What is ETO (Electro-Technical Officer)?
An Electro-Technical Officer (ETO) is a specialized officer who handles the maintenance and operation of all electrical and electronic equipment on board a ship. This role is critical for the safety and efficiency of modern vessels, which rely heavily on complex automated systems.
Who is this for?
This course and practice material are designed for:
- Aspiring maritime professionals seeking ETO certification.
- Marine electricians looking to upgrade their skills.
- Engineering students focusing on marine electrical systems.
What is on the ETO Test?
The ETO competency examination typically covers several key areas:
- Electrical Engineering: Fundamentals of AC/DC circuits and electrical machines.
- Electronics & Control Systems: Power electronics, PLC systems, and automation.
- Marine Engineering Knowledge: Safe operation of high-voltage systems and switchboards.
- Radio Communication: Maintenance of GMDSS and navigation equipment.
- Safety & Regulations: STCW requirements and electrical safety prot
The syllabus for the Electro-Technical Officer (ETO) is strictly defined by the STCW Code Table A-III/6. It is structured to ensure that an ETO can manage the complex intersection of mechanical engineering, electrical power, and electronic control systems found on modern vessels.
Below is the comprehensive breakdown of the syllabus modules required for certification:
1. Electrical, Electronic, and Control Engineering
Basic Circuit Theory: Analysis of AC and DC circuits, including Three-phase theory.
Electronics and Power Electronics: Characteristics of semi-conductor devices, rectifiers, and Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs).
Control Systems: Theory of sensors, actuators, and PID controllers used in engine room automation.
High Voltage Systems: Safe operation and maintenance of systems exceeding 1,000V, including HV switchgear and protection relays.
Basic Circuit Theory: Analysis of AC and DC circuits, including Three-phase theory.
Electronics and Power Electronics: Characteristics of semi-conductor devices, rectifiers, and Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs).
Control Systems: Theory of sensors, actuators, and PID controllers used in engine room automation.
High Voltage Systems: Safe operation and maintenance of systems exceeding 1,000V, including HV switchgear and protection relays.
2. Maintenance and Repair
Power Distribution: Maintenance of main and emergency switchboards, transformers, and distribution panels.
Electrical Machines: Overhauling and testing of alternators, DC motors, and 3-phase induction motors.
Automation & Instrumentation: Troubleshooting PLC-based monitoring systems and pneumatic/hydraulic control interfaces.
Navigational Equipment: Testing and basic repair of Radar, GPS, Echo Sounders, and AIS.
Communication Equipment: Maintenance of GMDSS suites, including VHF, MF/HF, and Sat-C installations.
Power Distribution: Maintenance of main and emergency switchboards, transformers, and distribution panels.
Electrical Machines: Overhauling and testing of alternators, DC motors, and 3-phase induction motors.
Automation & Instrumentation: Troubleshooting PLC-based monitoring systems and pneumatic/hydraulic control interfaces.
Navigational Equipment: Testing and basic repair of Radar, GPS, Echo Sounders, and AIS.
Communication Equipment: Maintenance of GMDSS suites, including VHF, MF/HF, and Sat-C installations.
3. Marine Power Plants and Propulsion
Main Propulsion: Understanding the electrical control of Diesel-Electric systems and Azipod propulsion.
Auxiliary Machinery: Control systems for air compressors, purifiers, and refrigeration plants.
Deck Machinery: Operation of windlasses, mooring winches, and crane electrical systems.
Main Propulsion: Understanding the electrical control of Diesel-Electric systems and Azipod propulsion.
Auxiliary Machinery: Control systems for air compressors, purifiers, and refrigeration plants.
Deck Machinery: Operation of windlasses, mooring winches, and crane electrical systems.
4. Safety and Environmental Protection
SOLAS Compliance: Maintenance of fire detection systems, emergency lighting, and internal communications.
MARPOL Equipment: Calibration and maintenance of Oily Water Separator (OWS) monitors and sewage treatment controls.
Emergency Procedures: Operation of the emergency generator and its automatic start/load-sharing logic.
SOLAS Compliance: Maintenance of fire detection systems, emergency lighting, and internal communications.
MARPOL Equipment: Calibration and maintenance of Oily Water Separator (OWS) monitors and sewage treatment controls.
Emergency Procedures: Operation of the emergency generator and its automatic start/load-sharing logic.
5. Management and Leadership
Regulatory Knowledge: Understanding the application of IMO conventions and Flag State requirements.
Resource Management: Effective communication with the bridge and engine room teams during critical operations.
Regulatory Knowledge: Understanding the application of IMO conventions and Flag State requirements.
Resource Management: Effective communication with the bridge and engine room teams during critical operations.