Electronic Concepts and Components Courses

Component Testers

Course #: 086062
Duration: 6 hours
Course Prerequisites: AC Principles (Block A22); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn: Identify the type of Component Testers for such "piece parts" as Resistors, Capacitors and Inductors; Calculate Turns Ratio; Show the correct connection scheme for testing Diodes, SCRS, and Transistors; Relate proper Soldering and Desoldering techniques; Cite the safety procedures to be used when handling Electronic Chemicals and Lubricants.

Special Notes: This updated course replaces course B0105.

Digital Test Equipment

Course #: 086063
Duration: 6 hours
Course Prerequisites: AC Principles (Block A22); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn: Cite the use of Binary Math in Digital Circuits; Identify various types of Gate Circuits; Explain the use of a Logic Probe; Relate the differences between an Oscilloscope and a Logic Analyzer.

Special Notes: This updated course replaces course B0106.

Analog Electronic Components

Course #: Block B23
Duration: 42 hours
Course Prerequisites: Analog Circuit Measurement (Block A23); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn: This seven unit block provides a detailed theory into the workings of common electronic components and circuits. Different types of diodes, transistors, switching devices and tubes are covered. The trainee learns to perform circuit measurement tests and troubleshooting techniques for each component.
Components: Basic Semiconductor Components: Diodes (086019); Basic Semiconductor Components: Transistors (086020); Switching Devices (086021); Electronic Sensors (086022); Special Rectifiers: Electron Tubes (086023); Optoelectronic and Fiber Optic Components (086024); Electronics Hardware (086040);
Special Notes: This updated course replaces Electronic Components, Block B03. Each study unit contains a progress examination.

Basic Semiconductor Components: Diodes

Course #: 086019
Duration: 6 hours
Course Prerequisites: Analog Circuit Measurement (Block A23); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

Describe how diodes work in a rectifier and how to determine if they are working properly.

Explain how different types of diodes function.

List a variety of diode uses in electronic systems.

List the characteristics that make a particular diode useful in a given situation.

Know how a diode works with other components in an electronic circuit.

Perform basic measurements in diode circuits, that will assist in troubleshooting tests.

Select a proper diode for replacement in a circuit.

Basic Semiconductor Components: Transistors

Course #: 086020
Duration: 6 hours
Course Prerequisites: Analog Circuit Measurement (Block A23); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

Learn how transistors control the flow of electricity in a circuit.

Describe the construction of bipolar transistors.

Explain how the operation of bipolar transistors resembles that of the diode.

Discuss how biopolar transistors can control and amplify current in a circuit.

Describe the construction and operation of JFETs and MOSFETs.

How to use an ohmmeter to perform basic tests on bipolar transistors.

Perform basic troubleshooting measurements and calculations on circuits that contain amplifying devices.

Switching Devices

Course #: 086021
Duration: 6 hours
Course Prerequisites: Analog Circuit Measurement (Block A23); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

Learn how a switch changes:
- voltage levels and current levels.
- the DC polarity of the delivered voltage.
- the direction of direct current.
- from one delivered frequency to another.

Describe how the above functions can be performed by mechanical switches or by electronic circuitry.

List the advantages and disadvantages of various switch types and how they function..

Analyze basic relay ladder diagrams.

Explain how a diode can be used as a switch.

Name some of the problems of diode switching.

Describe how very rapid electronic switching is accomplished.

Explain the circumstances in which a mechanical switch may be preferable to a rapid electronic switch.

Electronic Sensors

Course #: 086022
Duration: 6 hours
Course Prerequisites: Analog Circuit Measurement (Block A23); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

Learn how certain electronic components are used as sensors and as parts in control mechanisms.

Explain what sensors and transducers do.

Describe important thermoelectric effects.

Learn how these types of transducers operate and the effects they cause; electromagnetic, electroacoustical. piezoelectric, photoelectric, and electromechanical.

Explain the importance of a bridge circuit in certain types of electronic instrumentation.

Describe how certain nonlinear resistors are used in circuits.

Explain how certain components can be used as protection devices for circuits.

