KABARAK UNIVERSITY

School of Business & Economics

BBIT Department
P.O Private Bag, 20157,
Nakuru.
www.kabarak.ac.ke

ATTACHMENT REPORT

Prepared by

VICTOR KIMELI BARTINGEI

BBIT/MG/1205/05/17

BBIT 324: INDUSTRIAL ATTACHMENT

ORGANIZATION
Kenya Power & Lighting Company Limited
North Rift Region Headquarters
KVDA plaza, Eldoret
ICT Division

PERIOD
13/01/2020 to 31/03/2020

SUPERVISOR
Mrs. Roselyn Karanja

March, 2020

A report submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirement for the award of the degree in
Bachelor of Business Information Technology at Kabarak University, Nakuru

1|Page
 ABSTRACT
This report gives a summary of the work done, research undertaken and experience and knowledge
acquired as a trainee at the Kenya Power Lighting Company Limited. The report is based on what
was observed, issues raised by the supervising officers and staff members in the respective
institutions. It also has some of the problems identified and possible solutions according to my
views and in the view of some of the staff members and experts.
The purpose of the training was to meet the following objectives:
 Expose the trainee to actual ICT issues and problems.
 Offer the trainee opportunity to acquire and apply skills that would enable him deal with
ICT issues and problems.
 Expose the trainee to acquisition, synthesis, reporting and dissemination of data.
 Offer the trainee the opportunity to learn the decision making process and develop skills in
management.
 Enable the trainee to develop co-operative attitudes and team spirit.
 Expose the trainee to networking process and information sharing.
 Expose the trainee to the process of planning, design, implementation and evaluation of
projects.
 Expose the trainee to institutional mechanisms for resolving conflicts between development
policies.

2|Page
 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
I started my internship at KPLC Ltd on 13th January 2020 and ended on 31st March 2020.
KPLC Ltd is a state owned corporation and also a limited liability company that transmits,
distribute and retail electric energy throughout the country. It owns and operates the entire
electricity transmission and distribution in Kenya and sells electricity to about 5.9 million
customers.
KPLC owns and operates the entire electricity transmission and distribution system in Kenya, and
sells electricity to about 5.9 million customers. The company’s key operations include: Ensuring
sufficient transmission capacity to meet demand, Planning, design and construction and
maintenance of the distribution network and Customer service.
It is committed to providing high quality customer service by efficiently transmitting and
distributing electricity that is save, adequate and reliable at cost effective tariffs.
The company is mainly an electrical engineering firm that has an immense application of IT in its
daily operations ranging from commercial services to electricity connections and distribution. Key
information systems include Integrated Customer System (ICS) that handles and manages
customers’ information, and Design and Construction System (DCS) used in customer services,
reinforcement schemes, user creation and rural electrification schemes.
The IT & ICT division of the company, whose offices are located at KVDA Plaza, Eldoret handles
all the IT & ICT needs of the North Rift region. Work in this division includes installation of
software systems, their configuration and maintenance. Computer and network hardware are
installed and maintained by this division. The division also plans company’s ICT policies and
targets to computerize every task performed by the company to achieve higher efficiency and
improve profitability and customer satisfaction.
The energy transmission section where I was also briefly attached is a pivotal division that is
involved with the electricity transmission and distribution. It’s a la large division with various
offices in the country.

3|Page
 ACKNOWLEDGMENT
I would very much like to gratefully extend my sincere thanks to all the people who gave
generously their time, takes one and all during my training at the KPLC;
To the KPLC management for granting me the opportunity to train with them and also extend my
skills learnt in class to real life situation.
To the entire IT & T support staff at the KPLC especially Roselyn Karanja, John Kyeveo, Charles
Andrew, Stephen Lagat, Benard Oloo, John Eipa, who guided and trained me with new knowledge
on KPLC in-house system and incorporating me as one of their own.
To my fellow trainees; Mercy, Victor, Victoria, Dennis, Nixon, Japhet, Sam, Jared and Abel for their
encouragement and co-operation during the entire training
To my family for their unrivalled support ranging from economic to social spheres
To the Lord God almighty for his benedictions and the strength He gave me through each day I was
attached in the company.

4|Page
 DECLARATION
I solemnly declare that I was attached at the KPLC North Rift region office located at the KVDA
plaza, Eldoret, Kenya as a trainee in the ICT division. My attachment lasted from 13/01/2020 to
31/3/2020
The report presented is absolutely my own work and has never been presented to any other
institution for assessment or evaluation for academic or any other award.

5|Page
 CERTIFICATION
This report has been submitted with my authority as:

KPLC co-operating supervisor

Roselyn Karanja
Systems Administrator
ICT & T Division
North Rift Region

Signed______________________ Date___________________________

Kabarak University Supervisor

Mrs. Stella Korir
Internship Coordinator
BBIT Department
School of Business

Signed______________________ Date___________________________

6|Page
Table of Contents
ABSTRACT.......................................................................................................................................2
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY................................................................................................................3
ACKNOWLEDGMENT....................................................................................................................4
DECLARATION................................................................................................................................5
CERTIFICATION..............................................................................................................................6
LIST OF ACRONYMS......................................................................................................................9
1. KENYA POWER & LIGHTING COMPANY LIMITED.......................................................10
1.1 Introduction.............................................................................................................................10
1.2 The Background of KPLC......................................................................................................10
1.3 Location..................................................................................................................................11
1.4 The Responsibilities of KPLC................................................................................................12
1.4.2 Mission............................................................................................................................12
1.4.3 Quality Policy..................................................................................................................12
1.4.4 Core values......................................................................................................................12
1.5 KPLC Management................................................................................................................13
2. THE HOST DEPARTMENTS.................................................................................................14
2.1 The IT & T Division...............................................................................................................14
2.1.1 Introduction to work done...............................................................................................14
2.2 The Energy Transmission Division....................................................................................18
2.2.1 Structure of the Energy Transmission Division...............................................................19
2.3 Distribution & Customer Service Division........................................................................21
2.3.1 Distribution Division.......................................................................................................21
3. DETAIL OF WORK DONE....................................................................................................24
3.1 Preventative Maintenance.......................................................................................................24
3.1.1 Preventive Maintenance Procedures................................................................................25
Figure 3: Mouse open for cleaning...........................................................................................26
3.2 Software Systems Management..............................................................................................26
3.2.1 Microsoft office 2007 Management................................................................................26
3.2.2 In-house Systems management........................................................................................27
3.2.3 Operating systems management......................................................................................28
3.2.4 Networking......................................................................................................................28
3.2.5 Printers, scanners & copiers tasks...................................................................................32
3.2.6 Computer hardware diagnosis, troubleshooting and repair.............................................33
3.3 Training at the Distribution Division......................................................................................37
4. KPLC SWOT ANALYSIS.......................................................................................................39
4.1 Introduction.............................................................................................................................39
4.2 Strengths.................................................................................................................................39
4.3 Weakness................................................................................................................................39
4.4 Opportunities..........................................................................................................................39
4.5 Threats....................................................................................................................................39
5. CONCLUSION.........................................................................................................................40
6. RECOMMENDATIONS..........................................................................................................41
7. REFERENCES.........................................................................................................................42
7|Page
8. GLOSSARY.............................................................................................................................43
9. APPENDIX...............................................................................................................................45
9.1 Appendix A: KPLC Organizational Structure........................................................................45
9.2 Appendix C: KPLC Systems..................................................................................................46
9.4 Appendix D: KPLC offices and Branches..............................................................................52

