expertise progressively.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to secure rewarding positions as VLSI Design Engineers, Embedded Software Engineers, ASIC Verification Engineers, FPGA Developers, and System Architects in leading Indian and multinational companies. Starting salaries for fresh graduates typically range from INR 6-12 LPA, with significant growth potential for experienced professionals, reaching INR 20+ LPA. The comprehensive curriculum, combined with project work, enhances problem-solving skills, making graduates highly competitive for roles in companies focusing on smart devices, automotive electronics, telecommunications, and defence sectors within India.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Digital & Embedded Fundamentals Base- (Semester 1-2)
Focus intensely on mastering core subjects like Advanced Digital System Design, Advanced Computer Architecture, and Advanced Embedded Systems. Utilize simulation tools like ModelSim, Xilinx Vivado, and Proteus for practical verification of theoretical concepts. Regularly solve complex logic design problems and participate in coding challenges on platforms like HackerRank focusing on C/C++ for embedded systems.
Tools & Resources
ModelSim, Xilinx Vivado, Proteus, HackerRank, GeeksforGeeks
Career Connection
A solid foundation is crucial for cracking technical interviews for VLSI and Embedded roles and for successfully tackling advanced projects.
Engage Actively in Lab Sessions and Mini-Projects- (Semester 1-2)
Go beyond prescribed lab exercises in Embedded Systems Design Lab and Advanced Digital System Design Lab. Experiment with different microcontroller boards (e.g., ARM Cortex, PIC) and FPGA kits. For the Mini Project with Seminar, choose a problem statement that integrates both VLSI and embedded aspects, and present your findings confidently. Document all your designs and implementations meticulously.
Tools & Resources
ARM Development Boards, FPGA Kits (e.g., Zynq, Spartan), GitHub for version control, LaTeX for documentation
Career Connection
Hands-on experience and project implementation skills are highly valued by recruiters, demonstrating practical problem-solving abilities.
Network and Participate in Technical Workshops- (Semester 1-2)
Attend webinars, workshops, and seminars organized by the department or external industry experts focusing on recent trends in VLSI, IoT, and embedded AI. Connect with faculty, senior students, and industry professionals. Join student chapters of relevant professional bodies like IEEE or IETE to expand your network and gain exposure to industry practices and emerging technologies.
Tools & Resources
IEEE Student Chapter, IETE Student Chapter, LinkedIn, Institute''''s Career Development Cell
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to internship opportunities, mentorship, and keeps you updated on industry expectations for future job roles.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into VLSI Design Tools and Methodologies- (Semester 3)
Explore advanced VLSI design concepts through electives like Low Power VLSI Design or Hardware Software Co-design. Gain proficiency in industry-standard EDA tools such as Cadence, Synopsys, or Mentor Graphics (if available through academic licenses) by undertaking small design projects. Focus on mastering HDL (Verilog/VHDL) for complex system design and verification.
Tools & Resources
Cadence Virtuoso, Synopsys VCS, Mentor Graphics QuestaSim, Verilog/VHDL programming
Career Connection
Expertise in industry-standard EDA tools is a mandatory skill for VLSI design and verification roles, setting you apart in the job market.
Undertake Industry-Relevant Projects and Internships- (Semester 3)
Actively seek out internships in semiconductor companies, embedded product development firms, or start-ups during your summer breaks. Align your Project Work - Phase I with industry needs, aiming to solve a real-world problem or contribute to an ongoing research initiative. Participate in hackathons focused on hardware design or embedded systems.
Tools & Resources
Industry internship portals, Institute''''s placement cell, Project guidance from faculty
Career Connection
Internships provide invaluable industry exposure, practical skills, and often lead to pre-placement offers, significantly boosting career prospects.
Cultivate Strong Problem-Solving and Communication Skills- (Semester 3)
Regularly participate in technical paper presentations and group discussions. Work on improving your presentation skills for your project seminars. Collaborate effectively with peers on group assignments and projects, learning to delegate tasks and manage timelines. Engage in critical thinking exercises to analyze and propose solutions for complex technical problems.
Tools & Resources
Toastmasters (if available), Presentation software, Peer group discussions, Technical journals
Career Connection
Strong communication and teamwork are essential soft skills for any engineering role, crucial for career progression and leadership opportunities.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Your Final Project and Thesis Submission- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant time and effort to Project Work - Phase II, aiming for innovative solutions and robust implementation. Ensure your project demonstrates deep understanding of VLSI and embedded principles. Meticulously document your entire research, design, implementation, and results in a high-quality thesis, adhering to academic and industry standards. Prepare thoroughly for the final viva-voce examination.
Tools & Resources
Research papers (IEEE Xplore, ACM Digital Library), Academic writing tools, EndNote/Mendeley for citations, Institute''''s library resources
Career Connection
A strong final project can be a showcase of your expertise to potential employers, and high-quality research can pave the way for future R&D roles or PhD studies.
Master Interview Skills and Placement Preparation- (Semester 4 and immediately post-graduation)
Begin rigorous preparation for technical interviews by revisiting core concepts, practicing coding and design questions specific to VLSI and embedded domains. Participate in mock interviews conducted by the placement cell or senior alumni. Prepare a compelling resume and portfolio highlighting your projects, skills, and achievements.
