ok thanks

[This message has been edited by ltr1013 (edited 04-05-2003).]

ltr1013,

You can't go wrong with the NEC Handbook . It may be a little pricey, but you DO get what you pay for.

Hanging out here is a good start too!

Welcome to ECN!

Itr1013,- Welcome to ECN. I would like to know how you were able to past inspections over the course of 30 years, alot has changed in our field, or are inspections rare in your area. Also as 66 said the NEC Handbook is your ticket for, lets say upgrading yourself. Zapped208

Contact Mel Sanders in your State of IOWA, he teaches the Code and he can help you.

If you send me your address, I will send you a "FREE" CD with information that you can use to learn about the NEC.

Also, try to locate "The Farm Buildings Wiring Handbook" it starts at the building’s service entrance, and covers all aspects of wiring from that point.

I would also recommend that you find out about any local college courses.

Also, contact the Electrical Inspector in your State, or City for some advice, and join the IAEI.



[This message has been edited by Joe Tedesco (edited 04-03-2003).]

Welcome Itr1013,

I started out in eastern Nebraska in the late '60s. And I did a little work in northwest Iowa as well. I know how loose the regulation can be.

I think Sparky66wv's advice hits the mark. First, get a copy of the NEC Handbook. The additional illustrations and explanatory text go a long way. You can find used copies at www.bibliofind.com after searching on the words National Electrical Code.

Then, with the Code beside you at the computer, look up the Code sections talked about in the threads that interest you.

Your life experience counts for a lot. In my opinion, you'd waste a lot of time covering ground familiar to you in a structured course. The real meat is in the actual words of the Code connected in your mind with the recollection of all the work that you've done and do. Start off paying attention to the wiring method you are most familiar with. Pick one: NM, PVC, EMT, whatever, and read the Article on it and look up threads related to it, new and in the archives (they're huge!). Then expand your choice of articles.

Let your interest in the specifics be your initial guide. Do it frequently, and, with the passage of time, you'll get the rewards.


Personally, I'm amazed at how much I get each and every time I revisit the basics, let alone the complex stuff.

Al

Itr1013, I strongly suggest subscribing to two “reader-qualified” {free for those in the trade} magazines. Don’t expect code sections and terminology to sink in overnight—we all had to start somewhere. www.ecmag.com www.ecmweb.com {This one’s been around for over a century.}

Another outstanding source for code info is IAEI News, but requires a paid subscription. [It’s worth every penny.] www.iaei.org

ltr1013:
As I say to the students in the NEC Class I sub-teach.....
"Don't try to memorize the NEC, you won't get very far before it changes"
"Learn where to look for what you need"
You can study the code for your lifetime...you can get to "know" the areas of the code that pertain to your everyday work; but know how and where to find what you need.
PS: Take Joe Tedesco up on the CD, he's a nice guy, and the price is "right".
John

HotLine1 Where can you get Info on Joes CD?

BiggladAnt

Send Joe an email with your questions.

Curt