8|Page
LIST OF ACRONYMS
ABAP- Advanced Business Application Product
DCS- Design and Construction System
DHCP- Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol
DIMM- Dual In-line Memory Module
DTMMS- Distribution and Transmission Maintenance Management System
FDB- Facilities Database System
ICS- Integrated Customer System
IFS- Integrated Finance System
ILS- Integrated Logistics System
IMS- Incidence Management System
IP- Internet Protocol
ICT & T- Information Communication Technology and Telecommunications
KPLC- Kenya Power & Lighting Company
KVDA-Kerio Valley Development Agency
LAN- Local Area Network
LCA- Local Collection Application
LRA- Local Reading Application
NIC- Network Interface Card
NSE- Nairobi Stock Exchange
POST- Power on Self Test
SAP- System Application & Product
SIMM- Single In-line Memory Module
SP- Service Pack
SPS- Strategic Planning System
TMS- Transport Management System
UTP- Unshielded Twisted Pair
WLAN- Wireless LAN

9|Page
 Article I. KENYA POWER & LIGHTING COMPANY LIMITED

1.1 Introduction
KPLC is the national electricity distributor and retailer. It is a state owned limited liability
corporation which transmits, distributes and retails electricity throughout Kenya. It is a listed
company at the NSE.
KPLC owns and operates the entire electricity transmission and distribution system in Kenya, and
sells electricity to more than 5.9 million customers. The company’s key operations include:
 Ensuring sufficient transmission capacity to meet demand
 Planning, design and construction and maintenance of the distribution network
 Customer service
Being an energy company, KPLC business and activities impacts in many ways on all sectors of
the national economy

1.2 The Background of KPLC

Here’s the chronological historical mileage of one of the country’s most crucial parastatal.

1875
Seyyied Bargash, the Sultan of Zanzibar, acquires a generator to light his palace and nearby
streets.

1908
Harali Esmailjee Jeevanjee, a wealthy merchant in Mombasa, acquires the generator 116 and
transfers it to the Mombasa Electric Power & Lighting Company.

1908
Around the same time, an engineer, Mr. Clement Hertzel, is granted the exclusive right to supply
electricity to the then district and town of Nairobi. This led to the formation of the Nairobi Power
& Lighting Syndicate.

1922
The two utilities in Nairobi and Mombasa are merged under a new company incorporated as the
East African Power & Lighting Company (EAP&L).

1932
EAP&L acquires a controlling interest in the Tanganyika Electricity Supply Company Ltd.
(TANESCO).

1936
EAP&L obtains generating and distribution licenses for Uganda, thereby entrenching its presence
in the East African region.

10 | P a g e
1948
The Uganda Electricity Board (UEB) is established by the Ugandan Government to take over
distribution of electricity in the country.

1954:
The Kenya Power Company (KPC) is created - to be managed by EAP&L - for the purpose of
transmitting power from Uganda through the Tororo-Juja line.

1964:
EAP&L sells its majority stockholding in TANESCO to the Government of Tanzania.

1983
With its operations confined only to Kenya, EAP&L is renamed The Kenya Power & Lighting
Company Ltd. (KPLC).

1997
The functions of generation are split from transmission and distribution. The Kenya Power
Company, which has been under the management of KPLC since 1954, becomes a separate entity
responsible for public-funded power generation projects.

1998
The Kenya Power Company is re-launched as the Kenya Electricity Generating Company
(KenGen).

1.3 Location
The KPLC offices are situated at KVDA plaza, Eldoret.
I was mostly based at the 2nd floor, ICT and T office, for my industrial attachment where I learnt a
lot practically with the help of my supervisors and my fellow attachees.
Besides KVDA plaza, Kenya power and lighting company has got so many other branches and
sub stations throughout the country. Refer to appendix for a list of the company’s branches.

1.4 The Responsibilities of KPLC

KPLC is a limited liability company responsible for the transmission, distribution and retail
of electricity throughout Kenya. KPLC owns and operates the national transmission and
distribution grid, and retails to more than   5.9 million customers throughout Kenya.
To achieve their roles, KPLC is guided by the following: a vision, a mission, quality, policy and
core values.
Products & Services
95551

Kenya Power has a call center number for its customers to be able to access customer care services
more efficiently. This is in its quest to maintain high standards of customer service and to ensure
11 | P a g e
that complaints are addressed in good time and through various media. The call center is available
24 hours a day and throughout the week for all matters pertaining to Kenya Power's services
throughout the country. We would like to encourage the use of this call center by all our customers
and we encourage any feedback regarding the same.

Stima Loan

Stima Loan is a Kenya Power initiative in partnership with the French Development Agency
(AFD) through the Government of Kenya. It aims at connecting low-income families that cannot
afford the connection fees upfront by giving those loans at 5% administration fee (one-off
payment).  More than 49,000 Kenyans have benefitted (May, 2014) from the loan scheme with
customers paying 20 % upfront with the balance payment spread out over a period of 24
months.

Kenya Power Easypay Partners - #KPLCEasyPay

For ease and convenience, customers can now pay their electricity bills through various methods
like MPESA, Airtel Money and through our Easypay partners countrywide.

