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Computer systems engineers help in the design, selection and installation of computer systems. They can assist organisations acquire and set up affordable, workable data processing systems suited to current and projected needs. During the design phase, systems engineers envision the type of components, and their interconnections, in order to build a computing system that meets the client's needs and specifications. Once this is established, systems engineers select the hardware and software components and peripherals (accessories) needed to achieve the most effective system.
The Process At A Glance
According to Michael, a computer systems engineer employed in Perth, systems engineers first liaise with clients to determine the client's needs. From here they can determine what the new component or system needs to do before setting about designing and testing components. The various components are fitted together and tested to ensure they function properly. A written report on the finished product is the final phase of the design process. Documentation is essential in a system engineer's work environment that includes documenting any installation and maintenance of software and network connectivity problems.
What Else Does Building A Computing System Involve?
Michael says that achieving this outcome could involve any number of major activities undertaken on a computer system engineer's behalf. However, some of the more common tasks include the design and development of electronic controllers for automated processes, including robotics; the design and development of new and efficient systems architecture, including both hardware and software components; configuring local area network servers and workstations; and overseeing the installation and testing of application software and computer peripherals (such as printers, modems, scanners, or digital cameras) on a number of workstations and servers.
Computer systems involves the application of electronics to computers and the accessories that connect to computers but it also includes an understanding of the programming that is required to make the electronics in the computer work. Today, computers are used to operate many of the items we use in everyday life. Cars, telephone systems, trains, television and radio stations are just some of these. This specialist area of engineering is based on electrical engineering and computer science.
Have You Got What It Takes?
A combination of intellectual, practical and interpersonal skills are useful to systems engineers. They must be able to understand and analyse technical and business problems, and to develop creative yet workable solutions. An understanding of hardware as well as software will enable people interested in this occupationto do it well. In this occupation you will also come to rely on excellent communication skills because, aside from clients, systems engineers also liaise with engineers across a host of other disciplines, as well as programmers, business owners and top-level corporate executives.
Many computer systems engineers work in the private sector with computing manufacturing and service companies, business consulting firms, the information systems divisions of companies and a wide range of government activities. They also find employment in the telecommunications industry and in any industry that seeks to introduce, maintain or develop automated processes.
What The Future Looks Like
There are several factors which contribute to sound employment prospects for computer systems engineers. These include:
- A continuing expansion of electronic data processing in business, telecommunications, scientific research, utilities and government, and the increasing sophistication and complexity of computers.
- Size and cost of computers falling, encouraging more small businesses to computerise their operations.
- Capacity for data storage and processing becoming greater than ever.
- Companies attempting to maximise the efficiency of their computer systems.
- The continued expansion of computer-controlled appliances into industry, offices and the home.
The good news is, the demand for these engineers is currently good.
The salary for someone new to this occupation is in the vicinity of $42,000 and this may go as high as $120,000 plus. Consulting computer systems engineers are more likely to earn this top end figure.
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