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ECE 3714 - Introduction to Control Systems (3C)

Course Description

Introduction to the design of feedback compensation to improve the transient and steady-state performance of systems. Emphasis is on modeling, analysis and analog compensator design for single-input single-output systems. Modeling techniques, root locus analysis and design, the Nyquist criterion, and frequency domain compensation.

Why take this course?

Improving the performance of systems using feedback control is a fundamental aspect of almost all high-performance systems, from electronic circuits to autonomous vehicles. This course will introduce students to the basic concepts of feedback control and provide the necessary background and understanding required for more advanced courses in controls.

Learning Objectives

  • model and simulate controlled systems in continuous time
  • analyze feedback systems using root locus and frequency domain techniques
  • design compensators to improve the transient and steady-state performance of the closed-loop system while maintaining stability

    • 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)