NO. AGENCY TYPE LOCATION COLLECTION TYPE

 Equity Bank & 
1. Countrywide  Postpaid/Prepaid
Equity |Agents
 
How to Buy Kenya Power (KPLC) Prepaid Tokens via Equitel
 
1. Select Eazzy Pay from your Equitel menu
    Select Pay Bill from Eazzy Pay.
2. Choose the bank account number to pay from    e.g.0123456789102
Select business number - KPLC Tokens
3. Enter your KPLC Prepaid Meter Number (e.g. 37168917674) press OK
4. Enter the amount you wish to pay which should be between Shs. 100 and 
Shs 500,000.
5. Enter your Equitel PIN and press OK
6. Confirm that all details are correct by pressing 1 OK.
7. You will receive a  text confirmation of the transaction from Equity bank.
KPLC will then generate prepaid token valid for your meter and send via
SMS.1
 
Paying your Electricity Bill with Equitel (Sim Tool Kit)
 
1. Select Eazzy Pay from your Equitel menu
Select Pay Bill from Eazzy Pay.
2. Choose the bank account number to pay from e.g.0123456789102
12 | P a g e
 Select business number - KPLC Bills (Post Paid)
3. Enter your new Kenya Power meter number e.g. 2831172
4. Enter the amount you wish to pay which should be between Shs.100 and  Shs
500,000.
5. Enter your Equitel PIN and press OK
6. Confirm that all details are correct by pressing 1 OK.
7. You will receive a text confirmation of the transaction from Equity bank.
 
Your account will be updated immediately.
 
Over The counter Payments
All our esteemed clients and potential clients can  pay their electricity bill by
cash through all Equity Bank branches across the country.
 Standard
2. Countrywide  Postpaid
Chartered  Bank
 STANDARD
3. CHARTERED Countrywide  Postpaid
BANK(SCB)
 National Bank of
4. Countrywide
Kenya  Postpaid
 
Barclays  Agency
5.  Postpaid/Prepaid
Barclays Bank of
Barclays Direct Debit
Kenya(BBK)

6.  Safaricom   M-PESA
 Postpaid/Prepaid
7.  Airtel  Airtel Money  Postpaid
 Co-operative
8. Bank of Kenya Countrywide
 Postpaid
Ltd.
 Postal
9. Corporation of  Posta Bank SUSPENDED 
Kenya
11.  Cevens  Cevens  Postpaid/Prepaid
12.  Lexco One  Lexco  Postpaid
13.  Family Bank Countrywide  Postpaid
 Diamond Trust
14. Countrywide  Postpaid/Prepaid
Bank

13 | P a g e
15.  Citibank N/A Countrywide  Postpaid
16.  Stanbic Bank Countrywide  Postpaid
17.  I & M Bank Countrywide  Postpaid
18.   (PCK)  Postpaid

To achieve their roles, KPLC is guided by the following: a vision, a mission, and quality, policy
and core values.

1.4.1 Vision
To achieve world class status as a quality service business enterprise so as to be the first
choice supplier of electrical energy in a competitive environment

1.4.2 Mission
To efficiently transmit and distribute high quality electricity throughout Kenya at cost effective
tariffs; to achieve the highest standards of customer service; and to ensure the company’s long
term technical and financial viability.

1.4.3 Quality Policy

The Kenya Power & Lighting Co. Ltd  is committed to providing high quality customer service
by efficiently transmitting and distributing high quality electricity that is safe, adequate and
reliable at cost effective tariffs.
The Board, Management and staff of KPLC are committed to effective implementation and
continual improvement of the Quality Management System that complies with ISO 9001:2000
in order to consistently meet its customers and other stakeholder’s requirements and expectations.

1.4.4 Core values

KPLC core values signify the following:
 Customer Service
 Teamwork
 Results
 People
 Empowerment
 Innovation
 Professionalism

1.5 KPLC Management

The current KPLC management is comprised of the KPLC Management Committee. Refer to
Appendix for a detailed list of the management committee.

14 | P a g e
 Article II. THE HOST DEPARTMENTS

2.1 The ICT & T Division

ICT & T department is the backbone of KPLC ICT infrastructure. This division handles ICT
related problems reported by the company’s staff working with the computer and Information
systems. The division is headed by a Chief Engineer, who oversees operations at the division.
Problems reported are both hardware and software.
Reporting is done mainly by telephone for urgent problem solutions or via E-mail for those
problems that may wait.
All reported problems are logged on company’s LAN support Master Call list and a support
analyst assigned to resolve the problem. Resolving is on a strict deadline not to exceed 24 hours
since reporting.
The first level diagnostics for any reported problem involves a further clarification on symptoms of
computer or peripheral device. On understanding the problem, the support analyst proceeds to
solve the problem. For persistent problems that a support analyst may not succeed to resolve, the
assistant systems administrator’s consultation is sought and mostly the problem is solved after his
intervention.
I was mostly based in the ICT & T division located on the 2nd floor at the KVDA Plaza for ICT
related jobs.
Here I was incorporated to work as support analyst where I attended technical ICT problems in the
various departments in the building. Mostly, these problems comprised of reported issues by end
users of the computer systems via the help desk.
15 | P a g e
I was also in some cases located at the help desk where the users are given a telephone extension
number where they could report their computer problems to the department. Here I could help
them on phone or sending mail and where possible assign that job to available support analysts.

2.1.1 Introduction to work done

Work done in this department include but not limited to
 Performing preventive maintenance on personal computers, monitors, mouse, keyboard,
 Software systems installations for example; DCS, ICS, IMS,
 Networking and network troubleshooting, setting up call centers i.e. in the ICT and T
workshop’s help desk, KPLC sub-stations using telephone extensions and
telecommunication cables.
 Installing new printers, and troubleshooting.
 Emails and Emails troubleshooting on sending and receiving them and configurations.
 Computer hardware repairs.
2.1.1.2 Preventative Maintenance
This was a periodical task performed to ensure good working conditions for the computer
equipments. The task involved blowing of computers to remove dust that otherwise clog onto
machines reducing their performance by, say slowing the machines, blocking moving parts such as
fans and increasing heat accumulation by blocking air ventilations on devices.
This was also done to minimize the risk of infection on computer users due to dust. Dust is known
to cause a number of diseases and thus its accumulation is a health hazard. The task was performed
on all equipment, monitors, CPUs, Switches, hubs, printers etc.

2.1.1.3 Software Systems Management

KPLC has a number of software systems that she uses to automate her day to day activities. These
softwares are both customized and general purpose softwares. Work on these systems involved
their installation, configurations and updating them. The section below briefly describes systems
used at the KPLC.
2.1.1.3.1 Operating Systems

1. Client based- The systems used are all Microsoft’s. They are Windows 10 Enterprise. This
is dominant because of its modest memory, speed and storage requirements, compatibility
with in-house systems and speed of operation.
Windows 10 Enterprise is mostly installed on the high speed and large memory company
laptops. Being a newer version with slightly complex features and interface and given the
clients elaborate conversance with the latter systems
2. Server based systems used in the company are also Microsoft’s. They are Windows 2016
Server, and Windows 2019 Server.
2.1.1.3.2 Office Automation Systems
They include:
 Microsoft’s Office 2016: This suite comprises the following:

16 | P a g e
 Word, which is a word processor, is crucial application software used in all departments
within the company.
Excel, is a spreadsheet that is used extensively in the company
Access, is a DBMS. It is not severally used with the end user as hardly any databases are
managed by them. The systems such as SAP, ICS and DCS have their records stored in
UNIX based databases and not on client but server and systems’ developers’ ends.
Publisher is desktop publishing software. It’s has limited usage with most of the end users.
PowerPoint is presentation software which enables users to prepare presentations for such
use in meetings and conferences.
Outlook is mail software. Clients can send and receive mails through this application
 Adobe Acrobat Reader: Used for reading PDF documents and converting word documents
to PDF format.

