Engineering education often requires access to various types of equipment to provide students with hands-on learning experiences. However, low budget can be a challenge for educational institutions when it comes to providing these tools for the students.
To address this issue, let’s explore seven types of engineering education equipment categorized by price point, ranging from budget-friendly to more costly options.
Budget-Friendly Engineering Education Equipment
1. Digital Multimeter
A Digital Multimeter (DMM) is a multi-purpose electrical equipment primarily used for measuring multiple parameters in electrical circuits. The digital multimeter is a common tool that engineering educators use. It combines several functions into one device. The multi functions of the device include:
- Measuring voltage
- Measuring current
- Measuring resistance.
Digital Multimeters are widely used in different fields, including:
- Troubleshooting and diagnostic
- Quality assurance
- Electronics testing and repair
- Field work and maintenance
- Educating engineers
Price Range: $20 – $50
Mid-Range Engineering Education Equipment
1. 3D Printers
3D printers are all the fad right now? They’re a type manufacturing device that creates three-dimensional objects by stacking a specific material (mostly plastic and some other combinations) layer by layer. The 3D printer follows a pre-determined digital design or model.
3D printer is different than other manufacturing methods as it doesn’t involve cutting and carving anythying. A 3D printer builds objects from the ground up, layer by layer.
Price Range: $300 – $1000
2. CAD Software
CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software is a computer program that is mostly used by engineers, architects, designers, and other professionals almost everyday.
The use of CAD software is to create, modify, analyze, and optimize two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) models and designs. Engineers and architets who design 3D and 2D models need to have complete knowledge of how a CAD software works.
CAD software acts as a digital platform for designing and visualizing objects, structures. These systems have to be in place before they are physically manufactured or built.
Price Range: $100 – $500 (annual subscription)
3. Networking Equipment
Networking equipments are devices and hardware that engineers use to keep digital communication running smoothly. Without networking devices, wireless communication and data exchange within computer networks won’t be possible.
Networking equipment contains a number of devices. Theese devices are essential for establishing and maintaining network connections, managing network traffic, and ensuring the smooth operation of network infrastructure. Some common types of networking equipment include:
- Routers
- Switches
- Access points
- Modems
- Firewall
- Network interface cards
- Ethernet cables and connectors
Price Range: $200 – $800
High-End Engineering Education Equipment
1. Oscilloscope
An oscilloscope, often abbreviated as “scope,” is a versatile electronic test instrument used to visualize and analyze the waveform of electrical signals.
It displays the amplitude (voltage) of a signal as it varies over time, providing engineers, technicians, and researchers with valuable insights into the behavior and characteristics of electrical circuits and components.
Price Range: $500 – $5000+
2. CNC Machines
CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines are automated manufacturing tools that use computerized controls and precise movements to produce custom-designed parts and components.
These devices are common in various industries. They are most commonly used in manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, and prototyping. CNC machines help in creating complex and precision-engineered objects with high accuracy and repeatability.
Price Range: $5000 – $50,000+
3. Drones and UAVs
Everyone today knows what a drone is. The official definition of Drone is “Drones, also known as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), are remotely piloted or autonomous aircraft that do not require an onboard human pilot”. Drones are super versatile aerial vehicles. Drone manufacturers equip them with a number of sensors, cameras, and other payloads. Each drone is unique and they can perform a wide range of tasks and missions.
Drones come in multiple sizes, shapes, and configurations. Ranging from small quadcopters used for recreational purposes to large fixed-wing aircraft employed for military reconnaissance and surveillance.
Some of the most common applications for Drones include:
- Remote operation
- Autonomous flight
- Payloads and sensors
- Military and defense
- Commercial and industrial
- Regulation and safety
- Recreational activities
Price Range: $1000 – $10,000+
Final Take – Engineering Education Equipment
When selecting technical equipment for engineering education, it’s essential to consider the balance between price and functionality. While budget-friendly options may suffice for introductory courses, investing in high-end equipment can provide students with more advanced learning opportunities and better prepare them for real-world engineering challenges.