Tools & Resources
LeetCode, InterviewBit, GeeksforGeeks, Institute''''s placement cell, Alumni network
Career Connection
Targeted preparation for interviews is essential for securing placements in top companies, ensuring you convert opportunities into job offers.
Stay Updated with Emerging Technologies and Certifications- (Throughout and beyond the program)
Continuously monitor advancements in VLSI (e.g., FinFET, GAAFET), embedded AI, RISC-V architecture, and advanced IoT solutions. Consider pursuing relevant professional certifications from industry leaders (e.g., ARM Certified Engineer, Cadence Certified Professional) if your career path demands it. Read industry whitepapers and attend virtual conferences to stay at the forefront of technological innovation.
Tools & Resources
Coursera, edX, NPTEL for specialized courses, Industry whitepapers, Tech blogs (e.g., EE Times, SemiEngineering)
Career Connection
Staying updated and certified enhances your marketability, demonstrates proactive learning, and positions you for leadership and specialized roles in a rapidly changing industry.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.E. / B.Tech. Degree in ECE / EEE / EIE / Instrumentation and Control Engineering / Computer Science and Engineering / Information Technology / M.Sc. in Electronics and Instrumentation / M.Sc. (5 years integrated) or any other equivalent specialization as approved by AICTE/UGC. Entrance Examination (e.g., GATE) score / Entrance Examination conducted by the University.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 72 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50% (Theory), 60% (Practical), 50% (Project), External: 50% (Theory), 40% (Practical), 50% (Project)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VPD1101 | Advanced Digital System Design | Core | 3 | Minimization of Switching Functions, Combinational Logic Circuits, Sequential Logic Circuits, Synchronous Sequential Logic, Asynchronous Sequential Logic |
| VPD1102 | Advanced Computer Architecture | Core | 3 | Pipeline and ILP, Instruction Level Parallelism, Data Level Parallelism, Thread Level Parallelism, Multi-Core Architecture |
| VPD1103 | Advanced Embedded Systems | Core | 3 | Embedded System Design, ARM Architecture, Embedded Programming, Real-time Operating Systems, Embedded System Development |
| VPD1104 | Embedded Systems Design Laboratory | Lab | 2 | ARM Processor based System Design, RTOS Implementation, Interfacing with Peripherals, Embedded Linux Porting, Sensor Interfacing |
| VPD1105 | Advanced Digital System Design Laboratory | Lab | 2 | FPGA Design Flow, Verilog/VHDL for Combinational Logic, Verilog/VHDL for Sequential Logic, Synthesis and Simulation, ASIC Design Flow |
| MCD1101 | Research Methodology and IPR | Core | 3 | Research Problem Formulation, Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Data Analysis, Intellectual Property Rights |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VPD1201 | VLSI Design | Core | 3 | MOS Transistor Theory, CMOS Technology, Inverter Characteristics, Combinational MOS Logic, Sequential MOS Logic |
| VPD1202 | Microcontroller Architectures and Programming | Core | 3 | PIC Microcontroller Architecture, PIC Assembly Language, Peripherals and Interfacing, Interfacing with Sensors, Application Development |
| VPD1203 | VLSI Design Laboratory | Lab | 2 | CMOS Inverter Layout, Combinational Logic Layout, Sequential Logic Layout, DRC and LVS, Standard Cell Design |
| VPD1204 | Microcontroller and VLSI Laboratory | Lab | 2 | PIC Microcontroller Programming, Interfacing with LEDs/LCD, PWM Generation, UART/SPI Communication, FPGA Implementation of Microcontroller Peripherals |
| VPD1205 | Mini Project with Seminar | Project | 3 | Project Selection, Literature Survey, System Design, Implementation and Testing, Report Writing and Presentation |
| ELEC I | Programme Elective I (e.g., Digital VLSI Design) | Elective | 3 | MOSFET device physics, CMOS Inverter Static and Dynamic characteristics, Combinational and Sequential MOS Logic, VLSI Design Styles, CAD tools for VLSI |
| ELEC II | Programme Elective II (e.g., Low Power VLSI Design) | Elective | 3 | Power dissipation in CMOS, Low power design techniques, Supply voltage scaling, Design for testability, Power estimation and optimization |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VPD2101 | Project Work - Phase I | Project | 6 | Problem Identification, Literature Review, System Architecture Design, Methodology Development, Preliminary Results and Analysis |
| ELEC III | Programme Elective III (e.g., Hardware Software Co-design) | Elective | 3 | Co-design Introduction, Architectures for Co-design, Prototyping and Emulation, Compilation Techniques, Co-synthesis Algorithms |
| ELEC IV | Programme Elective IV (e.g., Internet of Things) | Elective | 3 | IoT Architecture, IoT Protocols, Sensing and Actuation, IoT Security, Cloud Platforms for IoT |
| GE I | Generic Elective I (e.g., Business Analytics) | Elective | 3 | Introduction to Business Analytics, Data Collection and Management, Predictive Analytics, Prescriptive Analytics, Big Data Analytics |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VPD2201 | Project Work - Phase II | Project | 18 | Detailed Design and Implementation, Advanced Testing and Debugging, Performance Analysis and Optimization, Documentation and Thesis Writing, Final Presentation and Viva-Voce |
