Kansas State University Book

Electrical Engineering - Power PE Exam Study Guide
ELECTRICAL
ENGINEERING
POWER
PRINCIPLES &
PRACTICES of
ENGINEERING
PE EXAM STUDY GUIDE

Copyright © 2013 Jeff Setzer
All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or

reproduced by any means, graphic, electronic, or
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or locations is merely coincidental. Images in this book may
not be reprinted, copied, modified, reproduced, published,
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manner without the permission of:
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Version 1.0 (June 17, 2013)

“Your work is going to fill a large part of your life,

and the only way to be truly satisfied
is to do what you believe is great work.
And the only way to do great work
is to love what you do.
If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking.
Don’t settle.
As with all matters of the heart,
You’ll know when you find it.
And, like any great relationship,
it just gets better and better as the year roll on.
So keep looking until you find it.
Don’t settle.”
~ Sfeve Jobs
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UPCOMING TEST SCHEDULE....................................................7

INTRODUCTION............................................................................ 9
RECOMMENDED LIST OF TEST DAY RESOURCES............... 11
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS............................................................ 13
Impact of One System on Another (e.g. Lighting Load on Air-Conditioning
System Capacity)..................................................................................................14
Life Safety Systems (e.g. Generators, Batteries, Exit Lighting, Fire Alarm s)......... 15
Life Safety Systems (e.g. Generators, Batteries, Exit Lighting, Fire Alarm s)......... 16
Systems Efficiencies (Including Calculations for Energy Usage and Costs
Such as Life Cycle, Material)...............................................................................17
Systems Efficiencies (Including Calculations for Energy Usage and Costs
Such as Life Cycle, Material)...............................................................................18
Applicable Standards, Codes, and Regulations (e.g. NFPA, ASHRAE, ICC,
ADA Requirements)..............................................................................................19
Design and Construction Issues Associated with Commissioning Process,
Including Testing and Balancing........................................................................... 20
Design and Construction Issues Associated with Commissioning Process,
Including Testing and Balancing............................................................................21
Electrical Power Systems Analysis, Including Load Flow ........................................... 22
Electrical Power Systems Analysis, Including Load Flow ........................................... 23
Short Circuit Analysis...................................................................................................... 24
Grounding Principles....................................................................................................... 27
Grounding Principles....................................................................................................... 28
Overcurrent Protection Methods and Device Coordination......................................... 29
Overcurrent Protection Methods and Device Coordination......................................... 30
Branch Circuit and Feeder Conductor Sizing................................................................ 31
Branch Circuit and Feeder Conductor Sizing................................................................32
Power Distribution for Building Systems and Equipment............................................ 33
Power Distribution for Building Systems and Equipment............................................ 34
Voltage Drop Calculations............................................................................................. 35
Voltage Drop Calculations............................................................................................. 36

One-Line Diagram........................................................................................................... 37
One-Line Diagram............................................................................................................38
Fire Alarm Device Layout................................................................................................39
Fire Alarm Device Layout................................................................................................40
Light Source Selection Considering Elements Such as Type, Color, Life, Cost,
Efficiency and Application.......................................................................................41
Light Source Selection Considering Elements Such as Type, Color, Life, Cost,
Efficiency and Application...................................................................................... 42
Lighting Calculations (e.g. Lumen Method, Light at a Point).............. 43
Lighting Calculations (e.g. Lumen Method, Light at a Point).............. 44
Lighting Control................................................................................................................45
Lighting Control................................................................................................................46
Receptacle Layout.......................................................................................................... 47
Receptacle Layout.......................................................................................................... 48
Equipment and Component Selection............................................................................49
Equipment and Component Selection........................................................................... 50
Electrical Specifications.................................................................................................. 51
Communications Specifications..................................................................................... 53
EQUATIONS, RULES OF THUMB,SHORTCUTS...................... 55

RESOURCES.............................................................................. 57
STATE BOARDS OF REGISTRATION....................................... 59
* The exam-specific topics were extracted from www.ncees.org. Refer to this site for
an up-to-date listing of topics.

UPCOMING TEST SCHEDULE

STATE BOARD OF NCEES REGISTRATION
TEST DATE
ENGINEERING DEADLINE DEADLINE
Typically early June prior to Thursday, September 5,
Friday, October 25, 2013
the October Exam* 2013**
Typically early December Thursday, February 20,
Friday, April 11, 2014
prior to the April Exam* 2013**
Typically early December
Thursday, March 2, 2013** Friday, April 21, 2017
prior to the April Exam*
*Check with your state’s Board of Engineering for exact deadline information
**tentative date, verify actual date with NCEES

“Your time is limited,

so don’t waste it living someone else’s life.
Don’t be trapped by dogma
- which is living with the results
of other people’s thinking.
Don’t let the noise of other’s opinions
drown out your own inner voice.
And most important,
have the courage to follow your heart and intuition.
They somehow already know
what you truly want to become.
Everything else is secondary.”
~ Steve Jobs
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INTRODUCTION
The Electrical Engineering PE Exam is administered twice annually in April and in
October. By following the advice in this manual and preparing your test day materials in
a systematic manner (i.e. not taking every resource you can find into the test) you will
be in a good position to perform well on the exam. Remember, you only have
approximately 6 minutes per question. This is not enough time to read the question,
determine what information you need to solve the problem, find the information, solve
the problem, mark your answer and move on. Some questions will be automatic and
will be answered in a minute or less. Some will require much more time than 6 minutes.
You do not have time to locate, search, read and evaluate an exhaustive “library” of
information so take the time to put together a succinct reference system ... it will serve
you well.
I wish you the best in your career and hope that you find this study guide invaluable in
preparing for your licensure examination. But additionally, that you find yourself referring
to the information contained herein throughout your career.
Sincerely,
Jeff Setzer, PE
Kansas State University
1988

NOTE
Reading and studying one manual prior to taking the Electrical
Engineering PE Exam (or any other test) is not a substitute for
actual, in-depth preparation and study.
It is assumed that the Engineer-in-Training preparing to take the

Electrical Engineering PE Exam has attained an adequate level of
competence in his or her area of practice and a general
knowledge of the remaining specialties. The intent of this manual
is to give the reader a base of understanding and knowledge
upon which a solid study strategy can be built and a useable
resource library” can be assembled.
The author of this study manual makes no guarantees and does

not promise you success in passing the test. The intent of this
manual is to get you information you need to make yourself
successful.
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RECOMMENDED LIST OF TEST DAY RESOURCES

Test day will most likely look something like this...
• You arrive at the testing facility an hour early (because you didn’t want to be late
and that’s what engineers do.)
• You wait in line with what seems like thousands of other from all engineering
disciplines.
• You get herded into the enormous testing room where you find a seat and get set
up (more on this to follow.)
• You fill out the confirmation sheet(s) to tell someone, somewhere that you are
who you are.
• And you wait (again and more anxiously) for the command to begin.
On the day of my Principles & Practice exam, I sat in amazement and witnessed
hundreds of people transporting what appeared to be their entire educational history
into the testing room. Literally, I saw people with hand-trucks wheeling in bookshelves
- actual bookshelves - loaded with textbooks, three-ring binders, and other assorted
reference materials. They then proceeded to “set up shop” around their table;
attempting to organize their stuff into an accessible library.
Wow!
If nothing else, it was an amusing sight to see
and it eased my test-day anxiety
As you know, there are 40 questions in the morning and 40 questions in the afternoon.
Once the direction to begin is given, you have +/- 6 minutes per question to:
(1) read the question
(2) decide what resource(s) to use (unless you already know the answer)
(3) find that resource
(4) find the information in that resource
(5) solve the problem
(6) choose the correct answer (remember, it’s multiple choice and a good deal of the
questions are structured to “find the answer closest to the following answers”)
(7) mark the answer sheet.
I worked at a comfortable, steady pace and finished with enough time to back-check
some of my answers and make sure I had all the answer bubbles filled in on the test
sheet. I did not have time to search through a multitude of textbooks, notebooks, etc. to
find an answer.

