Catalog Description: This course is designed to give an introduction to, and overview of, the fundamentals of photovoltaic devices. Students will learn how solar cells work, understand the concepts and models of solar cell device physics, and formulate and solve relevant physical problems related to photovoltaic devices. Monocrystalline, thin film and third generation solar cells will be discussed and analyzed. Light management and economic considerations in a solar cell system will also be covered.

Units: 4

Also Offered As: ELENG 134

Related Areas:

• Physical Electronics (PHY)

Prerequisites: EECS 16A and EECS 16B; or Math 54 and Physics 7B; or equivalent

Formats:
Spring: 3.0 hours of lecture and 1.0 hours of discussion per week
Fall: 3.0 hours of lecture and 1.0 hours of discussion per week

Grading Basis: Student Option

Final Exam Status: Yes

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Class Schedule (Spring 2026):
EE 134/234A – TuTh 12:30-13:59, Wheeler 204 – Mengjie Yu

Links:

• EECS Course Archives (CalNet authentication required)
• CS enrollment policies
• EE enrollment policies
• HKN course maps