Satellite Fundamentals
The SBCA Satellite Fundamentals course is designed to provide technicians with an understanding of the basic knowledge and expectations they will need to successfully install and maintain a satellite system.  The program is designed to assess the skills and knowledge of a satellite technician.

At the conclusion of this course technicians should be able to:

  • Understand the basics of satellite technology, distribution, and installation
  • Have a knowledge in the importance of coax cable and connectors
  • Troubleshoot a DBS system
  • Explain the importance of grounding a satellite system

In order to maximize the benefits of this course it should be used in conjunction with a formal training curriculum.  This course has been used as a basis to develop low voltage licensing requirements in Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Louisiana.
  Prerequisites:   Resources for basic education:
  • Ability to assemble and install a dish
  • Use a signal meter to peak a dish
  • Knowledge of the tools and materials necessary for dish installation and their operation
  • An understanding of basic safety requirements including working on a ladder near power lines
  • Internet sites
  • Information from manufacturers on proper use /operation of their equipment
  • Technical colleges that offer courses in basic electronics installation and maintenance
 
  Online Testing:   Course Schedule
  • Cost: $92
  • Review materials included
  • Self-paced study
  • Test is timed for 1 hour
  • 3 total attempts allowed - no additional retakes will be provided
Click HERE if the schedule does not display.











  Classroom Testing:
  • Cost: $199
  • 1 Day Course, with test given at the end of the day
  • An 85% or better is needed to pass
  • 1 Free retake is available should the tech not pass.  This is a retake of the test only.  A fee may be applied should the technician wish to sit through the course again.  If you are a technician seeking a retake, locate a course convenient to you and contact the trainer to inform them you need to take a retake.
  Frequently Asked Questions:
  • What does the course fee include?
    • The cost includes a training manual, the training itself, the test, and the certification materials received upon passing.
  • Will I get my certification number at the end of the class?
    • No.  Tests are sent to the SBCA where they are graded and assigned certification numbers.  Once this is done you can access your certification number and certificate by using the Online Results checker.  You will need your test number.  Certification materials are mailed approximately 2 - 4 weeks after the results have been processed.
  • What happens if I fail the test?
    • You are entitled to one retake of the test itself, no charge.  Contact a trainer near you and inform them you need to take a retake.
  • What happens if I fail the retake?
    • If you fail the retake you will have to attend the course again at the initial price.
  • Is my certification number the same as my member number?
    • No.  Certification and membership are two different categories.  Membership is determined by the payment of annual dues.
  • Does my certification expire?
    • Yes, certifications are valid for two years.
  • More...
The SBCA National Standards & Testing Program certifies that installers have passed standardized testing developed by the SBCA and industry leaders.  The SBCA does not guarantee the quality of nor assume any liability for the work performed by the certified installer.

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