The exams cover a broad range of hardware and broadcast technology, but are not limited to specific brands of products. The CSI covers: satellite communications history & theory, satellite dish reflectors, cabling, amplifiers, satellite dish feed-horns—LNBs & LNBFs, Satellite System Installation-site surveys, satellite receivers-digital technology, interfacing with other consumer electronics equipment, transmission-internet systems, troubleshooting, repairs, sun outage, and safety. Four endorsements are also available. Antenna (CSI-A)—roof top antennas, towers, and rotors. C and Ku Band (CSI-C/Ku)—aiming, installation and troubleshooting of large-dish systems. Commercial (CSI-COM)—VSAT and other commercial satellite systems including internet two-way units. S-MATV (CSI-SMATV)—satellite antenna signal distribution systems for multiple unit dwellings including cable-type headends. 

Microwave radio plays a major role in radio and data transmission systems. Wireless carriers continue to deploy microwave systems for data backhaul, and with the advancement of LTE for public safety, the need for microwave communications continues to grow. This certification includes basic knowledge concepts technicians need to know to install, align, maintain, and operate point-to-point microwave radio systems. Prior experience with radio systems and equipment is suggested. This includes core concepts of radio frequency (RF) energy, including how to identify it and safety requirements when working in an RF environment. 

Radar electronics technicians are expected to obtain knowledge of radar basics and concepts, which are then applicable to all the various types of avionics, maritime and land radar systems. Radar Electronics Technicians must be knowledgeable and have abilities in the following technical and human relations areas: block diagrams and schematics, components, cabling and antennas, hand tools & soldering, mathematics, amplifiers, radar transceivers, interfacing, satellite, wireless, and data communications, computers and digital concepts, software-programming, troubleshooting, and people relations.