Alternative Energy Fundamentals (AE21)  Technical Certificate of Credit

This course provides instruction in the theory and practical application of simple and complex direct current circuitry. Topics include laboratory safety practices and procedures, electrical laws and principles, DC test equipment basic series, parallel and combination circuits, complex series and parallel circuits, and DC theorems.

This course introduces the theory and application of varying sine wave voltages and current, and continues the development of AC concepts with emphasis on constructing, verifying, and troubleshooting reactive circuits using RLC theory and practical application. Topics include AC wave generation, frequency and phase relationship, impedance, admittance, and conductance power factors, reactive components simple RLC circuits, AC circuit resonance, passive filters, and non-sinusoidal wave forms.

This course provides instruction in the theory and application of solid state devices in the electronics industry. Emphasis is placed on the physical characteristics and uses of solid state devices. Topics include PN diodes, power supplies, voltage regulation, bipolar junction theory and application, field effect transistors, and special applications.

This course introduces students to alternative energy and green technology systems. Topics include photovoltaics, fuel cells, wind turbines, battery storage, inverters, solar cell fundamentals, photovoltaic optimization, photovoltaic site surveys and assessment, electronic power monitoring devices, charge controllers, power control electronics, and green technologies.