Teaching Yourself to Become a Software Engineer vs. Hardware Engineer: A Personal Insight

Is it easier for someone to teach themselves to become a software engineer or a hardware engineer? This question has intrigued many in the tech industry, and from my 45 years of experience in both fields, I believe it is significantly easier to learn software engineering on one's own than hardware engineering.

Software Engineering Versus Hardware Engineering

When it comes to software, learning the fundamentals and practical skills can be done with a personal computer and some basic knowledge. However, when it comes to hardware, especially for designing complex systems, the process is much more challenging. Hardware design involves real-world components and requires a deep understanding of electronics, mathematics, and a multitude of practical skills.

Complexity of Hardware Design

Hardware design is not merely connecting shields to an Arduino. It involves creating complex schematics, designing multi-layer printed circuit boards (PCBs), and integrating various components such as microcontrollers, digital and analog circuits, and discrete components. Additionally, software engineers often need to work with wireless technologies, which require a solid understanding of radio frequency (RF) theory.

True hardware design can be summarized as: designing boards with multiple-rail power supplies, integrating microcontrollers with both digital and analog components, and connecting a wide range of discrete components. For example, designing your own PCB antenna falls under this category and is a challenging task. Throughout my career, I have seen many software engineers transition into hardware design with self-taught skills, but I have not met any hardware engineers who taught themselves and were hired for hardware design roles.

The Role of Formal Education and Background

While I understand the value of self-taught skills, it is clear that there are significant theoretical aspects of hardware design that are difficult to learn without a formal education. For instance, I found myself revisiting RF theory and other background knowledge that I had neglected when designing my own PCB antenna. The formal education provided a crucial framework for understanding these concepts.

Furthermore, the tools and equipment required for hardware design can be quite costly. A standard setup for hardware design includes:

Computer (for simulations, schematic capture, and PCB layout) Hardware testing equipment such as power supplies, oscilloscopes, multimeters, and logic analyzers (for I2C, SPI, USB protocols, RF design) Digital soldering iron, breadboards, and various components Stereoscopic microscope and rework station for surface mount devices

While the initial investment for software engineering can be the computer, setting up a hardware design environment can run into thousands of dollars. This financial barrier adds another layer of difficulty for those looking to learn hardware design independently.

A Personal Experience in Hardware and Software Embedding

My journey into computing began in the early days of my engineering career. Shortly after graduating with a BSEE, I wrote my first major program, a CAD program in SNOBOL4, which got me deeply interested in programming. This program was so impactful that it made me pursue an MSCS (Master of Science in Computer Science) degree part-time. The CAD program sparked my interest and laid the foundation for my future endeavors.

Over the years, I have observed several individuals with a BSEE transition into software engineering without any formal hardware design background. These transitions were successful, leading them to careers in software engineering. However, I have never encountered a self-taught hardware engineer who was hired for a hardware design role. The theoretical knowledge and practical skills required for hardware design are too extensive to master without formal education and training.

Conclusion

While it is possible to learn software engineering concepts alone, hardware design remains a significantly more challenging task that requires a solid theoretical background and a wide range of practical skills. The lack of formal education in these areas can lead to a less comprehensive understanding of hardware design, which is why many self-taught hardware engineers find it difficult to secure roles in hardware design. The costs associated with setting up a hardware design environment also add another layer of difficulty. However, the rewarding experience of designing and creating complex hardware systems makes it all worthwhile for those who are truly passionate about the field.