I recommend (2) two three-ring binders with the following:

Binder 1 - Building Systems
• The International Building Code
As a minimum, have a copy of the following chapters:
Chapter 3 - Use and Occupancy Classification
Chapter 4 - Special Detailed Requirements Based on Use and
Occupancy
Chapter 5 - General Building Heights and Areas
Chapter 6 - Types of Construction
Chapter 7 - Fire and Smoke Protection Features
Chapter 9 - Fire Protection Systems
Chapter 10 - Means of Egress
Chapter 11 - Accessibility
Chapter 12 - Interior Environment
Chapter 27 - Electrical
• NFPA 101 - Life Safety Code
Binder 2 - Electrical Systems
• The National Electrical Code - NEC (NFPA 70)
• The National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code - NFPA 72
• Electrical transformer information
• Electrical Equations
Additionally, depending on your level of expertise with the topics
and your familiarity with standard requirements, you may want to
add sections from the following specification divisions:
Division 26 - Electrical
Division 27 - dd
Division 28 - bb
And most importantly, a copy of this study guide with each section tabbed for
______________________easy retrieval of information.______________________
Remember, the goal is to assemble an

accessible and useable set of resources you can
use to find information quickly and efficiently.
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ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
The Electrical Engineering PE Exam deals extensively with topics from the National
Electrical Code - NEC (NFPA 70). Those taking the examination should be thoroughly
familiar with the NEC and especially those sections covering building construction,
occupant safety, and general design.
It would also be convenient and will help with time efficiency to have the different
articles related to these topics tabbed and be somewhat familiar with the information in
each to minimize the amount of time in searching for the correct reference.
Additionally, resources related to:
• Fault current calculations
• Power Factor Correction
• Short Circuit Analysis
• Transformers
• Voltage Drop Calculations
• Lighting Design and Control
• NFPA 72 - The National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code
These resources will be extremely beneficial to your success.

Impact of One System on Another (e.g. Lighting Load on Air-

Conditioning System Capacity)
A real estate developer is trying to determine the best solution for his new building.
The building will require one, 25 KVA transformer, two, 150 KVA transformers and
one, 500 KVA transformer. If he puts them in a room by themselves, he will have
to ventilate and provide cooling. If he installs them outdoors, he will have to either
build a weatherproof enclosure (with ventilation) or have the transformers built as
weatherproof units with sound reducing capabilities to satisfy the surrounding
neighbors. He determines that putting the transformers in a special room by
themselves is the best business decision. What is the impact to the air
conditioning system from the transformers?
a. 3.81
b. 2.59
c. 4.33
d. 1.92
Solution:
25 KVA transformer x 2.5% heat to space = 0.625 KVA = 625 VA = 625 watts
4 625 watts x 3.413 BTU/watt = 2,133 BTUh = 0.18 tons
3750 watts x 3.413 BTU/watt = 12,799 BTUh = 1.07 tons
9000 watts x 3.413 BTU/watt = 30,717 BTUh = 2.56 tons
Total additional load due to transformers = 0.18 + 1.07 + 2.56 = 3.81 tons
Solution is “a”

Life Safety Systems (e.g. Generators, Batteries, Exit Lighting, Fire

Alarms)
According to the International Building Code, High Rise Buildings shall be provided
with a standby power system for the following:
I. Power and lighting for the fire command center
II. Electrically powered fire pumps
III. Ventilation and automatic fire detection equipment for smoke-proof
enclosures
IV. Egress corridor lighting and exit lights
a. I, II & III
b. I, III & IV
c. I only
d. I, II, III & IV
Solution:
Refer to section 403.10 - Standby Power, of the International Building Code
Solution is “a”
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Life Safety Systems (e.g. Generators, Batteries, Exit Lighting, Fire

Alarms)
According to the International Building Code, required stairways (where the doors
to the stairways are locked) in High Rise Buildings shall be provided with a
telephone or other two-way communication system connected to an approved
constantly attended station at not less than every______ floor
a. Third
b. Fifth
c. Sixth
d. Telephones are not required in locked stairways
Solution:
Refer to section 403.12.1 - Stairway communications system, of the International
Building Code
Solution is “b”
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Systems Efficiencies (Including Calculations for Energy Usage and

Costs Such as Life Cycle, Material)
A building engineer is proposing to the owner that an old 20 hp pump motor that
runs 84 hours per week be replaced by a new high efficiency 15 hp motor. What is
the annual savings by using the new pump?
a. $1,256.98
b. $1,096.76
c. $1,163.80
d. $998.67
Solution:
1. The annual cost of operating the current motor:
20 hp x 0.735 kW/hp = 14.7 kW
14.7 kW x 84 hrs/wk x 52 wks/yr x $0.0725 kW-h = $4,655.20/yr
2. The annual cost of operating the new motor:
15 hp x 0.735 kW/hp = 11.03 kW
11.03 kW x 84 hrs/wk x 52 wks/yr x $0.0725 kW-h = $3,491.40/yr
3. The annual savings would be:
$4,655.20 - $3,491.40 = $1,163.80/yr
Solution is “c”
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Systems Efficiencies (Including Calculations for Energy Usage and

Costs Such as Life Cycle, Material)
If the cost of the pump plus installation was $4,500 and the owner was looking for
a 3 year payback, what would the annual maintenance costs have to be to make
this a good investment? (assume equal maintenance costs each year)
a. $515.22/yr or less
b. $351.15/yr or less
c. $108.52/yr or less
d. $336.20/yr or less
Solution:
1. Old pump operating for 3 years:
$4,655.20/yr x 3 yrs = $13,965.60
2. New pump installation and operating for 3 years:
$4,500 + $3,491.40/yr x 3 yrs = $14,974.20
3. The difference (i.e. maintenance costs) would be:
($14,974.20 - $13,965.60) /3 = $336.20/yr or less
Solution is “d”

Applicable Standards, Codes, and Regulations (e.g. NFPA, ASHRAE,

ICC, ADA Requirements)
The International Building Code defines Means of Egress as “A continuous and
unobstructed path of vertical and horizontal egress travel from any occupied
portion of a building or structure to a public way.” Which of the following would be
considered a public way?
I. A public street
II. The walkway adjacent to the front door
III. An alley maintained by the city
IV. A privately-owned vacant lot adjacent to the building
a. I
b. Ill
c. I and III
d. II and IV
Solution:
The International Building Code defines Public Way as “A street, alley, or other
parcel of land open to the outside air leading to a street, that has been deeded,
dedicated, or otherwise permanently appropriated to the public ...”
In this example, a public street and an alley maintained by the city would be
considered public ways.
The walkway adjacent to the front door and the privately-owned vacant lot are on
private property and therefore, have not been “deeded, dedicated, or otherwise
permanently appropriated to the public.”
Solution is “c” Page 1 9

Design and Construction Issues Associated with Commissioning

Process, Including Testing and Balancing
In a hospital, what electrical systems constitute the Essential Electrical System?
I. The Equipment System
II. The Life Safety Branch
III. The Critical Branch
a. II only
b. Ill only
c. II & III
d. I, II, & III
Solution:
Refer to NFPA 99, A.4.4.2.2.1 - Type 1 essential electrical systems are comprised
o f ... the Emergency System and the Equipment System
Refer to NFPA 99, 4.4.2.2.2 - Emergency System; the Emergency System is

comprised of the Life Safety Branch (4.4.2.2.2.2) and the Critical Branch
(4.4.2.2.2.3)
Therefore, the Essential Electrical System contains the:
1. Equipment System
2. Life Safety Branch
3. Critical Branch
Solution is “d”
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Design and Construction Issues Associated with Commissioning

Process, Including Testing and Balancing
If the hospital has a maximum demand on the Essential Electrical System of 175
kVA, how many transfer switches are required by the code for the emergency
system?
a. One
b. Two
c. Three
d. Six
Solution:
Article 517.30 describes the Essential Electrical System for hospitals. This article
also indicates that in hospitals with a maximum demand on the Essential Electrical
System of more than 150kVA, each branch of the system requires its own transfer
switch. The Life Safety Branch and the Critical Branch make up the Emergency
Branch, therefore, two transfer switches are required.
Solution is “b”

Electrical Power Systems Analysis, Including Load Flow

Given an available fault current for a building of 18 MVA at 480 volts, the minimum
allowable interrupting rating of the main circuit breaker is:
a. 18,000
b. 22,000
c. 25,000
d. 30,000
Solution:
Ifauit = [18 MVA - (a /3 x 480 volts)] x (1 x 10®) = 21,676 amps 22,000
Solution is “b”
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Electrical Power Systems Analysis, Including Load Flow

