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Electronics Technology

Overview Degrees/Certificates Courses

The Electronics Technology/automated systems technician program consists of courses from basic electronic concepts and safety to courses in computer and smart device-controlled systems. It is designed to prepare students for employment in the automated manufacture, assembly, and testing of electronic circuit devices.

Degrees and Certificates Offered

A.S. in Automated Systems Technician
A.S. in Telecommunications Technician
Automated Systems Technician Certificate
Telecommunications Technician Certificate

Dean Paul Estabrook
Department Chair Richard Gentry
Phone (916) 558-2250
Email GentryR@scc.losrios.edu

Associate Degrees

A.S. in Automated Systems Technician

The Automated Systems Technician Program consists of courses from basic electronic concepts and safety to courses in computer and smart device controlled systems. It is designed to prepare students for employment in the automated manufacture, assembly, and testing of electronic circuit devices.

Recommended High School Preparation: Courses in electricity, electronics, English, algebra, physics, chemistry, and computers.

Program Costs: In addition to the normal student expenses (for textbooks, personal equipment, and supplies), a laboratory materials fee may be required. Students will be responsible for providing some electronic parts and purchasing a basic electronics tool kit, which is available from the Department. For specific class-required materials and texts, check with the electronics faculty or the College Store. These fees may vary each semester. If these fees create a financial burden, students should consult the Financial Aid Office for possible assistance.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2024

Degree Requirements

Course Code	Course Title	Units
CISC 310	Introduction to Computer Information Science	3
ET 192	Introduction to Robotics	2
ET 305	DC/AC Theory and Circuit Fundamentals	4
ET 306	Electronics Fabrication and Soldering Techniques	2
ET 314	Mathematics for DC/AC Theory and Circuit Fundamentals	3
ET 322	Semiconductors and Nanotechnology	4
ET 335	Integrated Circuits with Computer Applications	4
ET 340	Basic Microprocessors	4
ET 362	Modern Electronic Control Technology	3
ET 390	Microprocessor Systems - Troubleshooting	3
ET 491	Electronics Projects Laboratory I	2
ET 492	Electronics Projects Laboratory II	2
Total Units:		36

The Automated Systems Technician Associate in Science (A.S.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, plus general education requirements, plus sufficient electives to meet a 60-unit total. See SCC graduation requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

demonstrate safe work practices for automated systems equipment.
demonstrate the proper use of basic test equipment to include digital multimeters, oscilloscopes, and digital or analog signal sources.
use a standard schematic diagram of an automated system to identify its digital or analog parts.
explain common automated systems terminology for digital and analog devices.
estimate automated system circuit performance using mathematical tools.
analyze and compare calculated automated system circuit performance to actual performance.
measure common automated system parameters using appropriate test equipment.
set up and install basic automated system equipment.
design proper preventive maintenance, calibration, and system testing procedures for automated equipment.
perform proper preventive maintenance, calibration, and system testing on automated equipment.
diagnose common automated system failures down to the source of the problem.
solve automated system problems by replacing failed hardware or software parts.
install, operate, and maintain modern control equipment such as Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) and robotic controllers.

Career Information

This program is designed for students pursuing employment in the programming, testing, repair, and maintenance of digital and analog computer controlled systems.

A.S. in Telecommunications Technician

The Telecommunications Technician Program consists of courses from basic electronic concepts and safety to courses in modern communication systems and telecommunication licensing. The emphasis of this program is on modern digital high-speed communication. It is designed to prepare students for employment as technicians in the wired and wireless communication of electronic information.

Recommended High School Preparation: Courses in electricity, electronics, English, algebra, physics, chemistry, and computers.

