Electronics for Physicists: An Introduction

This book provides undergraduate physics majors and students of related sciences with a sound basic understanding of electronics and how it is used, principally in the physical sciences. While today few science students go on to careers that demand an ability to design and build electronic circuits, many will use and rely on electronics. As scientists, they will require an appropriate level of fundamental knowledge that enables them, for example, to understand what electronic equipment is doing, to correctly interpret the measurements obtained, and to appreciate the numerous links between electronics and how it is practiced, and other areas of science. Discussing electronics in the broader context and from the point of view of the scientist, this book is intended for students who are not planning to become electronics specialists. It has been written in a relatively informal, personal style and includes detailed examples, as well as some “outside the box” material to inspire thought and creativity. A selection of relevant exercises is included at the end of each chapter.

Bryan H. Suits has been a Professor at the Department of Physics at Michigan Technological University (MTU) since 1985, where he has taught physics courses at all levels.  He obtained a BA in Physics from Carleton College in Northfield, Mn, and his MS and PhD in Physics at the University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana. His research focuses on the use of radiofrequency spectroscopies, specifically nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and nuclear quadrupole resonance (NQR), as tools to study problems in materials and solid-state physics. His most recent research concentrates on the development of equipment and techniques for non-invasive materials detection techniques for use in the field.