Define the scientific terms stress and strain.

Special Rectifiers: Electron Tubes

Course #: 086023
Duration: 6 hours
Course Prerequisites: Analog Circuit Measurement (Block A23); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

Learn how electron tubes work and how to troubleshoot tubes when necessary.

Identify the four different methods of obtaining electronic emission.

Explain how vacuum tubes and gas-filled tubes operate.

Learn how the following special purpose tubes work: Cathode Ray Tubes (CRTs), Transmitter Tubes, Image Orthicon Tubes, Vidicon Tubes.

Describe how a triode uses a control grid to control electron flow.

Explain why a screen grid is used in a tetrode.

Describe the function of a suppressor grid in a pentode.

Describe how electron beams are controlled in a cathode ray tube (CRT).

Understand half-wave and full-wave rectification.

How to select a diode for replacement in a circuit.

Troubleshoot a half-wave rectifier power supply.

Optoelectronic and Fiber Optic Components

Course #: 086024
Duration: 6 hours
Course Prerequisites: Analog Circuit Measurement (Block A23); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

An introduction to the high technology field of optoelectronics.

Discuss the theory and applications of the components used in this field; compact discs, bar code readers, lasers, light emitting diodes (LEDs) and light activated diodes (LADs).

Explain why electronics and optics are natural partners.

Identify the modern theories of light and the relationship to optoelectronic applications.

Describe the basic theory of light communications.

Learn how a fiber optic communications system works.

Describe the operation of electron microscopes and their advantage over optical microscopes.

Explain how fluorescent light and other light sources operate.

Electronics Hardware

Course #: 086040
Duration: 6 hours
Course Prerequisites: Analog Circuit Measurement (Block A23); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

Learn the uses and applications of these components that are critical to the repair and maintenance of an analog circuit or system: fasteners, connectors, jacks, component sockets, cables, strain gages, relays, wires, heat shrink tubing, batteries and UPSs.

How to construct a circuit board for a personal computer.

Learn correct and safe soldering techniques.

Understand surface mount technology.

Basic Electronic Circuits

Course #: Block B24
Duration: 48 hours
Course Prerequisites: Analog Circuit Measurement (Block A23); Analog Electronic Components (Block B23); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn: This block describes how components are grouped in industrial electronic circuits to perform particular functions or achieve certain circuit characteristics. The trainee will learn how power is supplied to and rectified for use in electronic equipment. The block also explains how signals are produced, transmitted, received, evaluated, and utilized in common industrial electronic applications. Biasing, circuit parameters, component selection (value and rating), and the respective advantages / disadvantages of each are covered.
Components: Rectifiers and Power Supplies (086041); Amplifiers (086042); Oscillators (086043); Modulation and Detection Circuits (086044); Switching Circuits (086054); Logic Circuits (086055); Gating and Counting Circuits (086056); Pulse and Digital Circuits (086057);
Special Notes: This updated course replaces Basic Electronic Circuits, Block B04. Each study unit contains a progress examination.

Rectifiers and Power Supplies

Course #: 086041
Duration: 6 hours
Course Prerequisites: Analog Circuit Measurement (Block A23); Analog Electronic Components (Block B23); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

Identify the basic types of rectifiers.

Discuss the operation of various power supply filters.

Cite the advantages for different rectifier connection schemes.

Determine the values for a voltage divider.

Explain how voltage dividers are used in power supplies.

Determine the current through, and voltage across, nonlinear components, such as diodes.

Amplifiers

Course #: 086042
Duration: 6 hours
Course Prerequisites: Analog Circuit Measurement (Block A23); Analog Electronic Components (Block B23); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

Indicate the advantages of various classes of transistor amplifier operation.

Calculate the dB gain of an amplifier circuit.

Identify the several types of transistor amplifier circuits.

Show the proper polarity for NPN and PNP transistor connections.

Explain the methods used for biasing a transistor.

Describe the types of distortion introduced by amplifiers.

Explain how to troubleshoot amplifiers.