Program Costs: In addition to the normal student expenses (for textbooks, personal equipment, and supplies), a laboratory materials fee may be required. Students will be responsible for providing some electronic parts and purchasing a basic electronics tool kit, which is available from the Department. For specific class-required materials and texts, check with the electronics faculty or the College Store. These fees may vary each semester. If these fees create a financial burden, students should consult the Financial Aid Office for possible assistance.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2024

Degree Requirements

Course Code	Course Title	Units
ET 305	DC/AC Theory and Circuit Fundamentals	4
ET 306	Electronics Fabrication and Soldering Techniques	2
ET 314	Mathematics for DC/AC Theory and Circuit Fundamentals	3
ET 322	Semiconductors and Nanotechnology	4
ET 335	Integrated Circuits with Computer Applications	4
ET 340	Basic Microprocessors	4
ET 362	Modern Electronic Control Technology	3
ET 380	Introduction to Electronic Communications	4
ET 381	Electronic Communication Regulations	3
ET 390	Microprocessor Systems - Troubleshooting	3
ET 400	Microwave Communications Techniques	4
Total Units:		38

The Telecommunications Technician Associate in Science (A.S.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, plus general education requirements, plus sufficient electives to meet a 60-unit total. See SCC graduation requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

demonstrate safe work practices for telecommunication equipment.
demonstrate the proper use of basic telecommunication test equipment to include digital multimeters, oscilloscopes, signal sources.
use a standard schematic diagram of a telecommunication system to identify and test its parts.
explain common telecommunication terminology.
estimate telecommunication system circuit performance using mathematical tools.
analyze and compare calculated telecommunication system circuit performance to actual performance.
measure common telecommunication system circuit parameters using appropriate test equipment.
set up and install basic telecommunication equipment.
design proper preventive maintenance, calibration, and system testing procedures for telecommunication equipment.
perform proper preventive maintenance, calibration, and system testing on telecommunication equipment.
diagnose common telecommunication system failures down to the source of the problem.
solve telecommunication system problems by replacing failed parts.
install, operate, and maintain modern control equipment such Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC).
examine and evaluate telecommunication systems according to FCC rules and regulations.

Career Information

This program is designed for students pursuing employment in the calibration, testing, repair, and maintenance of electronic communications equipment.

Certificates of Achievement

Automated Systems Technician Certificate

Catalog Date: August 1, 2024

Certificate Requirements

Course Code	Course Title	Units
CISC 310	Introduction to Computer Information Science	3
ET 192	Introduction to Robotics	2
ET 305	DC/AC Theory and Circuit Fundamentals	4
ET 306	Electronics Fabrication and Soldering Techniques	2
ET 314	Mathematics for DC/AC Theory and Circuit Fundamentals	3
ET 322	Semiconductors and Nanotechnology	4
ET 335	Integrated Circuits with Computer Applications	4
ET 340	Basic Microprocessors	4
ET 362	Modern Electronic Control Technology	3
ET 390	Microprocessor Systems - Troubleshooting	3
ET 491	Electronics Projects Laboratory I	2
ET 492	Electronics Projects Laboratory II	2
Total Units:		36

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

demonstrate safe work practices for automated systems equipment.
demonstrate the proper use of basic test equipment to include digital multimeters, oscilloscopes, and digital or analog signal sources.
use a standard schematic diagram of an automated system to identify its digital or analog parts.
explain common automated systems terminology for digital and analog devices.
estimate automated system circuit performance using mathematical tools and simulation software.
analyze and compare calculated automated system circuit performance to actual performance.
measure common automated system parameters using appropriate test equipment.
set up and install basic automated system equipment.
design proper preventive maintenance, calibration, and system testing procedures for automated equipment.
perform proper preventive maintenance, calibration, and system testing on automated equipment.
diagnose common automated system failures down to the source of the problem.
solve automated system problems by replacing failed hardware or software parts.
install, operate, and maintain modern control equipment such as Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) and robotic controllers.

Career Information

This program is designed for students pursuing employment in the programming, testing, repair, and maintenance of digital and analog computer controlled systems.

