PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC CONTROLLERS TECHNICIAN

DISTANCE EDUCATION PROGRAM

SELF-PACED, SKILLS BASED TRAINING IN PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC CONTROLLERS
WHEN YOU WANT, WHERE YOU WANT, AND AT YOUR OWN PACE.

Program Quick Feature List:

• Industry recognized
• Fully accredited
• Continuous enrolment
• Pay-as-you-learn registration
• Hands-on lab experience through
software simulation
• 1-800 technical and tutorial support
• Online student support forum

News at PLCtechnician.com
The Programmable Logic Controllers
Technician (PLC) program has been
expanded to include in-depth coverage
of Advanced Programming Languages
and Robotics.

Ask Us about Tuition Support with Pay-As-You-Learn Registration

”I would like to say that this course was excellent. It was well laid out and the sequence
of the modules certainly made sure that the concepts could be built upon.
Would definitely recommend this to others. It was a challenging and rewarding experience.”

Ms. Carla Marett

Speak to a Program Advisor Today

Call Toll-free: 1-888-553-5333 · www.plctechnician.com
THE PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC CONTROLLERS ”I took the program so I could study at home, at my
own convenience. The progression of lessons is
TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATE PROGRAM excellent and I thoroughly enjoy the manner in which
The Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) Technician training difficult concepts are explained.”
program introduces the concepts of PLCs and focuses on the Yvette Pillay
practical applications of using them in a plant or manufacturing
system. The training is designed for students to make a safe
and quick start in getting to know the fundamentals of PLC
programming. Our entire online PLC program is based on The PLC Technician program contains
practical applications and experience in using programmable
controllers in the workplace.
the following modules:
1. Overview of PLCs
2. Central Processing Unit
3. I/O System
4. Programming & Display Terminals
5. Installation & Maintenance of PLCs
6. Relay Logic
7. Ladder Logic
8. Timers
9. Counters
10. MCR, JUMP, and FORCE Instructions
11. Sequencers
12. Data Transfer
13. Math Functions
14. Process Control
15. Data Communications
16. Number Systems & Codes
17. Digital Logic
18. Advanced Programming Languages
Animated examples are used throughout the program to demonstrate PLC 19. Robotics
theory and applications.

The CD-based multimedia program presents nineteen

modules of interactive curriculum using text, video, 2D and 3D
animations, photos, audio clips and interactive PLC simulations.
Pre-tests, interactive exercises, sample exams, and online
support prepare you for computer-based final exams. The
average completion time of the nineteen training modules is
thirty-two weeks of part-time study.

Each of the 19 modules includes learning objectives, practical applications, technical

tips, interactive labs, review questions and practice final exams.

For a detailed description of the module contents go to

www.plctechnician.com/modules.html

The PLC program contains a wide variety of content including text, audio, 3D
animations, images and lab projects
Call 1-888-553-5333 to speak to a Program Advisor Today
 • Direct input for data tables, masks, sequencer
LEARNING PLCS WITH LABORATORY tables, files etc.
SIMULATIONS

• Program mode for offline ladder logic diagram editing
• View device and data tables in separate window
One of the main learning features of the PLC program is the during program execution
complete integration of laboratory experiments and projects • Resizable windows allow for viewing I/O status and
within the presentation of the PLC theory. The PLC simulation program execution simultaneously
software, LogixPro, is based on the Allen-Bradley PLC format, and • Multi-page access via tab selection for mainline
converts your computer into a virtual PLC. This enables you to program and subroutines
design, run test and debug ladder logic programs and simulate • Run time contact status visually displayed on ladder
the operation of real-world PLC components. diagram during program execution
• Run time counter and timer values displayed during
LogixPro Simulation
program execution
• Run time output indicators show status of outputs
LogixPro is the ideal tool for learning the fundamentals of during program execution
RSLogix ladder logic programming. The look, feel and operation • “Mode” indicator displays current mode status
of the ladder rung editor closely mimics Allen-Bradley’s • Drag and drop previously placed devices to a new
world renowned software. By graphically simulating process location on any rung
equipment (such as conveyers etc.), the software demonstrates • Right-click pop up menu allows for quick editing of
the synchronous and interactive nature of industrial process device data tables and bit status
and provides the student with a realistic and challenging • Right click replace/change contact type for easy
PLC programming experience. editing of ladder diagrams
• Right click to change input switch types easily
• Help Wizard (Merlin) available for explanation of
applications and devises
• Access to online documentation such as the complete
AB SLC Instruction set
• Menu Links to online sample programs and additional
student exercises