Oscillators

Course #: 086043
Duration: 6 hours
Course Prerequisites: Analog Circuit Measurement (Block A23); Analog Electronic Components (Block B23); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

Explain the differences between several types of oscillator circuits.

Identify the feedback components of an oscillator circuit, including LC and RC types.

Describe the flywheel effect and how it is produced.

Indicate the principle difference between various oscillator circuits.

Calculate the resonant frequency of an oscillator circuit.

Describe the effects of temperature on crystal oscillators.

Discuss various applications of oscillator circuits.

Describe how a frequency synthesizer works.

Modulation and Detection Circuits

Course #: 086044
Duration: 6 hours
Course Prerequisites: Analog Circuit Measurement (Block A23); Analog Electronic Components (Block B23); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

Describe the various types of detector circuits.

Explain the various forms of modulation.

Calculate bandwidth of signals.

Determine the frequencies resulting from combining or mixing two signals.

Describe the advantages and disadvantages of pulse code modulation.

Explain the operation and applications of phase locked loops.

Indicate applications of detector and modulation circuits.

Switching Circuits

Course #: 086054
Duration: 6 hours
Course Prerequisites: Analog Circuit Measurement (Block A23); Analog Electronic Components (Block B23); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

Match the output conditions for various gate circuits.

Show how transistors are used as logic gates.

Discuss the operation of flip flops.

Name the applications of registers and memories.

Indicate the proper output for a specific multivibrator circuit.

Logic Circuits

Course #: 086055
Duration: 6 hours
Course Prerequisites: Analog Circuit Measurement (Block A23); Analog Electronic Components (Block B23); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

Work with number systems.

Indicate the use of encoders and decoders.

Convert decimal numbers to binary and hexadecimal numbers.

Develop truth tables.

Explain how adders, subtractors, and comparators are used.

Gating and Counting Circuits

Course #: 086056
Duration: 6 hours
Course Prerequisites: Analog Circuit Measurement (Block A23); Analog Electronic Components (Block B23); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

Cite the use of arithmetic logic gates.

Work with half-adder and full-adder circuits.

Discuss the use of subtractor circuits.

Identify the applications for decade and binary counters.

Determine the modulus of a counter.

Pulse and Digital Circuits

Course #: 086057
Duration: 6 hours
Course Prerequisites: Analog Circuit Measurement (Block A23); Analog Electronic Components (Block B23); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

Indicate the basic parts of a pulse waveform.

Identify the difference between limiter and clamper circuits.

Calculate the time constants for integrating and differentiator circuits.

Describe the action of trigger circuits.

Work with binary numbers.

Electronic Systems

Course #: Block B25
Duration: 48 hours
Course Prerequisites: DC Principles (Block A21); Basic Electronic Circuits (Block B24); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn: In this block, the trainee will see how simple circuits are modified (enhanced, improved upon) to produce complex circuits and systems for industrial applications. This is an important subject. The trainee will now begin to see how two or more basic and complex circuits are tied together to create an industrial electronics system. The emphasis will be away from what the individual schematic looks like, but to a "functional block diagram" concept. The trainee is shown large-scale schematics of which particular functional circuits will be identified and discussed. These functional circuits are treated as "blocks," then all tied together. The courses highlight the input and output conditions of an entire system and for each functional block.
Components: Electronic Devices and Amplification (086045); Audio and RF Circuits (086046); Oscillators, Feedback, and Waveforms (086047); Electronic Power Supply Systems (086048); Industrial Amplification Systems (086058); Servo and Control Systems (086059); Pulse and Logic Circuits (086060); Programmable Controllers and Microprocessors (086061);
Special Notes: This updated course replaces Electronic Systems, Block B05. Each study unit contains a progress exam.

Electronic Devices and Amplification

Course #: 086045
Duration: 6 hours
Course Prerequisites: DC Principles (Block A21); Basic Electronic Circuits (Block B24); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

Calculate the gain of an amplifier circuit.

Calculate voltage, current, and impedance relationships in transformers.

Convert power and voltage gain to decibels.

Determine the resistance values needed in an impedance-matching pad.

