Introduction to Component Identification for Electronics Assembly

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Module 1: Introduction

• Distinguish between through-hole (TH) and surface mount (SMT) components
• Distinguish between component packages and component packaging

Module 2: Component Verification

• Use component markings and component packaging to identify the origin and
value of a component
• Use a manufacturer data sheet to determine the characteristics of a component
• Identify the markings used to indicate polarity
• Explain how component reference designators, bills of materials, and assembly
drawings are used to verify correct component placement
• Use component and PCA markings, CRDS, BOMs, assembly drawings, and sample
boards to verify that the right components have been correctly placed and
oriented on an assembly

Module 3: Resistors

• Explain the function of a resistor
• Visually identify the most common types of TH and SMT resistors
• Interpret component markings and code tables to determine a resistor’s value

Module 4: Capacitors

• Explain the function of a capacitor
• Explain capacitance and voltage
• Visually identify the most common types of TH and SMT capacitors
• Convert units of capacitance (microfarad, nanofarad, picofarad)
• Interpret component markings to determine capacitance, voltage, and tolerance
• Use polarity markings to verify correct orientation on a PCB

Module 5: Inductors

• Explain the function of an inductor
• Explain inductance
• Visually identify the most common types of TH and SMT inductors
• Convert units of inductance (millihenries, microhenries, nanohenries)
• Interpret inductor color bands and alphanumeric codes to determine inductance
and tolerance 2

Module 6: Diodes

• Explain the function of a diode
• Explain voltage (volts) and current (amperes)
• Identify the most common types of diodes
• Determine the polarity of a diode
• Use markings and assembly documentation to ensure correct installation

Module 7: Transistors

• Explain the functions of transistors
• Identify the most common types of transistors and transistor packages
• Describe key units used to indicate the value of a transistor
• Use assembly documentation and manufacturer data sheets to verify the identity,
value, and characteristics of a transistor
• Use component and PCA markings, assembly documentation, and data sheets to
correctly orient transistors on a PCB

Module 8: Integrated Circuits

• Explain the function of the most common types of integrated circuits
• Identify the component packages used to house common integrated circuits
• Use assembly documentation and manufacturer data sheets to verify the identity
value, and characteristics of an integrated circuit
• Use component and PCA markings, assembly documentation, and data sheets to
correctly orient integrated circuits on a PCB