Power Factor Correction
• Apparent power is measured in Volt-Amps
• True power is measured in Watts
• Reactive power is measured in Volt-Amps-Reactive (VAR’s)
TRUE POWER RESISTANCE (R)
POWER TRIANGLE INDUCTIVE MOTOR

The 120 volt inductive motor has a resistance of 40 ohms and an inductive
reactance of 30 ohms.
What is the:
1. Apparent Power (S)?
2. True Power (P)?
3. Power Factor Correction?
a. 230,288,80%
b. 288,230,80%
c. 230,288,51.3%
d. 288,230,51.3%
Solution:
Z= V(resistance)2 + (inductive reactance)2
= V(40)2 + (30)2 = 50 ohms
Total Current = (120 volts) Z = 120 -f 50 = 2.4 amps
Apparent Power:
(120 volts)2 t Z = (1 20)2 -t- 50 = 288 volt-amps
True Power:
(total current)2 x resistance = (2.4)2 x 40 ohms = 230.4 watts
Power Factor:
True Power Apparent Power = 230.4 * 288 = 0.8 = 80%
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Solution is “b

Short Circuit Analysis

An in-depth article about short circuit analysis is located at:
http://www.geindustriaI.com/publibrary/checkout/GET-
3550F?TNR=White%20Papers|GET-3550F|generic
Those preparing to take the Engineering PE Exam should print this article and
study the processes involved in short circuit analysis.
Page 2 4


Given the following:
• 75kVA, 120/240V, 1't> transformer
• Transformer impedance (Z) = 1.4%
• 500 kcmil copper conductors
o ”C" value = 22,185
• Length of conductor = 25 ft
Determine the Line-to-Neutral Fault.
a. 12.122A
b. 18.034A
c. 2Q,555A
d. 23,212A
Solution:
(1 ) If la = (kVA x 1000) E L-L
-T-
= (75kVA x 1000) * 240 = 312.5A

(2) Multiplier = 100 - Z = 100 - 1.4 = 71.43
(3) Isc(L-L) = Ifla x m u ltip lier
= 312.5 x 71.43 = 22,322A
ISC(L-N) = IsC(L-L) X 1 .5
= 22,322 x 1.5 = 33,483A
(4) f = 2 x L x Ii -n = 2 x 25 x 33,483 = 0.6288
C x E l. n 22,185x 120
(5) M = 1 (1 + f) = 1 -=■(1 + 0.6288) = 0.6139
(6) lsC(L-N)(@ fault) = IsC(L-N) X M
= 33,483 x 0.6139 = 20,555A
Solution is “c”
* refer to Cooper Bussman website for additional problems
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Given the following:
• 500kVA, 480V, 3<t>transformer
• Transformer impedance (Z) = 5.0%
• 4/0 copper conductors
o ”C” value = 16,673
• Length of conductors = 100 ft
Determine the Line-to-Line Fault.
a. 10,293A
b. 11,293A
c. 12,593A
d. 18.122A
Solution:
(1) Ifla = (kVA x 1000) - (V3 x EL-L)
= (500kVA x 1000) - (V3 x 480) = 601,4A
(2) Multiplier = 100 - Z = 100 - 5.0 = 20.0
(3) Isc = I f l a x m ultiplier
= 601.4x20.0 = 12,028A
(4) f = V 3 x L x l = V3x 100 x 12,028 = 0.0651
C x n* x EL-n 16,673 x 4 x 480
(5) M = 1 -r (1 + f) = 1 -r (1 + 0.0651) = 0.9389
(6) Isc symRMS = Isc X M
= 12,028 x 0.9389 = 11,293A
*n = n u m b e r of co n d u cto rs
Solution is “b”
* refer to Cooper Bussman website for additional problems

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Grounding Principles
Which of the following are acceptable as electrodes permitted for grounding:
I. Metal underground water pipe in direct contact with the earth for 9 feet.
II. The metal frame of the building with one structural metal member that is in
direct contact with the earth for 12 feet.
III. A #2AWG bare copper conductor ground ring encircling the building.
IV. An 8 foot long, 1” diameter, stainless steel ground rod driven into the earth.
a. I only
b. I and II
c. II, III and IV
d. IV only
Solution:
Refer to NEC Article 250.52 - Grounding Electrodes
Solution is “c”
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Grounding Principles
The National Electrical Code, Article 250 - Grounding and Bonding - covers
requirements for supplemental grounding electrodes. When is a supplemental
grounding electrode not required?
a. If the resistance to earth is 25 ohms or less
b. If the resistance to earth is 10 ohms or less
c. If the primary ground is the same size as theservice entry conductor
d. If the building has two or more ground connections tothe water service piping.
Solution:
Refer to NEC Article 250.53(2) for exceptions for supplemental grounding.
Solution is “a”
PageZo

Overcurrent Protection Methods and Device Coordination

In a 20-amp circuit using a #18AWG conductor, what is the maximum length
allowed without additional over-current protection?
a. 25 ft.
b. 50 ft.
c. 75 ft.
d. 100 ft.
Solution:
Refer to NEC Article 240.5(B)(2)
Solution is “b”
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Overcurrent Protection Methods and Device Coordination

What size overload, short-circuit, ground-fault device (fuse) is required for a 25hp,
460V, three-phase motor with a service factor of 1.25 and a full load amps rating of
28.5?
a. 70 amp
b. 80 amp
c. 100 amp
d. 125 amp
Solution:
(1) As per NEC Article 430.32(A)(1):
Overload device: 28.5A x 125% = 35.625A
(2) As per NEC Article 430.52(C)(1):
Short-circuit and ground-fault protection =
28.5A x 250% = 71.25A
4 must use an 80 amp fuse
Solution is “b”
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Branch Circuit and Feeder Conductor Sizing

The following motors are served from a 115 volt, single-phase branch circuit: 1/6
hp, 3/4 hp, 1/4 hp, and 1 hp. What full load amps should be used for sizing this
circuit? These 4 motors are the only loads on this circuit.
a. 40.4
b. 34.0
c. 44.2
d. 44.0
Solution:
NEC Article 430.24 - Several Motors or a Motor(s) and Other Load(s) indicates
that “conductors supplying several motors, or a motor(s) and other load(s), shall
have an ampacity not less than 125 percent of the full-load current rating of the
highest rated motor plus the sum of the full-load current ratings of all the other
motors in the group.
Conductor sizing ampacity = (125% x 16) + 4.4 + 5.8 + 13.8 = 44 amps
Solution is “d”

Branch Circuit and Feeder Conductor Sizing

In sizing the 480V service feeder for a 100,000 ft2 school, what total load should be
used if the connected load is 23VA/ft2?
a. 1,300kVA
b. 1,650kVA
c. 1,725kVA
d. 2,300kVA
Solution:
NEC Article 220.86 - Schools - outlines the following optional method for sizing of
feeders and service conductors for schools.
For the first 3VA/ft2.................................... 100%
Over 3VA/ through 20VA/ft2..........................75%
Over 20VA/ft2.................................................25%
(1) 3VA/ft2 x 100,000 ft2 = 300,000VA

100% x 300,000VA = 300,000VA
(2) (20VA/ft2 -3VA/ft2) x 100,000 ft2 = 1,700,000VA
75% x 1,700,000 = 1,275,000VA
(3) (23VA/ft2 - 20VA/ft2) x 100,000 ft2 = 300,000VA
25% x 300,000VA = 75,000VA
Total Load = 300,000 + 1,275,000 + 75,000

= 1,650,000VA = 1,650kVA
Solution is “b”
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Power Distribution for Building Systems and Equipment

Determine the secondary line voltages of a 3-phase, 20:1 step-down delta-to-wye
transformer with primary voltage of 2400 volts.
a. 120
b. 208
c. 240
d. 480
Solution:
Secondary line voltage = (2400volts * 20:1) x V3 = 208 volts
Solution is “b”
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Power Distribution for Building Systems and Equipment