Telecommunications Technician Certificate

Catalog Date: August 1, 2024

Certificate Requirements

Course Code	Course Title	Units
ET 305	DC/AC Theory and Circuit Fundamentals	4
ET 306	Electronics Fabrication and Soldering Techniques	2
ET 314	Mathematics for DC/AC Theory and Circuit Fundamentals	3
ET 322	Semiconductors and Nanotechnology	4
ET 335	Integrated Circuits with Computer Applications	4
ET 340	Basic Microprocessors	4
ET 362	Modern Electronic Control Technology	3
ET 380	Introduction to Electronic Communications	4
ET 381	Electronic Communication Regulations	3
ET 390	Microprocessor Systems - Troubleshooting	3
ET 400	Microwave Communications Techniques	4
Total Units:		38

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

demonstrate safe work practices for telecommunication equipment.
demonstrate the proper use of basic telecommunication test equipment to include digital multimeters, oscilloscopes, signal sources.
use a standard schematic diagram of a telecommunication system to identify and test its parts.
explain common telecommunication terminology.
estimate telecommunication system circuit performance using mathematical tools.
analyze and compare calculated telecommunication system circuit performance to actual performance.
measure common telecommunication system circuit parameters using appropriate test equipment.
set up and install basic telecommunication equipment.
design proper preventive maintenance, calibration, and system testing procedures for telecommunication equipment.
perform proper preventive maintenance, calibration, and system testing on telecommunication equipment.
diagnose common telecommunication system failures down to the source of the problem.
solve telecommunication system problems by replacing failed parts.
install, operate, and maintain modern control equipment such Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC).
examine and evaluate telecommunication systems according to FCC rules and regulations.

Career Information

This program is designed for students pursuing employment in the calibration, testing, repair, and maintenance of electronic communications equipment.

Electronics Technology (ET) Courses

ET 140 Smart Computing Device System Repair I

Units:4
Hours:48 hours LEC; 72 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This is an introductory course to smart computing system repair. The course will begin with an overview of the history of computing systems and repair. Information of common computer system repair, nomenclature, diagnostic software, and the theory of computing systems operations will be covered. The course will also introduce the student to the use of the Internet for locating technical repair documentation on the Web.

ET 141 Smart Computing Device System Repair II

Units:3
Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
Prerequisite:ET 140 with a grade of "C" or better
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This is a second course in a series of two designed to train students in the advanced skills needed in the installation, maintenance, and repair of modern computer smart devices and systems.

ET 192 Introduction to Robotics

Units:2
Hours:18 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is an introduction to robotics utilizing various robotic systems. It explores how robots and microcontrollers interface with common electronic applications. It also investigates various applications for robots and microcontrollers. One or two field trips to local manufacturing facility such as Siemens Transportation may be required.

ET 210 Applied Mathematics for Electronics

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This is a basic course for those interested in cabling and installation electronics who do not meet the requirements for ET 314. Units of instruction include DC and AC circuit application mathematics, scientific calculators, powers of ten, and introduction to algebraic concepts as related to electronics.

ET 220 A Survey of AC and DC Circuit Fundamentals

Units:5
Hours:54 hours LEC; 108 hours LAB
Prerequisite:ET 210 and 230 with grades of "C" or better or equivalent.
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is designed to provide instruction in the basic concepts of AC and DC theory including a study of resistors, capacitors, and inductors in series and parallel circuits. Laboratory use of meters, oscilloscopes, signal generators, and power supplies will be emphasized.

ET 230 Laboratory Practices and Techniques

Units:1
Hours:54 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:Concurrent enrollment in ET 210.
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course provides instruction in the language of electronics, safe and efficient use of tools, equipment, and chemical processes used in the laboratory including: high voltage precautions, printed circuit fabrication, equipment panel fabrication silkscreen, and state-of-the-art soldering techniques.

