Sep 20, 2026  
2026 - 2027 Eastern Iowa Community Colleges Catalog 
    
2026 - 2027 Eastern Iowa Community Colleges Catalog
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ELT 444 - Introduction to Industrial Networking


Credit(s) 2.00
Lecture Hours: 1.00
Lab Hours: 2.00
This course introduces the student to networking industrial equipment such as PLC’s, Variable Frequency Drives, control components, and computers. Students concentrate on connecting network hardware while developing the programming skills required to employ industrial networks.  No

Prerequisite(s):   and    
SLOs:
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

  • Explain the role of industrial networks: Differentiate between the funcitons and applications of industrial networking versus standard information technology (IT) networks.
  • Identify industial network equipment: Identify the major hardware components, such as PLC’s, Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), and other control components, and describe their roles within a networked system.
  • Connect network hardware: Physically install and configure network hardware to establish communication between industrial equipment, such as a PLC and a VFD.
  • Configure network parameters: Assign and verify network settings for devices (e.g., IP addresses, subnet masks) to ensure proper network connectivity. 
  • Troubleshoot hardware issues: Diagnose and resolve common connectivity problems related to network hardware, such as wiring errors or device configuration issues. 
  • Develop network programs: Write, test, and debug basic PLC programs that involve network-based communication with other devices.
  • Integrate networked devices: Create a functional network program that integrates a control component (e.g., a PLC) with a networked piece of equipment (e.g., a VFD) to achieve a desired control function. 



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