The LogixPro simulator includes:

• Highly intuitive graphic user interface
• Single click addition of rungs or branches to any
point in the ladder diagram
• Well organized element bins for easy selection of
available device types
• Device details and settings easily entered by
The LogixPro PLC simulator is used to provide ladder logic programming examples and a
clicking on any placed device
virtual lab environment for students to build and test their own PLC programs.
• Several easy to select input switch types available
as part of standard I/O
• BCD thumbwheel input and output display
provided as part of standard I/O

Register at www.plctechnician.com
PLC TECHNICIAN PROGRAM The Student Support Center
The GBC Student Support Center is open Monday through
STUDENT SUPPORT Friday from 9:00 am until 10:00 pm (EST). Calling into the
To fully support your distance education learning experience Support Center is free using our 1-800 long distance number.
in our program, George Brown College (GBC) provides a Technical, tutorial and
comprehensive student support system to give our students administrative support is
every opportunity to get technical, tutorial or administrative available to you by phone
help, when and how you need it. or email during these hours.
Our Program Advisors and
Tutorial Support Staff can assist
The Computer-Based Curriculum and you with any questions you
PLC Textbook might have, from installing
the program CD-ROM, to
Many students benefit greatly from
solving content-based tutorial
having ready access to a reference
questions, to helping you
textbook as they work through
register for more modules.
the content of our computer-based
program. The course content on
the program disk is very closely
matched by the content in our
supplementary PLC textbook.
The textbook is not a required
reference. We make it available for
those students who find a benefit
in having access to this more
traditional style of presentation A supplemental PLC textbook is
of the program content. available to provide additional
learning support.

Exams
Being tested is always a stressful and challenging part of your
student experience. To help you prepare for testing, our program
disk includes detailed practice exams covering the material in
each module. If you complete these practice exams and work
with our program tutors to resolve any problem areas, you will
be well prepared to excel on the online exams taken at the
end of each module.

Online Resources
Our online student support website provides a wide range
of resources, including access to your “Account”, online
forums, testing, videos, animations, images and additional
supplementary learning materials.

The Online Forum provides access to our online PLC program

tutor and a library of tutorial questions and material. The PLC
discussion forum provides our students with an online community
in which to meet other students in the PLC program and to
discuss topics of mutual interest.

Call 1-888-553-5333 to speak to a Program Advisor Today

George Brown College

FOR MORE Centre for Continuous Learning
INFORMATION 160 Kendal Avenue, C420
Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5T 2T9
PLEASE CONTACT 1-888-553-5333
US AT : [email protected]
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC CONTROLLERS
DISTANCE EDUCATION PROGRAM

DETAILED PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

Self-paced, comprehensive and flexible

computer-based training in
programmable logic controllers.

Call Toll-free: 1-888-553-5333 · www.plctechnician.com

PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC CONTROLLERS
TECHNICAL CERTIFICATE PROGRAM

Table of Contents
1. Overview of PLCs 11. Sequencers
2. Central Processing Unit 12. Data Transfer
3. I/O System 13. Math Functions
4. Programming Terminals and Peripherals 14. Process Control
5. Installation and Maintenance of PLCs 15. Data Communication
6. Relay Logic 16. Number Systems and Codes
7. Ladder Logic 17. Digital Logic
8. Timers 18. Advanced Programming Languages
9. Counters 19. Robotics
10. MCR, JUMP, and FORCE Instructions

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 We bring the classroom to you

Module 1 – OVERVIEW OF PLCS

This module provides a general overview of PLCs and their application in industry. The origins of the PLC and its evolution are
covered in detail. The advantages of PLCs are also outlined, and the main components associated with PLC systems are explored.
An introduction to ladder logic is presented and the most common types of PLC signals are covered with an emphasis on practical
application.
Learning Outcomes: • Name three advantages of PLCs compared to relay logic systems.
• Describe the purpose of a control panel. • List the three main components in a PLC system.
• Define programmable logic controllers. • Explain the term ladder logic.
• List six factors affecting the original design of programmable • Describe the application of PLC signals.
controllers. • Explain the difference between a bit and a word.

