Topic outline

  • HVAC Systems Management - Principles of Direct Digital Contol

    Credits: 3 PDH

    PDH Course Description:

    This course introduces engineers to the principles, architecture, and applications of Direct Digital Control (DDC) in HVAC systems management. Designed as a Tier 3 course, it focuses specifically on the operational framework and logic-based sequencing of DDC systems that monitor, control, and optimize HVAC performance in commercial and industrial facilities. 

    Engineers will learn about control loops, network protocols, sensor integration, actuator control, and DDC interface programming to understand how DDC systems enable real-time HVAC optimization and long-term energy efficiency. Real-world examples and case-based logic development will ground the principles in practice.

    Topics:

    By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

    • Understand the fundamental components and structure of a Direct Digital Control (DDC) system
    • Analyze how sensors, actuators, controllers, and communication protocols interact in DDC environments
    • Interpret and design basic control sequences using DDC logic
    • Evaluate the advantages of DDC over traditional pneumatic and analog systems in HVAC management

    • Apply DDC systems in managing HVAC zoning, scheduling, energy use, and fault detection

    To take this course:

    1.) Enroll in Course: Click below to enroll:
    (must be logged into your user account)


    2.) Study: Once enrolled, click below to begin the course:

    Download the Study Guide

    3.) Test: Once you've thoroughly read the course materials, please click below to take the final examination.

    Take the final exam

    4.) Certificate: A passing grade of 70% or higher on the exam, is required to receive the certificate of completion for this PDH course.

    Important – Payment is required prior to printing of your certificate of completion.

    We operate on a trust-based model. You are welcome to complete Steps 1 through 3 to fully review the course material at your leisure. 

    When you are ready to download and print your Certificate of Completion, we ask that payment has been completed for either the Unlimited Plan or individual PDH credit(s). Clicking the download button below serves as your digital confirmation that payment has been made.

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    Print the Certificate of Completion

    Intended Audience: This course is intended for Mechanical Engineers, Control Systems Engineers, Facilities Engineers, Energy Engineers, Building Automation Engineers, and other professionals involved in HVAC design, operations, and control system integration. 
    Publication Source: Cadistics Courseware

    Donald Parnell, PE

    • Topic 1