Module 1 Pathway: Technician Electronic Control Fundamentals — DC Emphasis
This document describes the first learning module for the Industrial Automation Technician. It identifies the DigiKey content supporting Electronic Control Fundamentals with a DC emphasis. It is a necessary companion to the extensive Field Guide because it clearly defines a focused learning path that is otherwise hidden to the novice.
The material is suitable for high school technical programs, college and university engineering and technology programs, industrial apprenticeship programs, and supervised workplace training.
This article is part of the DigiKey Structured Learning Pathways.
Location: Industrial Automation Technician
Author: Aaron Dahlen | MSEE | Senior Applications Engineer, DigiKey
Last updated: 06 Aug 2026
Target Learner
This module is intended for beginning industrial automation students, apprentices, and technicians who need a practical foundation in low-voltage electrical control circuits. It may also serve as a practical introduction for electrical and mechanical engineering students whose previous coursework emphasized theory rather than panel wiring and field devices.
No previous electronics or industrial automation experience is assumed. Learners should be comfortable with basic arithmetic and able to follow written procedures and wiring diagrams.
Tech Tip: Engineers who elect to complete an industrial automation-focused project need the foundational skills and knowledge contained within this learning pathway. This is especially true for those ambitious enough to use a PLC to control a machine.
This material is useful because it’s fussy. I’ve seen many students struggle because they didn’t know what tools and techniques were available.
Laboratory Preparation and Setup
- Outfitting an Industrial Lab: This article lists the components used in this learning pathway.
- A Reliable Ammeter Connection for 24 VDC Control Circuits
- First Steps for DIN Rail Hardware
- Powering the Trainer
- The Importance of Wire Color
- Quality Standards for Wire-Ferrule Crimps
Foundations
- Teaching Electrical Nodes
- Current and Power in Industrial Circuits
- Exploring Polarity with DC Industrial Control Relays
Devices and Control Elements
- Pushbutton-Based Logic
- Electrically Interlocking Circuits
- Circuit Breaker Introduction
- Inductive Proximity Sensor Introduction
Relay Control
- Normally Open vs Normally Closed Relay Contacts
- Relay-Based Ladder Logic for Industrial Control Panels
- Introduction to the 3-Wire Start-Stop Circuit
- Tutorial for the Start, Stop, and Jog Controller