Find out what different types of electronic components are needed to design different electronic devices. Consider that microprocessors are needed to design computers. Zener diodes, capacitors, resistors and diodes are needed to design power supplies. Microcontrollers are needed to design control and instrumentation systems. A knowledge of sensors and analog circuits will be needed to design circuits for the construction of scientific instruments and automobile electronic systems. Amplifier components such as operational amplifiers, transistors and filters will be needed for the design of musical and audio equipment. Additionally, for digital audio, knowledge of digital signal processing (DSP) technology will be needed.
Review basic electronic textbooks and electronic component data sheets. Focus your review on the components that are relevant to your design needs. Because components such as resistors, capacitors, inductors and batteries are used in almost every type of design, consider a textbook, online course or class at a school that covers these topics. Consider courses in direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) circuit theory at a junior college. Also study solid state electronics technology.
Start your study with the diode, basically an electronic switch, and one of the more basic solid state components. Then, study the operation of the transistor, which can be configured as a switch or as an amplifier. Go online and find data sheets for specific electronic component types. Review the electrical specifications, product descriptions and diagrams on those data sheets.
Make a list of electronic design topics and components. From your review of text books and data sheets, write down the electronic design topics and components that you have the most questions about. Note which topics and components appear the most complicated. Write down any questions you want answered about these topics and components.
Consult with an electronics tutor. Tell the tutor what area of electronic design you are interested in. Ask the tutor what must be learned to become skilled in that area of electronic design. Detail your background in math and electronics. Explain your endeavors in electronics, such as what electronic projects you have completed and what types of electronic instruments you are familiar with. Ask the tutor questions that you compiled in the previous step.
Find out if the tutor uses electronic design simulators to teach online. Consider that one-on-one online lab sessions with an electronics tutor, which are design-oriented and design simulator centric, could expedite the development of your electronic design skills. Try out an online electronic design session with the tutor. Evaluate the online tutoring learning experience and consider supplementing it with formal electronic classes at technical schools, colleges and universities.