 Corel draw, a graphical software used for drawing and design and for editing graphical
files.

 Internet Explorer: This is a Windows XP software use for internet access. It comes with OS
installation.

 Microsoft Project, software for project management tasks.

2.1.1.3.3 Database Applications

This includes Oracle, Access and Power Builder.

2.1.1.3.4 End User Applications

They are the in-house software systems used for customized KPLC activities. They are:

i) KPLC ICS
This is developed using Power Builder. Its server based which runs on Windows 7and
Windows 10 Enterprise. Data is stored on Oracle database.
The system handles and manages customers’ information. It is divided into six modules:
controlling, billing, collection, reporting and interface.
ii) KPLC DCS
This is also developed using Power Builder. Its server based and able to run on Windows 7 and
Windows 10 Enterprise platform
It is used in customer services, reinforcement schemes, user creation and rural electrification
schemes.

iii) KPLC IMS

This system handles customers’ complaints, makes entries of customers’ complaints, check
status of complaint. It is used at the call center and the control room.
iv) KPLC DTMMS

17 | P a g e
This system manages the maintenance of distribution and transmission installations. It is
divided into development and production. Development for training and production for
development

v) KPLC SAP
Developed using ABAP, SAP provide a suite of tightly integrated large scale business
applications. KPLS uses modules of the application namely HRMS, IFS and ILS.
It has a very high level of integration among its individual applications that guarantee
consistency of data throughout the system and the company itself. Standard SAP is divided into
3 environments: Development, Quality Control, and Production.

vi) KPLC TMS

This system is developed using Power Builder. The database is ADABAS and the server bas
UNIX. It contains two modules: Invoice and mileage modules. The mileage module is divided
into private and company vehicles while the invoice module is divided into fuel and
lubrication. The database also maintains data of all vehicles both company’s and individuals’.

vii) KPLC Medicare

This is developed using Power Script found in Power Builder. The database is Oracle. The
system provides timely standard reports on medical expenditure. It enables monitoring of all
details pertaining to medical expenses by all categories of staff. Main processes are data
capture of medical invoices, update of Medicare booklets and authorization of medical
invoices, support, administration and maintenance.

viii) KPLC FDBS

This system runs on client/server architecture. It uses Oracle database. Unlike other systems,
FDBS captures both alphanumeric and graphical data. Scanners, digital cameras, DXF, tools
are used to update graphics information.

ix) KPLC SPS

Used for making long term plans (greater than 5 years) and short term plans (less than 5 years)
this system uses ADABAS database. It runs on WINDOWS 10 Enterprise. It provides
information to the core systems i.e. ICS, DCS.

x) KPLC LRA
Developed using PowerBuilder, this system uses Oracle database. All meter readings are
processed for the hand-held meter reader and downloaded into the ICS database for processing
together with daily cash processing after which the customer gets their bill or a disconnection
order.

xi) KPLC LCA

This system is developed using Power Builder. The client’s PC acts as the database. This is
where offline cash collection is done and thereafter downloaded by the chief cashier of every
cash point to the ICS database every evening and is then processed by the system.

18 | P a g e
 xii) Antivirus
This is obtained from the server location named “eldoret-fprnt” in directories called “softwares”
and “frimpkg”
. It cleans the viruses from the servers and the client PCs and LAN.
Group Shield is a feature on Microsoft Exchange (Email application) that cleans all incoming
and outgoing mails. Also, potentially harmful and/or inappropriate websites are restricted using
Web Marshall Systems
2.1.1.4 Networking and network troubleshooting
Networking and network troubleshooting included terminating network cables i.e. straight through
cable, rollover cable, terminating telecommunication cables, troubleshooting hubs, routers,
switches, troubleshooting network data points, pulling cables along the conduit, registration of PC
to the network domain. Assignment of PCs NetBIOS names, configuration of the various software
to the server network, and workstations internet configuration.
2.1.1.5 Printer Tasks
These involved printer installation, configuration of printers to the PCs and the desktops offline by
use of the IP address i.e 172.31.50.47 and online by connecting it from the server, networking,
sharing, troubleshooting and servicing.
2.1.1.6 Hardware operations
This included repairs on peripherals, replacement of burnout power supplies and upgrading the
systems with higher memory DIMMS and hard disks as well as CD drives.

Section II.1 The Energy Transmission Division

I was briefly attached in this division as my degree also has a bias with electrical systems. I was
able to learn a lot about electric energy transmission control systems and also application of IT in
electric energy transmission. I was also able to apply skills learnt in class about SCADA while on
induction here.

2.2.1 Structure of the Energy Transmission Division

The figure below shows the structure and hierarchy of the Energy transmission division.

19 | P a g e
The structure below represents the hierarchy of the division and its major departments.

Figure 1: The structure of the energy transmission division

Each of the three sections under energy transmission is headed by a manager.

DEPARTMENT: TRANSMISSION
This division has the task of basically maintaining the 132kv and 220kv transmission lines.
This department uses the Distribution and Transmission Maintenance Management System
(DTMMS). This is one of the open systems of the company.

DEPARTMENT: SYSTEM CONTROL

This department is also referred to as the National Control Center (NCC). The flow of power in the
country is controlled at this department. The offices are located at Elgon View substation.
The system in place to manage this control is the SCADA. This department uses the Energy
Transmission Incidence Management System (ETIMS).
ETIMS is used for recording faults and outages of the system. In this system, permits have to be
created and issued to authorized personnel to enter a substation. These permits have to be
cancelled and then the incidence is normalized.

