Appropriate Introduction of Computer Control to Mechanical Engineering Students

Introducing mechanical engineering (ME) students to microcomputer applications in data acquisition and control areas needs to be done appropriately. It would not be the type of training suitable for ME students if excessive hardware associated details are involved. This paper describes the development of a subject with such ‘appropriateness’ in mind. The subject, as an elective, has been welcomed and enthusiastically participated in by a larger percentage of the final year (i.e. fourth year) and postgraduate students during the last few years. This is in a way indicative that the approach taken is appropriate for ME students.