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Electronic Systems Technician

Overview

This unique Electronic Systems Technicians (EST) curriculum prepares learners for a career in this highly in-demand field, with strong emphasis on installing and troubleshooting telecommunications, security, and fire alarm systems.  

The four-level Electronic Systems Technicians (EST) curriculum uses the first two levels of Electrical training as the starting point for learners seeking a career as an Electronic Systems Technician. 

Coverage of the National Electrical Code® is integrated throughout to ensure learners are prepared with the code knowledge need to be successful on the job.  

Craft Snapshot

REVISED
2021, 4th Edition
NCCERconnect Deliver instruction using our pre-loaded content and course management tools, streamline training, and track results through the online gradebook. Students learn using the interactive eTextbook and Media Library with Active Figures that bring the material to life, anytime and anywhere they choose.
Available
LANGUAGES
English

Curriculum Details

Electronic Systems Technician (EST) has been combined with NCCER’s Electrical series to provide additional career pathways. After completing Electrical Levels 1 and 2, trainees can choose to advance into Electrical Levels 3-4 or EST Levels 3-4.

 

Total Recommended Hours
Competencies & Objectives Lists
4th Edition:

  • Levels 3-4: 507.5
Limited-Energy Cabling
20 Hours

Module ID 33108: Covers the makeup, identification, and applications of conductors and cables used in limited-energy applications. Describes the tools, materials, and procedures for pulling limited-energy cabling through conduit and raceways.

Limited-Energy Cable Selection
10 Hours

Module ID 33208: Provides an overview of the types of cable used for limited-energy installations. Also covers methods used to select the proper size and type of cable for a typical low-voltage installations.

Limited-Energy Cable Termination
25 Hours

Module ID 33209: Provides information and instructions for selecting, installing, and testing connectors and other terminating devices on cables used in limited-energy work, including telecommunications, video, audio, and fiber optic installations.

Limited-Energy Network Installations
25 Hours

Module ID 33301: Details procedures for connecting computers and other devices using both wired and wireless network connections. Describes components and architecture of ethernet, LAN, and powerline carrier networks.

Fiber Optics
25 Hours

Module ID 33302: Introduces the types of equipment and methods used in fiber-optic cable installation.

Wireless Communications
15 Hours

Module ID 33303: Introduces wireless communications and discusses current technologies transforming the market to include 5G, various residential and wireless networks, and a variety of mobile devices. Covers updated technologies and their implications. Emphasizes growing relevance of network security.

Site Survey, Project Planning, and Documentation
15 Hours

Module ID 33304: Explains planning a job from start to finish, including how to perform site surveys for new and retrofit construction projects. Covers drawings, specifications, and current software applications used on the construction site.

Rack Assembly
17.5 Hours

Module ID 33305: Describes rack systems and best practices for assembling electronic system enclosures, including power sequencing, grounding, bonding, weight distribution, and heat dissipation. Explains electrical power distribution and load calculations for equipment housed within racks.

System Commissioning and User Training
20 Hours

Module ID 33306: Covers basic steps in the commission process including development of the plan and user-required training approach. Describes customer satisfaction levels and meeting expectations during the cut-over phase of a project.

Maintenance and Repair
20 Hours

Module ID 33307: Introduces tasks involved in the maintenance and repair of limited-energy systems and equipment. Presents a systematic approach to system and component-level troubleshooting and methods of identifying common repair types.

Audio Systems
30 Hours

Module ID 33401: Introduces and explains audio system components, including input sources, amplifiers, signal-processing equipment, and output equipment. Describes power requirements, cabling options, system configuration, and basic design considerations. Reviews common test equipment used for installation and troubleshooting.

Video Systems
40 Hours

Module ID 33402: Describes the types of equipment used in various video systems and equipment, including both analog and digital video, video signaling, display devices, HDTV, reality technologies, and video-processing and distribution.

Broadband
25 Hours

Module ID 33403: Explains the history of broadband and explores the primary delivery methods, including telephone lines, DSL, ADSL, BPL, cable and fiber optics, satellite, cellular, Wi-Fi®, and emerging technologies such as low earth orbit satellites.

