In a recent webinar, we explored a distinction that is often overlooked: an Amatrol learning system is far more than a piece of hardware.
While many people refer to Amatrol units as “trainers”, the hardware is only one component. What truly defines a learning system is the complete ecosystem that surrounds it: curriculum, assessments, instructor tools, simulation capabilities, and long-term support.
What Is an Amatrol Learning System?
A “trainer” is hardware.
A learning system includes:
- Hardware
- Structured curriculum
- Hands-on skill exercises
- Instructor guides
- Assessments
- Training and support resources
This integrated design is intentional. Amatrol invests heavily in curriculum development, dedicating significant internal resources to ensure instructional quality.
The result: instructors can successfully teach with the system – even in subject areas where they may not initially be experts.
Hardware Formats: Portable to Full-Scale Systems
Amatrol systems come in multiple configurations depending on program needs.
Portable / Compact Units
Portable systems are ideal for:
- Shared classrooms
- Limited storage space
- Workforce outreach and mobile training
- Foundational skill development
They can be closed, stored, and transported easily.
Tabletop units
Tabletop systems offer a balance between portability and permanent installation.
They are ideal for programs that want equipment readily accessible at all times, while still maintaining flexibility in room layout.
Benefits include:
- Ready-to-use setup – Always out and accessible, making it quick to begin instruction.
- Flexible placement – Can be mounted on workbenches with casters for easy rearrangement within a room or building.
- Skill equivalency with portable units – In many cases, tabletop systems cover the same foundational skills as their portable counterparts.
- Future expandability – Many tabletop systems allow add-on modules that expand instructional capability over time.
For example, while a portable motor control system may cover core skills, its tabletop counterpart can support additional modules such as motor braking or reduced voltage starting systems. This allows programs to scale instruction without replacing the base system.
Tabletop units are often preferred when space is available and long-term program expansion is a priority.
Floor-Standing Systems
Larger systems are designed for more complex applications such as HVAC, advanced automation, and other equipment that cannot realistically be miniaturized. These replicate real-world industrial systems at training scale.
Curriculum Delivery Options
Every Amatrol learning system includes curriculum. Schools can choose the delivery format that works best for their environment.
1. Locally Installed Multi-Media Curriculum
- Delivered via disc or download
- Limited seat installations
- No built-in student progress tracking
- Included with every Learning System at no extra cost
2. eLearning (LMS-Based)
- Browser-based (HTML5)
- Tracks progress, pre-tests, post-tests
- Organized into:
- Courses
- Modules (approximately one class period)
- Segments
- Objectives
- Skills
Modules are structured in manageable increments so students can complete meaningful progress within a typical class session.
3. SCORM Export
Content can be exported and integrated into platforms like Canvas, Blackboard, or other SCORM-compliant learning management systems.
4. Printed Resources
For schools with cybersecurity restrictions or those preferring traditional instruction:
- Student reference guides
- Printable skill sheets
- Instructor resource materials
Amatrol does not mandate one instructional method. Schools can implement digital, hybrid, or fully paper-based workflows.
Virtual Trainers: Extending Learning Beyond the Lab
Many foundational systems include virtual trainers (simulators).
These allow students to:
- Practice wiring and troubleshooting remotely
- Complete assignments at home
- Prepare before entering the lab (flipped classroom model)
Benefits include:
- Increased repetition without additional hardware investment
- Reduced lab bottlenecks
- Greater flexibility in scheduling
Students can perform the same skill virtually and then reinforce it on the physical hardware.
Assessments: Measuring Knowledge and Skill Mastery
Amatrol learning systems include both knowledge and performance evaluations.
Knowledge Assessments
- Pre-tests to measure baseline understanding
- Post-tests to measure knowledge gain
- Available digitally or in printable format
Practical Skill Assessments
Instructor guides include structured rubrics that allow instructors to evaluate hands-on skills using a standardized scoring scale. This removes the burden of developing assessment systems from scratch and supports consistent, measurable outcomes.
FaultPro: Advanced Troubleshooting Training
One of the most distinctive features available on many troubleshooting systems is FaultPro.
Unlike traditional trainers that require instructors to manually flip hidden switches to simulate faults, FaultPro:
- Uses computer-based fault injection
- Provides dozens of fault scenarios
- Allows students to insert faults themselves
- Includes practice and timed test modes
- Tracks troubleshooting attempts and performance
- Included for free with any learning system that supports FaultPro
Students learn systematic troubleshooting methods, including structured step-by-step approaches and system-level diagnostic thinking.
This builds analytical skills that are highly valued in industry – moving beyond component replacement to true problem-solving capability.
Instructor Training and Ongoing Support
Amatrol offers tuition-free, annual instructor training sessions at its headquarters in Jeffersonville, Indiana and other facilities around the country. These multi-day sessions provide in-depth training on specific systems.
In addition, Amtek provides:
- On-site setup and familiarization
- Remote training sessions
- Technical troubleshooting support
- Ongoing consultation
Support does not end at installation. The goal is long-term instructional success.
Key Takeaways
An Amatrol learning system is designed to provide:
- Structured curriculum
- Flexible delivery options
- Measurable assessments
- Simulation tools
- Troubleshooting software
- Instructor resources
- Long-term support
It is not simply a trainer – it is a comprehensive instructional platform.
For schools seeking to maximize existing equipment – or evaluating new technical training investments – understanding the full learning system model is essential.
You can watch our webinar in full below.