The department is basically charged with the responsibility of;

 Sanctioning the work to be carried out on the line
 Acting on customer complaints of large power
 Tapping and opening of breakers remotely

20 | P a g e
  Check the dam levels, frequency, hydrology, voltage control, normalization after fault
 Informing the management on reports during major breakdowns
 Ensuring security of personnel working on the lines
DEPARTMENT: ENERGY PURCHASE
This department has the task of purchasing bulk power. The company deals with two types of
suppliers;
1. Independent Power Producers (IPP) who in this case are;
 Tsavo power - thermal
 Orpower4 - geothermal
 IBER Africa - thermal
 Mumias - biogas
 Rabai
2. Emergency Power Producers (EPP) who in this case are;
 Aggreko – supplying about 150MW
KenGen are the biggest supplier of approximately 80% of power. Their generating stations are of
thermal, geothermal, wind and hydro.
The department also deals with exports and imports with Uganda Electricity Transmission
Company Limited (UETCL)
It also deals with imports from Tanzania through Tanesco.
The department is basically involved in negotiations of agreements in any aspect between the
suppliers. The agreements entails, amongst other things invoicing terms of availability in terms of
capacity and in terms of energy.
DEPARTMENT: PROTECTION
The core business for this department is to build special protective systems for the transmission
lines
The protection is provided on 220kv/132kv/66kv transmission lines
Protection of reactors and capacitor banks
Protection of bus bar and feeder
These protective systems are built using components such as relays, current transformers, voltage
transformers, fuses, circuit breakers e.t.c
Protection schemes are as follows; typical generator, normal overload, over current & earth fault,
sensitive earth fault, differential, negative phase sequence, winding temperature, loss of excitation

Section II.2 Distribution & Customer Service Division

Here, I was also attached briefly. The diagram below shows the structure of the division.

2.3.1 Distribution Division

The structure below represents the distribution division.

21 | P a g e
 Figure 2: Distribution Division hierarchy

DEPARTMENT: DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION

SECTION: WAYLEAVES
This department deals with six major tasks;
o Acquisition of consent prior to laying the power lines

 This consent may be individual (e.g. plot) or public (e.g. market)

o Carry out assessment, costing and paying for the damages caused by KPLC while
constructing the power line
o Wayleaves infringement – writing infringement notes

o Filling of the wayleaves documents obtained with the aim of retrieving them for defense of
the company in a law court
o Acquisition of cadastral plans and maps from survey department to ensure our customers
affected at the exact position in the map when the power line runs
o Reply to complain letters from customers

The types of jobs handled by this department are;

o CWA (Capital Works Authority)

o Service line

22 | P a g e
 o Rural electrification schemes

o System reinforcement

o Group scheme/customer creation scheme

SECTION: SURVEY
Survey is defined as the art of taking measurements of both natural and manmade features to
enable plotting of the same to a given scale to produce a map. This department offers services to
the design engineers. They do the actual route selection
The process is as follows;
 The engineers do the survey and then come up with a sketch map
 A map for the terrain is generated. This map gives a vertical picture of power line to follow
 A strip plan is then prepared. It shows the points of supply and routes
 This map is then passed to the engineers to design the line. It also helps the wayleaves to
obtain consent
Some of the equipments used are;
 Theodolite
 Leveling stave
 Total stations (the new equipment that produces the map)
 Google maps
SECTION: DRAWING OFFICE
The department is mainly concerned/involved with designing/drawing the proposals of electricity
supply to our clients/customers.

The proposals originate from surveyors given to the engineers

 The drawings are scaled and show property boundaries
 This helps the engineers to get quantities for quotations
The types of maps handled by this department are;
 Location maps – for the site
 Supply map – for the supply
 Schematic map – switching map
These drawings indicate/show the power installations. It is also from this department that
transformers and switches are issued with numbers

DEPARTMENT: OPERATION & MAINTENANCE

The core business of this department is the maintenance of distribution lines. The power lines
worked on are 66kv (high voltage), 33kv11kv (medium voltage) and low voltage lines which are
415 for 3phase and 240v for single phase. They also attend to customer complaints

23 | P a g e
In the operations part the procedure is as follows;
 Customer complaint is received at call center by the telephone operator
 The complaint is keyed in the Incidence Management System (IMS). Status becomes
pending
 The controller assigns the job to a team. The status changes to team sent
 The team identifies the cause of the fault. The status changes to cause identified
 It then moves to in restoration status
 Supply restored status and then
 Solved
In the maintenance part, IMS assists in carrying out maintenance because it contains all in the
information about the installation.
Inspection are carried out on the installations to identify the problem so as to carry out
preventive/corrective action
Plans on the maintenance are to be carried out on annual basis
The task may involve changing of conductors, up rating the system network i.e. (transformers,
conductor, and main lines)
Substation maintenance (both primary & secondary substation) involves checking of conductors,
leads, and fuse holders
The DTMMS system is used for planning for these maintenance jobs

24 | P a g e
 Article III. DETAIL OF WORK DONE

3.1 Preventative Maintenance

This was a monthly task performed to ensure good working conditions for the computer
equipments. The task involved blowing of computers and peripheral devices to remove dust that
otherwise clog onto machines reducing their performance by, say slowing the machines, blocking
moving parts such as fans and increasing heat accumulation by blocking air ventilations on
devices.
This was also done to minimize the risk of infection on computer users due to dust. Dust is known
to cause a number of diseases and thus its accumulation is a health hazard.
The task was performed on all equipment, monitors, CPUs, Switches, hubs, printers etc.
General maintenance means taking care of any minor problems that you might discover during
planned maintenance. For example, if you find a worn cable while cleaning a computer, you
should replace it then, rather than waiting for it to fail. Other general maintenance procedures
include checking items that you know can cause system problems, such as disk fragmentation
Preventive maintenance materials include cleaning solution, soft brush, lint free cloths, screw
drivers, anti-static spray, vacuum cleaner, alcohol, and blower.
The devices were also cleaned by soap and water but avoiding contact of electronic circuitry with
water. Moving parts such as fan motors, printer rollers were oiled to ensure smooth flow.
The task of PM was the most dreaded by all staff in the IT & T department as it was not only
energy demanding but also exhaustively done to more than 500 work stations each with its own
devices.

25 | P a g e
 Photo 1: A Blower (source: Google pictures)

3.1.1 Preventive Maintenance Procedures

Computer and peripheral device maintenance procedures are device-specific. As with any device,
turn it off and unplug the power cord before starting any preventive maintenance procedure.
Leaving power applied to the computer or peripheral can be a shock hazard and can cause
component failure.
3.1.1.1 Computer/System Board
 Remove the cover to avoid the possibility of dripping excess cleaning solution inside
the system.
 Apply the solution to the cloth, not directly to the system cover.
 Clean the outside surfaces of the computer with a mild cleaning solution and a lint-free
cloth.
 Use a dust blower to remove accumulated dust from the internal system boards
(motherboard and adapter boards) taking extreme caution so as to avoid removing board
jumpers
 Replace any missing expansion slot covers.
3.1.1.2 Display Monitor
 Clean the monitor cover with a lint-free cloth lightly dampened with a cleaning solution.
 Clean the monitor screen with water (not your cleaning solution) or one of the commercial
products available specifically for that purpose.
3.1.1.3 Keyboard
 Turn the keyboard upside down and shake it so as to remove any sold particles.

