Courses included in the training programs offered individually as well as some additional selected courses for related study, delivered by correspondence.
Individual Courses (Continued)
Introduction to Electronics (45 hrs.) (core course)
Introduces semiconductors and describes their function in a wide range of circuits and systems. Tuned circuits and RLC networks, diodes and power supplies, tubes, transistors, amplifiers, integrated circuits, digital circuits, and oscillators are discussed. The course also provides an introduction to radio communications, television and video display units, fiber optics and lasers, personal computers, and microcontrollers.
Motors and Controls: Industrial Wiring (45 hrs.) (core course)
This course introduces direct current motors, single-phase motors, and three-phase motors. The construction, types, operation, and installation of these machines are covered. The course also involves the study of various motor control devices and circuits, and includes an introduction to DC drives, variable-frequency drives, and programmable logic controllers. Industrial distribution is also discussed.
Photovoltaics (45 hrs.) (Board approved elective)
This is a thorough course on photovoltaic (PV) principles and system installation. It consists of an introduction to PV, site assessment, system design, system installation and inspection, and maintenance and troubleshooting. The course content follows the NABCEP Solar PV Installer Job Task Analysis. This course qualifies for 40 hours of advanced training required for NABCEP’s PV Installation Professional certification.
Technical Mathematics (45 hrs.) (core course)
This course introduces and reviews basic math concepts and skills required in the trades. Topics covered include whole numbers, fractions, decimals, percentages, signed numbers and powers of ten, the metric system, exponents, ratios, and proportions. The course also covers basic algebra, plane and solid geometry, graphs, and trigonometry limited to right triangle applications.
Transformers (45 hrs.) (core course)
Introduces three-phase circuits, connections, calculations, and power factor correction. Single- and three-phase transformer types, construction, and operating principles are examined. Transformer polarity, maximum current, testing, and impedance are discussed. Three-phase delta and wye connections, the T connection, Scott connection, and zig-zag connection are covered. Transformer calculations and harmonics are also included.
Low-Voltage Systems and Cabling (45 hrs.) (Board approved elective)
This course provides a low-voltage component for journeyman and master electrician training and for electricians specializing in low-energy installations. The course covers copper and fiber-optic cabling and installations for voice, data, and video applications. Topics discussed include structured cabling, cabling standards, signals, terminations, and testing. Fire alarm system basics are also covered.
Note to Course Descriptions
The Maine Electricians’ Examining Board requires core courses to be completed for licensure. Applicants for limited electrician’s licenses are not required to complete all core courses. See the study programs for limited licenses. Board approved electives (3) fulfill the elective requirement for master and journeyman training programs.