Mar 28, 2024  
2017-2018 SLCC General Catalog 
    
2017-2018 SLCC General Catalog [**** ATTENTION: YOU ARE VIEWING AN ARCHIVED CATALOG ****]

Electronics Communications Technician: CC (Competency-Based)(CTE)


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Certificate of Completion | 1067 Clock Hours

School of Applied Technology
Program Location
Westpointe Center, Room 216. (Main Classroom)
General Information (801) 957-7522
Program Information (801) 957-3354
Program Website
Academic and Career Advising
Academic Advisor Hector Cando (801) 957-3112

Program Faculty
Associate Professors − Gilbert Ulibarri
Assistant Professor - Mike Wood
Adjunct Instructor − Michael Barela, Maria Raikh

Program Description
This program was specifically designed for companies such as the power company and their need for RF Communications Technicians. The use of technology and communications networks is wide-spread, from cellular to satellite television. Many state agencies and utility companies have a communications system that may be land and wireless, to support their operations. This program will prepare you to enter many of these occupations, it basically has two cores, one for Electronics to give you the solid foundation that all technicians require, and the core and foundation for working in the  communications field. The program as a whole provides a balanced blend of theory and hands-on activities; project-based learning is emphasized, coverage of the basic theory, circuits, and fundamentals of AC/DC, Analog devices/circuits and Digital electronics. In addition, the students will learn how to use various instrumentation for testing, troubleshooting/repair of electronic circuits and systems. This course also covers electronic components, how they function, data-sheets, schematic symbols/diagrams, and device testing. All courses include experiments, circuit bread-board construction, and  structured lesson plans. The program also includes the Electronics Technician International Certified Electronics Technician course (CET), which is designed to review and prepare for the examination, which will represent a student’s knowledge and ability. Some of the high-lights of the core  communications are Signal Processing, RF Communications, Lines, Antennas and Towers, Radar and Microwave systems. In addition a Fiber Optics course that leads to ETA-I Fiber Optics Installer certification. Finally the program prepares the individual for the FCC General Radio license examination - GROL. These combined skills sets will allow the student to be prepared with the knowledge and competencies to enter into many of the related and exciting occupations in the field of Communications.

Career Opportunities
The related communication occupations include sample of reported job titles: Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers, Telecommunications Line Installers and Repairers, Radio, Cellular, and Tower Equipment Installers and Repairers, Radio Mechanics, Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment, Central Office Technician, Install / Repair Technician, Service Technician, Installer, Telecommunications Technician, Customer Service Technician (CST),Combination Technician, Field Technician, Communications Technician, Outside Plant Technician, Central Office Technician, Install / Repair Technician, Service Technician, Installer, Telecommunications Technician, Customer Service Technician (CST), Combination Technician, Field Technician, Communications Technician, and Outside Plant Technician.

These occupations will be involved in the repair and installation of mobile or stationary radio transmitting, broadcasting, and receiving equipment, and two-way radio communications systems used in cellular telecommunications, mobile broadband, ship-to-shore, aircraft-to-ground communications, and radio equipment in service and emergency vehicles. May test and analyze network coverage. As well as assemble or erect communications towers, using construction or rigging equipment, check antenna positioning to ensure specified azimuths or mechanical tilts and adjust as necessary. The career  fields may also require that the individual repair circuits, wiring, and soldering, using soldering irons and hand tools to install parts and adjust connections, test equipment functions such as signal strength and quality, transmission capacity, interference, and signal delay, using equipment such as oscilloscopes, circuit analyzers, frequency meters, and watt-meters. Examine malfunctioning radio equipment to locate defects such as loose connections, broken wires, or burned-out components, using schematic diagrams and test equipment, test emergency transmitters to ensure their readiness for immediate use. Many Technicians will perform scheduled preventive maintenance tasks, such as checking, cleaning, or repairing equipment, to detect and prevent problems.

As you can see the task and skills can vary and are very involved and different, from service or repair of telephones, cable television, Internet, and other communications equipment on customers’ property, one may install communications equipment or communications wiring in buildings.

There are many industry sector areas, such as service, manufacturing, and research. The titles vary, and usually reflect the specifics occupation and business. Since these have a similar skill set, it is easy to move into new opportunities. The reality communications is a very large and interesting occupation area, with many opportunities. A technician with a strong background in electronics is a very valuable commodity in today’s workplace and will be in even greater demand in the future.

For state and national occupation information, visit http://online.onetcenter.org/find/ and enter the following O*Net code(s):

  • 49-2022.00 - Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers, Except Line Installers
  • 49-9052.00 - Telecommunications Line Installers and Repairers
  • 49-2021.00 - Radio, Cellular, and Tower Equipment Installers and Repairers
  • 49-2021.01 - Radio Mechanics
  • 49-2094.00 - Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment
  • 49-2093.00 - Electrical Installers and Repairers

Transfer/Articulation Information
None at this time, an articulation is being pursued to an AAS/AS.

Program Entry Requirements
Students must demonstrate basic education skills as assessed by the Test of Adult Basic Education (TABE):

  • Reading: 8.0
  • Math: 10.00

Ability to distinguish differences in color
Basic Computer Literacy required. Please see the department or department website for entry-level requirements.

Estimated Cost for Students
Please visit the following program website for up-to-date cost information: http://www.slcc.edu/electronics/index.aspx

Estimated Time to Completion
1067 Clock Hours

Specialized Accreditation
The KECT 0151 Fiber Optics  course is an approved training and certification course through Electronics Technician Association International.

