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M-TECH in Vlsi Design Embedded Systems at Cambridge Institute of Technology
Bengaluru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is VLSI Design & Embedded Systems at Cambridge Institute of Technology Bengaluru?
This M.Tech VLSI Design & Embedded Systems program at Cambridge Institute of Technology focuses on preparing highly skilled engineers for the rapidly expanding semiconductor and embedded systems industry in India. The curriculum integrates advanced concepts in microelectronics, digital system design, and real-time embedded programming, catering to the significant demand for experts in chip design, IoT, and smart devices within the Indian market. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical application, providing a strong base for innovation.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh engineering graduates (B.E./B.Tech) in ECE, EEE, CSE, or related fields who aspire to enter the core electronics sector. It also suits working professionals seeking to upskill in cutting-edge VLSI and embedded technologies, aiming for leadership roles or specialization in system-on-chip (SoC) design, firmware development, or IoT solutions. Candidates with a keen interest in hardware-software co-design and a strong analytical aptitude will thrive.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect promising career paths in leading Indian and multinational companies like Intel, Qualcomm, Texas Instruments, Wipro, and Samsung, working as VLSI Design Engineers, Embedded Software Developers, Verification Engineers, or IoT Architects. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 6-10 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The program also fosters entrepreneurship, aligning with India''''s ''''Make in India'''' initiative, and can lead to advanced research opportunities.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Digital and Analog Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant effort to understanding core concepts of VLSI design, advanced digital systems, and embedded programming. Utilize online platforms like NPTEL for supplementary learning and solve problems from standard textbooks regularly. Form study groups to discuss complex topics and clarify doubts.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses, N.P. Chandak''''s ''''Digital Design'''', Sedra & Smith''''s ''''Microelectronic Circuits'''', Online forums like Stack Overflow
Career Connection
A strong foundation is crucial for cracking technical interviews and excelling in advanced subjects and projects in semiconductor and embedded firms.
Hands-on Lab Proficiency in HDL and Microcontrollers- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in all lab sessions for VLSI Design and Advanced Embedded Systems. Beyond prescribed experiments, try to implement additional small projects or variations using Verilog/VHDL and ARM microcontrollers. Become highly proficient with industry-standard EDA tools.
Tools & Resources
Xilinx Vivado/ISE, Cadence Virtuoso, Keil uVision, Proteus, FPGA development boards
Career Connection
Practical skills are highly valued in the industry; demonstrable project experience in design and implementation leads to better internships and placements.
Build a Strong Mathematical & Analytical Base- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on developing strong analytical and problem-solving skills, particularly in areas like discrete mathematics, probability, and advanced algorithms. These are critical for understanding complex VLSI architectures, optimization techniques, and embedded system performance analysis. Practice GATE aptitude questions regularly.
Tools & Resources
Khan Academy, GeeksforGeeks for algorithms, GATE preparation materials
Career Connection
Essential for higher-level design roles, research positions, and competitive examinations for public sector undertakings or higher studies abroad.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Mini-Projects and Competitions- (Semester 3)
Beyond coursework, take up mini-projects individually or in teams, focusing on specific aspects like IoT device development, FPGA-based acceleration, or custom SoC design. Participate in national-level hackathons and technical competitions related to embedded systems or VLSI. Present your work in college fests.
Tools & Resources
Arduino/Raspberry Pi kits, Open-source EDA tools, IEEE Xplore for project ideas, Inter-college technical fests
Career Connection
These experiences build a project portfolio, demonstrate initiative, enhance problem-solving, and expose you to real-world challenges, boosting your resume for internships.
Network with Industry Professionals and Alumni- (Semester 3)
Attend workshops, seminars, and industry events (online and offline) to connect with professionals in VLSI and embedded domains. Actively use LinkedIn to connect with alumni working in your target companies and seek their guidance on career paths and industry trends.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, IEEE events, Industry conferences (e.g., VLSI Design India), College alumni network events
Career Connection
Networking often leads to internship opportunities, mentorship, and insights into job market demands, significantly improving placement prospects.