Module 2 – CENTRAL PROCESSING UNIT

This module is intended to familiarize the student with the most important aspects of the PLC’s central processing unit. Topics
covered in the module include memory devices and memory storage, as well as an introduction to data storage and processing. In
addition to covering memory utilization and memory mapping, the module also provides detailed information on multiprocessing
and PLC scan functions.
Learning Outcomes: • Describe the two general classes of memory devices.
• Define the term CPU. • Name four types of memory.
• Explain the purpose of the executive program. • Define memory protect.
• Describe the application of buses in a CPU. • Explain the purpose of memory utilization and how it applies to
• List two types of CPU diagnostics. PLC systems.
• Differentiate between fatal and non-fatal errors. • Describe the scan function.
• Explain the advantage of multiprocessing.

Module 3 – I/O SYSTEM

This module covers all aspects of the Input/Output system for PLCs including discrete, analog and data I/O. In addition, the module
presents an overview of I/O addressing and an introduction to Allen-Bradley I/O parameters. Module topics include the principles of
remote I/O and an introduction to scaling and resolution of analog devices and signals.
Learning Outcomes: • Explain the purpose of data I/O interfaces.
• Explain the purpose of the I/O system. • Define analog I/O.
• Describe how I/O addressing is accomplished. • Describe the resolution of an analog I/O module.
• Define discrete inputs. • List three applications for advanced I/O.
• List four tasks performed by an input module. • Explain the purpose of remote I/O.
• Describe the basic operation of a discrete output.

Module 4 – PROGRAMMING TERMINALS AND PERIPHERALS

This module is intended to provide students with an overview of the wide range of programming terminals currently in use and to
outline some of the key differences between them. In addition, the module covers topics such as hand-held programming terminals
and computer-based software packages. The operation of host computer-based systems is covered as well as the application of
peripheral devices in a PLC network.
Learning Outcomes: • Define computer-based programming terminals.
• Define the term programming terminal. • Differentiate between programming software and documentation
• Describe the application of dedicated programming terminals. software.
• List the two types of programming terminals. • Describe the function of a host computer-based PLC system.
• Describe the purpose of mini-programmers. • Explain the purpose of peripheral devices.

1
Module 5 – INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE OF PLCS
The purpose of this module is to provide the student with a thorough coverage of the various safety precautions, preventative
maintenance, and troubleshooting techniques associated with a typical PLC system. The module also covers proper grounding
techniques, sources of electrical interference and I/O installation techniques. Field checkout and troubleshooting with an emphasis
on practical troubleshooting and problem-solving strategies are covered.
Learning Outcomes: • Explain I/O installation.
• List three safety precautions when installing PLC systems. • Describe the need for I/O documentation.
• Define system layout. • Define leakage current and explain the purpose of bleeder resistors.
• List three safety measures for PLC installations in control panels. • Explain the field checkout of PLC systems.
• Describe proper grounding techniques for PLCs. • Provide periodic maintenance for a PLC system.
• Name three precautions to avoid electrical interference. • Troubleshoot PLCs.
• Define cross-talk interference. • Describe redundant PLC architecture.

Module 6 – RELAY LOGIC

This module is intended to provide an introduction to relay logic and relay logic diagrams. The basic operating principles of relays
are presented as well as detailed information regarding sizing and rating of electromagnetic contactors. Seal-in circuits and
their application in control systems are discussed as well as an introduction to timing circuits. In addition, the module covers I/O
devices and their application in PLC systems.
Learning Outcomes: • Define the term holding contact.
• Name three types of mechanical switches and three types of • Differentiate between a control relay and a solenoid.
proximity switches. • List three applications of rotary actuators.
• Define inductive arcing and explain how it can be prevented. • Name three types of time-delay relays.
• Describe the operating principle of a control relay. • Define the term relay logic.
• Explain the purpose of overload relays.

