This is the first class in the Installation and Repair series for positions that install, troubleshoot and repair lines and equipment which support data processing and the transmission of data, voice and/or video signals. Positions modify, install and remove cables; install and make minor repairs to computer hardware' assist higher level or vendor personnel to install peripheral components such as monitors, keyboards, printers, tape and disk drives; and perform equipment and line testing. Positions may also assist in the installation of operating systems and other software packages and provide basic instruction to users on the use and care of equipment. This class is distinguished from the Installation and Repair Technician Senior by the latter's responsibilities for lead work or more advanced assignments such as independent site surveys: maintenance of inventory systems, network configuration tables, cabling schemes or other support databases; and more complex modifications of equipment and software for repair or special application purposes.

Complexity of Work: Performs work of routine difficulty to install, replace or remove computing and telecommunications equipment such as personal computers and their peripherals; copper, coaxial, fiber optic or other types of cabling; satellite receiving stations; and telephone systems and instruments. Under the supervision of higher level personnel, prepares transmission lines of the proper length and connectors using hand tools such as soldering and crimping tools and installs and maintains lines and/or fiber transceivers, 10 base T-hubs and fiber hubs, in accordance with layout plans. Performs line testing and diagnosis using equipment such as volt-ammeter, ohmmeter, oscilloscope, network analyzer, breakout box and line probe. Positions may also use special equipment to locate underground lines and utilities. Removes cabling using specified cable identification methods. May assist in the preparation of cable layout and equipment installation plans, in maintenance of equipment inventory and records concerning cable type and location, and in verifying receiving tickets for new equipment. May make minor entries to operating systems and other software packages concerning device types or other requirements, load software into computer memory, and provide manuals and basic instructions to users to orient them to operation of the equipment.

Positions may also use diagnostic products on diskettes to identify the nature of operational problems; and access on-line databases and other computerized systems to research and update repair histories. Performs minor repairs; replaces print heads. For internal machine malfunctions, initiates call to vendor or refers to supervisor for repair by a higher level technician.

Supervision Given: Supervision is typically not a factor, however some positions may oversee the activities of contract personnel.

Supervision Received: General supervision is provided by an Installation and Repair Supervisor or other higher level data processing or technical position.

Scope: Work affects the proper and timely installation and repair of computer hardware and peripherals and voice/data~video transmission lines and equipment.

Impact of Actions: Effective job performance facilitates timely installation or repair of lines and equipment to provide or restore services to users of data processing, telephone and telecommunications systems. Ineffective job performance can result in increased systems downtime and financial loss due to disruptions in service.

Personal Contacts: Frequent internal contacts with personnel throughout the agency, college or university to install, diagnose, and repair voice/data/video lines and equipment. May also have frequent external contacts with vendors, utility representatives and/or contractual workers to support installations or to arrange for repairs.

Knowledges: Some knowledge of data processing and communications equipment, computer installation and diagnostic packages, the use of instruments for testing lines and equipment, and of computer hardware configurations.

Skills: Working skill in the use of tools such as crimpers, soldering irons, and hand-held power tools.

Abilities: Demonstrated ability to understand and follow written and oral plans and layouts for the installation of equipment, cabling and software; to read and understand installation and service manuals; to maintain accurate records for inventory control and cable location purposes: to follow diagnostic procedures and make minor repairs to equipment; and to communicate effectively orally and in writing with both technical and non-technical personnel. Some positions require the ability to work outdoors, on extension ladders, in crawl spaces and other tightly enclosed areas, and/or to lift up to 60 pounds overhead.

Licenses or Certifications None.

Education and Training: Graduation from high school or equivalent supplemented by training related to electronic technology or to the installation and repair of data processing hardware or data, voice and/or video communications lines and equipment.

Level and Type of Experience: Some experience in installing and repairing computer equipment or in assisting in the preparation and laying of electrical cables at the technician level.

An equivalent combination of training and experience indicating possession of the preceding knowledges, skills and abilities may substitute for this education and experience.

This new class was established as a result of the Classification Review/Specification Update program and replaces some of the positions in the Laboratory Mechanic B, Laboratory Mechanic C, and Electronic Technician classes, effective July 1991.