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ECE 2524 - Introduction to UNIX for Engineers (2C)

Course Description

Fundamental concepts of operating systems, emphasizing a hands-on introduction to UNIX. User interfaces, UNIX shell commands, the UNIX file system, task management, common system utilities, the UNIX programming environment. Students gain experience with system installation and administration. Duplicates CS 2204.

Why take this course?

The UNIX operating system is a common platform in industry and is used by many research organizations. It is important for Computer Engineering students to have a working knowledge of UNIX systems. The concepts taught in this course are required for subsequent courses in the Computer Engineering curriculum. The course occurs at the 2000 level because it requires a first-semester sophomore-level course (2574) as its prerequisite.

Learning Objectives

  • answer questions relating to the operation and use of multi-user, multi-process operating systems such as UNIX
  • use UNIX as a general working environment, including file management, application use, and network access
  • demonstrate an ability to compile programs in a UNIX environment, and to use commonly available software tools including compilers, editors, utilities, and scripting languages
  • apply basic system administration skills relating to user account creation and management, file system management, and network connection management

    • Resources & Links

    Two-Semester Major Design Experience

    ECE’s two-semester Major Design Experience (ECE 4805-4806) provides teams of students with simulations of the post-college world via projects specified and directed by industry partners. For more information, contact class instructor, Dr. Joe Adams.

    Textbook List

    Take a look at the Fall 2024 ECE textbook list.
    Take a look at the Spring 2025 ECE textbook list.

    Current Prerequisites & Course Offering

    For current prerequisites for a particular course, and to view course offerings for a particular semester, see the Virginia Tech Course Timetables

    ABET Engineering Accreditation Commission

    The B.S. degree in electrical engineering and the B.S. degree in computer engineering are accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET.

    Program Educational Objectives (PEOs) & Student Outcomes (SOs)