Program Student Learning Outcomes Related College-Wide Student Learning Outcomes
  1 - Acquire Substantive Knowledge
2 - Communicate Effectively
3 - Develop Quantitative Literacy
4 - Think Critically and Creatively
5 - Civic Engagement
6 - Work Professionally and Constructively
7 - Develop Computer and Information Literacy
The student will be able to demonstrate proficiency in the knowledge of Basic Computer Literacy concepts. 7
The student will be able to demonstrate the ability to perform basic thru-hole and surface mount soldering for electronic assemblies. 1,2,3,4,6,7
The student will be able to apply Electronics Math concepts, Mathematics and Formulas, basic math, metric notation, algebra, and right-triangle trigonometry, statics, and utilize scientific calculators. 1,2,3,4,6,7
The student will be able to utilize Technical Writing concepts, applying knowledge to demonstration and usage of lab reports, proposals, communications, and engineering lab project reports and related documentation. 1,2,3,4,6,7
The student will be able to demonstrate proficiency in DC Fundamentals & Circuits concepts, electrical theory, calculations, circuit and component characteristics, circuit construction, test/measurements, schematics, troubleshooting, DC power supplies usage, DMM and analysis. 1,2,3,4,6,7
The student will be able to demonstrate proficiency in AC Fundamentals & Circuits concepts, electrical theory, calculations, circuit and component characteristics, circuit construction, test/measurements, schematics, troubleshooting, usage of Oscilloscopes/Function Generator/ Frequency Counter/DMM and analysis. 1,2,3,4,6,7
The student will be able to demonstrate proficiency in Analog Devices & concepts, electrical theory, calculations, circuit and component characteristics, circuit construction, test/measurements, schematics, troubleshooting, Data sheets/pin-outs/electrical specifications, Active device handling precautions, Programmable Field Analog Devices and analysis. 1,2,3,4,6,7
The student will be able to demonstrate proficiency in Digital Circuits & Application Fundamentals & concepts, electrical theory, calculations, circuit and component characteristics, circuit simplification, Boolean Algebra, circuit construction, test/measurements, schematics, troubleshooting, logic analyzers/logic probe usage, Programmable Logic Devices, and analysis of timing diagrams. 1,2,3,4,6,7
The student will be able to demonstrate proficiency in Electronics knowledge at an Associate Technician level, by obtaining CET certification. 1,2,3,4,6,7
The student will be able to demonstrate proficiency in the knowledge of Test & Measurement Instrumentation concepts, competencies, utilize all features and functions of Oscilloscopes, Waveform Generators, DMM, Logic analyzers, and Spectrum Analyzers, as well as what is current in the Test & Measurement Industry. 1,2,3,4,6,7
The student will be able to demonstrate proficiency in the fundamentals of signal processing, to include modern Digital Signal Processing, systems, principles of electronic signals, both analog and digital. AM/FM circuits, modulation and multiplexing techniques, acquisition, reconstruction, sampling and quantization, Phase Locked Loop circuits, and hands-on projects of processing circuits. 1,2,3,4,6,7
The student will be able to demonstrate proficiency in the principles of Electronic Communication Systems, systems, communications technologies, wave propagation, HF fundamentals, AM/FM circuits, AM/CB/SSB transceivers, Multiplexing (DEMUX), Data Transmission Techniques, Transmission Lines, Smith Chart usage, Communication Tests and
Measurements, and Electromagnetic Interference Testing.
1,2,3,4,6,7
The student will be able to demonstrate proficiency in basic antennas concepts, antenna theory, practical designs, antenna impedance, transmission Lines, antenna measurements, antenna modeling, proper procedures working with towers, inspections, performing maintenance, cables, connections, and safety measures for antennas and towers. 1,2,3,4,6,7
The student will be able to demonstrate proficiency in Microwave fundamentals, circuits, systems, solid state microwave passive and active components, basic principles and operation of microwave systems, Radar, use of Smith chart to determine transmission line parameters/test equipment operation. 1,2,3,4,6,7
The student will be able to demonstrate proficiency in Fiber Optics knowledge by performing various hands-on projects, splicing, installing connectors, and OTDR testing. Obtaining Fiber Optics Installer Certification (FOI) is another major demonstration of proficiency. 1,2,3,4,6,7
The student will be able to demonstrate proficiency in Telecommunications and Data Communications Technologies that support modern communication systems, Analog & Digital Telephony, protocols, optical wiring, wireless telephony, safety, transmission services, cabling, test equipment, distribution methods, Interfacing, Internet, networks and  troubleshooting. Obtainment of TCM certification is further proficiency demonstration of knowledge. 1,2,3,4,6,7
The student will be able to demonstrate proficiency in principles of AM/FM/ phase/modulation/pulse modulation/tuned RF/power amplifiers, transmission lines/antennas/transmitter-receiver fundamentals/maritime aviation radio law. Further proficiency is demonstrated by obtainment of General Radiotelephone Operators License (GROL) FCC license. 1,2,3,4,6,7
Demonstrate ability to complete a job application, utilize networking skills for job search, produce a resume/electronics, and demonstration of interviewing skills.    1, 2

Advising Notes:


Stand-alone or specific needs - All courses need to have their prerequisites confirmed by the Electronics department. Students must e-mail transcripts, etc., to dept. before registration/scheduling is approved.

Additional Program Notes:


Students can submit requests for prior education and/or work experience for program substitutions and/or waivers. All requests must have official support documentation, transcripts, industry certifications and or work records required. Student should make this request if possible before start of program.

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