ET 240 A Survey of Semiconductor Theory

Units:5
Hours:54 hours LEC; 108 hours LAB
Prerequisite:ET 220 with a grade of "C" or better or equivalent.
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course provides a survey of diodes, transistors, FET's, and linear and digital IC's and how they are installed and used in modern electronic equipment. Laboratory will stress the hands-on manufacturing and troubleshooting of modern electronic equipment.

ET 295 Independent Studies in Electronics Technology

Units:1 - 3
Hours:54 - 162 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

Independent study of an electronic topic or research project. This course is for students who wish to develop an in-depth understanding in fundamental topics of electronics technology and learn to work in a collaborative atmosphere with instructors and other students. Instructor approval is required to enroll in this course.

ET 299 Experimental Offering in Electronics Technology

Units:0.5 - 4
Prerequisite:None.
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This is the experimental courses description.

ET 305 DC/AC Theory and Circuit Fundamentals

Units:4
Hours:54 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Corequisite:ET 306 and 314
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is designed to provide instruction in the concepts of DC and AC theory including a study of the composition of matter, circuit fundamentals, voltage, current, resistance in series, parallel, and combination circuit configurations. Laboratory activities provide hands-on projects that include operation and use of electronic equipment used by industry.

ET 306 Electronics Fabrication and Soldering Techniques

Units:2
Hours:18 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:Successful completion of or concurrent enrollment in ET 305.
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course covers the skills needed for identification and the safe and efficient use of hand tools and soldering equipment used in basic electronics repair. Familiarization with fabrication, soldering/de-soldering techniques, electrostatic discharge (ESD), assembly, and safety practices are covered.

ET 314 Mathematics for DC/AC Theory and Circuit Fundamentals

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:One year of high school algebra with a grade of "C" or better, or qualifying mathematics assessment test scores or equivalent.
Corequisite:ET 305
Transferable:CSU
General Education:AA/AS Area II(b)
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course focuses on the application of and analysis by algebra and trigonometry to solve electronic problems in DC and AC circuits. This course was formerly known as ET 310 and ET 311.

ET 315 Mathematics for Semiconductor Theory

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:ET 305, 306, and 314 with grades of "C" or better; or equivalent.
Advisory:Concurrent enrollment in ET 322 and 335.
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course provides a detailed study of the mathematics required to solve problems in semiconductor circuit theory. Some of these math functions include: vector algebra, load line plotting, decibel theory and application, common and natural log functions, power supply analysis, calculation of input and output bandwidth characteristics of semiconductor amplifiers, use of rate-of-change functions to study slope of lines and their relationship to amplifier impedances, and use of network theorems to simplify complex biasing networks for amplifiers.

ET 322 Semiconductors and Nanotechnology

Units:4
Hours:54 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
Prerequisite:ET 305 with a grade of "C" or better
Corequisite:ET 314; completion of or concurrent enrollment in ET 314
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is a detailed study of semiconductor devices and their applications. Semiconductor components - such as diodes, transistors, op-amps, including their use in complex circuits - are covered. Nanotechnology theory and devices, including their present and possible future applications, are studied. One or two field trips may be required. This course was formerly known as ET 320.

ET 335 Integrated Circuits with Computer Applications

Units:4
Hours:54 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
Prerequisite:ET 305 with a grade of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course covers integrated circuits (ICs) and applications used in industrial and consumer products. Topics include digital theory and applications from standard transistor-transistor logic (TTL) logic circuits to complex circuits built on programmable logic devices (PLDs). One or two field trips may be required. This course was formerly known as ET 330.

ET 340 Basic Microprocessors

Units:4
Hours:54 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This is a beginning course dealing with the circuitry and use of the microprocessor. Peripheral hardware is also considered so that the student may gain an overview of a complete computer system. The scope of the course includes machine language programming in order to provide a base for understanding the dynamic operation of the entire system. Troubleshooting philosophy is emphasized.

ET 350 Receiver Circuits

Units:5
Hours:54 hours LEC; 108 hours LAB
Prerequisite:ET 315, 322, and 335 with grades of "C" or better or equivalent.
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course focuses on the principles of radio receivers using AM, FM, and single sideband modulation systems. The course presents associated control circuits and power supply circuitry for receivers.

