Why YouTube is a Valuable Resource for Hardware Engineers

YouTube has become an incredibly useful platform for professionals in all industries to access educational content, connect with experts, and stay current in their field. For hardware engineers specifically, YouTube offers several key benefits:

1. Access to expert knowledge: Many YouTube channels are run by experienced hardware engineers who share their knowledge and insights through tutorials, product reviews, teardowns, and more.

2. Exposure to cutting-edge technology: Hardware engineering is a constantly evolving field. YouTube allows you to see the latest product releases, technological advancements, and engineering techniques as they emerge.

3. Practical skill-building: Many channels provide hands-on tutorials and step-by-step guides for various engineering tasks, allowing you to practice and refine your skills.

4. Networking opportunities: By engaging with content creators and other viewers in the comments section, you can connect with professionals in your field, exchange ideas, and potentially open up new career opportunities.

By strategically using YouTube as a learning tool, you can gain the knowledge and skills needed to stand out in your field and negotiate a higher salary.

57 YouTube Channels for Hardware Engineers

Here are 57 of the best YouTube channels for computer hardware engineers, organized by category:

General Hardware Engineering Channels

These channels cover a wide range of topics related to hardware engineering, from product reviews to industry news and analysis.

1. Engineering Explained
   Subscribers: 2.5M
   Must-Watch Video: How Does a Transistor Work?

2. Linus Tech Tips
   Subscribers: 14.1M
   Must-Watch Video: ULTIMATE Liquid Cooling PC Build Guide!

3. EEVblog
   Subscribers: 1.01M
   Must-Watch Video: Electronics Jobs: What’s it like to be a Hardware Engineer?

4. Adafruit Industries
   Subscribers: 288K
   Must-Watch Video: Hardware Engineering with Adafruit: BEST of 2022

5. Tech Ingredients
   Subscribers: 581K
   Must-Watch Video: How to Make a Custom PCB (Simple!)

Microcontroller & Embedded Systems Channels

If you work with microcontrollers or embedded systems, these channels provide valuable resources for learning and troubleshooting.

1. Microchip Technology
   Subscribers: 23.7K
   Must-Watch Video: Microchip’s 32-bit Embedded Software using MPLAB

2. Texas Instruments
   Subscribers: 63.9K
   Must-Watch Video: Introduction to Embedded Systems

3. ST MCU
   Subscribers: 14K
   Must-Watch Video: Getting Started with STM32 Microcontrollers

PCB Design & Manufacturing Channels

These channels focus on PCB design, layout, and manufacturing techniques, which are essential skills for many hardware engineering roles.

1. Robert Feranec
   Subscribers: 118K
   Must-Watch Video: PCB Design Tutorial – Learn the Basics

2. Phil’s Lab
   Subscribers: 139K
   Must-Watch Video: PCB Design for Beginners: 5 Tips to Quickly Start Your First PCB Design

3. JLCPCB
   Subscribers: 35.3K
   Must-Watch Video: JLCPCB Factory Tour

FPGA & VHDL Channels

For engineers working with FPGAs and VHDL, these channels provide tutorials, project ideas, and troubleshooting tips.

1. FPGA4student
   Subscribers: 9.15K
   Must-Watch Video: VHDL Basics

2. Nandland
   Subscribers: 32.7K
   Must-Watch Video: FPGA Programming Projects for Beginners

3. ASIC World
   Subscribers: 13.4K
   Must-Watch Video: FPGA Design & VHDL Coding Tutorials

Networking & IoT Channels

As more devices become connected, hardware engineers with networking and IoT skills are in high demand. These channels can help you stay current in these areas.

1. Cisco Networking Academy
   Subscribers: 28.4K
   Must-Watch Video: Introduction to Networking | Network Fundamentals Part 1

2. IoT For All
   Subscribers: 3.2K
   Must-Watch Video: Introduction to IoT | Internet of Things Explained

3. Ubidots IoT
   Subscribers: 2.2K
   Must-Watch Video: IoT Intro and Overview

Robotics & Automation Channels

Robotics and automation are rapidly growing fields that require skilled hardware engineers. These channels provide insights into the latest technologies and techniques.

1. Boston Dynamics
   Subscribers: 2.83M
   Must-Watch Video: Atlas Gets a Grip

2. Robotics with Ara
   Subscribers: 14K
   Must-Watch Video: Robotics Training for Beginners

3. Learn Robotics
   Subscribers: 95.3K
   Must-Watch Video: Learn Robotics with Raspberry Pi – A Complete Course

Salary & Career Advice Channels

In addition to technical skills, it’s important to stay informed about industry trends, salary expectations, and career growth strategies. These channels provide valuable insights in these areas.

1. Glassdoor
   Subscribers: 46.6K
   Must-Watch Video: How to Negotiate Your Salary

2. Engineering.com
   Subscribers: 23.9K
   Must-Watch Video: Engineering Jobs: What’s it like to work as an Engineer?

3. CareerVidz
   Subscribers: 130K
   Must-Watch Video: Negotiating a Higher Salary (Step-by-Step Guide)

How to Use YouTube to Boost Your Hardware Engineering Career

Now that you have a curated list of valuable YouTube channels, how can you use them effectively to grow your skills and increase your earning potential? Here are some tips:

1. Set learning goals: Identify specific areas where you want to improve your knowledge or skills, and seek out relevant videos on those topics.

2. Create a study schedule: Dedicate regular time each week to watching tutorials, taking notes, and practicing what you’ve learned.

3. Engage with the community: Participate in the comments section, ask questions, and connect with other hardware engineers to expand your network and learn from their experiences.

4. Apply your knowledge: Look for opportunities to put your new skills into practice, whether through personal projects, volunteering, or at your current job.

5. Keep your resume updated: As you gain new skills and complete projects, make sure to update your resume and online profiles to reflect your growth as a hardware engineer.

By consistently learning from experts on YouTube and applying that knowledge in your work, you’ll be well-positioned to negotiate a salary raise and advance your career in hardware engineering.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How much can I expect to earn as a computer hardware engineer?
   According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for computer hardware engineers was $119,560 in May 2020. However, salaries can vary widely based on factors such as location, experience, and specific industry.

2. What skills are most important for a hardware engineer to master?
   Key skills for hardware engineers include:

3. Circuit design and analysis
4. PCB design and layout
5. Microcontroller programming
6. FPGA and VHDL programming
7. Debugging and troubleshooting

8. Knowledge of industry standards and best practices

9. How can I demonstrate my value to my employer and negotiate a raise?
   To demonstrate your value and negotiate a raise, you should:

10. Track your accomplishments and the impact of your work
11. Stay updated with industry trends and technologies
12. Take on additional responsibilities or lead projects
13. Communicate your achievements and goals with your manager
14. Research salary data for your role and location

15. Practice your negotiation skills and prepare a strong case for your raise

16. What certifications are valuable for hardware engineers?
    Some valuable certifications for hardware engineers include:

17. CompTIA A+
18. Certified Electronics Technician (CET)
19. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
20. Certified Wireless Network Professional (CWNP)

21. Certified LabVIEW Developer (CLD)

22. How can I transition from a hardware engineering role to a related field?
    To transition from hardware engineering to a related field, consider:

23. Identifying your transferable skills and interests
24. Researching roles and industries that align with your goals
25. Gaining relevant experience through projects, courses, or certifications
26. Networking with professionals in your target field
27. Tailoring your resume and online presence to highlight your relevant skills and experiences

By leveraging the wealth of knowledge available on YouTube and implementing these strategies, you’ll be well on your way to boosting your skills, earning potential, and overall success as a computer hardware engineer.