Job Skills My current job shows some limitations, I need some guidance please

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the challenges faced by an individual transitioning back into electronics repair after a hiatus due to mental health issues and the pandemic. The participant notes significant changes in the industry, particularly the shift towards integrated circuits and custom modules that hinder third-party repairs, leading to a throwaway culture in electronics. Seeking alternatives to traditional repair work, suggestions include exploring careers in plant automation, programming PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), and network administration. The conversation highlights the importance of programming skills, particularly in C++, and the potential for roles in network security and data collection systems. The emphasis is on finding less stressful, desk-based work that leverages existing electrical and electronics knowledge while adapting to new industry demands.
badr
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Hi everyone here.

In 2012 when i was 22 years old , i started an apprenticeship in electronics repair , and worked for my self for almost 5 years .

I was repairing switching devices like welders and inverters , easy job by replacing bad components like IGBTs and capacitors.

In 2017 i started treatment for mental illness and have stopped working until the pandemic of covid 19 .

After the pandemic in 2022 , i started getting back to my activities in electronics repair , but a lot of things have changed .

Like for example , almost the entire smps device is controlled by some IC that can't be replaced because it is hard-coded by a masked program.

Or power transistors are integrated in some custom module that can't be bought separately.

So i am starting to understand that manufacturers are doing a "1st party - 2nd party" strategy , where 3rd parties like me have no chance making money repairing these industrial items , simply because they are made to be thrown away after they are used for a certain periode of time.

* So what i am asking is if there is a possibility to make the transition to a new job with my current skills in electrial and electronics to open the doors to many opportunities without being stuck in repair job ??
 
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You could try integrating into plant automation processes. A decade ago I would have recommended two way radio repair but cell phones are more convenient.
Network specialist is another possibility
If you enjoy programming learning PLC,s (ladder logic opens numerous doors) though you can also get into IC programs.
For electrical you would find a good cross over from electronics is to approach commercial electrical systems such as xray machines , metal detectors, scales, barcode readers. Au.
tomated conveyer systems. Process controllers such as temperature controllers (uses PID) PWM devices such as variable speed controllers VFDs , soft starters etc.

Hope that gives you some ideas (simple robotic systems are common as well).

I don't know if Instrumentation is available at your area but in Alberta there is demand for them in regards to oil fields. I've know of several large oil field support companies take o electronic techs to be retrained in either electrical or instrumentation.
 
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Mordred said:
You could try integrating into plant automation processes. A decade ago I would have recommended two way radio repair but cell phones are more convenient.
Network specialist is another possibility
If you enjoy programming learning PLC,s (ladder logic opens numerous doors) though you can also get into IC programs.
I am looking for less headache, as i said I am treating schizophrenia. And I am 145 kilos guy.

I am looking for something desktop based , or laptop based.
 
Programming then is a good option. If your interested in learning PLC based programs I do know a specialist programming forum for PLCs. ( the software is manufacture specific and not cheap) but ladder logic is fairly easy to learn.

For programmable chips and ICs for that jobs are fairly tough to find. You might consider network administration which primarily involves C++.

The options above are decent desk jobs that good knowledge of electrical and electronics comes in handy.
 
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Mordred said:
You might consider network administration which primarily involves C++.
Thank you very much sir .

Can you please give an idea on C++ network administration programmer job ?
 
Sure but keep in mind Network administration is not my stock and trade.
C++ is a versatile compiler that you can link other programs into using the correct libraries. (I think that's the right term) so you can link basic, pascal, etc etc etc.
The main duties is granting access to users. Managing network security. Possibly hooking up and running cat 5,6,7, etc. Depending on the company you could be developing database management software such as python etc.

You will also need to know how to repair and install computers/software for the companies
Needs.

Datacollection systems is a huge aspect in every major company so its quite secure if you can get the needed qualifications.

Little secret about programming once you know how to program one language irs easy to pick up any other language as you have the right mind set and most languages only need less than 200 instructions. It's what you do with the instructions that makes the difference.

Hope that helps
 
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