Module 7 – LADDER LOGIC

This module provides an introduction to ladder logic programming techniques using laboratory simulation software. The lab
component of the module provides the student with an opportunity to write ladder logic programs and test their operation
through PLC simulation. Topics covered in the module include I/O instructions, safety circuitry, programming restrictions
and I/O addressing.
Learning Outcomes: • Explain the purpose of a latching relay instruction.
• Define ladder logic. • Differentiate between an internal output and an actual I/O output.
• Explain the purpose of I/O addresses. • Describe the operation controller scan.
• Describe softwiring, branches and rungs. • Name two programming restrictions.
• Write a ladder logic program. • Define nesting.
• Run a ladder logic program using lab simulator. • Explain why safety circuitry is important in ladder logic systems.
• Define the terms examine on and examine off. • List three types of I/O addressing.

Module 8 – TIMERS
This module is intended to provide students with an overview of PLC timers and their application in industrial control circuits.
Allen-Bradley timing functions such as TON, TOF, and RTO are discussed in detail and the theory is reinforced through lab projects
using lab simulation software. In addition, students will learn practical programming techniques for timers including cascading and
reciprocating timing circuits.
Learning Outcomes: • Write a ladder logic program using timers.
• Name two types of relay logic timers. • Describe the operating principle of retentive timers.
• List the four basic types of PLC timers. • Explain the purpose of cascading timers.
• Describe the function of a time-driven circuit. • Define reciprocating timers.
• Differentiate between an ON-delay and an OFF-delay instruction.

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 We bring the classroom to you

Module 9 – COUNTERS
This module provides students with a broad overview of PLC counters and their application in control systems. Allen-Bradley
counting functions such as CTU and CTD are presented in detail and the theory is reinforced through lab projects using lab
simulation software. In addition, students will learn practical programming techniques for counters including cascading counters
and combining counting and timing circuits.
Learning Outcomes: • Describe the function of an event-driven circuit.
• Name two types of mechanical counters. • Design an up/down counter.
• Define the two basic types of PLC counters. • Define cascading counters.
• Write a ladder logic program using CTU, CTD and RES. • Explain the advantages of combining timers and counters.
• Explain the terms underflow and overflow.

Module 10 – MCR, JUMP, AND FORCE INSTRUCTIONS

This module is intended to provide an overview of various zone control techniques and branching instructions. The principles of
Master Control Relays are presented with an emphasis on safety considerations and compliance with safety codes and regulations.
In addition, the module provides coverage of subroutines and their application and benefit in complex control problems. Force
instructions are presented and demonstrated through lab simulation software. The simulation software also allows the student to
program and observe branching operations.
Learning Outcomes: • Describe the purpose of first failure annunciators.
• Define master control relay. • Differentiate between a JSR and a JMP.
• Explain the purpose of a zone of control. • Explain the advantage of using subroutines.
• Describe the function of zone control latch. • Use the FORCE instruction for troubleshooting.
• Write a ladder logic program with a subroutine.

Module 11 – SEQUENCERS
This module is designed to provide the student with a clear understanding of the purpose and application of PLC sequencers, both
through the theory of operation and through the actual demonstration using lab simulation software. The module will familiarize
the learner with masking techniques and the various types of sequencers available including SQO and SQC instructions. In addition,
sequencer charts are presented with an emphasis on maintenance and recording of sequencer chart information.
Learning Outcomes: • Derive a sequencer chart.
• Explain the operation of a mechanical drum controller. • Define the term matrix.
• Describe the basic function of a PLC sequencer. • Explain the purpose of masking.
• Explain how time-driven sequencers operate. • List three types of sequencers.
• Describe the operation of event-driven sequencers. • Write a ladder logic program using SQO and SQC.

Module 12 – DATA TRANSFER

This module provides students with an introduction to the principles of data transfer including bits, words and files. Using lab
simulation, various aspects of data transfer will be demonstrated and students will program and observe transfer instructions such
as MOV. An introduction to shift registers is also presented with an emphasis on practical application in industrial control circuits.
Learning Outcomes: • Differentiate between a file-to-word and a word-to-file move.
• Explain the purpose of a move instruction. • Describe the purpose of a table-to-table move.
• List three basic types of registers. • Explain the operation of a shift register.
• Define the term sign bit. • Write a ladder logic program using MOV.
• Explain the operating characteristics of a register-to-register move. • Transfer data between memory locations.

