Delivery: Online |
College Credit: 4 Credit Hours |
Est. Length: 40 Seat Hours
Price: $910.00 |
Equivalency Exam: $120.00
Course Overview
The NCTI Installer Technician course takes the experienced installer beyond “swapping boxes” to understanding the physics of the network. This curriculum focuses on maintaining reliability in the installed drop system through a deep understanding of electronic theory and signal analysis.
Technicians will gain a robust foundation in DC Electronics, Ohm’s Law, and Cable Math, enabling them to calculate gain/loss and troubleshoot complex impairments. A major focus is placed on Signal Leakage Detection (CLI) in the VHF/UHF and LTE bands—a critical compliance issue for operators. Students will also master the use of Digital Signal Analyzers to validate RF performance and ensure compliance with government regulations.
Who Should Attend:
- Senior Installers
- Service Technicians
- Maintenance Apprentices
- Technicians preparing for SCTE BDS Certification
What You Will Learn
Upon completion, students will be able to perform engineering calculations, identify signal leakage sources, and troubleshoot complex drop system failures.
Core Competencies:
- Electronic Theory: Apply Ohm’s Law to solve power/energy equations and explain the relationship between voltage, current, and resistance in DC Series Circuits.
- Cable Math: Perform gain and loss calculations using Decibels (dB) and dBmV, understanding power vs. voltage ratios.
- Signal Leakage: Use leakage detectors to identify and repair egress in the VHF, UHF, and LTE bands to prevent interference and FCC violations.
- Troubleshooting Logic: Apply a structured thinking process to diagnose problems with coaxial cables, fiber optics, splitters, directional couplers, and drop amplifiers.
- Test Equipment: Operate Digital Signal Analyzers and cable modem analyzers to interpret MER/BER and other digital measurements.
- Regulatory Compliance: Explain the role of national organizations in setting telecommunications standards and complying with industry rules.
Certification and Benefits
Academic and Career Velocity
This comprehensive course offers 4 hours of college credit, making it a powerful stepping stone for degree-seeking technicians.
Additional Benefits:
- SCTE Prep: Helps prepare students for SCTE Broadband Premise Installer (BPI) and Broadband Distribution Specialist (BDS) certifications.
- Certification Path: Credits apply toward the NCTI Master Technician certification.
- Industry Recognition: Receive the NCTI Certificate of Graduation.
Course Outline
Module 1: Electronics and Math
- Exploring Electrons, Electricity, and Magnetism.
- Math Review: Equations, powers of numbers, and decimals/fractions.
- Circuit Theory: Resistance, DC Series Circuits, and Ohm’s Law applications.
Module 2: Decibels and Signal Analysis
- Understanding Bels, Decibels (dB), and dBmV.
- Performing signal level calculations (Gain/Loss).
- Signal Leakage: Detection, measuring equipment, and FCC compliance.
Module 3: Troubleshooting and Repair
- Thinking Skills: Mental processes for logical diagnosis.
- Coax & Fiber: Troubleshooting cables, connectors, and passive devices.
- Ingress/Egress: Locating noise in the drop and inside wiring.
- Actives: Troubleshooting Drop Amplifiers and Line Extenders.
Module 4: Advanced Testing and Regulation
- Using Digital Signal Analyzers.
- Broadband Regulatory Issues and Government Rules.