Pioneering Insights into BARC ECE Interview Experience: A Journey Through Technical Excellence

My BARC interview left an indelible mark on my professional journey. This article delves into my experience, emphasizing the technical challenges I faced and the insights that shaped my approach for future aspirants.

The Road to BARC: From GATE to Interview

My path began with the BARC ECE written exam on 9th April 2023, where I scored 197 out of 300, surpassing the EE cutoff by a significant margin. Following this, the pinnacle for me became the GATE 2023 EE score of 959, meeting the BARC cutoff GATE score of 754 to qualify for the interview.

The Interview Experience: Technical Challenges and Triumphs

Date: 7th June 2023
Location: ANUSHAKTI Nagar, Mumbai, India

On the interview day, my first step was document and biometric verification. The interviewing committee comprised six members, including a chairman and a distinguished lady panelist, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of my technical knowledge.

Initial Technical Questions

The conversation kicked off with a question about my experience with the BARC written exam and the subjects I had prepared. I highlighted my focus on Machines, Power Systems, Power Electronics, and Networks.

Engagement on Modernization of DC Machines

Discussions began with an in-depth exploration of recent advancements in DC machines, a topic often overlooked unless specifically mentioned. My panel delved into Brushless Direct Current (BLDC) motors, assessing my general knowledge and understanding.

Blackboard Engagement and Transformer Fundamentals

I then proceeded to the blackboard, initiating the core technical phase of the interview. The first task was to draw and describe the working of a transformer in detail. An unexpected question then asked me to determine the impact of halving the frequency on transformer output. Initially stumped, I recovered gracefully with guidance from the panel.

Advanced Power System Protection Techniques

The journey continued with a series of intricate questions on power system protection, including the characteristics and selection of relays, distinguishing between third harmonic currents and zero sequence currents, and the implications in balanced and unbalanced systems.

Power Electronics Dive

The interview then transitioned to power electronics, starting with basic verbal questions like the differences between SCR and diodes in real-life applications and the principles of commutation. I demonstrated my expertise by drawing a circuit to convert 230V 50Hz AC to 24V DC and explaining the control logic and driving circuit.

Network and Circuit Analysis

The final segment delved into network analysis, including the behavior of non-linear devices in class D circuits, current loci of various RL, RC, and RLC circuits, and the impact of voltage reduction on the performance of an induction motor.

Conclusion and Validation

The interview concluded with a thorough evaluation, and the panel deliberated for nearly an hour and fifteen minutes. I emerged with a sense of accomplishment, as my name was among the 20 selected candidates, a moment of pride and validation of my technical prowess.

Lessons Learnt and Future Aspirations

My journey with BARC has significantly enhanced my preparation strategy. The key takeaway is the importance of focusing on core subjects such as Machines, Power Systems, Power Electronics, and Networks. Non-core subjects should be avoided to maximize the interview's impact.

Attending such a prestigious interview not only provided invaluable experience but also ignited my ambitions to continue exploring technical excellence. I hope this article serves as a beacon for future aspirants, guiding them through the rigorous process and the hurdles to be anticipated.

Stay tuned for more updates and insights on technical interviews and professional growth.