3
Module 13 – MATH FUNCTIONS
This module provides an overview of basic mathematical functions found in typical PLCs. It also provides thorough coverage of data
comparison instructions such as EQU, LES and GRT. In addition, this module provides a foundation for more advanced programming
techniques including analog input and output control. Topics such as combining math functions are presented with an emphasis on
practical application and are demonstrated through lab simulation.
Learning Outcomes: • Define the terms scaling and ramping.
• List three types of data comparison. • Write a program using LES, GRT and EQU.
• Explain the Addition function. • Use the Square Root instruction.
• Subtract two numbers using a PLC. • Write a program combining math functions.
• Multiply and divide two numbers. • Describe the purpose of LIM.

Module 14 – PROCESS CONTROL

The purpose of this module is to provide the student with a thorough understanding of the various aspects of process control and its
application to PLC systems. In addition to open-loop and closed-loop systems, the module also covers advanced closed-loop
techniques including PID control. Analog I/O devices are presented in detail and tuning parameters for PID control systems are
demonstrated through practical examples.
Learning Outcomes: • List the five basic components in a closed-loop control system.
• Define the terms process, process variable and controlled variable. • Name the four variables associated with closed-loop control systems.
• Name four applications for control systems. • Define dead time.
• Explain the advantage of using block diagrams. • Explain the basic operating principles of On-Off and PID control.
• Describe the function of the setpoint, error signal and measured • Describe the purpose of feedforward control in process systems.
value. • Define the terms algorithm and flowchart.
• Differentiate between open-loop control and closed-loop control. • Explain the basic principle of fuzzy logic.

Module 15 – DATA COMMUNICATION

This module is intended to provide the student with an introduction to networking using PLC systems and peripherals. The principles
of data highways are discussed using windows platform and Allen-Bradley hardware and programming software. In addition,
an introduction to Ethernet and network switching is presented as well as detailed descriptions of topology and the application of
token passing in a data highway. The module provides an overview of transmission media including fiber optic, coaxial and twisted
pair cable.
Learning Outcomes: • Define response time.
• Define the term data highway. • Explain proprietary networks.
• Describe the term protocol as applied to PLCs. • Describe the purpose of Manufacturing Automation Protocol (MAP).
• Explain the principle of token passing. • Name the seven MAP layers.
• Name two types of topology. • List three advantages of using Ethernet.
• List four factors affecting transmission media. • Explain the purpose of network switching.
• Describe the two types of bandwidth used in data highway systems.

Module 16 – NUMBER SYSTEMS AND CODES

This module is designed to provide the student with a thorough understanding of the various number systems used by PLCs and
their application in industrial control. The module covers binary numbers and codes including BCD Octal and hexadecimal. The
module demonstrates through lab simulation how number systems are manipulated by the PLC’s processor. Topics covered include
negative binary numbers, parity bit, Gray code and ASCII.
Learning Outcomes: • Count using the octal number system.
• Explain the operation of the binary number system. • Convert octal numbers to binary and binary numbers to octal.
• Express a negative number in binary form. • Explain the hexadecimal number system.
• Differentiate between least-significant bit and most-significant bit. • Write a program using number system conversion.
• Add and subtract binary numbers. • Convert hexadecimal numbers to binary and binary numbers to hex.
• Multiply and divide binary numbers. • Differentiate between natural binary and Binary Coded Decimal (BCD).
• Convert binary numbers to decimal, and decimal numbers to binary. • Describe the purpose of parity bit, Gray code and ASCII code.

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 We bring the classroom to you

Module 17 – DIGITAL LOGIC

This module provides a thorough treatment of digital logic and its application in PLC programming and control. Boolean algebra and
the theorems associated with it are presented and demonstrated through a series of programming examples. In addition, the student
will become adept at converting digital logic to ladder logic and will apply DeMorgan’s theorem to increase circuit efficiency
and reduce redundancy.
Learning Outcomes: • Apply logic gate combinations to PLC control.
• Apply truth tables to troubleshooting digital circuits. • Convert digital logic to ladder logic.
• List five logic gates. • Name eight Boolean theorems.
• Describe the basic operation of an inverter. • Apply DeMorgan’s theorem to ladder logic circuits.
• Explain the purpose of Boolean algebra.

