Part One of a Six-Part Series
By Dave Gilson, Tera-byte Technologies
The world of low-voltage and limited energy is changing rapidly — sometimes seemingly overnight. According to industry trends, mobile devices will continue to consume more bandwidth, which means building automation will tie into mobile devices and many networks will become wireless. One day, all systems found within a building — HVAC, lighting, audio, video surveillance, and life safety — may live on one common network.
Aside from wireless networks, Power over Ethernet (PoE) has already made an impact on the industry. Network wiring is now being used to carry electrical power to a variety of devices including lighting and digital security cameras. The primary benefit of using PoE is that power and data travel along the same ethernet cable.
In response to these trends, the IEC National Apprenticeship & Training Committee started developing a library of standalone low-voltage courses. The first of six modules, Introduction to Limited Energy Systems, explains the industry and role of a limited energy technician. It explores all facets and covers industry codes and standards; safety; electrical math; residential, commercial, and industrial installations; limited energy cables; DC circuits; and conduits, raceways, pathways, and spaces.
This course is an excellent way to “test the waters” in this field. Educating curious minds about additional opportunities in the electrical field benefits the greater good. There is still a country-wide shortage of trained and qualified electricians — whether low-, medium-, or high-voltage — and the only way to close the gap is through education and training.
To learn more about the program and its upcoming modules, contact Chrissy Skudera (cskudera@ieci.org).
Introduction to Limited Energy Systems
Table of Contents
Lesson 1: The Basics
Lesson 2: Safety
Lesson 3: National Electrical Code® (NEC ®) and Industry Standards
Lesson 4: Math and Algebra Review
Lesson 5: Electrical Math
Lesson 6: Midterm
Lesson 7: Residential Installations
Lesson 8: Commercial and Industrial Installations
Lesson 9: DC Electronic Circuits
Lesson 10: Conduits, Raceways, Pathways, and Spaces
Lesson 11: Introduction to Limited Energy Cables
Lesson 12: Final Exam