The National Electrical Code allows for optional calculations for sizing of feeders
and service loads. Which of the following heating and air conditioning loads must
be included:
I. 100% of the nameplate rating(s) of the air conditioning and cooling.
II. 100% of the nameplate rating(s) of the heat pump when the heat pump is
used without any supplemental electric heating.
III. 100% of the nameplate rating(s) of the heat pump compressor and 65% of
the supplemental electric heating for central electric space-heating systems.
If the heat pump compressor is prevented from operating at the same time
as the supplementary heat, it does not need to be added to the
supplementary heat for the total central space heating load.
IV. 65% of the nameplate rating(s) of electric space heating if less than four
separately controlled units.
V. 40% of the nameplate rating(s) of electric space heating if four or more
separately controlled units.
VI. 100% of the nameplate ratings of electric thermal storage and other heating
systems where the usual load is expected to be continuous at the full
nameplate value.
a. The largest of I, II, & III

b. The largest of I, III, & V
c. The largest of II, III, IV & V
d. The largest of I, II, III, IV, V & VI
Solution:
Refer to NEC Article 220.82(C) - Heating and Air-Conditioning Load
Solution is “d”
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Voltage Drop Calculations

What is the voltage drop in a 3-phase, 480-volt, 20-amp branch circuit running 100
ft. using #10 uncoated, stranded copper wire in steel conduit?
a. 2.4
b. 3.1
c. 3.8
d. 5.5
Solution:
NEC Article 210.19(A)(1) - informational note 4 indicates the acceptable voltage
drop for branch circuits is 3%. In this example, 480v x 3% = 14.4V
NEC Chapter 9, Table 9 indicates the ohms to neutral per 1000 ft = 1.1 ohms
Voltage drop = (V3 x L x ohms x amps)
1000
Voltage drop = (V3 x 100 ft. x 1.1 ohms x 20-amps)

1000
Voltage drop= 3.8V 3.8V is less than 14.4V - OK
Solution is “c”
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Voltage Drop Calculations

Determine the length of a 3-phase, 480-volt, 50-amp feeder circuit using #6
uncoated, stranded copper wire in steel conduit.
a. 215.9 ft
b. 309.0 ft
c. 369.5 ft
d. 422.3 ft
Solution:
NEC Article 210.19(A)(1) - informational note 4 indicates the acceptable voltage
drop for branch circuits is 3%. In this example, 480v x 3% = 14.4V
NEC Chapter 9, Table 9 indicates the ohms to neutral per 1000 ft = 0.45 ohms
Voltage drop = (V3 x L x ohms x amps)
1000
L= voltage drop x 1000

(V3 x ohms x amps)
L= 14.4V x 1000
(V3 x 0.45 x 50)
L= 369.5 ft.
Solution is “c”
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One-Line Diagram
The one-line diagram is a graphical representation of the electrical distribution
throughout the project. It generally starts at the main electrical service entrance,
shows routing, wire sizes, number of conductors, etc. to the main distribution
panels and transformers, then out to the distribution panels and finally to the
individual load panels.
If there is an emergency generator involved in the project, this also will be shown
on the one-line diagram along with transfer switch(es), emergency panels, etc.
The one-line diagram does not usually show distribution beyond the individual load
panels. This distribution configuration would be shown on the detailed floor plans.

One-Line Diagram
In a one-line diagram, which of the following typically represents a transformer?
a. T
b. A
Solution:
Solution is “c”

Fire Alarm Device Layout

Shop drawings for a fire alarm system are submitted to the design engineer for
review. To be in accordance with the Building Code, which of the following items
must appear on the submittals:
a. A floor plan indicating the use of all rooms
b. The locations of alarm-initiating devices
c. The locations of annunciator panels
d. All of the above
Solution:
The International Building Code section 907 - Fire Alarm and Detection Systems
outlines the requirements for Fire Alarm System submittals
Solution is “d”
Page 3 9

Fire Alarm Device Layout

In High-Rise buildings (buildings with a floor used for human occupancy located
more than 75 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access) Duct
Smoke Detectors shall be provided:
a. In the main return air and exhaust air plenum of each air-conditioning system
having a capacity greater than 2,000 CFM
b. In the main supply air duct of each air-conditioning system having a capacity
greater than 2,000 CFM
c. In the main supply air duct, return air and exhaust air plenum of each air-
conditioning system having a capacity greater than 2,000 CFM
d. In the main return air or exhaust air plenum of each air-conditioning system
having a capacity greater than 2,000 CFM
Solution:
The International Building Code section 907.2.13.1.2 - Duct Smoke Detection
dictates that Duct Smoke Detectors shall be located in the main return air and
exhaust air plenum of each air-conditioning system having a capacity greater than
2,000 CFM
Solution is “a”
P age40

Light Source Selection Considering Elements Such as Type, Color,

Life, Cost, Efficiency and Application
A few of the lighting terms that could be part of the examination:
Luminance = a photometric measure of the luminous intensity per unit area of
light travelling in a given direction. It describes the amount of light
that passes through or is emitted from a particular area, and falls
within a given solid angle. Also known as Luminance factor.
Luminous intensity = a measure of the wavelength-weighted power emitted by a

light source in a particular direction per unit solid angle.
Illuminance = the total luminous flux incident on a surface, per unit area. It is a
measure of how much the incident light illuminates the surface,
wavelength-weighted by the luminosity function to correlate with
human brightness perception.
Luminous emittance = the luminous flux per unit area emitted from a surface.
Luminous emittance is also known as Luminous exitance
Luminous Flux = the measure of the perceived power of light. It differs from
radiant flux, the measure of the total power of light emitted, in
that luminous flux is adjusted to reflect the varying sensitivity of
the human eye to different wavelengths of light. Also known as
Luminous power.
Efficacy = the amount of light (luminous flux) produced by a lamp, usually

measured in lumens, as a ratio of the amount of power consumed to
produce it, usually measured in watts.
Efficiency = a dimensionless ratio of output divided by input which for lighting

relates to the watts of visible power as a fraction of the power
consumed in watts.
Lumen = the SI unit of luminous flux.
Authors note: these definitions were obtained from www.wikipedia.com

Light Source Selection Considering Elements Such as Type, Color,

Life, Cost, Efficiency and Application
Lumen Method:
Coefficient of Utilization - CU = 0.63
Ballast Factor - BF = 0.87
Light Loss Factor - LLF = 0.85
A 25 ft. x 20 ft. conference room is to have new fixtures installed. If the light output
per fixture is 3,000 lumens and the required illumination is 100 footcandles, how
many fixtures are required?
a. 24 fixtures
b. 28 fixtures
c. 36 fixtures
d. 42 fixtures
Solution:
Required Light Output/Fixture (lumens) =
(maintained illumination in footcandles x Area in sq. ft.)
(# of fixtures x CU x BF x LLF)
# of fixtures = (100 fc x (25ft x 20ft))

(3000 x .63 x .87 x .85)
= 35.77 36 fixtures
Solution is “c”

Lighting Calculations (e.g. Lumen Method, Light at a Point)

Room Cavity Ratio (RCR) takes the following into consideration:
a. Room Surface Reflectance
b. Room Geometry
c. Ceiling Height
d. The number of fixtures in the room
Solution:
The Room Cavity Ratio equation is:
RCR = [5 x H x (L + W)] t ( L x W)
Where: H = room height; L = room length; W = room width
Therefore, the answer is room geometry
Solution is “b”
P age43

Lighting Calculations (e.g. Lumen Method, Light at a Point)

Room Cavity Ratio (RCR) calculations are used to:
a. Calculate the total number of fixtures required
b. Help the architect determine the appropriate ceiling heights
c. Select a suitable fixture(s) for the room
d. Determine if the walls and ceiling need to be painted a brighter color
Solution:
Once the RCR is calculated for a particular room, the designer can cross reference
it to manufacturer’s Coefficient of Utilization tables to select an appropriate fixture.
Solution is “c”

Lighting Control
Lighting controls range from very sophisticated Architectural type controls to simple
wall toggle switches and depend on the type of space, the activity within the space,
and the project budget or owner’s preference.
Lighting design and control has evolved into its own branch of engineering and
would require a great deal of explanation and demonstration to thoroughly cover
the topic. The exam cannot get into that much detail.
But, to prepare for the types of questions that may appear on the exam, it is
recommended that you visit several of the larger manufacturers (ex. Leviton,
Crestron, Lutron, etc.) websites to get an overall understanding of the different
types of controls, the terminology associated with lighting control, and where each
type of control is mostly utilized.