Identify the characteristics of amplifying devices in various configurations.

Audio and RF Circuits

Course #: 086046
Duration: 6 hours
Course Prerequisites: DC Principles (Block A21); Basic Electronic Circuits (Block B24); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

Describe how sound intensity is measured.

Compare the advantages of AM and FM transmissions.

Describe how narrow-band FM is used in industrial communications.

Explain the advantages of coaxial cable over copper wire as a transmission medium.

Describe how pushbutton dialing can be used in industrial systems.

Explain the different methods used to assemble common-emitter amplifiers.

Oscillators, Feedback, and Waveforms

Course #: 086047
Duration: 6 hours
Course Prerequisites: DC Principles (Block A21); Basic Electronic Circuits (Block B24); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

Identify the basic types of oscillator circuits.

Discuss the various feedback circuits used in oscillators.

Identify particular types of oscillator output waveforms.

Recognize specific applications of oscillator and waveform generator circuits.

Understand how a phase-locked loop works as a frequency synthesizer.

Explain how a 555 integrated circuit timer / oscillator produces a square wave.

Electronic Power Supply Systems

Course #: 086048
Duration: 6 hours
Course Prerequisites: DC Principles (Block A21); Basic Electronic Circuits (Block B24); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

Explain the basic function of rectifiers.

Describe how half-wave and full-wave rectifier circuits operate.

Determine the output voltage from various rectifier circuits.

Calculate the percentage of voltage regulation in a power supply.

Explain the operation of filters and bleeder resistors in power supplies.

Describe the purpose of a voltage divider network to the output of a power supply.

Explain the operation of electronic power supplies.

Describe the operation of several commonly used industrial power supplies.

Industrial Amplification Systems

Course #: 086058
Duration: 6 hours
Course Prerequisites: DC Principles (Block A21); Basic Electronic Circuits (Block B24); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

Recognize the difference between a power and voltage amplifier.

Work with V-MOS, BiFET, Darlington pair, push-pull, and complementary amplifiers.

How to use amplifiers to obtain the desired phase angle relationship when wiring a two-phase induction motor.

Analyze an OP-amp on the basis of the virtual ground or summing point.

Understand how an amplifier introduces distortion and noise in an amplified signal.

Servo and Control Systems

Course #: 086059
Duration: 6 hours
Course Prerequisites: DC Principles (Block A21); Basic Electronic Circuits (Block B24); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

Discuss the basic operation of servo systems.

Relate the differences between open-loop and closed-loop systems.

Identify commonly used symbols for servo system components and devices.

Point out applications of servo systems in industry.

Calculate the gain of a servo system.

List the various types of servo systems and their basic purpose or function.

Pulse and Logic Circuits

Course #: 086060
Duration: 6 hours
Course Prerequisites: DC Principles (Block A21); Basic Electronic Circuits (Block B24); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

State the various characteristics of pulse-generating circuits.

Cite typical industrial applications of pulse generators.

Indicate the advantages of various logic families.

Discuss how digital control signals are processed.

Develop a logic diagram using typical logic gate symbols.

Programmable Controllers and Microprocessors

Course #: 086061
Duration: 6 hours
Course Prerequisites: DC Principles (Block A21); Basic Electronic Circuits (Block B24); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

Describe the typical industrial applications of programmable controllers.

State the function of the various blocks of a microprocessor system.

Indicate typical input/output (I/O) equipment and devices.

Identify the commonly used programming languages.

Develop a simple program.

Fiber Optics Explained

Course #: VB32XX
Duration: 1.48 hours
What Students Learn: This program will demonstrate how light "talks", with transmission through optical fibers. Also xplored is the close relationship between electrons and fiber optics, and their use in communications. Students will learn the general and technical aspects of fiber optics.
Components: Putting Light to Work (VB3203); The Communication Process (VB3201); Making Light Talk (VB3202); Using Fiber Optics (VB3204);

Troubleshooting Industrial Electrical, Electronic, and Computer Systems

Course #: Block B26
Duration: 36 hours
Course Prerequisites: Analog Electronic Components (Block B23);
What Students Learn: This troubleshooting block thoroughly covers the systems encountered in a modern plant or service facility, including the many machines controlled by personal computers (PCs). Malfunctions in modern systems are more likely to be resolved by replacing an entire module or subsystem, rather than troubleshooting specific circuit boards. Plant electricians must often interface with devices that are connected to, or controlled by, PCs or programmable logic controllers (PLCs).

