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Welcome to the official blog of the International Society of Automation (ISA).

This blog covers numerous topics on industrial automation such as operations & management, continuous & batch processing, connectivity, manufacturing & machine control, and Industry 4.0.

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Technical Training and Education Programs from ISA in July

This education & training roundup was compiled by Joel Don, ISA's social media community manager.

ISA classroom training, online courses and webinars are taught by industry subject matter experts with extensive Dollarphotoclub_61548257industrial automation and control systems work and teaching experience. The comprehensive and practical instruction delivers knowledge and skills that you can immediately put to work at your workplace. In July ISA will be featuring two key educational programs: the system integrator version of Automation Engineering Survival Training, focusing on concepts important to automation engineers and others involved in project design and commissioning, and a four-part webinar series on boiler and burner safety.

Onsite Training

In addition to taking ISA classroom training at ISA headquarters, regional locations and industry events, you can also receive customized ISA training at your facility through ISA Onsite Training.  This option can bring any ISA course or combination of courses – along with ISA’s world-class instructors, training materials and portable laboratories – directly to you.  Simply pick the time and place.  Contact ISA at +1 919-549-8411 or info@isa.org.

Note: If a class date is not showing in the course offerings page or registration appears closed, contact ISA at info@isa.org or call customer service at +1 919-549-8411 to get a registration update or waiting list status.

Classroom Courses

Fundamentals Training

Introduction to Industrial Automation and Control (FG07)
This course combines lecture and hands-on labs to provide an overview of industrial measurement and control. Technicians, engineers, and managers are provided with a foundation for communication with other control system professionals. The class serves as a solid fundamental course for introduction to other ISA courses. The 4.5-day class starts July 20 at ISA headquarters in Research Triangle Park, N.C.

Technical Skills Training

Advanced Operation of Digital (Smart) Transmitters (TS17)
This lab-intensive course focuses on configuration fundamentals, the calibration process, the measurements of multiple variables, and the utilization of computer-based configuration tools for digital transmitters utilizing HART, fieldbus and wireless protocols. This course offers a hands-on, working knowledge of smart field devices with an emphasis on measurement accuracy, advanced information gathering, decreased maintenance time, ease-of-configuration and calibration, and diagnostic capabilities. You will cover uses in conventional systems and improved communications when combined with digital control networks. You will also be exposed to various hand-held communicators and computer-based configuration and diagnostic software. The 4.5-day starts July 20 in Cerritos, Calif.

Note: Formerly ISA TS16. This new course now entails the technologies of fieldbus and wireless smart devices.

IT Survival Basics for I&C Personnel (TS04)
Ethernet networking, switches, routers, servers, PCs and firewalls, as well as wireless Ethernet networks and TCP/IP communications. The student will learn how to configure them and how cyber security is applied to protect them. Upon completion of this course, individuals will have a familiarity with basic IT concepts and technology which will enable them to effectively collaborate and communicate with IT personnel and perform basic IT functions essential in a modern plant and with modern control systems technology. The 5-day class starts July 14 in Cerritos, Calif.

Advanced Industrial Networking and Cybersecurity (TS20)
In this course you will learn about the latest developments in Industrial Control System (ICS) networking and cybersecurity. The course provides a review of basic networking and cybersecurity technology and expands your understanding of industrial network concepts by reviewing basic networking principals including TCP/UDP, IPv4/IPv6, ICS protocols, addressing and troubleshooting. You will explore network security architectures and learn how to use layering and segmentation to improve security, as well as how web technology works and how web server capability is used in industry and the security problems engendered by such use. Practical application use of cybersecurity technologies such as firewalls, VPN, virtualization, virus scanning and intrusion detection tools will be covered, including how to industrially harden and secure your networks and perform "red team" testing of your systems using penetration testing software. Special focus is placed on the assessment of security risks and hazards in the industrial setting using ANSI/ISA-62443, NIST and ICS cybersecurity frameworks and standards. Laboratory exercises performed in class are designed to re-enforce learning objectives and allow for active participation using a classroom network setup leveraging virtual environments. The 4.5-day course starts July 27 in Houston, Tex.

