NABCEP SW Associate study plan

Define photovoltaic effect, irradiance, and air mass, and explain how each affects module output

Distinguish PV system types (grid-tied, off-grid, hybrid) and list their major components

Calculate series and parallel resistance, voltage, and current for simple circuits

Convert between power, energy, and hours using P = V × I and kWh = kW × h

Apply Ohm's law and Kirchhoff's laws to multi-branch DC circuits

Compute voltage drop for a given conductor length, gauge, and current, and compare to 2% and 3% targets

Explain the role of overcurrent protection, disconnects, and grounding in a PV circuit

Differentiate AC and DC electrical hazards and describe shock and arc-flash risks

Read a module datasheet and extract Voc, Isc, Vmp, Imp, Pmax, and temperature coefficients

Calculate string voltage at record low temperature using the Voc temperature coefficient

Determine maximum string length against inverter maximum input voltage

Identify the effects of shading, mismatch, and bypass diodes on array output

Compare central, string, and microinverter architectures on voltage, monitoring, and shading tolerance

Size a battery bank for a specified daily load and days of autonomy

Select charge controller type and rating for a given array and battery voltage

Match conductor ampacity and overcurrent device ratings to continuous PV current with the 1.25 factor

Lay out a roof-mounted array respecting setbacks, access pathways, and wind zones

Specify mounting hardware and attachment methods for the roof type

Draft a single-line diagram showing modules, inverter, disconnects, and point of interconnection

List labeling requirements for DC and AC conductors and disconnects

Sequence the mechanical and electrical installation steps for a roof-mounted system

Demonstrate safe use of a multimeter to measure Voc, Isc, and insulation resistance

Describe lockout/tagout and fall-protection procedures for PV work

Identify common commissioning tests and their acceptance criteria

Diagnose ground faults, arc faults, and underperformance from inverter and monitoring data

Plan a preventive maintenance schedule including cleaning, torque checks, and thermal inspection

Explain rapid shutdown requirements and verify compliance in a system design

Interpret a performance ratio and identify causes of low yield

Complete a timed 60-question practice exam across all four domains

Review every missed question and map it to its domain and underlying concept

Re-derive key formulas (string voltage, voltage drop, battery sizing) from memory

Summarize the ten highest-risk concepts and write a one-line recall cue for each