Review: Troubleshooting Industrial Controls (Formerly titled as the FPS 3000 Troubleshooting Simulator)
Electrical Business Magazine
January 2009
This is a very good learning tool. Though designed for beginner- to intermediate-level electricians or technicians, it would certainly be useful for HVAC or other mechanical/electrical trades. I found it easy to grasp the operating aspects and was using the program within an hour of operation.
I was impressed with the ease of connecting/disconnecting systems, as well as with the pop-up assistant giving advice as you explored your maintenance options. The use of screwdrivers, wrenches, keys, etc., adds some realism to the fault isolation. Shocks and warnings are included in this program. Lockout/tagout is also provided.
You could also use this program to test advanced-level electricians.
The Teacher's Manual is very good and offers a number of exercises to be performed. It comes with a Course Manager, Operations Manual and Troubleshooting Guide-all provided in clear, clean type that's easily photocopied. Complete system schematics and parts manuals are included.
As you progress, cost of operation and repairs are calculated on a small calculator positioned in the upper corner, including hourly rates and materials used.
Speaking as a teacher, the time you spend teaching a student a simulator program's aspects is considered time wasted on non-curriculum aspects. With the FPS 3000 Troubleshooting Simulator, most of this effort can be done on the student's own time, who may very well find it enjoyable.
It's a very good learning tool and could become a cost-effective approach to troubleshooting motor, instrumentation and schematic aspects of the trade's education.
- John Vickery, Vickery Electric Contracting, EB Editorial Advisor