Deep Dive into Elective Specializations- (Semester 3)
Choose professional electives wisely, aligning them with your career interests (e.g., Low Power VLSI, AI for Embedded Systems). Beyond classes, self-study advanced topics in these areas using online courses and research papers. Aim to develop niche expertise.
Tools & Resources
Coursera/edX for specialized courses, Research papers on IEEE/ACM, NPTEL Advanced VLSI courses
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge makes you a more valuable candidate for specific roles and technologies that are high in demand within the Indian tech ecosystem.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Comprehensive Industry-Relevant Project- (Semester 3-4)
For your M.Tech project (Phase 1 & 2), select a problem statement that has strong industry relevance or research potential. Work closely with a faculty mentor, and if possible, collaborate with an industry partner. Focus on achieving tangible, demonstrable results and robust documentation.
Tools & Resources
Industry collaboration programs, Advanced EDA tools (e.g., Synopsys, Mentor Graphics), Research databases, GitHub for version control
Career Connection
A strong, well-executed final project is your most significant asset for placements, showcasing your comprehensive skills and ability to deliver complex solutions.
Master Interview Skills and Technical Aptitude- (Semester 3-4)
Practice technical questions specific to VLSI design (e.g., CMOS, digital logic, Verilog/VHDL) and embedded systems (e.g., RTOS, microcontrollers, data structures). Prepare for aptitude tests, group discussions, and HR rounds. Participate in mock interviews conducted by the college placement cell.
Tools & Resources
Interviewbit, LeetCode (for algorithm practice), Glassdoor for company-specific interview experiences, College placement cell workshops
Career Connection
Critical for converting interview opportunities into job offers, ensuring you can articulate your technical knowledge effectively and demonstrate problem-solving abilities.
Develop Soft Skills and Professional Ethics- (Semester 3-4)
Focus on improving communication, teamwork, and presentation skills through seminars, group projects, and technical presentations. Understand professional ethics, intellectual property rights, and responsible engineering practices. These non-technical skills are highly valued by employers for long-term career growth.
Tools & Resources
Toastmasters clubs (if available), Professional ethics courses, Presentation software (PowerPoint, Prezi), Team collaboration tools
Career Connection
Excellent soft skills distinguish you in the workplace, fostering better team collaboration, client interaction, and leadership potential, which are key for career progression in Indian IT/electronics firms.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.E./B.Tech in relevant branch of engineering / AMIE or equivalent qualification with minimum 50% aggregate marks (45% for SC/ST/Category-I candidates). Admission based on PGCET or GATE Score. GATE qualified candidates are preferred.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 78 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50% (CIE - Continuous Internal Evaluation), External: 50% (SEE - Semester End Examination)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22EVE11 | Advanced Embedded System | Core | 4 | Embedded System Components, Embedded Firmware, Real-time Operating Systems, Inter-process Communication, Embedded System Design Approaches |
| 22EVE12 | VLSI Design | Core | 4 | CMOS Logic Circuits, Inverter Characteristics, CMOS Process Technology, Circuit Characterization and Performance Estimation, VLSI Interconnects |
| 22EVE13 | Advanced Digital System Design | Core | 4 | Introduction to Digital System Design, Combinational Logic Design, Sequential Logic Design, Synchronous and Asynchronous Circuits, Hardware Description Languages (HDL) |