Media Management Systems
25 Hours

Module ID 33404: Explains the basic principles behind shared media resources and their access via computer networks, wireless systems, and hardwired applications. Describes media types for both analog and digital platforms. Explores cabling options including fiber optic interfaces.

Telecommunications Systems
20 Hours

Module ID 33405: Describes the history and updates of basic subscriber systems. Identifies types of telephone technologies, compares multiplexing and modulation, and covers Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP).

Residential and Commercial Networks
15 Hours

Module ID 33406: Explains the integration of current and diverse low-voltage systems and the trend toward their singular hub control (or start topology connectivity). Covers implications of user interfacing technologies. Updated to 2020 NEC® codes as well as future outlook of building networks.

Intrusion Detection Systems
30 Hours

Module ID 33407: Describes devices such as sensors, notification, control panels, and programming used in intrusion detection security systems. Covers system design and installation guidelines, wiring, testing, and troubleshooting. Emphasizes codes and standards.

Fire Alarm Systems
40 Hours

Module ID 33408: Covers the basics of fire alarm systems, including devices, circuits, system design and installation guidelines, power requirements, control unit programming, testing, and troubleshooting. Explores integration of fire alarms with other systems. Examines both residential and commercial fire alarm applications, emphasizing NEC® requirements and those found in NFPA 72.

Nurse Call and Signaling Systems
15 Hours

Module ID 33409: Presents an overview of nurse call and signaling systems as found in hospitals and other healthcare facilities. Covers basic emergency call and duress system requirements based on facility type. Identifies installation requirements based on UL and other building code specifications.

Closed Circuit Television (CCTV)
30 Hours

Module ID 33410: Describes the installation and configuration of closed circuit TV systems for small, medium, and large facilities. Explains various equipment and concepts, including cameras, lenses, remote positioning, video recording, cloud storage, and transmission. Covers the roles of the internet and digital technologies. Introduces test and troubleshooting equipment.

Access Control Systems
35 Hours

Module ID 33411: Introduces access control systems and applications including, door security and locking devices, card and biometric readers, and current ingress/egress technologies. Emphasizes installation practices as well as building and electrical codes.

EST and Internet of Things (IoT)
10 Hours

Module ID 33412: Introduces the history, development, and application of integrated Internet of Things (IoT) technologies as well as their influences on contemporary electronics. Addresses the increased need for component integration and introduces basic IoT devices involved today’s systems. Presents an outlook on the future of IoT and its increased demand for ESTs.

Career Pathways

NCCER is proud to offer EST Levels 3 & 4 , which may be taken after completion of Electrical Levels 1 & 2. EST Level 4 offers interim credentials for two distinct career plans culminating in a full craft completion: Audio Video and Data, and Life Safety and Security.

Contributing Subject Matter Experts

Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) are a vital part of NCCER’s Curriculum development process. SMEs are construction and maintenance professionals who have journey-level experience and have experience teaching their trades to others.

View Subject Matter Experts
Contributing Subject Matter Experts
Below is a list of subject matter experts for this craft:
D

Dave Gilson, Terabyte Technologies

Diana Lettkeman, DISH Network L.L.C.

G

George Bish, Ring L.L.C.

J

Jason Decker, Associated Builders and Contractors

Jeff Richardson, DISH Network L.L.C.

John Pinelo, Federal Technology Solutions Inc.

M

Michael Slossar, Ring L.L.C.

S

Shane Clary Ph.D., Bay Alarm Company

T

Tom Crump, Connect-Max L.L.C.

NCCERconnect

Optimize your classroom time, while accelerating knowledge for learners. NCCERconnect works to provide learners with always-available access to online training materials, including videos, interactives, a rich eText, practice quizzes and other engaging content.

  • Mobile access to the eText also allows for learning on-the-go.
  • Instructors can get started quickly with pre-built assignments, use the robust course tools for class management, and track student participation and results through the online gradebook.
  • Designed to help learner engagement in any classroom, whether a blended, virtual or traditional classroom environment.

Instructor Resources

Instructor Toolbox

NCCER’s Instructor Toolbox provides easy access to important instructional resources for your training program. You’ll find downloadable course planning tools, examples of classroom activities and projects, and instructor tips and best practices to help you enhance your program.