Clipsal by Schneider Electric is taking its market leading C-Bus technology back to grass roots.

The electrical brand is introducing its energy management and control technology to the next generation of electricians and systems integrators at the TAFE SA Regency Campus.

The campus is now offering C-Bus as an elective unit of competency as part of the student’s off-job training. The C-Bus course is now in the School of Electrical Engineering Certificate III curriculum as part of the requirement for students to achieve their electrical licence.

The training is mapped against the national training standard at Certificate IV level in electro technology. Clipsal by Schneider Electric is the only manufacturer in the electrical industry to achieve this.

Approximately 56 students enrolled in the course in 2012. The theory concluded in June while the practical, assembly and programming concludes in September.

Students spend 36 contact hours over the course learning C-Bus. This includes installation and basic programming of lighting to form a solid introduction. There are also practical demonstrations showing how the system can be controlled over the internet and via iPhone. Upon completion, students are assessed via a combination of written and practical assignments.

TAFE SA education manager, Stephen Wold said the course has proven very popular.

“It’s great that manufacturers are giving students access to cutting edge technology and asking the students to build projects and then get accredited for it.”

Colin Cadman, National Manager, Tech Support & Training, Clipsal by Schneider Electric said that we have worked with TAFE Colleges for many years, supplying electrical boards and panels for demonstration purposes. However, this current programme has been five years in the making and great recognition of our solutions.”

Mark Radivojevic, a third year apprentice with O’Donnell Griffin said that the C-Bus content wasn’t too hard to comprehend.

“I have a lot of experience in installing security panels so I’m comfortable with the wiring and programming. The course has been pretty good and the explanation indepth.”