Module 18 – ADVANCED PROGRAMMING LANGUAGES

This module provides students with an introduction to advanced PLC programming languages which are widely used in industrial
automation. In addition to graphical languages such as Sequential Function Chart (SFC) and Function Block Diagram (FBD), text-
based languages such as Structured Text (ST) and Instruction List (IL) are also presented. Numerous programming examples are
discussed using real-world applications and problem-solving techniques. This module also provides an overview of the RSLogix 5000
programming language and controller organizer, including tagnames, alias tags and various editors (ST, FBD, SFC, etc.).
Learning Outcomes: • Write a simple ST program.
• Explain the purpose of the IEC61131-3 programming standard and its • Differentiate between IL programming and ST.
application in industry. • Define online editing.
• Name two text-based languages and three graphical languages. • Describe the function of program tags in the RSLogix 5000 software.
• Describe the basic programming and operating characteristics of SFC. • List the four programming languages used by RSLogix 5000.
• List the three main parts of a function and explain their application • Explain the purpose of the Controller Organizer in RSLogix 5000.
in FBD.

Module 19 – ROBOTICS
This module provides an in-depth look at the industrial robot and the role it plays in industrial manufacturing processes. The origins
of the industrial robot and its evolution are described. The types, components, accuracy, programming and applications of robots,
among other topics, are thoroughly analyzed. Robot sensors, including vision and tactile detection are covered with an emphasis on
practical application. This module also provides an overview of safety considerations including fail-safe operation and work-envelope
design. The concept of Artificial Intelligence and how it relates to industrial machines is presented in detail.
Learning Outcomes: • Name the three basic coordinate systems.
• Define a robot. • Explain the main differences between PUMA and
• Name the three general classifications of robots. SCARA-style robots.
• Describe the basic principle of a teach pendant. • Define, payload, repeatability and accuracy.
• Differentiate between a control system and a manipulator. • List five functions performed by vision and touch sensors.
• List the degrees of freedom for a four-axis robot. • Explain how collision protection provides for human safety.
• Differentiate between pitch, yaw and roll. • Name six applications for industrial robots.
• Define the term work envelope. • Define artificial intelligence.

5
George Brown College also offers the Electronics Technician, the Electromechanical Technician and the Robotics Technician Certificate
programs that are delivered through a similar distance learning approach.

Electronics Technician Certificate Program

The Electronics Technician Certificate program provides flexible, skills
based training in electronics fundamentals. It has been developed for adult
learners pursuing basic technician level training through independent
study. The computer-based program presents 23 modules covering
content equivalent to a two year college electronics technician curriculum.
The program material is delivered through use of text, audio and video
components, 2D and 3D animations, online testing and laboratory
simulation software for experiments. Interactive exercises, sample exams
and online support prepare students for online final exams.

Electromechanical Training Certificate Program

The Electromechanical Technician Certificate program provides a basic
introduction to electronics and electromechanical systems for individuals
working in industries using traditional manufacturing methods and automated
systems. The computer-based program presents 24 modules of curriculum that
uses text, audio and video components, 2D and 3D animations, testing and
laboratory simulation software for experiments. Interactive exercises, sample
exams and online support prepare students for online final exams.

Robotics Training Certificate Program

The Robotics Technician Certificate program provides an introduction to
industrial robotics and explains how they are used in plant or manufacturing
systems. This program focuses on automated manufacturing processes and
the role of robots within them. Program material is delivered by a combination
of disk-based and online resources. The interactive curriculum uses text, video,
2D and 3D animations, photos, audio clips and the interactive robotics
simulator, RoboLogix. The program is divided into 13 modules, each consisting
of about 10 sections or major topics.

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 TECHNICAL DISTANCE EDUCATION
PROGRAMS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

This fact sheet presents some of the more commonly

asked questions about the Electronics, Electromechanical,
Programmable Logic Controllers and Robotics programs at
George Brown College.

Q1: What do the programs cost and what payment options are available?

