vcc.ca
ELCO 1230: Basic Motor Control
Effective date
January 2026
Department
Construction Elec Foundation
School
Trades, Technology and Design
Description
In this course, students will explore the function and operation of common alternating current motor starters. Focus will be on manual and magnetic starters.
Credits
3.0
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:
- Describe the function, features, and operation of manual and magnetic starters.
- Interpret and draw schematic and wiring diagrams.
- Describe features of control relays.
- Describe jogging circuits and reversing circuits.
- Connect and test manual and magnetic motor starters.
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: 25
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 25
Practicum, Self-Paced, Individual Learning: 10
Total Hours: 60
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 25
Practicum, Self-Paced, Individual Learning: 10
Total Hours: 60
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 |
|
Participation |
10 |
|
|
Assignments |
30 |
|
|
Quizzes/Tests |
20 |
|
|
Final Exam |
20 |
|
|
Lab Work |
20 |
|
Course topics
- Manual motor starters - function, features, and operation
- Magnetic motor starters - function, features, and operation
- Schematic and wiring diagram interpretation and creation
- Control relays and their features
- Jogging circuits - purposes and design
- Reversing circuits - purposes and design
- Motor starter connection and testing procedures
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.