COLLEGE/EMPLOYER COURSE REVIEW · DRAFT
RV Electrical Systems Fundamentals
An introductory course in 12-volt DC distribution, 120-volt AC concepts, batteries, converters, inverters, protected circuits, wiring documentation, and systematic diagnostic reasoning. Physical exercises are restricted to low-voltage, current-limited training equipment.
← All proposed coursesCourse learning outcomes
- Explain electrical hazards and demonstrate stop-work decision making.
- Differentiate RV 12V DC and 120V AC functions and protective devices.
- Identify major electrical components and interpret simplified diagrams.
- Set up a meter to measure low-voltage DC potential on a protected trainer.
- Trace and document simulated open-circuit and high-resistance faults.
- Prepare a defensible diagnostic note with measurements and next steps.
Instructional modules
1. Electrical safety and orientation · 3 hours
Hazard assessment, isolation, PPE, meter inspection, labels
Hazard assessment, isolation, PPE, meter inspection, labels
Classify mock repair scenarios by safe/unsafe; create a stop-work plan
2. 12V DC fundamentals · 4 hours
Voltage, current, resistance, series/parallel paths, fuses
Voltage, current, resistance, series/parallel paths, fuses
Measure supply and load voltages on a fused 12V teaching board
3. 120V AC systems: concepts only · 4 hours
Shore power, branch protection, GFCI, transfer switching, boundaries
Shore power, branch protection, GFCI, transfer switching, boundaries
Identify AC components on diagrams and photographs; no energized AC work
4. Energy storage and conversion · 4 hours
Battery families, converter, inverter, DC/DC, solar overview
Battery families, converter, inverter, DC/DC, solar overview
Trace a simulated battery-to-load path and classify system functions
5. Schematics, meters and documentation · 3 hours
Symbols, reference points, lead placement, error checking
Symbols, reference points, lead placement, error checking
Translate a simplified schematic into a test-point worksheet
6. Troubleshooting and capstone · 6 hours
Symptom verification, fault isolation, measurements, service reporting
Symptom verification, fault isolation, measurements, service reporting
Locate two instructor-inserted low-voltage faults and write a report
Practical assessment
Safe 12V trainer inspection, measurement, fault identification, service report
Proposed learning equipment
- 12V current-limited DC power supply with inline fuse
- Low-power loads: LEDs and resistive indicator modules
- Enclosed fuse holders, terminal blocks, prebuilt plug-in leads
- CAT-rated meter suitable for the demonstration context, insulated probes
- Eye protection, nonconductive work surface, instructor-controlled fault switches