David V. Jones, program head for the Computer Engineering Technology Department at Lenoir Community College in Kinston recently attended a Plasma Workshop in Minneapolis, Minnesota.  This is the third Plasma Workshop Jones has attended.  The first one was in Portland, Oregon and the second in Minneapolis, Minnesota. 

The workshop covered RF (radio frequency) Plasma working with the ESPION Advanced Langmuir Probe.  Dr. Yolanda Gonzalvo with Hiden Analytical from the United Kingdom conducted the workshop.  The workshop centered on plasma measurement and characterization techniques.  Using the Langmuir Probe, the plasma could be measured as it was generated in the plasma chamber.

Jones was able to study the probe operation during several labs that were a part of the workshop.  He used software to analyze and interpret the data produced from the probe.

The workshop showed how plasma is used to make integrated circuits (IC).  The pressure and heat in the plasma chamber causes the plasma to sputter molten copper onto a carrier to build the circuit traces.  Controlling the current in the chamber allows control of the direction and the amount of flow of the molten copper. 

The production of ICs is discussed in the Computer Engineering Program as part of a class that the students take to complete their AAS degree.  The program provides the instruction to help students gain knowledge about computers, computer related equipment, and the electronics that runs the computer equipment.

The program also has classes on industrial, programmable logic controllers (PLC), and networking. 

For more information about changing your career or starting a new career in the exciting field of computer engineering contact David V. Jones at Lenoir Community College at 527-6223, ext. 102.