Training in industrial electronics typically covers performing maintenance, installation, and repairs on electronic equipment used for industrial purposes. Find out about the requirements of these programs, and learn about career options, job growth and salary info for electronics graduates.

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION

 Degree programs in electronics teach students about AC and DC circuits, electronic equipment assembly, digital circuits, electronics communications, electronics repair and system controllers. Individuals who specialize in industrial electronics may learn about these topics in relation to large-scale equipment used for such industries as manufacturing, construction, or transportation. Vocational and certificate programs in electronics are available, as are apprenticeships and associate's degree programs. Many electronics professionals holds certification within their fields of specialty. Potential careers for these professionals may include industrial electronic technicians, elevator mechanics, or inside electricians.

WHAT IS INDUSTRIAL ELECTRONICS?

Industrial electronics is a branch of electronics that deals with power electronic devices such as thyristors, SCRs, AC/DC drives, meters, sensors, analyzers, load cells automatic test equipment, mulitimeters, data recorders, relays, resistors, semiconductors, transistors, waveguides, scopes, amplifiers, radio frequency (RF) circuit boards, timers, counters, etc.

The core research areas of industrial electronics include electrical power machine designs, power conditioning and power semiconductor devices. A lot of consideration is given to power economy and energy management in consumer electronic products.

                                                     CAREER OPTIONS

Industrial Electronics Technician

Industrial electronics technicians ensure manufacturing and assembly equipment operates properly, and they perform repairs when necessary. They can work as field technicians, visiting sites to work on equipment, or as bench technicians working within service centers. Industrial electronics workers commonly use signal generators and voltage meters to test faulty wiring, replace hardware components and troubleshoot computer control systems. They also work on antennas, programmable logic controllers and transmitters.

Elevator Mechanic

Elevator mechanics perform safety checks on equipment, service electrical motors, make adjustments to counterweight systems, and do all needed additional repairs. After these systems have been installed, elevator mechanics spend a lot of their time on preventative maintenance duties.

Inside Electricians

Unlike regular electricians, inside electricians specialize in electrical and electronic systems found on-site at factories and at businesses. These workers run routine maintenance checks on equipment, verify safety standards are met, and make necessary upgrades. Inside electricians often install equipment as well.