Program Overview

Instrumentation and Control Technology Program

The Instrumentation and Control Technology program is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the field of instrumentation and control. The program is restricted to students majoring in Instrumentation and Control Technology and is only available at the Carlsbad campus.

Course Descriptions

• INST 133: Process Technology and Systems (4 Credits)
  • Provides instruction in the use of common process equipment, including piping and tubing, valves, pumps, compressors, turbines, motors, engines, heat exchangers, heaters, furnaces, boilers, filters, and dryers.
  • Covers the basic functions, scientific principles, and symbols of process equipment.
  • Students will identify components on typical Process Flow Diagrams and Process and Instrument Diagrams.
• INST 165: Equipment Processes (4 Credits)
  • Introduces Thermal Energy and Mechanical alignment in equipment and machinery components.
  • Covers the operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of thermal energy and mechanical equipment.
  • Requires consent of instructor.
• INST 205: Programmable Logic Controllers and Applications (4 Credits)
  • Provides a self-directed learning system for students to learn about programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and their applications.
  • Includes hands-on experience with electrical systems and requires computer literacy and internet literacy.
• INST 251: Instrumentation and Measurement (5 Credits)
  • Presents the basic principles and techniques required for the design and analysis of measurement systems.
  • Covers the theory of measurement, sensors, and instruments used for measuring physical quantities.

Learning Outcomes

• INST 133:
  1. Explain the different pieces of equipment used in moving fluids through a process plant.
  2. Understand the applications for the different types of equipment in each classification and their operating principles.
  3. Demonstrate reading Process Flow Diagrams and Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams.
• INST 165:
  1. Explain how Thermal Process Systems work.
  2. Identify parts of Thermal Systems and Steam machines.
  3. Identify troubleshooting of thermal machines.
  4. Explain the steps of how to operate Thermal Systems.
• INST 205:
  1. Explain the basics of PLCs.
  2. Describe how PLCs are used in industrial environments.
  3. Demonstrate ability to program a PLC unit to solve a problem.
• INST 251:
  1. Understand measurement principles and apply them within measurement systems.
  2. Select and specify suitable instrumentation for measurement of physical quantities.
  3. Analyze and interpret experimental data.
  4. Perform analog and digital signal processing.
  5. Identify various sensor technologies and their use in measurement systems.