Created to support new entries into the systems integration industry, the content covered in this pathway has a strong focus on providing the foundational knowledge necessary to begin working as a technician installing cabling and infrastructure to support integrated communications and entertainment systems.
Knowledge of common tools and recommended safety practices is a foundational component of working on any jobsite. This module details the necessary tools technicians need to be familiar with while working on a jobsite, as well as the equipment and procedures that should be followed to ensure a safe working environment. The ability to identify which tool is appropriate for a specific job will ensure a new technician can efficiently perform their duties. Proper tool usage also decreases mistakes, limits unnecessary damage to the tools, and reduces the risk of injury on the job. Safety procedures, including the use of required personal protective equipment, are often strictly enforced and must be followed for successful project completion.
You will learn to:
Knowledge of the fundamental principles of electrical theory is a requirement for any technician working with audio, video, or communications signaling. This module provides an understanding of electricity vital to success as a cabling and infrastructure technician. From a standard light switch to the complex world of system programming, electricity is a fundamental element of an integrated system. It is necessary for technicians to know the terms and equations introduced throughout this module as they are used in nearly every aspect of a technician's career.
Performing basic mathematical calculations is a requirement on all jobsites. This module provides information regarding math concepts that technicians need to be proficient in. Common applications include calculating the square footage of a room, taking measurements, calculating load capacities, calculating or verifying display sizes, and verifying structure angles. Mastering these math concepts is a key part of becoming a successful technician.
Technicians must have knowledge of the applicable codes, standards, and recommended practices related to construction projects. This module provides the information necessary to ensure proper adherence to building codes and industry standards when running infrastructure cabling in residential and commercial environments. Variations in building construction methods will also influence how cabling is installed, which tools should be used, and what timelines may be expected for project completion.
Detailed planning is necessary for all retrofit projects. This module provides recommendations on how to plan and organize a retrofit project to support efficient installation practices and minimize impact to the environment.
Working on existing structures requires specialized tools and the knowledge of how and when to use them. Learn the common tools required to complete retrofit projects and information about signal transmission technologies that enable existing infrastructure to be used for new technology installation.
There is often more than one way to install a cable into an existing structure. This module offers recommendations on common wire and cable installation techniques and recommended practices for solving challenging situations, which will enable a skilled technician to complete their installation quickly and efficiently.
Electronic systems in the home depend upon a physical infrastructure made up of interconnects and radio frequencies that carry information and power to, from, and between system components. Use of the correct interconnects on a jobsite can be the difference between great system performance and complete system failure. Many systems used for networking, security, audio, video, and home automation rely on the types of cables and connectors discussed. Completion of this module will build a foundational knowledge of how infrastructure cabling is constructed and used to transport communications signals.
The purpose of a cable is to move information or data from one point to another without significant alteration. This module provides an overview of the two common groupings of cables used within the integration industry and their applications.
An important part of executing an integration project is to ensure that all steps of the premises wiring installation are completed efficiently and accurately, as this is the last phase where all cabling will be visible. Completing the installation of the cabling infrastructure correctly will save time and money for the phases that follow. This module covers how using proper materials and procedures is a key to successfully executing this phase of the project.
New building construction projects include a trim-out (second-fix) phase, during which cables previously installed as part of the premises wiring are prepped, terminated, and connected to appropriate outlet hardware and equipment. This module provides instruction on the connectors and termination procedures typically used when working with general purpose cables. While cable termination and testing are skills a technician must master in a hands-on environment, knowledge of the tools and techniques necessary to successfully terminate cables promotes successful outcomes in the field.
Proper termination of communications cables is critical to the successful completion of a project. This module provides instruction on the connectors and termination procedures typically used when working with communications cables. The premises wiring will be the communication backbone of all electronic systems in a structure. Care must be taken to ensure all terminations support the highest possible performance for networking, audio, and video transmissions. Improper termination is the most common cause of system failures and malfunctions.
During the trim-out (second-fix) phase, built-in devices are installed, as well as supporting equipment such as keypads, controllers, sensors, thermostats, volume controls, antennas, and speakers. To complete the trim-out phase, all cables must be tested and verified for signal transmission and functionality. Executing additional testing to check performance is often recommended and sometimes required in the project specifications. This module provides information on recommended testing and verification procedures for infrastructure cabling.
Most integration projects include the design and installation of audio systems. This module provides information on the basic principles of sound which are required to develop a foundational knowledge of audio recording and reproduction systems. Learners will explore the processes involved with sound production, recording, and playback as well as review common audio equipment found in integrated system projects.
Knowledge of the types of signals and components found in audio systems is essential to proper system installation. This module provides details on the differences between analog and digital signals, and explains the basic functionality of amplifiers and loudspeakers. The learner will also become familiar with the various types of loudspeakers and their applications.
The correct use and connection of cables is necessary to ensure optimal signal transmission and achieve the highest level of performance. Awareness of the different types of cables and methods for transmitting audio signals helps to ensure that the installation of infrastructure to support an audio system is completed correctly. This module provides information on the various cables typically used to connect audio equipment.
Knowledge of the human visual system as well as the fundamentals of producing video images is necessary to design and install a video system correctly. This module provides instruction on the science of sight: how we see motion, color, and resolution.
Knowledge of video imaging processes and functionality is necessary to deliver the highest quality image for the viewer. This module provides a look at the different processes used to display video images. Key areas of video reproduction include scanning processes, video imaging, aspect ratios, and sources for video.
Consumers are presented with many terms, acronyms, and technologies such as OLED and Quantum Dot displays, HDMI, and DisplayPort cables: What are they and what do they do? This module provides information on the differences between common display technologies as well as the cabling infrastructure necessary to support signal transmission. Familiarity with other topics related to video connectivity, displays, and calibration will further enable technicians to successfully install video-related products and infrastructure.
The cabling and infrastructure technician is responsible for ensuring equipment installation is accurate, professional, attractive, and safe. This module provides instruction on the critical aspects and best practices of equipment installation in racks and cabinet systems.
This module details the steps necessary to safely and correctly install equipment such as displays and projectors to walls and ceilings in a variety of scenarios. This requires a working knowledge of task-specific hardware and a variety of fasteners.
Installation of appropriate power protection and conditioning equipment not only reduces the chances of damage to a system, but also improves system performance. Quality electrical power is a common integration challenge. Learners will identify and mitigate the key areas of concern when working with electrical power systems.