Lighting Control
Which of the following can be used to control lighting in a building?
Two-pole switch
A Rheostat
III. A computer
IV. Motion Detector
a.
b. I & III
c. , III, & IV
d. , II, III & IV
Solution:
A two-pole switch is a typical wall toggle switch similar to those found in houses to
turn lights on and off.
A rheostat is a dimmer switch.
Computers are typically utilized in sophisticated, high-end control systems that
require precise, preset “scenes.”
Motion-detectors or occupancy sensors are mostly used in office buildings and
other facilities as an energy savings measure to turn lights on when someone
enters and space and turn lights off after a preset time period when no motion is
detected.
Solution is “d”
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Receptacle Layout
New roof-mounted air handling units are to be installed on the roof of an existing
office building. The building does not have electrical outlets currently installed on
the roof so these will need to be added to the scope of the project. According to
the NEC, how close to the new equipment does a new receptacle need to be
located?
a. 25 feet
b. 50 feet
c. 10 feet
d. 2 feet
Solution:
NEC Article 210.63 - Heating, Air-Conditioning, and Refrigeration Equipment
Outlet indicates that “a 125-volt, single-phase, 15-, or 20 -ampere-rated receptacle
outlet shall be installed at an accessible location for the servicing of heating, air-
conditioning, and refrigeration equipment. The receptacle shall be located on the
same level and within 7.5 m (25 ft.) of the heating, air-conditioning, and
refrigeration equipment. The receptacle outlet shall not be connected to the load
side of the equipment disconnecting means.”
Solution is “a”

Receptacle Layout
As per the NEC, what is the maximum distance between receptacles measured
horizontally along the floor line of any wall in a dwelling unit?
a. 6 ft.
b. 8 ft.
c. 10 ft.
d. 12 ft.
Solution:
NEC Article 210.52(A)(1) indicates “receptacles shall be installed such that no
point measured horizontally along the floor line of any wall space is more than 6 ft.
from a receptacle outlet.
( <f:>
6 ft 6 ft
maximum maximum
1J2 ft
Solution is “d”
P age48

Equipment and Component Selection

What size transformer would be required to provide a 240 volt, 3-phase, 400 amp
load from a 480 volt source?
a. 112.5
b. 150
c. 225
d. 300
Solution:
Transformer = 400 amp x (240 volt * 1000) x V3 = 166.1 KVA 225 KVA
Solution is “c”
P age49

Equipment and Component Selection

A new 8 ft. wide, 2000 amp switchboard is being installed in a building. What are
the minimum entrance/egress dimensions to the electrical room required by the
NEC?
a. One entrance to and egress from the electrical room at each end of the working
space with each being 24 inches wide (min.) by 66 inches high (min.)
b. One entrance/egress from the electrical room 24 inches wide (min.) by 66
inches high (min.)
c. One entrance to and egress from the electrical room with each being 24 inches
wide (min.) by 66 inches high (min.)
d. One entrance/egress from the electrical room 36 inches wide (min.) by 72
inches high (min.)
Solution:
Refer to NEC Article 110.26(C)(2) - Entrance to and egress from Working Space -
Large Equipment
Solution is “a”
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Electrical Specifications
The following MasterSpec® sections should be reviewed and studied to become
familiar with ductwork, piping materials and insulation. If possible, a copy of these
sections could be included in the Resources for Test Day.
DIVISION 26 - ELECTRICAL
26 0519 LOW-VOLT AGE ELECTRICAL POWER CONDUCTORS AND
CABLES
Building wires, cables, connectors, splices, and terminations rated
600 V and less.
26 0526 GROUNDING AND BONDING FOR ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS

Methods and materials for grounding systems and equipment.
26 0533 RACEWAYS AND BOXES FOR ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS

Conduit; pull, junction, and outlet boxes; and electrical cabinets.
26 0572 OVERCURRENT PROTECTIVE DEVICE SHORT-CIRCUIT

STUDY
Fault-current and protective device short-circuit studies.
26 0573 OVERCURRENT PROTECTIVE DEVICE COORDINATION

STUDY
Fault-current and protective device coordination studies.
26 0923 LIGHTING CONTROL DEVICES

Time switches, photoelectric relays, occupancy sensors, and
multipole lighting controls.
26 2200 LOW-VOLTAGE TRANSFORMERS

Distribution and buck-boost, dry-type; rated 600 V and up to 1500
kVA.
26 2300 LOW-VOLTAGE SWITCHGEAR

Metal-enclosed, circuit-breaker type; 1000 V and less
26 2413 SWITCHBOARDS
Service and distribution switchboards, 600 V and less.
26 2416 PANELBOARDS
Distribution, branch circuit, and surge-suppression panel boards
and load centers.
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26 2726 WIRING DEVICES

Switches, receptacles, lighting-control devices, and plates.
26 3533 POWER FACTOR CORRECTION EQUIPMENT

Capacitors and automatic power-factor correction units for 600 V
and less.
26 5100 INTERIOR LIGHTING

Interior fixtures, lamps, and ballasts; emergency lighting; exit signs.
26 5561 THEATRICAL LIGHTING

Dimmer racks; control console and devices; distribution
components; lighting fixtures.
26 5600 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Exterior luminaires including poles and standards.

Communications Specifications
The following MasterSpec® sections should be reviewed and studied to become
familiar with ductwork, piping materials and insulation. If possible, a copy of these
sections could be included in the Resources for Test Day.
DIVISION 28 - COMMUNICATIONS
28 0513 CONDUCTORS AND CABLES FOR ELECTRONIC SAFETY AND
SECURITY
UTP, fiber-optic, coaxial, RS-232, and RS-485 cables, connecting
hardware, and identification systems.
28 0526 GROUNDING AND BONDING FOR ELECTRONIC SAFETY AND

SECURITY
Grounding for electronic systems and equipment; for reliable signal
reference for electronic systems.
28 0528 PATHWAYS FOR ELECTRONIC SAFETY AND SECURITY

Conduits, wireways, surface pathways, boxes and enclosures, and
handholes and boxes.
28 1600 INTRUSION DETECTION

Detection devices, controls, and alarms.
28 3111 DIGITAL, ADDRESSABLE FIRE-ALARM SYSTEM

Systems with addressable initiating devices and conventional or
addressable notification appliances.
28 3112 ZONED (DC LOOP) FIRE-ALARM SYSTEM

Small systems for buildings relying on zoned fire-alarm concept.
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“The true sign of intelligence

is not knowledge
but imagination.”
-Albert Einstein

EQUATIONS, RULES OF THUMB, SHORTCUTS

E l e c t r ic a l S y s t e m s _______________________________________________
KVA = KW + KVAR
KVA = Total Power (kilovolt amps)
KW = Real Power, Electrical Energy (kilowatts)
KVAR = Reactive Power or “Imaginary” Power (kilovolt amps reactive)
V = Voltage (volts)
A = Current (amps)
PF = Power Factor (0.75 - 0.95)
BHP = Break Horsepower
MHP = Motor Horsepower
EFF = Efficiency
M/D = Motor Drive
Lighting
Required Light Output/Fixture (lumens) =
(maintained illumination in footcandles x Area in sq. ft.)
(# of fixtures x CU x BF x LLF)
Room Cavity Ratio

RCR = [5 x H x (L + W)] - (L x W)
Where: H = room height; L = room length; W = room width
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Power
To find: 1 phase 3 phase
HP x 746 HP x 746
Amps
E x Eff x PF V3 x E x Eff x PF
KW x 1000 KW x 1 000
Amps
E x PF E x PF
kVAx 1000 kVA x 1000
Amps
E E
IxExPF IxExPF
Kilowatts
1000 1000
Ix E Ix E
Kilovolt - Amps
1000 1000
Horsepower I x E x Eff x PF I x E x Eff x PF
(output) 746 746
746 x HP 746 x HP
Efficiency
E x I x PF V3 x E x I x PF
Input Watts Input Watts
Power Factor / _
VxI V3 x E x I
E = voltage I = amps W = watts

PF = power factor Eff = efficiency HP = horsepower
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RESOURCES
The Engineering Toolbox................................................... www.engineeringtoolbox.com

Resources such as:
• Formulas
• Charts
• Graphs
• Example problems
The American Institute of Architects............................................................. www.aia.org

Sample contract examples; some showing standard language to be included.
Owner-consultant, Architect-consultant, Construction Manager
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers......................................www.ieee.org
ARCOM 4 Masterspec®...................................................................www.masterspec.com
American Council of Engineering Companiesof Kansas......................www.aceks.org

Examples and commentary on construction administration
International Code Council........................................................................www.iccsafe.org