26 | P a g e
  Blow air into the particles so as to remove dust.
 Wipe the key tops and keyboard enclosure with a lint free cloth dampened with a cleaning
solution.
3.1.1.4 Mouse/Pointing Device
 Remove the retaining ring holding the ball in
place.
 Clean the ball with cleaning solution or water.
 Clean the x and y rollers with a foam swab
dampened with cleaning solution.
 Blow out any accumulated dust.
Replace the ball and retaining ring.

Figure 3: Mouse open for cleaning

Source: IT.com
3.1.1.5 Printers
 Pluck off all the removable parts of the given printer
 Brushing and blow out any accumulated dust or bits of paper.
 Cleaning the platen surface with cleaning solution on a lint-free cloth.
 Wipe the carriage assembly clean.
 Clean the print head using a foam swab and isopropyl alcohol to remove ink residue.
 Clean the printer surface with cleaning solution applied to a lint-free cloth
Physical adjustments and lubrication of moving parts are conducted during impact printer
maintenance. This includes:
 Adjusting the spacing between the platen and the print head.
 Checking the tension on the print head positioning belt or cable.
 Checking the print head positioning belt for wear.
 Lubricating the roller assembly.
 Lubricating the paper feed gear mechanism.
 Lubricating the carriage assembly rails.

3.2 Software Systems Management

Software at the KPLC are stored are installed from the server location named “stima-fprnt” in
directories called “software” and “installations”
As outlined earlier, KPLC has automated almost all their operations by installing software systems
that perform the tasks with greater efficiency and speed. Having different departments, the
software is also meant for different departments. For instance, FDB, DCS, DTMMS software for
engineering drawing and design is limited for use by engineers as is ICS, SAP for finance
department.

27 | P a g e
3.2.1 Microsoft office 2016 Management
Office automation software is installed across all department as they are required there anyway.
The software used in office documents processing at the KPLC is the Microsoft Office 2016.
Management of this software included installation of the suite and Outlook mail configuration.
The installation of the suite is quite simple as one follows a wizard that is easily understood. The
more technical part with this installation is while configuring user E-Mail with Outlook. Here, one
has to first connect to the mail server at the KPLC, currently located at computer named “stima-
fprnt”. This is facilitated by the Microsoft Exchange application on Outlook. It recognizes the
user’s email and searches him/ her in the server. Once found, one needs to create an outlook .pst
file where mail will be stored upon receipt, sending or deleting.
This was done by creating a personal folder and if one so wishes would put a password for access
into Outlook for security purpose. The personal folder was best place at a conveniently retrievable
location such as the root folder C:\ for ease of access instead of the default outlook path which is
very long.
Where a user was swapping computers, it was usual to also transfer the .pst files to the new
computer to ensure that (s)he didn’t lose older mails.
Mail accounts are found in the kplc domain. All account holders follow the format:
my_name@kplc.co.ke. For instance, Sylvia Chebet’s account is schebet@kplc.co.ke.

3.2.2 In-house Systems management

Most of the in-house systems are database driven. There is therefore the ever present connection of
the systems to the networked database. These systems can never work unless there is a network
connection. The systems also need to be updated. These updates are cleverly made to run on
system start up by placing a shortcut to updater file on the systems startup directory. This avoids
the support team to updating every computer every time the users log in.
However, it was noted that not always did the updater file run on startup. Therefore, the work of
the support team was to attend the client at the workstation and initiate the update. Still, if this
failed, the files in the update directory at the server end could be copied, selecting the recently
modified or which are as close to the current date as possible and pasted into the client systems
directories.
The installation of the systems was somewhat technical especially the database driven ones. The
systems had to be configured upon installation specifying certain IP addresses on the server and
port numbers.
Reported problems with these systems included failure to log in which was first corrected by
checking whether there was network connection, entry of the correct password and username
combinations and updating the system by running the updater file.
Where diagnosis problems persisted, it was an indication of system’s corruption. An obvious
option was to run antivirus software to scan for viruses. On finishing the system would be run and
if still malfunctioning was experienced a complete uninstallation and reinstallation would then be
done. The system hardly failed on reinstallation and normal business would be resumed.
Most of the engineering software systems such as FDB and AutoCAD are very loaded and require
high speed processors and large memory computers. Problems arose when they were installed in
computers with low memory capacity. This was corrected by releasing memory by stopping less

28 | P a g e
involving processes in the task manager. A long term solution involved uninstalling the system and
installing them on computers with higher processing speeds and memory sizes.

3.2.3 Operating systems management

Work on the operating systems was restricted to the client based systems given the sensitivity of
the server systems. Microsoft’s Windows 10 Enterprise is the OS of choice at the company given
its modest memory requirement, relative high speed and compatibility with most in-house systems
and ease of use.
Work on these systems involved fresh installations, repair and configurations.
Clients would normally report slow operation by computers. This was diagnosed first as virus
infection for which the antivirus was updated and then run on the client’s desk to remove viruses.
Where viruses were found and removed, and the system assumed normal operation, this was a
success.
However, if the problem persisted, there was more beyond a virus infection. The systems settings
on virtual memory and page file sizes could be substantially increased to optimal levels.
If this failed, there was a hint on system’s files corruption for which a repair was done using the
option on repair on the Windows 10 Enterprise installation CD.
Where this didn’t restore the system to normal operation, the client’s files would be backed up on
an available partition in the same PC, another computer, flash, DVD or CD storage. A fresh
installation would then be done. Post installation of software such as MS Office, in-house systems
and any other suitable software would be done.
However, the PC had to first join the KPLC domain, known as “KPLC”, and assigned an easily
readable short and unique computer name for networking purposes. This was done while the LAN
connection was on. Users of the system would then be added and registered as administrators on
the user accounts menu at the control panel of the Windows 10 Enterprise.

