200+ Applications Engineer Interview Questions and Answers

Questions related to applications engineering including tolerance stack up, bearing preloading, material selection, force calculation, and costing.

• Tolerance stack up refers to the accumulation of variations in dimensions and tolerances of individual parts in an assembly.

• Bearing preloading is the application of a small amount of force to the bearing to remove any internal clearance and improve its stiffness.

• The choice between hole base and shaft base system depends on the appl...read more

Modified Balanced Parentheses where characters can be matched with any other character.

• Use a stack to keep track of opening characters

• When encountering a closing character, check if it matches the top of the stack

• If it matches, pop from the stack, else return false

• Continue until end of string, return true if stack is empty

Interview questions for Applications Engineer including coding problems, DBMS vs RDBMS, call by reference vs call by variable, Java exceptions, and JSON.

• Coding problems test problem-solving skills and coding ability.

• DBMS is a general term for managing databases, while RDBMS is a specific type that uses a relational model.

• Call by reference passes a reference to a variable, while call by variable passes a copy of the variable.

• Java exceptions are errors that occur during program...read more

Print all possible combinations of strings by picking one character from each string in the array.

• Iterate through each character of the first string and combine it with each character of the second string.

• Repeat the process for all strings in the array to get all possible combinations.

• Use nested loops to generate combinations efficiently.

Interview questions for Application Engineer role covering various topics.

• Subset sum variant - finding a subset of numbers that add up to a given sum

• Single loop missing number - finding a missing number in an array using a single loop

• Difference between two dates - calculating the difference between two dates in Java

• Core Java concepts - knowledge of basic Java concepts such as inheritance, polymorphism, etc.

• SQL - knowledge of SQL queries and database management

• Finding duplicat...read more

Use backtracking to find all combinations of numbers in an array that sum up to a given number.

• Start by sorting the array in non-decreasing order to easily identify combinations.

• Use backtracking to recursively find all combinations that sum up to the target number.

• Keep track of the current combination and the remaining sum as you traverse the array.

• Add the current combination to the result when the sum equals the target number.

INDEX and PARTITION are database optimization techniques that improve query performance.

• INDEX is a data structure that improves the speed of data retrieval operations on a database table.

• PARTITION is a technique that divides a large table into smaller, more manageable parts.

• INDEX and PARTITION can be used together to further improve query performance.

• Examples of INDEX include B-tree, hash, and bitmap indexes.

• Examples of PARTITION include range, list, and hash partitioning.

The initial and final setting times of ordinary Portland cement grade 33 vary depending on several factors.

• The initial setting time of cement refers to the time it takes for the cement to harden and develop a certain degree of rigidity.

• The final setting time is the time it takes for the cement to fully harden and reach its maximum strength.

• The setting times can be influenced by factors such as temperature, water-cement ratio, and the presence of additives.

• The specific initial...read more

To search a file inside folder levels via command line, use the 'find' command.

• Open the command prompt or terminal

• Navigate to the folder where you want to start the search

• Use the 'find' command followed by the name of the file you want to search for

• Optionally, you can specify the depth of the search using the '-maxdepth' flag

• Example: 'find . -name myfile.txt -maxdepth 2'

Find all possible combinations of 2 elements in an array of length N whose sum is 10.

• Iterate through the array and for each element, check if there exists another element in the array whose sum is 10.

• Use a nested loop to compare each element with every other element in the array.

• Store the pairs of elements whose sum is 10 in a new array.

• Return the array of pairs.

PLC is a programmable logic controller used in industrial automation. Encoder is a device that converts motion into electrical signals. Relay is an electrically operated switch. SLMP and Modbus are communication protocols.

• PLC is used to automate industrial processes by controlling machinery and equipment.

• Encoders are used to measure the position, speed, and direction of rotating shafts.

• Relays are used to control high voltage or high current circuits with low voltage signals.

• S...read more

Polymorphism is the ability of an object to take on many forms. Encapsulation is the practice of hiding data and methods within a class. Inheritance is the ability of a class to inherit properties and methods from a parent class.

• Polymorphism allows objects to be treated as if they are of different types.

• Encapsulation helps to protect data from outside interference and misuse.

• Inheritance allows for code reuse and promotes a hierarchical structure of classes.

• Example of polymorp...read more

Python has various datatypes including int, float, str, list, tuple, dict, set, bool.

• int: whole numbers (e.g. 5)

• float: decimal numbers (e.g. 3.14)

• str: text (e.g. 'hello')

• list: ordered collection (e.g. [1, 2, 3])

• tuple: ordered, immutable collection (e.g. (1, 2, 3))

• dict: key-value pairs (e.g. {'key': 'value'})

• set: unordered collection of unique elements (e.g. {1, 2, 3})

• bool: True or False values

Print Pythagorean triplets within a given range.

• Iterate through all possible combinations of a, b, and c within the given range

• Check if a^2 + b^2 = c^2 for each combination

• Print the triplets that satisfy the Pythagorean theorem

EXIST checks for the existence of a value in a subquery, while IN checks for the existence of a value in a list.

