This will be a review for both ECE 121DA/DB.

Prof Sokolich is a great instructor for this capstone. If you have some interest in semiconductors or not sure about what capstone you want to do, I highly recommend this with Prof Sokolich. In 121DA, you basically learn how to fabricate devices and learn the simulator for fabrication (For my class, we just watched videos due to COVID). There are about ~7 quizzes that are related to what you watched and learned. I believe the quizzes are curved bc I'm pretty sure I didn't do well on a few of them. There are also about 3 assignments where you basically practice using the simulator. There definitely is a learning curve, but my TA was able to help us out a lot. Overall, in 121DA, you basically just watch and practice so don't stress too much about it.

For 121DB, this is where things get more involved. You get your 1st design project (phase 1) where for my class we had to design a CMOS with 6 different circuit components (PMOS, NMOS, Capacitor, etc.) using the fabrication simulator. And after you have to write a formal report on your design (10 or more pages). Again don't worry too much, start early and always ask for help when your stuck somewhere, the TA and prof are very helpful. The 2nd and last design project (phase 2) is the most difficult and interesting one. We had to design a modern high-performance MOSFET using the fabrication simulator and a new one. For this one, you work with one partner and at the initial stage, you need to present your idea to the prof on a 1 on 1. In the end, you and your partner have to present your design and results to the entire class and submit a report (emulating IEEE papers). As long as you do your research and make a good design or attempt, then you will do fine.

Basically, this capstone is chill and challenging. But don't worry too much about this class if you take it. Just make sure to start the projects early and you'll do fine and be able to get an A/A- no problem.

Professor Sokolich is a very chill guy. We do three assignments, one individual and two in a pair. The last two are design projects that we present (1) to the professor and (2) to the whole class. The TA is also very helpful in helping you understand the simulator. This class was done remotely so I assume some things were different due to lack of lab access.