I don't see a problem with advice given on a newsgroup. I am not a licensed electrician but an engineer by profession. When I am on the job which is giving advice and resolutions to customers, I am covered by my company's policies and procedures. When I am outside that scope, I cover myself and my employer by phrases like IMO or stating they should consult with a licensed professional.
As for my background, my father was an electrician and I have worked as an apprentice electrician for other outfits. I am very aware of my limitations and will not hesitate to hire a licensed professional. Case in point, when I replaced the 60 amp entrance of my house to a 200 amp, I realized that I did not understand bonding. I hired a semi-retired electrician and he spent 3 days teaching me the finer points that the Master Sparkys used to do while I was pulling wire or doing outlets. I have the 2002 Code book and handbook and study it anytime something is not clear. I read this and other newsgroups for information. I work with a Master Electrician who is a godsend when it comes to thorny real world automation problems that cross several fields such as electrical and mechanical engineering crossing into the commissioning of new projects.
The bottom line is I want this group to function the way that it does. It provides a useful forum for me to branch out my skill set.
