Chapter 2 Certification for the Electricity and Electronics Field

Introduction This chapter covers the following topics: –The basis for certification –The requirements for various certifications –How to prepare for a certification

Basis for Certification Electronics Technicians Association International (ETA-I) –Professional organization –Offers over 50 certifications –Certifications accredited by the International Certification Accreditation Council (ICAC)

Figure 2-1 Electronics Technician Association International logo. Courtesy of ETA International.

Basis for Certification (cont’d.) International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians –Trains, prepares, and tests technicians Certified Electronics Technicians Program –Founded in 1965 –Protects consumers and employers

Figure 2-2 International Society of Certified Electronics Technician logo. © 2014 Cengage Learning

Basis for Certification (cont’d.) Certification exams test individual proficiencies Exams reviewed regularly by panel of experts Government and private organizations may require certification –Condition of employment

Identifying Certifications Requirements Associate-Level CET Exam –May be taken by students –Part of the full credit CET exam Electronics Systems Associate (ESA) Exam –Four part exam covers DC, AC, semiconductors, and digital

Identifying Certifications Requirements (cont’d.) Journeyman level CET –Must first pass associate level electronics test –Pass one of journeyman level exams Communications, computer, consumer, industrial, medical, or radar

How to Prepare for a Certification Use online learning material to prepare for a certification exam –Practice tests are available Electronics technician tasks –Repair, maintain, assemble and test electronics equipment

Figure 2-3 Location of practice Associate CET exam on the ETA-I web site Courtesy of ETA International

How to Prepare for a Certification (cont’d.) Bench electronics technician –Indoor repair, test, or assembly work at a workbench Computer electronics technician –Focuses on computer and information technology

How to Prepare for a Certification (cont’d.) Support field electronics technician –Outdoor or off-site maintenance and repair tasks Metrology electronics technician –Equipment calibration and repair Senior electronics technician –Requires extensive experience

How to Prepare for a Certification (cont’d.) Electronics technician job requirements –Two-year technical degree –Diploma from vocational or technical school –Military training Employers verify information on resume

How to Prepare for a Certification (cont’d.) Required skills –Reading schematics and maintenance manuals –Test and troubleshoot equipment –Solder and unsolder components –Research part availability and costs –Determine if further assistance is needed