| 22EVE14X | Professional Elective - 1 (e.g., CMOS VLSI Design) | Elective | 3 | MOS Transistor Theory, CMOS Inverter Principles, Combinational MOS Logic, Sequential MOS Logic, Memory and Array Structures |
| 22EVE15 | Advanced Embedded System Lab | Lab | 2 | Embedded C Programming, Interfacing Peripherals, RTOS Task Management, Communication Protocols (SPI, I2C, UART), Microcontroller Programming (e.g., ARM Cortex) |
| 22EVE16 | VLSI Design Lab | Lab | 2 | Verilog HDL Programming, CMOS Inverter Design and Simulation, Combinational and Sequential Circuit Design, Physical Design Flow (Layout, DRC, LVS), FPGA Implementation |
| 22EVE17 | Technical Seminar - 1 | Project | 1 | Literature Survey, Technical Report Writing, Presentation Skills, Research Methodology, Domain-specific Topic Selection |
| 22EVE18 | Research Methodology and IPR | Core | 1 | Foundations of Research, Data Collection and Analysis, Research Report Writing, Intellectual Property Rights, Patents and Copyrights |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22EVE21 | Design of Analog and Mixed Mode VLSI Circuits | Core | 4 | Analog Design Fundamentals, CMOS Amplifiers, Current Mirrors and Bandgap References, Data Converters (ADC, DAC), Mixed-Signal Layout Considerations |
| 22EVE22 | Advanced Microcontrollers and Microprocessors | Core | 4 | ARM Processor Architecture, Instruction Set and Programming, Peripheral Interfacing, Memory Management, Embedded Operating Systems |
| 22EVE23 | Digital IC Design using HDL | Core | 4 | Verilog/VHDL Review, RTL Design for Synthesis, ASIC/FPGA Design Flow, Verification Methodologies, Design for Testability |
| 22EVE24X | Professional Elective - 2 (e.g., Low Power VLSI Design) | Elective | 3 | Power Dissipation in CMOS, Low-Power Design Techniques, Voltage and Frequency Scaling, Adiabatic Switching, Energy Recovery Techniques |
| 22EVE25X | Open Elective - 1 (e.g., Industrial Automation and Robotics) | Elective | 3 | Industrial Control Systems, Robotics Fundamentals, Sensors and Actuators, PLC Programming, Manufacturing Automation |
| 22EVE26 | Advanced Microcontrollers & Analog and Mixed-Mode Design Lab | Lab | 2 | Microcontroller Firmware Development, Analog Circuit Simulation, Mixed-Signal Circuit Design, PCB Design Considerations, FPGA-based Microcontroller Systems |
| 22EVE27 | Technical Seminar - 2 | Project | 1 | Advanced Literature Review, Problem Formulation, Methodology Development, Simulation and Prototyping, Advanced Technical Presentation |
| 22EVE28 | Mandatory Non-credit Course (Internship/Mini Project) | Mandatory | 0 | Industry Exposure, Practical Skill Application, Project Planning and Execution, Report Writing, Problem Solving |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22EVE31X | Professional Elective - 3 (e.g., VLSI Testing and Testability) | Elective | 3 | Fault Models, Test Generation for Combinational Circuits, Test Generation for Sequential Circuits, Built-In Self-Test (BIST), Boundary Scan |
| 22EVE32X | Professional Elective - 4 (e.g., Advanced Digital Signal Processing for VLSI) | Elective | 3 | DSP System Design, FIR/IIR Filter Design, Multi-rate Signal Processing, VLSI Architecture for DSP, Pipelining and Parallel Processing |
| 22EVE33 | Internship / Technical Seminar - 3 | Project | 4 | In-depth Industry Project, Advanced Research Problem, Systematic Literature Review, Experimental Design, Technical Report & Presentation |
| 22EVE34 | Project Work Phase - 1 | Project | 10 | Problem Identification, Literature Survey and Gap Analysis, Methodology and Design Specification, Simulation/Preliminary Implementation, Project Proposal and Planning |
| 22EVE35 | MOOCs / SWAYAM / NPTEL Course | Mandatory Non-credit (self-study) | 0 | Advanced Topics in VLSI, Embedded Systems Specializations, Latest Industry Technologies, Certification Training, Entrepreneurship Development |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22EVE41 | Project Work Phase - 2 | Project | 20 | Detailed Implementation and Testing, Performance Analysis and Optimization, Results and Discussion, Thesis Writing and Documentation, Final Project Defense |
