ELT 393 - Fabrication Techniques

Credits: 4
Lecture Hours: 2
Lab Hours: 4
Practicum Hours: 0
Work Experience: 0
Course Type: Voc/Tech

Construction and Repair techniques used in modern electronics and electrical systems. Students will design and fabricate electronic circuits using PCB design and milling techniques, soldering and desoldering of thru-hole and surface mount components, use hand and power tools and build on and inside of an electrical cabinet. Students will also learn to review and references schematics for the purposes of panel construction, circuit design, and systems building.
Prerequisite: ELT 383 or ELT 325
Competencies

Comprehend the difference between schematics and packaging choices
1. Understand schematic symbols and associate with multiple package diagrams
2. Choose the proper package for the appropriate application requirements
3. Create a schematic diagram from a circuit board
Evaluate Schematic and PCB design software
1. Use schematic capture software to draw a schematic diagram
2. Demonstrate how to create a custom symbol library
3. Manipulate PCB layouts using auto placement and auto routing tools
Design a PCB
1. Prototype a circuit on a breadboard using ICs and components to test functionality
2. Draw PCB schematics using PCB design software with proper symbology, routing, and labeling
3. Export design and mill, populate, and solder PCB
Desolder and solder surface mount electronic components
1. Remove and resolder teacher designated ICs from a printed circuit board using soldering wick without damage
2. Remove and resolder teacher designated ICs from a printed circuit board using continuous vacuum without damage
Demonstrate proper use of tools for disassembling and reassembling a test product
1. Identify the appropriate tools required for disassembling and reassembling a given test product
2. Describe the correct procedures for safely using each tool during the disassembly and reassembly process
Install an electrical cabinet and panel
1. Identify all portions of an electrical cabinet and panel
2. Read and interpret physical layout and electrical panel schematics
3. Drill and tap mounting holes in electrical back panel for din rail, wireway, and directly mounted electrical devices
Install features within an electrical cabinet
1. Install electrical components inside of an electrical cabinet
2. Perform panel cutouts to install manual IO devices
Demonstrate appropriate safety standards for fabrication
1. Describe safety procedures for handheld tools
2. Recognize safety protocols for automated milling equipment and cleaning chemicals
3. List proper usage guidelines for personal safety equipment

Competencies Revised Date: AY2026