• International Building Code
• International Mechanical Code
• International Plumbing Code
• International Energy Conservation Code
Whole Building Design Guide..................................................................... www.wbdg.org
National Fire Protection Association........................................................... www.nfpa.org

• NFPA 13 - Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems
• NFPA 14 - Standard for the Installation of Standpipeand Hose Systems
• NFPA 70 - National Electrical Code
• NFPA 72 - National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code
• NFPA 90A - Standard for the Installation of Air-Conditioning and Ventilating
Systems
• NFPA 90B - Standard for the Installation of Warm Air Heating and Air-
Conditioning
• NFPA 99 - Health Care Facilities Code Handbook
• NFPA 101 - The Life Safety Code®

National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying.........www.ncees.org

• Information on testing
• Acceptable Calculators:
o Casio: All fx-115 models including, but not limited to:
■ fx-115 MS
■ fx-115 MS Plus
■ fx-115 MS SR
- fx-115 ES
■ fx-115 ES Plus
o Hewlett Packard: The HP 33s and HP 35s models, but no others,
o Texas Instruments: All TI-30X and TI-36X models including , but not
limited to:
■ TI-30Xa
■ TI-30Xa SOLAR
■ TI-30Xa SE
■ TI-30XS Multiview
- TI-30X MB
- TI-30X IIS
■ TI-36XII
■ TI-36X SOLAR
- TI-36X Pro
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STATE BOARDS OF REGISTRATION

(Websites, contacts, phone numbers and email addresses may have changed. Check
www.ncees.org for updated licensing board information.)
Alabama State Board of Licensure for Professional Engineers and

Surveyors
Web site: www.bels.alabama.gov
Contact: Regina Dinger
Email: reaina.dinqer@beis.alabama.gov
Phone/Fax: (334) 242-5568 / (334) 242-5105
Office Address: 100 North Union Street, Suite 382
Montgomery, AL 36104-3762
Alaska State Board of Registration for Architects, Engineers, and

Land Surveyors
Web site: www.commerce.state.ak.us/occ/pael.cfm
Contact: Richard (Vern) Jones
Email: richard.iones@alaska.gov
Phone/Fax: (907) 465-1676 / (907) 465-2974
Office Address: 333 Willoughby
Ninth Floor
State Office Building
Juneau, AK 99811 -0806
Arkansas Board of Licensure for Professional Engineers &

Professional Surveyors
Web site: www.pels.arkansas.gov
Contact: Stephen (Steve) W. Haralson, P.E.
Email: pelsboard@arkansas.gov
Phone/Fax: (501) 682-2824 / (501) 682-2827
Office Address: 623 Woodlane Drive
Little Rock, AR 72201
Arizona State Board of Technical Registration

Web site: www.azbtr.gov
Contact: Ronald W. Dalrymple
Email: ron.dalrvmDie@azbtr.gov
Phone/Fax: (602) 364-4930 / (602) 364-4931
Office Address: 1110 West Washington Street, Suite 240
Phoenix, AZ 85007
Page 5 9

California Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and

Geologists
Web site: www.pels.ca.gov
Contact: Richard (Ric) B. Moore, P.L.S.
Email: bpels office@dca.ca.gov
Phone/Fax: (866 ) 780-5370 / (916) 263-2221
Office Address: 2535 Capitol Oaks Drive, Suite 300
Sacramento, CA 95833-2944
Colorado State Board of Licensure for Architects, Professional

Engineers, and Professional Land Surveyors
Web site: www.dora.state.co.us/aes
Contact: Angeline (Angie) Kinnaird Linn
Email: aes@dora.state.co.us
Phone/Fax: (303) 894-7775 / (303) 894-2310
Office Address: Department of Regulatory Agencies
1560 Broadway, Suite 1350
Denver, CO 80202
Connecticut Board of Examiners for Professional Engineers and Land

Surveyors
Web site: www.ct.gov/dcp
Contact: Barbara Syp-Maziarz
Email: barbara.svp@ct.gov
Phone/Fax: (860) 713-6142 / (860) 706-1367
Office Address: The State Office Building
Room 110
165 Capitol Avenue
Hartford, CT 06106-1630
Delaware Association of Professional Engineers

Web site: www.dape.org
Contact: Peggy Abshagen
Email: peggy@dape.org
Phone/Fax: (302) 323-4588 / (302) 323-4590
Office Address: 92 Reads Way, Suite 208
New Castle, DE 19720
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District of Columbia; Washington DC Department of Consumer and

Regulatory Affairs
Web site: www.pearsonvue.com/dc/enqineers
Contact: Theresa L. Ennis
Email: theresa.ennis@dc.gov
Phone/Fax: (202) 442-4333 / (202 ) 442-9448
Office Address: DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs
Occupational and Professional Licensing Division
1100 4th Street SW
4th Floor, E496
Washington, DC 20024
Florida Board of Professional Engineers

Web site: www.fbpe.org
Contact: Zana Raybon
Email: 2ravbon@fbpe.org
Phone/Fax: (850) 521-0500 / (850) 521 -0521
Office Address: 2639 North Monroe Street, Suite B-112
Tallahassee, FL 32303
Georgia State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers and

Land Surveyors
Web site: www.sos.qa.gov/plb/pels
Contact: Darren Mickler
Email: dmickler@sos.qa.qov
Phone/Fax: (478) 207-2440 / (866 ) 888-9718
Office Address: 237 Coliseum Drive
Macon, GA 31217-3858
Guam Board of Registration for Professional Engineers, Architects,

and Land Surveyors
Web site: www.quam-peais.org
Contact: Sylvia Leon Guerrero
Email: info@quam-peals.org
Phone/Fax: (671) 646-3115 / (671) 649-9533
Office Address: East-West Business Center
Unit D-Suite 208
718 North Marine Drive
Upper Tumon, GU 96913
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Hawaii Board of Professional Engineers, Architects, Surveyors, and

Landscape Architects
Web site: www.hawaii.gov/dcca/pvl
Contact: James Kobashigawa
Email: iames.k.kobashiaawa@dcca.hawaii.gov
Phone/Fax: (808) 586-2702 / (808) 586-2689
Office Address: 335 Merchant Street
Honolulu, HI 96813
Idaho Board of Professional Engineers and Professional Land

Surveyors
Web site: www.ipels.idaho.gov
Contact: David L. Curtis, P.E.
Email: dave.curtis@ipels.idaho.gov
Phone/Fax: (208) 373-7210 / (208) 373-7213
Office Address: 1510 E. Watertower St.
Suite 110
Meridian, ID 83642-7993
Illinois State Board of Professional Engineers

Web site: www.idfpr.com/dpr/WHO/pe.asp
Contact: M. David Brim
Email: david.brim@illinois.gov
Phone/Fax: (217) 524-3211 / (217) 782-7645
Office Address: Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
PSS/Design Unit
Third Floor
320 W. Washington St
Springfield, IL 62786
Indiana State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers

Web site: www.pla.in.gov
Contact: Christina (Tina) Wiseley
Email: pla 10 @pla.in.gov
Phone/Fax: (317) 234-3022 / (317) 233-4236
Office Address: 402 West Washington Street
Room W072
Indianapolis, IN 46204

Iowa Engineering and Land Surveying Examining Board

Web site: www.state.ia.us/enqls
Contact: Robert E. Lampe
Email: robert.lampe@iowa.gov
Phone/Fax: (515) 281 -4126 / (515) 281 -7411
Office Address: 1920 Southeast Hulsizer Road
Ankeny, IA 50021
Kansas State Board of Technical Profession

Web site: www.kansas.gov/ksbtp
Contact: Jean A. Boline
Email: ieanb@ksbtp.ks.qov
Phone/Fax: (785) 296-3053 / (785) 296-0167
Office Address: Landon State Office Building
900 Southwest Jackson, Suite 507
Topeka, KS 66612-1257
Kentucky State Board of Licensure for Professional Engineers and

Land Surveyors
Web site: www.kvboels.kv.gov
Contact: B. David Cox
Email: bdavid.cox@kv.gov
Phone/Fax: (800) 573-2680 / (502) 573-6687
Office Address: Kentucky Engineering Center
160 Democrat Drive
Frankfort, KY 40601
Louisiana Professional Engineering and Land Surveying Board

Web site: www.lapels.com
Contact: Donna D. Sentell
Email: donna@lapels.com
Phone/Fax: (225) 925-6291 / (225) 925-6227
Office Address: 9643 Brookline Avenue, Suite 121
Baton Rouge, LA 70809-1433
Maine State Board of Licensure for Professional Engineers

