mecp

I feel the same way about any type of certification. (A+, MECP, etc.)  But i think it serves as proof.  An installer of 15 years experience applying for a job can show his projects and work (photos, cars).  But installers learning through hobby, like myself, could use the certification to back up their word that "I DO KNOW" what i say i do.  Anyone can say they know this and that, but today, most people's "word" means nothing.

Fairfield, CA between San Francisco and Sacrmento.

That is totally correct. In a nut shell being certified OR experienced means the same thing to the customer-REASSURANCE! So maybe instead of hating on each other how about this solution---All of you guys who are experienced, certified or not, show the "green weenies" how it is done. Share the knowledge and help the industry as a whole because it is NOT about you but the end user who is the consumer. Bad installs affect ALL of us so we should stand together for the good of the industry, that's why in my opinion everyone should be certified just to show some unity in the industry because we need each other and our customers so take care of everyone. But if you chose not to be certified that is your choice but you still have a responsibility to the industry whether you like it or not. So all the grumpy old men show us youngsters how its done, you might learn something too! Together we shall overcome some day!

The point of the certification is not to show that you know how to install or not, but to prove that you know WHY it works. For example, most installers know how to install a window control module, but in truth, only about 20% know how it works and why. The secret to their abilities lies within not the module but the window motor itself. When pressure is applied to a window motor (such as getting fully closed or opened) it will draw more power (10-15% more depending on motor type [2wire/3wire types most common]) and trip a draw sensor in the module opening a window relay.

Second, it provides the base for understanding fully how arrays of components work thus allowing the installer to maximize the efficiency of the components and systems.

Now experienced shop people know the installs and many veterans know roughly how they work. But with new technologies always coming out, eventually products will exceed the ability and knowledge aquired in shops. Veterans of the shop know their stuff, but to improve what is given to them is what is provided with the MECP (if they COMPLETELY understand the foundation of electronics).

Although Ohms law is the most referenced understanding of electronics, its basis lies within Kirchoff's primary laws and the understanding of fundamental versus scientific current flow.

Even many veterans who have been in the business for years don't pass the test on their first time around on it. Most don't know about the Munsen Curves and how they affect sound. Knowing how the curve works will allow the installer to predict and maximize the output of the sound system and use less energy to do it. The MECP fills in the holes for that ability. We know of a veteran who has been doing it since the 60s and he failed during the first time he went at it.

Combine experience with knowledge (not wisdom) and now the installer is at a level where about 95% of the industry isn't development of technologies. Essentially a non-documented engineer who can create something that will make the 95% of installer's installs easier. That is how most audio companies started.

The MECP is essentially a sped up version of the school of hard knocks without the hard knocks. You'll learn everything needed to know to be safe in the shop and to get the job done. Experience speeds the install up.

In the end, MECP doesn't make one an installer. It's proof that there is enough basic understanding to keep the client's vehicle relatively safe. Experience doesn't mean the installer knows why (s)he does what (s)he does. They just know that it's what they do.

Very well said!!! Before I became certified during my search for a job installing I ran across a lot (meaning almost all in Louisville) shops with guys with years of experience so they had no need for a "green" installer. But these guys were kind enough to conversate with me about some of their installs and the one question that not a single one of them could answer for me was "why did you ____ this way?". That was dumbfounding to me. What if I were the customer and it was my vehicle? If you cant tell me why then I dont want you touching my car because if there were a problem later on how would you convince me it were not your fault? Plus, me personally not knowing something is my biggest fear in life so I always want to know why. So now since I know a little more I can explain to someone why they for example should use 0 gauge wire with that 2000 watt amp instead of 8 or 10 gauge( I've seen it done with my own eyes!) not only safety but getting the most sound for your dollar. So that's why I prefer to be certified and I buy any books or magazines that will help me further my knowledge. Like my pops always says "If you dont know why you are doing it, then why are you doing it?"