The block examines the industrial components used to monitor or influence the manufacturing process. Study units specifically cover troubleshooting motor control circuits, solenoids, electronic displays, sensors, touch pads and other devices that are directly or indirectly controlled by a computer's output and input signals. The last two units in the series cover the types of problems encountered by Instrumentation, PC, and Network technicians, relating to cables, connectors, power supplies and interference generated by other electrical equipment.
Components: Industrial Electronic Troubleshooting (086064); Electronic Troubleshooting of Industrial Motor Controllers (086065); Industrial Computer Networks (086069); Troubleshooting Sensing Devices and Systems (086066); Troubleshooting Industrial Control Systems and Output Devices (086067); Troubleshooting Industrial Computer Systems and Software (086068);
Special Notes: This new course replaces Troubleshooting Electronic Equipment and Systems, Block B06. Each study unit contains a progress exam.

Industrial Electronic Troubleshooting

Course #: 086064
Duration: 6 hours
Course Prerequisites: Analog Electronic Components (Block B23);
What Students Learn: Preview
In a modern industrial plant, thousands (or even tens of thousands) of components work together to make a product. Many machines can now operate for long periods of time without requiring service. This is mainly due to excellent engineering and advances in metallurgy, the construction of electronic components, and the composition of lubricants. As long as proper maintenance work is performed, a machine may last for a very long time. However, it is inevitable that, at some point, one of those thousands of components will fail. A component failure will result in an equipment shutdown or a faulty product. At this time, workers with troubleshooting experience become invaluable.

A number of different skills are required to troubleshoot a machine or a piece of equipment effectively. In this study unit, students will learn about some of the more abstract troubleshooting procedures. These procedures will require the troubleshooter to collect information and focus on the failed component, not just connect a meter to make measurements.

Objectives
When a student completes this study unit, he and she will be able to:

Explain why a safety inspection is the first inspection that should be made on a failed piece of equipment.

Discuss how to make safety a part of all troubleshooting and repair procedures.

Understand how to collect accurate data on trouble clues.

Describe how to use system indicators to help you troubleshoot an electronic system problem.

List the steps for proper basic troubleshooting, such as identifying failure trends, seeking obvious causes, and circuit board swapping.

Describe how to perform advanced troubleshooting, such as using binary divide techniques and focusing on one of many failure possibilities.

List the aptitude and attitude qualities needed to be a good industrial troubleshooter.

Contents
Introduction; Using Safe Work Practices; Basic Troubleshooting Procedures; Collecting Trouble Symptom Data; Advanced Troubleshooting Procedures.

Electronic Troubleshooting of Industrial Motor Controllers

Course #: 086065
Duration: 6 hours
Course Prerequisites: Analog Electronic Components (Block B23);
What Students Learn: Preview
Industrial motor controllers are widely used in industry. You are probably familiar with some of the simple devices, such as multispeed and reversing AC across the line starters or contractors, used for controlling motors. In this study unit, we will cover the more complex solid state controllers used to control a motor's position and speed.

This study unit will begin by discussing how to troubleshoot simple DC motor controllers and stepper motor control systems. These systems are often used when the speed or position of a small motor must be controlled. Although small DC motors are covered in this unit, you can apply what you learn to larger DC motors since these motors simply have larger components.

This unit will also examine the electronic troubleshooting of servo systems. This section begins with the typical industrial DC servo system where a precision DC motor can be controlled to an exact location and speed. It then covers the troubleshooting of the newer DC brushless systems.

In the final section of this study unit, it will look at the troubleshooting of AC inverter drive systems. These drive systems control AC motors.