Web site: www.maine.gov/professionalenqineers/
Contact: Beatrice M. Labbe
Email: penqineers@prexar.com
Phone/Fax: (207) 287-3236 / (207) 287-3239
Office Address: 92 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333-0092
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P a g e O *J

Maryland State Board for Professional Engineers

Web site: www.dllr.state.md.us
Contact: Pamela J. Edwards
Email: pamedwards@dllr.state.md.us
Phone/Fax: (410) 230-6322 / (410) 333-0021
Office Address: 500 N. Calvert Street
Room 308
Baltimore, MD 21202-3651
Massachusetts Board of Registration of Professional Engineers and

Professional Land Surveyors
Web site: www.mass.gov/dpl/boards/en
Contact: Erin M. LeBel
Email: susan.e.coco@state.ma.us
Phone/Fax: (617) 727-9957 / (617) 727-1627
Office Address: Division of Professional Licensure
1000 Washington Street, Suite 710
Boston, MA 02118-6100
Michigan State Board of Professional Engineers

Web site: www.michiaan.gov/enqineers
Contact: Gloria J. Keene
Email: keeneq@michiqan.gov
Phone/Fax: (517) 373-7353 / (517) 373-1044
Office Address: P. O. Box 30018
Lansing, Ml 48909
Minnesota State Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying,

Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design
Web site: www.aelslaqid.state.mn.us
Contact: Doreen Frost
Email: doreen.frost@state.mn.us
Phone/Fax: (651) 296-2388 / (651) 297-5310
Office Address: 85 East Seventh Place, Suite 160
St. Paul, MN 55101
Mississippi Board of Licensure for Professional Engineers and

Surveyors
Web site: www.pepls.state.ms.us
Contact: Rosemary Brister
Email: information@pepls.state.ms.us
Phone/Fax: (601) 359-6160 / (601) 359-6159
^ Office Address: 660 North Street, Suite 400
VO Jackson, MS 39202
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Missouri Board for Architects, Professional Engineers, Professional

Land Surveyors, and Landscape Architects
Web site: pr.mo.gov/apelsla.asp
Contact: Judy A. Kempker
Email: moapels@pr.mo.gov
Phone/Fax: (573) 751 -0047 / (573) 751 -8046
Office Address: 3605 Missouri Boulevard, Suite 380
Jefferson City, MO 65109
Montana Board of Professional Engineers and Professional Land

Surveyors
Web site: www.engineer.mt.gov
Contact: Cecelia Whitney
Email: cwhitnev@mt.gov
Phone/Fax: (406) 841 -2351 / (406) 841 -2309
Office Address: PO Box 200513
301 S Park
4th Floor
Helena, MT 59620-0513
Nebraska Board of Engineers and Architects

Web site: www.ea.ne.gov
Contact: Jon D. Wilbeck
Email: ion.wilbeck@nebraska.gov
Phone/Fax: (402) 471 -2021 / (402) 471 -0787
Office Address: 215 Centennial Mall South, Suite 400
PO Box 95165
Lincoln, NE 68509-5165
Nevada State Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors

Web site: www.nvboe.org
Contact: Noni Johnson
Email: noniiohnson@boe.state.nv.us
Phone/Fax: (775) 688-1231 / (775) 688-2991
Office Address: 1755 East Plumb Lane, Suite 135
Reno, NV 89502
New Hampshire Board of Professional Engineers

Web site: www.nh.gov/itboard/home.htm
Contact: Louise Lavertu
Email: llavertu@nhsa.state.nh.us
Phone/Fax: (603) 271 -2219 / (603) 271 -6990
Office Address: 57 Regional Drive
Concord, NH 03301

New Jersey State Board of Professional Engineers and Land

Surveyors
Web site: www.state.ni.us/lps/ca/nonmedical/pels.htm
Contact: Paul Ray
Email: ravp@dca.lps.state.ni.us
Phone/Fax: (973) 504-6460 / (973) 273-8020
Office Address: 124 Halsey Street
Third Floor
Newark, NJ 07102
New Mexico Board of Licensure for Professional Engineers and

Professional Surveyors
Web site: www.sblpes.state.nm.us
Contact: Eva Baca
Email: eva.baca@ state.nm.us
Phone/Fax: (505) 476-4565 / (505) 827-7566
Office Address: Toney Anaya Building
2nd Floor
2550 Cerrillos Rd.
Santa Fe, NM 87507
New York Board for Engineering and Land Surveying

Web site: www.op.nvsed.gov/prof/pels/
Contact: Jane W. Blair, P.E.
Email: enoinbd@mail.nvsed.gov
Phone/Fax: (518) 474-3817/(518) 473-6282
Office Address: Education Building
89 Washington Avenue
Second Floor Mezzanine
East-Wing
Albany, NY 12234-1000
North Carolina Board of Examiners for Engineers and Surveyors

Web site: www.ncbels.org
Contact: Andrew L. Ritter
Email: aritter@ncbels.org
Phone/Fax: (919) 791-2000 / (919) 791-2012
Office Address: 4601 Six Forks Road, Suite 310
Raleigh, NC 27609
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North Dakota State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers

and Land Surveyors
Web site: www.ndpelsboard.org
Contact: Candie L. Robinson
Email: candie@ndpeisboard.org
Phone/Fax: (701) 258-0786 / (701) 258-7471
Office Address: 723 Memorial Highway
Bismarck, ND 58504
Ohio State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers and

Surveyors
Web site: www.peps.ohio.gov
Contact: John F. Greenhalge
Email: iohn.qreenhalqe@pes.ohio.gov
Phone/Fax: (614) 466-3651 / (614) 728-3059
Office Address: 50 West Broad Street, Suite 1820
Columbus, OH 43215
Oklahoma State Board of Licensure for Professional Engineers and

Land Surveyors
Web site: www.pels.ok.gov
Contact: Kathy S. Hart
Email: khart@pels.ok.gov
Phone/Fax: (405) 521-2874 / (405) 523-2135
Office Address: Oklahoma Engineering Center
Room 120
201 NE 27th Street
Oklahoma City, OK 73105
Oregon State Board of Examiners for Engineering and Land

Surveying
Web site: www.oregon.gov/osbeels
Contact: Mari Lopez
Email: lopezm@osbeels.org
Phone/Fax: (503) 362-2666 / (503) 362-5454
Office Address: 670 Hawthorne Avenue SE, Suite 220
Salem, OR 97301

Pennsylvania State Registration Board for Professional Engineers,

Land Surveyors, and Geologists
Web site: www.dos.state.pa.us/enq
Contact: DeAndra Field
Email: st-enqineer@state.pa.us
Phone/Fax: (717) 783-7049 / (717) 705-5540
Office Address: 2601 North Third Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Puerto Rico Board of Examiners of Engineers and Land Surveyors

Web site: http://www.estado.qobierno.pr
Contact: Frank Hernandez-Flores, P.E.
Email: fhernandez@uniproaep.net
Phone/Fax: (787) 722-2122 / (787) 722-4818
Office Address: Secretaria Auxiliar de Juntas Examinadoras
P.O. Box 9023271
San Juan, PR 00902-3271
Rhode Island State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers

Web site: www.bdp.state.ri.us
Contact: Lois Marshall
Email: loism@dbr.ri.qov
Phone/Fax: (401) 462-9592 / (401) 462-9532
Office Address: Division of Design Professionals
1511 Pontiac Avenue
Building 68-2
Cranston, Rl 02920
South Carolina Board of Registration for Professional Engineers and

Surveyors
Web site: www.llr.state.sc.us/pol/enqineers
Contact: Jan B. Simpson
Email: ian.simpson@llr.sc.qov
Phone/Fax: (803) 896-4422 / (803) 896-4427
Office Address: P.O. Box 11597
Columbia, SC 29211-1597
South Dakota State Board of Technical Professions

Web site: www.state.sd.us/dol/boards/enqineer
Contact: Mark Humphreys
Email: mark.humphrevs@state.sd.us
Phone/Fax: (605) 394-2510 / (605) 394-2509
CO Office Address: 2040 West Main Street, Suite 304
Rapid City, SD 57702-2447
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Tennessee State Board of Architectural and Engineering Examiners