Automation & Control Training

New_80x80Assessing the Cybersecurity of New or Existing IACS Systems (IC33)
The first phase in the IACS Cybersecurity Lifecycle (defined in ISA 62443-1-1) is to identify and document IACS assets and perform a cybersecurity vulnerability and risk assessment in order to identify and understand the high-risk vulnerabilities that require mitigation. Per ISA 62443-2-1 these assessments need to be performed on both new (i.e. greenfield) and existing (i.e. brownfield) applications. Part of the assessment process involves developing a zone and conduit model of the system, identifying security level targets, and documenting the cybersecurity requirements into a cybersecurity requirements specification (CRS). This course will provide students with the information and skills to assess the cybersecurity of a new or existing IACS and to develop a cybersecurity requirements specification that can be used to document the cybersecurity requirements the project. The three-day class starts July 14 at ISA headquarters in Research Triangle Park, N.C.

New_80x80PLC Fundamentals for the Technical Professional (TC40)
This course will focus on the role the programmable logic controller plays in the design of a control system and how proper selection, installation and maintenance can reduce operating costs and improve performance. It will provide the technical expertise necessary to install, perform routine programming and maintenance and apply proper troubleshooting and configuration techniques. The 4.5-day course starts July 20 in Houston, Tex.

Transducer/Transmitter Installation for Nuclear Safety Applications Using ANSI/ISA-67.01.01 (IC67)
This course will cover the ANSI/ISA-67.01.01 standard relating to the installation of transducers for nuclear safety-related applications. The course emphasis will be a review of established requirements and recommendations for the installation of transducers and auxiliary equipment for nuclear applications outside of the main reactor vessel. The class is two days and starts July 20 in King of Prussia, Penn.

ANSI/ISA-67.04-2006: Setpoints For Nuclear Safety-Related Instrumentation (IC68P)
The latest version of the ANSI/ISA67 standard is focused on performance monitoring. The course will discuss the terminology and the appropriate use of the standard and the steps necessary for the development of safety-related setpoint analysis. ANSI/ISA-67.04.01 has been used as the basis for many plant specific setpoint programs and setpoint calculations. The changes to this standard should be reflected in all programs where compliance to NRC requirements is necessary. The three-day class starts July 22 in King of Prussia, Penn.

Applying Motor Controls and Drives (SP15)
This course gives you a broad perspective of DC motors, AC motors (single and three-phase), and Variable Speed Drives (for AC Induction Motors and DC Motors). Industrial applications of Variable Speed Drives for constant torque, constant horsepower, and variable torque/variable horsepower are included. Also covered are Motor Starter Circuits and Reduced Voltage Starting techniques. Stepper Motors and Servo Motors are discussed along with their advantages and applications. The three-day class starts July 22 at ISA headquarters in Research Triangle Park, N.C.

Process Safety Fundamentals (EC50CT)
This one-day course is a quick reference for technicians and operators to understanding the principles governing the use of safety instrumented systems (SIS). Students will learn basic definitions and concepts, the different types of standards, and the role of personnel in the safety life cycle of such systems. It also serves as an introductory preparation for the more comprehensive ISA EC50 multi-day course covering design, analysis and justification of SIS and its related certificate programs. The one-day class will be held July 13 at ISA headquarters in Research Triangle Park, N.C.

Safety Instrumented Systems − Design, Analysis and Justification (EC50)
This course focuses on the engineering requirements for the specification, design, analysis, and justification of safety instrumented systems for the process industries. Students will learn how to determine safety integrity levels and evaluate whether proposed or existing systems meet the performance and documentation requirements defined in the ISA 84 (IEC61511) standard. The four-day class starts July 14 at ISA headquarters in Research Triangle Park, N.C.

Certification and Licensure Preparation

ExamPrepChecklist_80x80Certified Control Systems Technician® (CCST®) Level I Review Course (TS00)
This is a fast-paced review of the knowledge and practical skills necessary to install and maintain standard measurement and control instrumentation. It is intended for practicing technicians preparing for the CCST Level I exam. An explanation of the examination process and practice certification-type exams are provided. The four-day course starts July 13 in Houston, Tex.