Objectives
When a student completes this study unit, he and she will be able to:

Describe various methods of controlling the speed and direction of a DC motor.

Explain the proper steps for troubleshooting a DC motor controller.

List the various types of stepper motor drives and explain how to troubleshoot these systems.

Define how DC servo systems operate and explain the normal test points for locating faults in these systems.

List the types of adjustable frequency drives and explain how to troubleshoot their circuits.

Describe how brushless servo systems operate and how to troubleshoot various problems with these systems.

Contents
Troubleshooting DC Motor Controllers; Troubleshooting Stepper Motors; Troubleshooting DC Servo Motors; Troubleshooting Adjustable Frequency AC Drives; Troubleshooting DC Brushless Servo Systems.

Troubleshooting Sensing Devices and Systems

Course #: 086066
Duration: 6 hours
Course Prerequisites: Analog Electronic Components (Block B23);
What Students Learn: Preview
Sensors are a very important part of any industrial control system. Sensors are provided to the input devices that send signals to these components responsible for monitoring and controlling an industrial system. Input devices indicate when an output device can be safely turned on and how long they should remain on.

In the past, the most popular input device was the limit switch. Although limit switches are still used, non-contact sensors, such as proximity sensors and photoelectric sensors, are becoming more common in industrial applications. Likewise, thermocouples were once popular for sensing temperature. However, modern systems may employ many different types of thermocouples, resistance temperature devices (RTDs), or even semiconductor temperature sensors. Some input devices rely on fiber optics and lasers to perform tasks. These devices and others may rely on their own small IC microchip planted within the sensor. Microchip equipped sensors can be placed on a simple four wire system along with hundreds of other sensors, allowing for a networked grouping of input and output devices.

Students will learn about different types of industrial input devices. In addition, trainees will study some troubleshooting procedures that will prove useful when one of these devices has failed.

Objectives
When a student complete this study unit, he and she will be able to:

Identify the components of a typical limit switch and describe how to test these devices.

Describe the operation of pressure switches.

Identify, the components of, and troubleshooting procedures for, temperature sensing devices and level indicators.

Describe, the operation of, and troubleshooting methods for, proximity, ultrasonic, photoelectric, fiber optic, and laser sensors.

Define the proper troubleshooting methods for sensors that are connected to input modules.

Contents:
Troubleshooting Industrial Contact Sensors; Troubleshooting Proximity and Ultrasonic Sensors; Photoelectric Sensors; Industrial Sensor Input / Output Troubleshooting.

Troubleshooting Industrial Control Systems and Output Devices

Course #: 086067
Duration: 6 hours
Course Prerequisites: Analog Electronic Components (Block B23);
What Students Learn: Preview
The purpose of an industrial output device is to perform controlled work. These devices may be used to start a motor or to control the supply of pressurized air or hydraulic fluid to the actuators of a machine or a robot. In every automated industry, some type of output device controls the functions of a machine.

This study unit focuses on various forms of output devices, output modules, closed-loop systems, and human and machine interfaces. These devices and systems make up the majority of today's industrial systems. This study unit also covers troubleshooting procedures for these systems.

Objectives
When a student completes this study unit, he and she will be able to:

Describe the operation of relays and solenoids, and procedures for troubleshooting them.

Explain how to troubleshoot across-the-line starters and contractors, including solid state controlled contactors.

Explain the importance of arc suppression diodes and resistor and capacitor networks in ouput-device circuits.

Define the operation of, and repair methods for, simple numeric readouts.

Explain how DC and AC output modules operate and how to troubleshoot them.

Identify different types of closed-loop control systems and methods to troubleshoot and repair them.

Explain how to troubleshoot and repair human and machine interface systems.

Contents
Troubleshooting Output Devices; Troubleshooting Output Modules; Troubleshooting Closed-Loop Systems; Troubleshooting Human and Machine Interfaces.