• EXIST is used with a subquery, while IN is used with a list of values.

• EXIST returns true if the subquery returns any rows, while IN returns true if the value is found in the list.

• EXIST is more efficient for large datasets, while IN is more efficient for small datasets.

• Example: SELECT * FROM table1 WHERE column1 EXIST (SELECT column2 FROM table2 WHERE column3 = 'valu...read more

Created a shell script automation to automate data backup process.

• Wrote a shell script that uses the 'rsync' command to copy files from source to destination.

• Implemented a cron job to schedule the script to run at specific intervals.

• Included error handling and logging mechanisms to track any failures or issues.

• Used variables and parameters to make the script flexible and reusable.

• Added email notifications to inform the user about the status of the backup process.

The major parameter settings in power source for aluminium welding include voltage, current, and pulse settings.

• Voltage setting is crucial for controlling heat input and penetration in aluminium welding.

• Current setting determines the amount of heat generated during the welding process.

• Pulse settings help in controlling the arc stability and reducing heat input.

• Other important parameters include travel speed, shielding gas flow rate, and electrode type.

• Example: Voltage - 18-22...read more

Relevant and available details of the stated issues can be found in the project documentation, previous bug reports, and communication with stakeholders.

• Check project documentation for specifications and requirements related to the issues

• Review previous bug reports to see if similar issues have been reported and resolved

• Communicate with stakeholders such as developers, testers, and product managers to gather more information

• Analyze codebase and logs for any clues or patterns ...read more

Stacks are a data structure that follows the Last-In-First-Out (LIFO) principle. They are used to store and retrieve data in a specific order.

• Stacks have two main operations: push (to add an element to the top) and pop (to remove the top element)

• Examples of stacks include the call stack in programming languages, undo/redo functionality in text editors, and the back button in web browsers

Second order filters have steeper roll-off and better attenuation of higher frequencies.

• Second order filters have a slope of -40 dB/decade.

• They have a higher Q factor than first order filters.

• They provide better attenuation of higher frequencies.

• Examples include Butterworth, Chebyshev, and Bessel filters.

Check if a string has balanced parentheses.

• Use a stack to keep track of opening parentheses.

• Iterate through the string and push opening parentheses onto the stack.

• When a closing parenthesis is encountered, pop from the stack and check if it matches the closing parenthesis.

• If stack is empty at the end and all parentheses are matched, the string has balanced parentheses.

Copper is commonly used in the coil section of HVAC equipment due to its high thermal conductivity and corrosion resistance.

• Copper is preferred for its excellent heat transfer properties

• Copper is resistant to corrosion, ensuring longevity of the coil section

• Aluminum is also used in some cases for its lightweight nature and cost-effectiveness

SCCM is a system management tool used for deploying, managing and monitoring software and hardware in an enterprise environment.

• SCCM stands for System Center Configuration Manager

• It allows for remote management of devices and software deployment

• Features include inventory management, software distribution, patch management, and OS deployment

• It can be used to manage Windows, Mac, and Linux devices

• SCCM integrates with other Microsoft tools like Active Directory and Intune

3 core PT & 1 core PT are types of power transformers used in electrical systems.

• 3 core PT has three separate cores for voltage measurement while 1 core PT has only one core.

• 3 core PT is more accurate and reliable than 1 core PT.

• 3 core PT is used in high voltage applications while 1 core PT is used in low voltage applications.

• Both types of PT are used to step down high voltage to a lower voltage for measurement or protection purposes.

Find missing and repeating numbers in a group of billions of numbers without extra space.

• Use bitwise XOR to find the missing number

• Use modulo and division to find the repeating number

• Divide the numbers into smaller chunks to avoid memory overflow

PLM helps companies reduce time to market by streamlining product development processes and improving collaboration.

• PLM centralizes product data, making it easier to access and share among teams.

• PLM automates workflows, reducing manual errors and speeding up approval processes.

• PLM enables concurrent engineering, allowing different teams to work on different aspects of a product simultaneously.

• PLM provides real-time visibility into project status, helping identify bottlenecks ...read more

Steam and hydro cranking are methods used to start up a Fluid Catalytic Cracking (FCC) unit.

• Steam cranking involves using steam to heat up the catalyst in the reactor before introducing the feedstock.

• Hydro cranking involves using hydrogen to heat up the catalyst in the reactor before introducing the feedstock.

• Both methods are used to prevent thermal shock to the catalyst and ensure a smooth start-up process.

• The choice between steam and hydro cranking depends on the specific F...read more

Questions on float, double and programming to display amount based on current bill for Applications Engineer role.

• Float and double are data types used to represent decimal numbers with different precision levels.

• A program to display amount based on current bill can be written using basic arithmetic operations and input/output functions.

• Example: float num1 = 10.5; double num2 = 20.75; printf("Total amount: %.2f", num1 + num2);

• Example: float bill = 100.50; float tax = 10.05; fl...read more

IPv4 addresses are 32-bit numerical labels used to identify devices on a network, while IPv6 addresses are 128-bit numerical labels.