ExamPrepChecklist_80x80Control Systems Engineering (CSE) PE Exam Review Course (EN00)
This course reviews the knowledge and skills areas that are included on the Control Systems Engineer (CSE) Professional Engineer (PE) examination produced by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) and administered by U.S. state professional license boards each October. The intent of the class is to prepare an engineer with four or more years of experience to take the exam by providing instruction in the broad range of technical areas that will be tested. . The content is based on the CSE Exam Specification that went into effect in October 2011. The three-day course starts July 21 in Columbia, Ill.

ExamPrepChecklist_80x80Certified Control Systems Technician® (CCST®) Level III Exam Review Course (TS03)
This course reviews the knowledge and skills areas included on the Certified Control Systems Technician® (CCST®) Level III examination. The intent is to prepare an automation professional who meets the exam criteria to take the exam. The content is based on the job analysis domains, tasks, knowledge areas, and skill areas developed as the basis for the CCST certification exam. The 4.5-day course starts July 27 at ISA headquarters in Research Triangle Park, N.C.

Special Training Events

Automation Engineering Survival Training – Integrator Version (AESTIV)
Do you work for a system integrator? Do you support client projects? Do you need to expand your skills in working in a project design or commissioning environment? ISA’s new Automation Engineering Survival Training: Integrator Version (AESTIV), designed specifically for system integrators, focuses on concepts important to automation engineers and others involved in a project design and commissioning role. This unique process automation engineering experience is designed to hone your process automation knowledge and skills. ISA’s seasoned “Survival Expert” will guide you through a fast-paced and rigorous course of topics from process measurement through advanced automation. Whether you are new to the system integration industry or are a seasoned professional, this course will challenge you and enhance your knowledge in key concepts beneficial to system integrators and allow you to perform at a higher level and will help you deliver superior value to your clients. The five-day course starts July 6 at ISA headquarters in Research Triangle Park, N.C.

Online, Instructor – Assisted Courses

OnlineCourse_80x80Control Systems Engineer (CSE) PE Exam Review Course (EN00E)
This online course reviews the knowledge and skills areas that are included on the Control Systems Engineer (CSE) Professional Engineer (PE) examination produced by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) and administered by U.S. state professional license boards each October. The intent of the class is to prepare an engineer with four or more years of experience to take the exam by providing instruction in the broad range of technical areas that will be tested. The content is based on the CSE Exam Specification that went into effect in October 2011. The 12-week course starts July 13.

OnlineCourse_80x80 Introduction to Industrial Pressure, Level, and Density Measurement Technologies (EI05E)
This course presents an overview of the principles and applications of modern pressure, level, and density measurement systems, emphasizing underlying instrument technologies; device performance and design; and specification, selection, installation, and maintenance requirements for instruments and transmitters. This six-week CyberU course starts July 13.

OnlineCourse_80x80Cybersecurity for Automation, Control, and SCADA Systems (IC32E)
The move to using open standards such as Ethernet, TCP/IP and web technologies in supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) and process control networks has begun to expose these systems to the same cyberattacks that have wreaked havoc on corporate information systems. This course provides a detailed look at how the ANSI/ISA99 standards can be used to protect your critical control systems. It also explores the procedural and technical differences between the security for traditional IT environments and those solutions appropriate for SCADA or plant floor environments. The course starts July 20.

OnlineCourse_80x80Safety Instrumented Systems − Design, Analysis and Justification (EC50E)
ISA’s CyberU online instructor-led training course offers the benefit of a high-quality ISA training course with the added advantage of studying at your own pace in the office, at home or while traveling. This course utilizes online training modules, additional text materials, online evaluations, and email discussions. Students will have access via email to an instructor and have an opportunity to participate in live Q&A sessions with the instructor and other class participants. The course focuses on the engineering requirements for the specification, design, analysis, and justification of safety instrumented systems for the process industries. Students will learn how to determine safety integrity levels and evaluate whether proposed or existing systems meet the performance requirements. The eight-week course starts July 27.