Troubleshooting Industrial Computer Systems and Software

Course #: 086068
Duration: 6 hours
Course Prerequisites: Analog Electronic Components (Block B23);
What Students Learn: Preview
On today's factory floor, there are a wide variety of control systems. In the past, control systems were dedicated controllers, such as a motor's speed controller or a programmable logic controller (PLC). However, the type of dedicated controller is changing. The personal computer (PC) now controls or monitors many industrial processes. The personal computers that workers encounter may be standard models or specifically designed for industrial environments.

In addition to PCs, other equipment is used to identify each part of a manufactured product and the machines that created these parts. Bar code readers or scanners, and radio frequency tag systems perform these identification tasks. Vision systems listed above also identify component parts in an industrial environment. These systems employ a camera to closely analyze a component's features. All the systems require software to run the control or monitoring operations.

Objectives
When a student completes this study unit, he and she will be able to:

Discuss the principle parts and memory types of a computer motherboard.

Identify power supply components and ratings.

Locate the main power supply fuse and identify the type of power supply by its connectors.

Identify the various types of computer drive systems and their cables.

List the repair and troubleshooting procedures for computer hardware and software problems.

Describe the operation of, and troubleshooting procedures for, optical and radio frequency identification systems.

Explain the purpose of vision system hardware and software, and the troubleshooting procedures for them.

Contents
Industrial Computer Components; Industrial PC Components; Repairing Industrial Computers; Computer-based Identification Systems; Industrial Computer Software.

Industrial Computer Networks

Course #: 086069
Duration: 6 hours
Course Prerequisites: Analog Electronic Components (Block B23);
What Students Learn: Preview
In industry today, the use of networks is rapidly growing. Only a few years ago, industrial networking was just in an experimental stage. Today, however, most systems are equipped with standard Ethernet connections and preconfigured network operating systems. Many forms of equipment, such as motor drives and PLCs, are able to share a network controlled by one or more large personal computers.

This study unit provides students with an introduction to industrial networks. Trainees will become familiar with the terminology and learn about the components used in these systems. Trainees will realize that industrial networking is an exciting and fast growing field.

Objectives
When a student complete this study unit, he and she will be able to:

Describe the methods of communication within networks.

Explain the configurations of various types of industrial network systems.

Identify and describe different types of network cables.

Discuss various network protocols.

Describe troubleshooting methods for networks.

Contents
Fundamentals of Industrial Communication Systems; Network Configurations; Network Systems; Network Operating Systems, Model, and Protocols; Troubleshooting Network Systems.

Troubleshooting Electronic Equipment and Systems

Course #: Block B06
Duration: 36 hours
Course Prerequisites: Analog Circuit Measurement (Block A23); Electronic Systems (Block B25); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn: This block presents the troubleshooting techniques for the various types of systems and equipment found in industry. The emphasis will be to apply a "logical troubleshooting approach" to a functional block diagram concept. Since many plants use modular systems, the student must be trained in "fast-fault isolation" methods.
Components: Introduction to Troubleshooting (B0601); Basic Troubleshooting Methods (B0602); Selecting Instruments for Troubleshooting (B0603); Measurement Techniques in Troubleshooting (B0604); Support Services for Troubleshooting (B0605); Practical Troubleshooting Problems (B0606); Progress Examination Booklet (B0620); Progress Examination (B0621); Progress Examination (B0622);

Introduction to Troubleshooting

Course #: B0601
Duration: 6 hours
Course Prerequisites: Analog Circuit Measurement (Block A23); Electronic Systems (Block B25); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

Locate the causes of trouble in basic electronic circuits by the logical process of eliminating various alternatives.

Read electronics schematics and recognize component symbols.

Recognize actual components and circuits by comparison with a schematic.

List good troubleshooting habits.

Discuss safety measures and first-aid care.

Describe how to isolate, localize, pinpoint, and remove trouble sources.

Basic Troubleshooting Methods

Course #: B0602
Duration: 6 hours
Course Prerequisites: Analog Circuit Measurement (Block A23); Electronic Systems (Block B25); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

Recognize trouble symptoms - know what they are, how to use them, and how to refine them.

List the methods of quickly isolating trouble areas by separating what's right from what isn't.

Describe the various troubleshooting techniques.

