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ECE 3004 - AC Circuit Analysis (3C)

Course Description

Application of the basic laws and techniques of circuit analysis to ac circuits. Complex numbers and algebra with an emphasis on phasor representation of circuits. Calculation of the frequency response of circuits with R, L, and C components, independent sources, controlled sources, and operational amplifiers. Analysis of AC steady-state circuits and determination of average power. Magnetically coupled circuits. Laplace and Fourier transforms. Representation of circuits by two-port models.

Why take this course?

Circuit analysis and design using discrete R, L, and C components is the most fundamental skill for electrical engineers. This course stresses the AC analysis of basic circuit elements and teaches modeling, design, and analysis skills for AC circuits. It also covers such topics as: magnetically coupled circuits and their application to transformers; frequency response and active and passive filters; the application of Laplace transforms and Fourier series and transforms to analyzing circuits; and two-port circuits.

Learning Objectives

  • Manipulate complex numbers and develop the equations for AC circuits using phasors
  • Apply Kirchhoff’s laws and Ohm’s law to analyze RLC circuits in the frequency domain
  • Calculate power and energy in single and multiple frequency AC circuits
  • Determine the transfer characteristics of common AC filter circuits
  • Describe and calculate the response for circuits with mutual coupling and with transformers
  • Apply Laplace and Fourier transforms in the analysis of AC circuits
  • Model basic circuit structures with 2-port equivalent circuits
  • Model and analyze basic circuits using MatLab and PSpice

    • 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)