
Electrical engineering and electronics engineering are undoubtedly the most confusing terms in the world of engineering. Despite the fact that the two types of engineers often do the same work, there are many significant differences.
Electrical engineering is the broader field which includes electronics engineering.
Well, we are going to simplify it for you. So, without engaging you in any more riddles and putting it all very straightforward, find out what distinguishes the two. Also, you will come to know what career paths they open for you.
What is Electrical Engineering?
This field of engineering emerged in the late 19th century and is one of the latest branches of engineering. Electrical engineers deal with the technology of electricity. For instance, they work on electrical machinery, transmission and distribution of electrical energy, electrical controls, motor controls in factories, transformers, etc. To be precise, their work involves handling tiny microchips to massive power station generators.
Some of the prominent pioneer names in the world of electrical engineering are Thomas Edison who invented the electric bulb and George Westinghouse who introduced alternating current. Ever since this field was discovered, it has grown immensely and branched out in numerous categories. Power generation and transmission systems, motors, batteries and control systems are composed under this field.
Furthermore, electronics engineering is also one of the segments of electrical engineering and is itself divided into subcategories.
What is Electronics Engineering?
The field of electronics engineering is fascinating as it gives you the opportunity to work in telecommunications, manufacturing, medical instruments, aerospace, and robotics. In simpler language, they have to design, develop and test components, devices, systems or equipment whose source of power is electricity. These systems also deal with semiconductor devices like capacitors, diodes, resistors and transistors. Source.
Moreover, they also work with computer networking and embedded systems. Although electronics engineers are typically based in electronics related industry settings, they may also be required to work in labs, offices factories, workshops or outdoors. Therefore, a person needs to have the advanced technical knowledge, IT and problem-solving skills to become a desirable candidate for electronics engineer jobs within the UK but also around the world.
The difference in Careers and Expertise?
Although the two branches focus on different areas, their disciplines intersect with each other. Moreover, they have different career paths and areas of expertise. So, let’s have a look at how their careers are distinguished.
Speaking of electrical engineering, they work on projects related to 5G networks, climate change and energy conservation. Some of the top industries employing electrical engineers are electric power generation, transmission and distribution, manufacturing of semiconductor and other electronic components, manufacturing instruments related to navigation, measurement, electromedical, etc.
However, on the flip side, electronic engineers are the most in-demand in industries like semiconductor and other electronic component manufacturing, mobile phones, nanotechnology radio and satellite communication, etc. Moreover, they are the ones who decide how to carry out a project and prepare a budget. Source.
Apart from that, these engineers often develop skills and knowledge beyond their field as per the job requirements.