Tell how to troubleshoot by comparison and by substitution.

Explain where and how to use different troubleshooting methods, either separately or in tandem, to speed up the resolution of your troubleshooting assignments.

Compare troubleshooting by signal injection, circuit disturbance, and shotgunning methods.

Selecting Instruments for Troubleshooting

Course #: B0603
Duration: 6 hours
Course Prerequisites: Analog Circuit Measurement (Block A23); Electronic Systems (Block B25); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

Discuss the different kinds of basic meters and oscilloscopes.

Select the right kind of VOM, FETVOM, or DMM for a given job.

Explain instrument response, circuit loading, accuracy, and other data.

Demonstrate how to use a meter to make both out-of-circuit and in-circuit tests on several basic components.

Read and explain both analog and digital readouts.

Describe instrument specifications and explain how to interpret them.

Define common oscilloscope and meter controls and their uses.

Measurement Techniques in Troubleshooting

Course #: B0604
Duration: 6 hours
Course Prerequisites: Analog Circuit Measurement (Block A23); Electronic Systems (Block B25); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

Measure AC and DC voltages and currents.

Understand how instrument loading can affect tests and how to minimize loading effects.

Make high-voltage measurements safely.

Measure alternating current without opening the circuit.

Set up and make AC (alternating current), DC (direct current) frequency, and time measurements with an oscilloscope.

Use wattmeters, frequency counters, capacitor meters insulation testers and other special instruments found in industry.

Test digital circuits using digital probes and pulse injectors.

Support Services for Troubleshooting

Course #: B0605
Duration: 6 hours
Course Prerequisites: Analog Circuit Measurement (Block A23); Electronic Systems (Block B25); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

Demonstrate good soldering techniques.

Review the use of solder flux and heat sinks.

Select and maintain solder tips.

Describe the various desoldering methods.

Show the proper care for desoldering irons.

Discuss troubleshooting aids including special tools, sprays, extensions, clips, and cleaners.

Explain troubleshooting strategies.

Illustrate logical approaches to troubleshooting.

Practical Troubleshooting Problems

Course #: B0606
Duration: 6 hours
Course Prerequisites: Analog Circuit Measurement (Block A23); Electronic Systems (Block B25); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

Identify the various kinds of power supplies and list the troubles to be expected from each.

Explain how ohmmeters, voltmeters, and oscilloscopes are used to locate power-supply troubles.

Describe how regulators work, including what trouble symptoms they develop and how to cure them.

Define how to test electrolytics, transistors, diodes, and other parts within, and outside the circuit.

Explain how to troubleshoot glitches, ripple, and transients.

Explain the testing of digital circuits, including how it differs from and compares with, other kinds of troubleshooting.

Test microprocessor inputs, outputs, and supply voltages and be able to find troubles in them and in other digital systems.

Basic Math for Electronics

Course #: VB14XX
Duration: 1.32 hours
What Students Learn: This program provides reinforcement of important math skills and will be useful when placed in the curriculum as support of those basic skills. In some respects, this program is truly an "Applied Math" series, for it takes abstracts and shows their application as related to the field of electronics. There are no prerequisites for this program, though knowledge of Basic Electricity could prove helpful.
Components: Powers of Ten and Metric Prefixes (VB1401); Working with Ohm's Law (VB1402); Series Circuits and Ohm's Law (VB1403); Parallel Circuits and Ohm's Law (VB1404);

A/D and D/A Converters

Course #: VB17XX
Duration: 1.2 hours
What Students Learn: From the audio CDs we listen to, to the digital readouts on scales and automatic dash boards, Analog to Digital (A/D) and Digital to Analog (D/A) devices are among the most common items that electronic technicians need to understand. In fact, A+ Certification requires electronic technicians to have a working knowledge of these devices that they can integrate into systems.
Components: The Theory Behind the Hardware (VB1701); Simultaneous or Flash A/D Circuits (VB1702); Binary-Weighted and R-2R D/A Circuits (VB1703); Stairstep, Tracking, and Successive Approximation A/D (VB1704);

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