Job Description for a Hardware Engineer
Hardware engineers manage the hardware used in computers. Hardware engineers typically support computer servers, routers, network hubs, and related hardware. They may design computer hardware, computer networks, and network infrastructure.
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Job Function
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The term hardware engineer applies to those who support and maintain computer hardware. Hardware engineers handle hardware upgrades to new hardware, such as when new CPUs are installed in servers or new routers are installed. They often support printer drivers, video cards, PCI bus cards, video cards, sound cards, mother boards, daughter cards and any other hardware used with personal computers. Hardware engineers also monitor the server environment by maintaining the ideal temperature and humidity where the servers are located. Hardware engineers are frequently responsible for monitoring and ensuring a reliable power supply to a computer network and its servers.
Other Duties
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Hardware engineers are often responsible for the compatibility testing of new hardware before it is put into production. Hardware engineers may support and replace networking hardware. Hardware engineers may be responsible for maintaining and upgrading network devices such as network cards, cables, wireless routers, NIC cards, and other connectivity devices. Hardware engineers may design the computer hardware, such as the servers, power supplies, video cards, and memory cards. Hardware engineers may support network printers.
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Misconceptions
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Hardware engineers are not qualified to maintain or support software. That work is done by software engineers. Hardware engineers do not install operating systems or software applications. Hardware engineers are not expected to write or debug software.
Training
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Hardware engineers usually have a degree in computer science. Many hardware engineers have a degree in electrical engineering. A master's degree in computer science or electrical engineer is not required to become a hardware engineer but may be required for a network architecture job. Both Sun and IBM offer hardware engineering training courses for their systems. Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) training also includes a strong background in the hardware that supports Microsoft applications. After earning an associate degree in engineering technology and a hardware certification from the manufacturer, an employer may allow someone to work as a hardware engineer for that vendor's hardware.
Places of Employment
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Hardware engineers support computer networks and servers. Hardware engineers are most commonly employed by large companies that have an internal intranet to support. Hardware engineers also work in data centers and server farms. Hardware engineers are also employed by ISPs, also called Internet service providers.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit server cpu image by TEA from Fotolia.com