3.2.4 Networking
KPLC regions and offices are connected via a LAN and a WAN. Network has the cable and the
wireless connection. WLAN (wireless LAN) is mostly available on laptops. The computer
network of the institutions is managed by a domain, the “KPLCSTIMA” domain. All computers
had to be added into the domain to be able to access network resources and the internet,
UTP cable networking is popular with the company within a LAN given the ubiquitous presence of
data points and high speed connection (100mbps) they offer.
All desktops at the company had to be connected to the LAN. Through the LAN, access to network
resources and sharing was facilitated.
Connection to the internet was via a proxy server. This meant that there was no automatic
connection to the internet except by way of the proxy server. The host computer had to be
configured by inserting the proxy address on the internet options LAN settings. The IP address for
the proxy server was 172.16.4.44 and the port 8443. This was true even for wireless connections.
The proxy server connection was added a restrictive firewall which was configured with Web
Marshal Software to limit sites that can be accessed from the local network. This is both a security
measure and work place etiquette, where users cannot download content that may be deemed to be
harmful such as software, video and music files that are normally virus laden. Also, access to some

29 | P a g e
social sites such as facebook and youtube at particular times of the day was barred to get the staff
working instead of visiting such addictive sites.
The network was managed by Windows 10 Enterprise Server Platform, which was configured to
issue DHCP IP addresses to computers connected to the network. This reduced the trouble of
having to manage static IPs.
A UTP cable would be connected on NIC port at the back of the computer to link it to the data
point on the wall. Where there were more computers than data points, a hub was used to increase
the number of available ports, which would then be connected with a single link to the available
data point on the wall.
In some cases, a splitter was used to give room for more connections though this reduced the speed
of connections significantly, obviously. The advantage of a hug is that it contains circuitry that
maintains a high speed connection than a splitter.
For cabled network, the major task was in crimping the UTPs to the RJ45. This was a technical
work that required the technician to be meticulous with the crimping.
There are two types of crimping, depending on the devices being connected- cross over and
straight through cable connection.
Attaching RJ-45 connectors
RJ-45 connectors for twisted-pair cables are not too difficult to attach if you have the right
crimping tool. The only trick is making sure that you attach each wire to the correct pin and then
pressing the tool hard enough to ensure a good connection.
Here’s the procedure for attaching an RJ-45 connector:
1. Cut the end of the cable to the desired length. Make sure that you make a square cut — not a
diagonal cut.
2. Insert the cable into the stripper portion of the crimp tool so that the end of the cable is against
the stop. Squeeze the handles and slowly pull the cable out, keeping it square. This strips off the
correct length of outer insulation without puncturing the insulation on the inner wires.
3. Arrange the wires so that they lay flat. You’ll have to play with the wires a little bit to get them
to lay out in the right sequence.
4. Slide the wires into the pinholes on the connector. Double-check to make sure that all the wires
slipped into the correct pinholes.
5. Insert the plug and wire into the crimping portion of the tool and then squeeze the handles to
crimp the plug.
6. Remove the plug from the tool and double-check the connection.
That’s all.

30 | P a g e
 Figure 4: Attaching an RJ-45 to a UTP

Photo 2: Crimping tool ( source: Google pictures)

Here are a few other points to remember when dealing with RJ-45 connectors and twisted-pair
cable:
✦ The pins on the RJ-45 connectors are not numbered, but you can tell which is pin 1 by holding
the connector so that the metal conductors are facing up, as shown in Figure 2-2. Pin 1 is on the
left.
✦ Some people wire 10baseT cable differently — using the green and white pair for pins 1 and 2
and the orange and white pair for pins 3 and 6. This doesn’t affect the operation of the network
(the network is color-blind), as long as the connectors on both ends of the cable are wired the
same!
✦ If you’re installing cable for a Fast Ethernet system, you should be extra careful to follow the
rules of Category-5 cabling. That means, among other things, making sure that you use Category-5

31 | P a g e
components throughout. The cable and all the connectors must be up to Category-5 specs. When
you attach the connectors, don’t untwist more than 1⁄2 inch of cable. And don’t
try to stretch the cable runs beyond the 100-meter maximum. When in doubt, have cable for a
100Mbps Ethernet system professionally installed.
Crossover cables
A crossover cable is a cable that can be used to directly connect two devices without a hub or
switch. You can use a crossover cable to connect two computers directly to each other, but
crossover cables are more often used to daisy-chain hubs and switches to each other.
A Crossover cable was used to connect devices of the same nature e.g. switch to switch whereas a
straight through cable connects devices of different nature e.g. Switch-PC.
I was involved in cable termination, both straight through cables and crossover cables. I also made
peer to peer networks for data transfer from PC to laptop, in cases where a user did not want their
personal laptops to be added to the institution’s domain.
I found networking to be really interesting regardless of the work involved. The fact that one could
access music files, movies, and documents from a remote computer was not only exciting but also
time saving and convenient.

Figure 5: Creating a cross over cable

Major networking tasks involved-troubleshooting network problems; terminating network cables

i.e. straight through cable, rollover cable, troubleshooting hubs, routers, switches, and
troubleshooting network data points.
Computers had to be configured to join the KPLC domain. The work here involved first ensuring
the computer LAN connection was on, a unique valid sensible computer name for the PC and the
correct name for the domain name KPLC.

32 | P a g e
 Figure 6: Screen shot of joining a PC to the KPLC domain

3.2.5 Printers, scanners & copiers tasks

Just like any other business with a lot of paperwork, printers were extensively used in the
company. Printing of memos, electric bills, notices, letters etc and their duplication were the order
of the day.
The company has a good taste in choosing HP branded printers. Though this brand proved quite
resilient with the heavy operations at the company, there were numerous tasks that were involved
with printers.
The printer task involved installation, sharing of the printer by connecting other PCs to use the
computer to which the printer is already installed. One printer could be used by even up to 10
people. This again shows the power of a network.
Problems with printers ranged from paper jam, replacement of rollers and cartridges, fuser units
and refilling of ink cartridges. Users would occasionally experience printing problems whenever
there was a printer spooler problem. This was corrected by deleting the “print jobs” queued for
printing and then restarting the spooler. Other problems included printer configuration settings
where users had a turned off or moved printer set as default printer. This was corrected by setting
the default printer as one which was available on the network and working.
A common printing problem noted was where users would configure their document to a paper
size that was not configured on the printer itself. This was corrected by configuring the printer to
print any paper size from ant tray.
Where there were printer breakdowns, they would be taken to the workshop and repaired.
However, newer printers were on warranty and whenever there was a failure, ICT staff were never
involved but the suppliers, “Mfi Office Solutions”, would be phoned to come and repair the
machines.
33 | P a g e
In the drawing rooms, sophisticated large scanners were used. Most of them were under warranty
and their breakdown was again attended by the suppliers rather than the IT staff.

