Advanced Electrical Theory
 
Duration of the course
4 days intensive training, or 2 evenings per week for 4 weeks, or 4 Saturdays.

Course fees: £325

Prerequisites for the course
There are no prerequisites for this course but it is recommended that you have a thorough knowledge of electrical circuits and associated calculations. For example, you may have taken our Essential Electrical Theory course or similar. You might be a practising electrician but need to learn more about the theoretical side of the trade, perhaps to pass exams to get qualified.

Course overview
This course covers the advanced theory required to support the practical work of an electrician and builds on the knowledge gained on the Essential Electrical Theory course. You will learn about the earthing arrangements for various supply systems, the operation of protective devices, 3-phase star and delta systems and loads, AC circuit theory, power factor, diversity and electronic components and circuits.
   
  Course Outcomes
  At the end of the course, you will be able to…
   
Describe the distribution of electricity
Describe typical earthing arrangements in electrical installations, including TN-S, TN-
  C-S and TT systems
Identify and describe earth fault loop paths
Identify and describe the operation of overload and protective devices e.g. fuses, MCB,
  RCD, and RCBO
State the advantages and disadvantages of different types of overload and protective
  devices
Determine fuse ratings and fusing factors
Identify and describe three phase supply systems
Describe the characteristics of three phase star and delta connected systems and
  loads
State the advantages and disadvantages of balanced and unbalanced loads
Describe the construction and operation of three phase motors and generators
Identify and describe the circuits and components to control motors
Perform calculations on AC circuits for inductance and capacitance
Describe the operation of inductors and capacitors in an AC circuit
Describe the applications of inductors and capacitors in an AC circuit e.g. simple
  fluorescent fitting, motor circuit, noise suppression, etc.
State the reasons for power factor correction
Determine required cable size by applying correction factors
Perform calculations for diversity
Identify and describe applications of electronic devices e.g. resistors, diodes,
  transistors, thermistors, LED’s, LDR’s and phototransistors, dimmer switches
Describe the principle and state applications of half and full-wave rectification.
   
  Method of Assessment
  We will assess your progress on the course by regular coursework exercises. You will also take a short test at the end of the course to check your knowledge. Successful completion of coursework and the final test will lead to a college certificate and entry to subsequent courses.