A: The total cost of the Electronics Technician Certificate Program is $1665. There are
two payment options.

Option 1- Full Registration: $1665

Students register and pay for the complete program at one time.
Option 2 - Pay-As-You-Learn Registration
Initial registration is $345 (includes all learning materials, laboratory
simulation software, user guides and Module 1) and registration for each of the remaining 22
modules is $60/module. Students may register for one or more modules at any time.

The total cost of the Electromechanical Technician Certificate Program is $1725. There
are two payment options.

Option 1- Full Registration: $1725

Students register and pay for the complete program at one time.
Option 2 - Pay-As-You-Learn Registration
Initial registration is $345 (all learning materials, laboratory simulation
software, user guides and Module 1) and registration for each of the remaining 23 modules is
$60/module. Students may register for one or more modules at any time.

The total cost of the Programmable Logic Controllers Technician Certificate Program is
$1700. There are two payment options.

Option 1- Full Registration: $1700

Students register and pay for the complete program at one time.
Option 2 - Pay-As-You-Learn Registration
Initial registration is $440 (all learning materials, laboratory simulation
software, user guides and Module 1) and registration for each of the remaining 18 modules is
$70/module. Students may register for one or more modules at any time.

The total cost of the Robotics Technician Certificate Program is $1570. There are two
payment options.

Option 1- Full Registration: $1570

Students register and pay for the complete program at one time.

George Brown College Technical Distance Education Programs FAQ Jan 2013 Page 1
Option 2 - Pay-As-You-Learn Registration
Initial registration is $490 (all learning materials, laboratory simulation
software, user guides and Module 1) and registration for each of the remaining 12 modules is
$90/module. Students may register for one or more modules at any time

Q2: Are the Electronics, Electromechanical, PLC and Robotics Technician training
programs accredited?

A: Yes our programs are accredited. George Brown College is a fully-accredited post-
secondary institution operating under the authority of the Ministry of Colleges and
Universities in the Province of Ontario. The College received its Charter in 1967 and operates
four campuses in Toronto, Canada with over 12,000 full-time and 60,000 part-time students.
All certificates, diplomas, and degrees conferred by George Brown College are done so under
the power vested in its Board of Governors through the Government of Ontario. George
Brown College is a member of the Association of Canadian Community Colleges (ACCC)
which is a national organization consisting of over 200 post-secondary institutions.

Q3: Are there prerequisites for these programs?

A: Students entering these programs should have a high school diploma with credits at, or
above, the general level or hold an equivalent mature student status. An electronics
background is helpful but not essential.

Q4: Do the programs have a specific start and end date?

A: No, the Electronics, Electromechanical, Programmable Logic Controllers and Robotics

programs are open enrollment programs with no predetermined time limits. That means you
can start at your convenience and finish at your own pace.

Q5: How long does it take to complete each Certificate program?

A: The average completion time is between 30-34 weeks of part-time study. The flexible
computer-based modules are designed to fit into your schedule, not ours, so you can work at
your own pace to complete the programs.

Q6: Are there exams and how are they written?

A: Yes, there are exams. The exams are written online using a computer-based testing
package. A timed, 90 minute exam is taken to complete each module of the program.

Q7: What is the passing grade for the Electronics, Electromechanical, Programmable
Logic Controllers and Robotics Certificate programs?

A: You must obtain a 60% or higher to successfully complete each module of each program.

Q8: Do I ever have to physically attend the college?

A: No, these programs are offered entirely by distance education.

George Brown College Technical Distance Education Programs FAQ Jan 2013 Page 2
Q9: What’s included in the Interactive Learning Package?

A: The Interactive Learning Package includes

• CD-ROM or DVD based curriculum

• Lab simulation software
• Tutorial and Technical Support
• Access to additional online program resources
• Online Testing

Q10: What kind of technical and tutorial support is offered?

A: While enrolled in the any of these programs, students receive technical and tutorial
support from the program’s Technical Training Distance Learning Student Support Center.
The Student Support Center is open Monday through Friday, from 9:00 am until 10:00 pm
(Eastern Standard Time) and can be contacted by email at [email protected].

Q11: How can I use these programs to obtain a diploma or degree?

