October 23, 2025
Thomas Conlon and Jonathan Gutierrez analyzed the inputs and outputs of an unknown circuit to determine its structure and composition.
Junior Thomas Conlon and senior Jonathan Gutierrez finished second at the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) St. Louis Section Blackbox Competition Oct. 18.
Conlon, an electrical engineering major, and Gutierrez, a dual computer engineering and electrical engineering major, represented the IEEE Mizzou Student Branch, one of seven teams in the analog competition. IEEE Mizzou Student Branch President Cole Codding said the achievement reflected members’ energy and dedication.
“Our goal has always been to help students take that next step in their careers,” he said. “Seeing our members not only participate but stand out is proof that the work is paying off.”
Competition participants had three hours to analyze the inputs and outputs of an unknown circuit to determine its structure and composition.
Conlon and Gutierrez used a mix of steady and changing voltages to find the answer. They applied DC voltages to the terminals and measured how the circuit responded. They then used AC voltages to see how the circuit responded to changing signals.
“The entire process was supported by experimental verification, where our hypotheses were tested on a breadboard using various components,” Gutierrez said. “Through this process, we came to what we thought was our best estimate on the circuit solution in the time frame.”
Teams were given their own laboratory stations and access to a mixed-signal oscilloscope, a function generator, a multi-meter, a power supply and a breadboard.
Participants were allowed to use personal calculators and two bound books of their choice. Outside laboratory equipment, computers/laptops, unbound reference material, internet access, computer data acquisition and software resources were not permitted. Only handwritten documentation and solutions were accepted.
Mizzou Engineering is proud of all our student competition team achievements.