• IPv4 addresses are written in decimal format separated by periods (e.g. 192.168.1.1), while IPv6 addresses are written in hexadecimal format separated by colons (e.g. 2001:0db8:85a3:0000:0000:8a2e:0370:7334).

• IPv4 addresses have a limited address space, allowing for approximately 4.3 billion unique addresses, while IPv6 addresses have a significan...read more

The number of systems that can be connected in a BACnet MSTP protocol network depends on factors like network speed, device types, and network topology.

• The maximum number of devices that can be connected in a BACnet MSTP network is typically limited to 127 devices.

• The actual number of systems that can be connected may vary based on the network speed and the types of devices being used.

• Factors like network topology, cable length, and device addressing also play a role in deter...read more

Ageing process in maraging steel is done to increase strength and hardness through precipitation hardening.

• Improves strength and hardness of the steel

• Enhances the mechanical properties

• Increases the resistance to wear and corrosion

• Allows for the formation of intermetallic compounds

• Helps in achieving desired properties for specific applications

Discovered a bug in the software during testing and resolved it by identifying the root cause and implementing a fix.

• During testing, found a bug where the application crashed when a specific input was entered.

• Investigated the issue by analyzing the code and logs to identify the root cause.

• Implemented a fix by updating the code to handle the input correctly and retested to ensure the bug was resolved.

Binary search finds the position of a target value within a sorted array. Merge sort and bubble sort are sorting algorithms.

• Binary search: repeatedly divide the search interval in half until the target value is found or not found

• Merge sort: divide the unsorted list into n sublists, repeatedly merge sublists to produce new sorted sublists until there is only 1 sublist remaining

• Bubble sort: repeatedly swap adjacent elements if they are in the wrong order until the list is sorte...read more

I am comfortable with traveling to sites in Gujarat and India for work purposes.

• I have experience traveling to different sites for work in my previous roles.

• I am familiar with the travel requirements and logistics involved in visiting sites in Gujarat and India.

• I am adaptable and able to work effectively in different locations.

• I am comfortable with traveling and exploring new places.

• I am willing to travel as needed for the job.

SolidWorks software includes various types for different applications.

• SolidWorks Standard

• SolidWorks Professional

• SolidWorks Premium

• SolidWorks Education Edition

• SolidWorks Student Edition

• SolidWorks Simulation

• SolidWorks Flow Simulation

• SolidWorks Plastics

• SolidWorks Electrical

• SolidWorks CAM

The question covers various aspects of HVAC systems and BMS standards.

• IO summary refers to the input/output points of a system.

• Water meter and flow meter are used to measure the flow rate and volume of water in a system.

• Sequence of operation for CPM and AHU refers to the order in which the equipment operates.

• HVAC equipment includes chillers, boilers, air handlers, etc.

• BMS standards include protocols like BACnet, Modbus, LonWorks, etc.

The pillars of object oriented programming are encapsulation, inheritance, and polymorphism.

• Encapsulation: Bundling data and methods that operate on the data into a single unit (object).

• Inheritance: Allowing a new class to inherit properties and behavior from an existing class.

• Polymorphism: The ability for objects of different classes to respond to the same message in different ways.

Design a flight booking system with flight inventory and funds

• Create a database to store flight inventory including flight details, availability, and pricing

• Implement a user interface for customers to search for flights, select seats, and make bookings

• Incorporate a payment gateway for customers to pay for their bookings

• Include a feature for managing funds, tracking payments, and generating invoices

• Implement a notification system for confirming bookings and sending updates to ...read more

CP command is used to copy files and directories in Linux, while vi command is used to edit files in a text editor.

• CP command is used to copy files and directories in Linux, while vi command is used to edit files in a text editor.

• CP command stands for 'copy', while vi command stands for 'visual editor'.

• CP command syntax: cp [options] source destination

• Vi command syntax: vi filename

• Change management involves controlling changes to the system, ensuring they are documented and a...read more

M-25 ratio is a mix design ratio used in concrete construction.

• M-25 ratio refers to the mix design ratio of concrete, where M represents the compressive strength of concrete after 28 days of curing.

• In M-25 ratio, the ratio of cement, sand, and aggregate is 1:1:2 respectively.

• For example, if we need to prepare 1 cubic meter of M-25 grade concrete, we would require 1/4 cubic meter of cement, 1/4 cubic meter of sand, and 1/2 cubic meter of aggregate.

Application engineering role within Cummins involves designing and developing customized solutions for customers.

• Application engineers work closely with customers to understand their needs and requirements

• They design and develop customized solutions using Cummins products and technologies

• They provide technical support and assistance to customers during the implementation and operation of the solutions

• They collaborate with cross-functional teams including sales, marketing, and...read more

The most important annotation in Spring Boot is @SpringBootApplication.

• Used to mark the main class of a Spring Boot application

• Enables auto-configuration and component scanning

• Combines @Configuration, @EnableAutoConfiguration, and @ComponentScan annotations