Note: This course is required for the ISA84 SIS Fundamentals Specialist Certificate Program. Click this link for details.

En EspanolInstrumentados de Seguridad - Diseño, análisis y justificación - (EC50ESP - Version en linea)
Este curso esta enfocado en los requerimientos de ingeniería para especificar, diseñar, analizar y justificar el uso de sistemas instrumentados de seguridad para la industria de proceso. Los estudiantes aprenderán como determinar los niveles integrales de seguridad funcional y como evaluar si los sistemas existentes o propuestos alcanzan los requerimientos de desempeño o rendimiento. Este curso es requerido como parte del programa ISA 84 "Certificado como experto en fundamentos en Sistemas Instrumentados de Seguridad funcional." El estudiante puede inscribirse para tomar el curso solamente o para el programa del certificado, que incluye el examen. Aquellas personas que completen el curso y pasen el examen, recibirán el reconocimiento como "Especialistas en Fundamentos ISA84" (ISA84 SFS por sus siglas en Ingles). Este curso es requerido para obtener el certificado como “Especialista en Fundamentos ISA84” (ISA84 SIS Fundamentals Specialist Certificate Program). La clase comienza 27 de Julio.

Live Webinar Series

Boiler/Burner Management Series (4 webinars)

Webinar_80x80Introduction to Boiler Control (ES15W)
When working with balance draft boilers, regardless of the basic process control system or fuel being burned, you must control six basic functions − furnace draft, drum level, feed water, fuel, air, and steam temperature. This seminar will teach you what must be controlled and how the control systems operate. The webinar will be held July 15.

Webinar_80x80Is A Burner Management System (BMS) A Safety Instrumented System (SIS)? (ES16PW1)
This seminar presents and discusses the direction in which the industry is heading with respect to the classification of a BMS as a SIS. The course will provide an overview of the current codes/standards related to burner management systems and how they relate to SIS standards. This class also presents arguments as to why a BMS could be considered a SIS. The online webinar will be held July 29.

Webinar_80x80Is a Fire & Gas System a Safety Instrumented System? (ES16PW2)
This webinar will explore the current trends in the market place and industry in general with respect to fire and gas detection systems and their relationship to safety instrumented systems (SIS). It will be held August 12.

Webinar_80x80 Introduction to the 61-511 Changes
Safety instrumented systems for the process industry sector is currently undergoing a revision cycle. This webinar will provide an overview of proposed modifications to IEC 61511 with an emphasis on those modifications that could have an impact on the specification, design and/or operation of safety instrumented systems. The online webinar will be held August 26.

ISA Partner Training

ISA has teamed up with IDC Technologies & EIT to bring an array of technical-related training courses to various U.S. locations as well as online courses, with special discounts for ISA members.

Upcoming topics:

Power Cables: Operation, Maintenance, Location and Fault Detection
4- hour online course
22 July 2015, 2:00p.m. CDT – 6:00p.m. CDT (19:00 – 23:00 UTC/GMT)

Practical Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) for Automation and Process Control
4-hour online course
28 July 2015 2:00apm. CDT – 6:00p.m. CDT (19:00 – 23:00 UTC/GMT)

Professional Certificate of Competency in Project Management
6 July 2015 (3 months)

Advanced Diploma of Biomedical Engineering
6 July 2015 (3 months)

Master of Engineering (Industrial Automation)
27 July 2015 (24 months)

When you become an ISA member, you’ll join thousands of automation and control professionals who collaborate to share ideas and insights, and solve technical challenges. And, you’ll receive up to 20 percent off on ISA products, including training courses. To review the complete array of ISA member benefits, click the link below or contact ISA customer service at +1 919-549-8411 or info@isa.org.

Click here to join ISA ... learn, advance, succeed!

Joel Don
Joel Don
Joel Don is an independent content marketing, social media and public relations consultant. Prior to his work in marketing and PR, Joel served as an editor for regional newspapers and national magazines throughout the U.S. He earned a master's degree from the Medill School at Northwestern University with a focus on science, engineering and biomedical marketing communications, and a bachelor of science degree from UC San Diego.

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