Computer Engineering

Computer engineering incorporates many different fields of electrical engineering and computer science required to produce computer software and hardware. Computer engineering looks at how a computer system operates as well as how well it fits in with the bigger picture. Many computer engineers will get involved in the different areas of hardware and software computing aspects from the design of personal computers to complex circuit designs. Computer engineering is divided into two separate but equally important fields: software and hardware. Software engineers design and create computer programs for companies and it includes coding new applications to meet their requirements. Hardware engineers develop, design and test computer equipment and it can include anything from circuit boards to routers. Hardware engineers also update existing computer equipment to work with newer versions of computer software programs. Hardware engineers often work in research laboratories and some also work for the federal government while software engineers often work for large companies and create internal web sites known as intranets. Many large firms use computer engineering to maintain their computer systems and process the necessary updates when required to ensure their systems are up to date. These specialist engineers also test and create new computer packages to suit the individual business needs.