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"Magic is simply technology one does not understand."

Much of modern technology is based on our ability to create thousands of solid-state electronic components on a single silicon chip; this high tech revolution is drastically changing the way we live, work and communicate. The heart of this revolution is the microprocessor, the computer on a silicon chip. Soon, we won't be able to pick up a single piece of equipment, except maybe a broom, that hasn't got a microprocessor in it. The future clearly belongs to those who understand and know how to manipulate silicon effectively.
Digital Systems is a three-year career program which teaches students not only the secrets of the silicon chip, but also the magic of software and its programming components. It prepares graduates for employment in the high tech field of computer design and software.

DESCRIPTION
The objective of the program is to provide trained personnel to meet the pressing demands of today's high tech industry.
Students are taught the fundamentals of AC and DC circuit models, analog and digital circuits, computer architecture, microprocessors and microcomputers, computer peripherals, interfacing techniques, development systems, digital communications, operating systems and application software.
Vanier's Digital Systems program is unique as it is the only public Cegep on the Island of Montreal and Laval that offers a three-year career program emphasizing both hardware and software.
The Hardware portion consists of Circuit principles (AC & DC), Analog and Digital Electronics, Microprocessor Circuit design and interfacing and Telecommunications (Communication protocols and systems).
The Software portion teaches the student how to use a PC, its operating systems (UNIX) and its various applications. Students are introduced to such applications as Windows, Word processors, Spreadsheets, Databases and ORCAD (Digital CAD). Programming languages such as C, Pascal, Visual Basic, C++ and Assembler are also covered.
In the final year, a major portion of the curriculum is a project design of a complete system. These courses give the digital systems technologist the necessary tools to meet the challenges in today's digitally-oriented world.

PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE
Each course of the Program has a theoretical and practical component. Lab activities are stressed in each course. Hands on practice is an integral part of the Program.
GENERAL COURSES
In addition to the specialized digital systems technology courses, the students' general knowledge and multi-disciplinary talents are developed through a series of courses in Mathematics, English, French, Humanities, Physical Education and complementary courses selected by the student.
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
The technologist, whose starting salary is between $20,000 and $25,000, will find employment with:
- general manufacturing firms
- computer companies
- aerospace firms
- municipal, provincial or federal agencies
- research and development laboratories
- banks and financial institutions
- consulting firms.
Responsibilities would include:
- production assembly, testing and quality control
- field service
- maintenance and repairs
- installation
- systems operation
- prototype breadboard design and development
- technical sales
- consulting.
Equipment and techniques used would include:
- general and special purpose computers
- peripheral devices
- industrial process control systems
- digital instruments
- digital communication networks
- computer graphics and design
- computer-aided manufacturing
- robotics.

CAN I CONTINUE MY STUDIES AT UNIVERSITY?
Graduates of this program may continue their studies towards a computer science, computer engineering or an engineering degree at a university; however, additional courses will be required, depending on the entrance requirements of the university. Students intending to further their studies should check with the institution of their choice to ensure compliance with program prerequisites.
Graduates of the Digital Systems program have gone on to Concordia, McGill and other universities to obtain various degrees.

FACULTY
Teachers of the technical courses in the curriculum are professional engineers who offer students pertinent industrial and teaching expertise in their fields of specialization.
Their task is to convey their knowledge to the student by presenting courses based on a blending of the theoretical and practical aspects of each particular subject in Digital Systems.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
General requirement
The Quebec Diploma of Secondary Studies including Secondary V second language, or equivalent scholarity. For Quebec students graduating as of June 1, 1997, Secondary IV Physical Science and Math 574 or 436 are also required for Cegep entrance. Adult education students require Secondary IV History in addition to the other courses mentioned.
Applicants with post-secondary education will be evaluated on their overall academic performance and prerequisite standing.
Specific Requirements:
High School Mathematics 436 or Cegep 002; or adult education Math 4058, 4059, 4060, 4061; and Physical Science 436/430; or Cegep 982-021-06; or adult education 4010, 4011, 4012.
Students missing any of the above prerequisites are advised to call the Admissions Office to discuss their admissibility to the Program.
An interview may be required.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
In order to graduate, you must pass an English Exit Examination as well as the Epreuve synthese de programme (Comprehensive Program Assessment) by the end of your sixth semester.

APPLICATION DEADLINE
The application deadline is March I for the Fall semester which commences in late August.

CURRICULUM (COURSE LOAD)

YEAR I
First Semester
Mathematical Models I
Understanding the Profession of Technologist
Electrical Technology
The Computer as an Engineering Tool
English
French
Physical Education
Complementary
Second Semester
Mathematical Models 11
Creating Control Systems
Circuits
English
Humanities
Physical Education
Complementary

YEAR II
Third Semester
Creating a Microprocessor- based Instrument
Architecture of the Microprocessor
Analog and Digital Electronics
Digital Systems
English
Humanities
French
Physical Education
Fourth Semester
Integrating a Microprocessor-based System
Real-time Programming
Control Units
Peripheral & Interface Devices
English
Humanities

YEAR III
Fifth Semester
Developing Control Software
Planning a Design Project
Real-time Microprocessor-based Systems
Fast Digital Systems
Industrial Automation

Sixth Semester
Carrying Out a Research Project I
Carrying Out a Research Project II
New Technology in Digital Systems
Digital Data Transmission

FOR MORE INFORMATION
We would welcome inquiries from you. For more information please Email or call the Admissions Office at (514) 744-7100, or the Digital Systems Department
at (514) 744-7756.