ET 360 Electronic Servicing and Calibration Techniques

Units:3
Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
Prerequisite:ET 315, 322, and 335 with grades of "C" or better or equivalent.
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course focuses on developing familiarization with laboratory and test instruments and techniques of calibration and repair. It is a practical step-by-step approach for the beginning technician in the art of troubleshooting techniques on all the electronic equipment available in the electronics laboratory.

ET 362 Modern Electronic Control Technology

Units:3
Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Corequisite:ET 305; or prior completion of with a grade of “C” or better.
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course introduces the principles and applications of automatic control systems. Topics include general feedback control systems, analog control systems, digital control systems, Programmable logic controller (PLC) systems, sensors, and actuators. One or two field trips may be required.

ET 380 Introduction to Electronic Communications

Units:4
Hours:54 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
Prerequisite:ET 314 and 322 with grades of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course covers electronic communications including UHF, VHF, microwave, satellite, and fiber optics. AM and FM transmitters, transmission lines, antennas, and receivers are analyzed down to the component level. Propagation, wave theory, decibels, and signal transmission limitations are also covered. Technician safety and proper test equipment use are stressed throughout the course. Field trips may be required.

ET 381 Electronic Communication Regulations

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:ET 322 with a grade of "C" or better
Advisory:ET 380 with a grade of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course provides an overview of the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) General Radiotelephone license requirements. It also covers the electronics theory and the rules and regulations mandated by the FCC.

ET 390 Microprocessor Systems - Troubleshooting

Units:3
Hours:18 hours LEC; 108 hours LAB
Prerequisite:ET 340 with a grade of "C" or better or equivalent.
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course will focus on the principles of microprocessor system control and troubleshooting. Study will include measurement transducers, analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog converters, power supplies, and power users. The design, construction, repair, and operation of a semester lab project controlled by a microprocessor, microcontroller, or a smart digital device will be covered.

ET 400 Microwave Communications Techniques

Units:4
Hours:54 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
Prerequisite:ET 315, 322, and 335 with grades of "C" or better or equivalent.
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is a study of electromagnetic waves and antennas. The course presents types of microwave generators, microwave communications systems, and antenna guidance systems. The use of lasers and fiber optics in communications systems and as a source of high tech energy control are presented.

ET 410 Transmitter Fundamentals

Units:5
Hours:54 hours LEC; 108 hours LAB
Prerequisite:ET 315, 322, and 335 with grades of "C" or better or equivalent.
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This is a fundamental course in AM/FM and single side-band transmitters. The course will present students with preparation for employment in the communications industry. It will include instruction in adjustment and tuning of transmitters. Students are presented with symptoms of malfunctions and remedies in troubleshooting transmitters.

ET 491 Electronics Projects Laboratory I

Units:2
Hours:108 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Corequisite:ET 306; Students may have completed ET 306 previously.
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course provides an opportunity for students to pursue typical electronics projects to learn and practice skills needed in the construction, installation, maintenance, and repair of electronic devices.

ET 492 Electronics Projects Laboratory II

Units:2
Hours:108 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Corequisite:ET 306; Students may have completed ET 306 previously.
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course provides an opportunity for students to develop and practice skills necessary for the construction, installation, maintenance, and repair of electronic devices. Students will develop, design, and construct a project under the guidance of the instructor.

ET 494 Topics in Electronics Technology

Units:0.5 - 4
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This is a specialized course developed in cooperation with industry to address emerging training needs. Units are awarded on the basis of .5 unit for each 9 hours of lecture or 27 hours of lab.

ET 495 Independent Studies in Electronics Technology

Units:1 - 3
Hours:54 - 162 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

ET 499 Experimental Offering in Electronics Technology

Units:0.5 - 4
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This is the experimental courses description.