Web site: www.tn.gov/commerce/boards/ae
Contact: John A. Cothron
Email: iohn.cothron@tn.gov
Phone/Fax: (615) 741 -3221 / (615) 532-9410
Office Address: Department of Commerce and Insurance
500 James Robertson Parkway
Nashville, TN 37243-1142
Texas Board of Professional Engineers

Web site: www.tbpe.state.tx.us
Contact: Lance S. Kinney, P.E.
Email: lance.kinnev@engineers.texas.gov
Phone/Fax: (512) 440-7723 / (512) 440-0417
Office Address: 1917 Interstate Highway 35 South
Austin, TX 78741-3702
Utah Professional Engineers and Professional Land Surveyors Board

Web site: www.dopl.utah.gov
Contact: Richard Oborn
Email: roborn@utah.gov
Phone/Fax: (801) 530-6628 / (801) 530-6511
Office Address: 160 East 300 South
First Floor
Salt Lake City, UT 84111
Vermont Board of Professional Engineering

Web site: www.vtprofessionals.org
Contact: Terry Gray
Email: terrv.grav@sec-state.vt.us
Phone/Fax: (802) 828-2191 / (802) 828-2368
Office Address: Vermont Secretary of State,
Office of Professional Regulation
National Life Building, North, FL2
Montpelier, VT 05620-3402
Virgin Islands Board for Architects, Engineers, and Land Surveyors

Web site: www.dlca.gov.vi
Contact: H. Nathalie Hodge
Email: nathalie.hodge@dlca.vi.gov
Phone/Fax: (340) 773-2226 / (340) 713-8308
Office Address: Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs,
Golden Rock Shopping Center
Christiansted ^0
St. Croix, VI 00820 &
CO
Oh

Virginia Board for Architects, Professional Engineers, Land

Surveyors, Certified Interior Designers, and Landscape Architects
Web site: www.dpor.virainia.gov
Contact: Kathleen (Kate) R. Nosbisch
Email: apelscidla@dpor.virainia.gov
Phone/Fax: (804) 367-8506 / (866 ) 465-6206
Office Address: Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation
P.O. Box 29570
Richmond, VA 23242-0570
Washington State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers

and Land Surveyors
Web site: www.dol.wa.aov/business/engineerslandsurvevors/
Contact: George A. Twiss, P.L.S.
Email: enqineers@dol.wa.gov
Phone/Fax: (360) 664-1575 / (360) 664-2551
Office Address: Board of Registration for PE & LS
Department of Licensing
PO Box 9025
Olympia, WA 98507-9025
West Virginia State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers

Web site: www.wvpebd.org
Contact: Lesley L. Rosier-Tabor, P.E.
Email: leslev@wvpebd.org
Phone/Fax: (304) 558-3554 / (304) 558-6232
Office Address: 300 Capitol Street, Suite 910
Charleston, WV 25301
Wisconsin Examining Board of Architects, Landscape Architects,

Professional Engineers, Designers, and Land Surveyors
Web site: drl.wi.gov
Contact: Berni Mattsson
Email: dspsboards@wisconsin.gov
Phone/Fax: (608) 266-2112 / (608) 267-3816
Office Address: PO Box 8935
Madison, Wl 53708

Wyoming Board of Registration for Professional Engineers and

Professional Land Surveyors
Web site: enqineersandsurvevors.wv.gov
Contact: Christine Turk
Email: wvopepls@wvo.gov
Phone/Fax: (307) 777-6155 / (307) 777-3403
Office Address: 6920 Yellowtail Drive, Suite 100
Cheyenne, WY 82002

“The way to get started is to quit talking

and begin doing.”
Walt Disney
“It's kind of fun to do the impossible.”

~ Walt Disney
Page/ Z

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Jeff Setzer, PE is a 1988 graduate of Kansas State University with a

Bachelor’s degree in Architectural Engineering and has been a practicing
Architectural Engineer, Project Manager, Team Leader and Construction
Manager for over 20 years. He has experience in retail, industrial, office,
medical, educational, government and institutional design and construction
management. He maintains an active professional engineering license and
provides consulting services, construction management, and educational
resources through his company, Facility Solutions, Inc.
You can find additional resources and study material along with design,
project management and construction management resources on his
website:
www.engineeringdesignresources.com
Page / 3

“You are now at a crossroads.

This is your opportunity to make
the most important decision you will ever make.
Forget your past.
Who are you now?
Who have you decided you really are now?
Don’t think about who you have been.
Who are you now?
Who have you decided to become?
Make this decision consciously.
Make it carefully.
Make it powerfully.”
~ Tony Robbins
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^ e n g in e e rin g
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K e50urces
r rigi n e c ri n g|~)es ign e so u rce s .co rn
For engineers and engineers-in-training (EIT’s) preparing to take the

Electrical Engineering - Power PE Exam:
Do you:
• Know what to expect?
• Know what kind of questions will be asked?
• Know what resources will be helpful?
• Have useful references ready to go?
Are you adequately prepared?
If you answered no to any of these questions,

then you need the
The Electrical Engineering - Power PE Exam Study Guide was written to

prepare PE candidates to take the engineering licensing examination by:
• Providing a recommended “test-day” resource library
• Showing example problems with solutions
• Offering commentary on many of the topics
This study guide will help you be successful on the
Electrical Engineering - Power PE Exam
ip nfijmeering
■ R eso urces
S e tu r Mem

Kansas State University Book

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Electrical Engineering - Power PE Exam Study Guide

PE EXAM STUDY GUIDE

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or

S etzer M edia G roup

Version 1.0 (June 17, 2013)

“Your work is going to fill a large part of your life,

Version 1.0 (June 17, 2013)

UPCOMING TEST SCHEDULE....................................................7

Version 1.0 (June 17, 2013)

EQUATIONS, RULES OF THUMB,SHORTCUTS...................... 55

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UPCOMING TEST SCHEDULE

Version 1.0 (June 17, 2013)

“Your time is limited,

Version 1.0 (June 17, 2013)

Version 1.0 (June 17, 2013)

It is assumed that the Engineer-in-Training preparing to take the

The author of this study manual makes no guarantees and does

Version 1.0 (June 17, 2013)

RECOMMENDED LIST OF TEST DAY RESOURCES

Version 1.0 (June 17, 2013)

I recommend (2) two three-ring binders with the following:

Remember, the goal is to assemble an

Version 1.0 (June 17, 2013)

Version 1.0 (June 17, 2013)

Impact of One System on Another (e.g. Lighting Load on Air-

Version 1.0 (June 17, 2013)

Life Safety Systems (e.g. Generators, Batteries, Exit Lighting, Fire

Version 1.0 (June 17, 2013)

Life Safety Systems (e.g. Generators, Batteries, Exit Lighting, Fire

Version 1.0 (June 17, 2013)

Systems Efficiencies (Including Calculations for Energy Usage and

Version 1.0 (June 17, 2013)

Systems Efficiencies (Including Calculations for Energy Usage and

Version 1.0 (June 17, 2013)

Applicable Standards, Codes, and Regulations (e.g. NFPA, ASHRAE,

Solution is “c” Page 1 9

Version 1.0 (June 17, 2013)

Design and Construction Issues Associated with Commissioning

Refer to NFPA 99, 4.4.2.2.2 - Emergency System; the Emergency System is

Therefore, the Essential Electrical System contains the:

Version 1.0 (June 17, 2013)

Design and Construction Issues Associated with Commissioning

Version 1.0 (June 17, 2013)

Electrical Power Systems Analysis, Including Load Flow

Ifauit = [18 MVA - (a /3 x 480 volts)] x (1 x 10®) = 21,676 amps 22,000

Version 1.0 (June 17, 2013)

Electrical Power Systems Analysis, Including Load Flow

TRUE POWER RESISTANCE (R)

POWER TRIANGLE INDUCTIVE MOTOR

Version 1.0 (June 17, 2013)

Short Circuit Analysis

Version 1.0 (June 17, 2013)

Short Circuit Analysis

= (75kVA x 1000) * 240 = 312.5A

* refer to Cooper Bussman website for additional problems

Version 1.0 (June 17, 2013)

Short Circuit Analysis

* refer to Cooper Bussman website for additional problems

Version 1.0 (June 17, 2013)

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Version 1.0 (June 17, 2013)

Overcurrent Protection Methods and Device Coordination

Version 1.0 (June 17, 2013)