vcc.ca
WTEC 1110: Power Electronics and Measurement
Effective date
September 2026
Department
Wind Turbine Technician
School
Trades, Technology and Design
Description
Students will explore the electrical control systems at the heart of modern wind turbines, focusing on semiconductor circuits and transformer maintenance. They will test power electronic components, operate precision measurement instruments, and troubleshoot electronic systems. Learners will interpret complex circuit diagrams, maintain voltage regulation systems, and document test results to industry standards—skills that support advanced turbine control and performance optimization.
Credits
2.5
Year of study
1st Year Post-secondary
Prerequisites
None
Corequisites
None
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Analyze semiconductor circuits in wind turbine applications by calculating expected outputs and identifying key components.
- Test power electronic components using appropriate equipment and procedures, identifying operational status and potential issues.
- Operate measurement equipment to obtain accurate readings of electrical parameters.
- Evaluate transformer systems by performing diagnostic tests and interpreting results.
- Troubleshoot electronic systems by systematically identifying faults and recommending appropriate solutions.
- Interpret circuit diagrams for wind turbine power systems.
- Perform voltage regulation procedures on turbine systems.
- Document test results using industry-standard formats..
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
Methods of assessment may include a challenge exam, submission of a product or portfolio for review, or a practical demonstration. Please contact the Department for details.
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 30
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 20
Total Hours: 50
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 20
Total Hours: 50
Instructional Strategies
A combination of lecture, demonstration, simulations, problem solving, practical lab activities and reflective discussion will be used throughout this course.
Grading System
Percentages-STBC
Passing grade
70
Evaluation Plan
|
Type |
Percentage |
Assessment activity |
|
Assignments |
25 |
|
|
Quizzes/Tests |
25 |
|
|
Lab Work |
30 |
|
|
Final Exam |
20 |
|
Course topics
- Semiconductor theory
- Power electronic components
- SCRs, Diacs, and Triacs
- Transformer systems
- Measurement techniques
- Testing procedures
- Voltage regulation
- Circuit analysis
- System protection
- Documentation methods
- Troubleshooting strategies
- Quality control
Notes:
- Course contents and descriptions, offerings and schedules are subject to change without notice.
- Students are required to follow all College policies including ones that govern their educational experience at VCC. Policies are available on the VCC website at:
https://www.vcc.ca/about/governance--policies/policies/. - To find out if there are existing transfer agreements for this course, visit the BC Transfer Guide at https://www.bctransferguide.ca.