A: Graduates of the certificate programs can continue their studies to obtain a diploma or
degree through the following options;

Electronics Engineering Technician Diploma at George Brown College

Graduates of our Electronics Certificate program apply the credits earned from our program
directly towards a diploma. Seven more credits, including four general education courses and
three communications courses, must be taken to complete the fully accredited Electronics
Engineering Technician Diploma.

Bachelor of Science offered through Athabasca University (AU) and George Brown College
Graduates of the Electronics Technician Certificate can transfer into the second year of
studies and continue to earn a 4-year Bachelor of Science degree.

Bachelor of Science, Technology Management Degree offered through Indiana State

University and George Brown College
Students who have completed the Electronics Technician Certificate (plus 7 General
Education courses) through George Brown College, can directly transfer into the third year of
studies at Indiana State University and continue on to complete a 4 year Bachelor of Science
degree.

Q12: How do you obtain hands-on-experience with these programs?

A: All of our programs use state-of-the-art simulators that act as real world tools. With the
Electronics and Electromechanical simulators you also can design test and debug analog,
digital and mixed mode circuits. With the PLC simulator you can write and run real PLC
programs and verify their operation. Robologix, the Robotics simulator, allows for the
programming, testing, and debugging of robot-control programs.

George Brown College Technical Distance Education Programs FAQ Jan 2013 Page 3
Q13: Do these programs have industry recognition?

A: The Electronics, Electromechanical, Programmable Logic Controllers and Robotics

Certificate programs were created in direct response to requests from industry. The programs
were developed to meet the emerging requirements of industry and to provide the highest
quality education and relevant training to students.

Q14: What computer hardware and software is needed to complete these programs?

A: Students must have access to a personal computer with the following minimum
configuration;

• CD-ROM or DVD Drive & Sound Card

• Intel Pentium or equivalent
• 32 MB RAM (64 MB recommended)
• 100 MB available disk space
• Windows 95/98/NT/2000/XP/ME/Vista/Windows 7
• Internet Access
• Email account

Q15: What is the Honor System Policy?

A: Once enrolled in the Electronics, Electromechanical, Programmable Logic Controllers or

Robotics programs, you are responsible for obeying and supporting an honor system that
prohibits lying, cheating, or stealing in relation to the academic practices of George Brown
College. The honor system also requires you to refrain from conduct that
significantly impairs the welfare or the educational opportunities of others in the George
Brown College community. You are expected to do your own work in all aspects of your
course.

Q16: What is the withdraw, drop and refund policy for these programs?

A: To receive a tuition refund, a student must provide the Distance Education Support
Services Center with a written Request to Withdraw letter no later than ten business days
after receiving the program materials. There will be a $20 administration fee charged, per
module, to process the refund.

Please note that there is no refund on the Interactive Learning Package (CD-ROM & DVD).
Please note that the textbooks cannot be returned for a refund.

Allow 4 to 6 weeks for processing and mail delivery of tuition refund checks. If you do
not receive your tuition refund check within 6 weeks of submitting your Request to
Withdraw letter please contact the Distance Education Support Services Center toll-free at
1-888-553-5333.

George Brown College Technical Distance Education Programs FAQ Jan 2013 Page 4
Please include the following information in your Request to Withdraw letter:
Please include the following information in your Request to Withdraw letter:
1. Name
1.
2. Name
Student Number
2.
3. Student Number
Course Registration Number
3. Course Registration
4. Reason for withdrawalNumber
4.
5. Reason for withdrawal
Signature
5. Signature

A Request to Withdraw refund letter should be faxed to the Distance Education Support
A Request
Services to Withdraw
Center at (416)refund letter
415-4683 orshould
mailedbe
to faxed
Georgeto Brown
the Distance Education
College, DistanceSupport
Education
Services
Support Services Center, PO Box 1015 Station B, Toronto, Ontario Canada, M5TEducation
Center at (416) 415-4683 or mailed to George Brown College, Distance 2T9.
Support Services Center, PO Box 1015 Station B, Toronto, Ontario Canada, M5T 2T9.

George Brown College Technical Distance Education Programs FAQ Jan 2013 Page 5
George Brown College Technical Distance Education Programs FAQ Jan 2013 Page 5