3.2.6 Computer hardware diagnosis, troubleshooting and repair

During the course of my attachment, I was involved in troubleshooting various components of a
PC. These components include the following:
 Monitors
 Keyboards
 Mouse
 System unit/CPU
Before any troubleshooting task was performed, it was advisable for one to collect adequate data
relating to the problem from the users and other documents so as to avoid misdiagnosis. The
following was noted as some of the main causes of PC malfunctioning and they should be taken
into consideration before further troubleshooting can take place.
 System or device not plugged into AC power
 System or device not turned on
 Cable not connected or loose
If all the above were in order, tests using meters, the senses of sight and smell would be done to
determine for possible burnouts traces, smoke traces on the system units etc. The various devices
had different diagnosis procedures. Outlined below are the steps taken to troubleshoot failed
hardware components.
3.2.6.1 Monitors
The most common monitor problems could usually be traced back to either the video adapter,
cable or the monitor. If the monitor didn’t function properly, troubleshooting it followed the
procedure:
 Try connecting a different display to the system.
 If the new monitor does not work, the problem is with the video adapter or system. If the
new monitor does work, the old monitor or cable is failing
 If the monitor is not receiving power (the power light stays dark when you press the “On”
button), check that the power cord is plugged in at the outlet and at the back of the monitor.
Also check whether the line voltage is working properly using a tester and if not, try
replacing the power cable. If this replacement fails to fix the problem, then the problem is
with the monitor.
 If the monitor has power, but nothing is displayed, make sure the system is turned on and
that the monitor cable is connected.
 Check the monitor's brightness and contrast settings. If these are set too low, you may not
be able to see anything on the monitor. Once these possible causes are ruled out, the
problem may be with the adapter, cable or monitor. Remove and replace the failing
component.
If the adaptor or the cable is found to be faulty replace them. However, repair on the monitor can
be attempted. The main cause of monitor problems is a substandard solder joint connecting to the
motherboard. The expansion and contraction as the motherboard heats and cools over time can
cause a substandard solder joint to fail.
34 | P a g e
Such a monitor can be repaired by soldering on the joints which is accomplished by following the
below procedure:
 Unplug the monitor from the power source and place it on the bench.
 Remove the screws from the monitor cover.
Caution: Take extra care while removing the monitor cover. This is because there is a
great risk of electrical shock from the monitor’s fly back if it has not been discharged.
 Remove the fly back by holding the rubber part and then pulling it out.
 Discharge the fly back by placing two crossing screw drivers with insulated handles on its
terminals.
 Apply solder on all the substandard joints.
 Replace the fly back and the cover and then test the monitor
3.2.6.2 Mouse and Keyboard Failures
The most common keyboard failures are stuck keys and non-responsive keyboards.
A keyboard that cannot communicate with the system or an unplugged keyboard will be detected
during the POST. Stuck keys and non-responsive keyboards can also be detected during system
operations. Stuck keys are usually caused by dirt or liquids spilled into the keyboard. A non-
responsive keyboard can be caused by dirt, a failing key switch or failing keyboard circuitry.
The keyboard failures are corrected by cleaning them with propanol. If the keyboard circuitry fails,
the keyboard should and were replaced.
The most common mouse failures are a non-responsive mouse or improper responses.
Improper responses include erratic movement, intermittent failure to respond to mouse clicks and
similar problems. The most common problem is accumulated dirt, but failing mouse circuitry can
also be a fault. Mouse faults are also corrected by cleaning using alcohol.
If replacing the keyboard or mouse does not correct the problem, you may have a problem with a
bad or incorrect device driver, but a more likely cause is that the interface circuitry on the
motherboard is failing. This failure will usually require you to replace the motherboard.
3.2.6.3 Memory Problems
Memory errors can be identified as either soft memory errors or hard memory errors. Soft memory
errors are typically temporary errors that occur while the system is running. Hard memory errors
are typically detected during the POST and indicate a failing memory module or memory
controller circuitry. When a soft memory error occurs, it is generally reported that an application or
other program has generated a memory error.
You will need to restart the system to clear the memory error and initialize system memory. A
failing memory chip means that you must replace the entire memory module.
If the POST includes a location code with the memory error, the first number in the code is
significant. It identifies memory error's bank location. When a memory error occurs, start by
removing and reinstalling the SIMM or DIMM module. The problem is sometimes simply that the
module is not seated properly in its slot or that the edge connectors are not making a complete
connection.
If removal and reinstallation does not correct the problem, the most likely cause is a failing SIMM
or DIMM. Replace the failing SIMM or DIMM and test.
If replacement does not correct the error, the problem is most likely with the microprocessor or the

35 | P a g e
motherboard. A failing processor will typically generate multiple memory errors. The solution is to
replace the failing processor.
A motherboard error could be due to a bad memory slot, bad trace, chipset failure or other
motherboard failure. In any case, the solution is to replace the failing motherboard.
3.2.6.4 Power supply
Most power supply failures cause the loss of one or more DC voltages. When this happens, the
system will typically be unable to start up. It may also be that the voltages drift out of tolerance,
which will sometimes allow the system to start up, but will cause unreliable performance and
intermittent system failures. None of the components in a power supply (other than the cooling
fan) are considered replaceable. You will need to remove and replace the entire power supply.
Ensure you select a power supply that is appropriate for the motherboard form and that will
provide sufficient power.

Table 1: Power related problems and their solutions:

Problem Cause
Power switch not connected
to the system board.
Computer won’t turn on
(Power LED on front of Power line selector switch on
computer not on.) the rear of the computer
chassis not switched to the
correct line voltage. (115V
or 220V).
Power LED blinks RED Power supply overloaded or
1 time per 2 seconds. short was detected
Solution
Plug the power switch into the
system board.
Select the proper AC voltage
using the slide switch, which is in
this case 220V.
Unplug the computer from AC
power. Unplug internal power
cables from all devices and
unplug all PCI cards. Reconnect
devices one at time and turn
power on to identify the cause.

36 | P a g e

Power supply shuts
down intermittently.
When installing power cable to
Diskette drive power not diskette drive, ensure all the four
properly connected. pins on the drive are connected to
the power cable connector.
Power supply shuts down
after system warms up.
Replace the power supply.
Thermal overload caused by
bad fan.
Power supply will not turn
on because of internal power Replace power supply.
supply fault.
Power line selector switch on Select the proper AC voltage
rear not switched on to the (220V) using the slide switch.
correct line voltage.
Power supply will not turn
on because of internal power Replace power supply.
supply fault.

3.2.6.5 Hard Drive Problems

Numerous hard disks problems were reported during my training at the KPLC. Where a computer
couldn’t boot and the hard drive not detected in the startup, this was an indication of a problem
with the hard disk. First solution procedure involved checking the power and data connections on
the hard disk and to the motherboard. If no problem was noticed, further diagnosis would be
obtained by testing the hard disk with a different IDE/ SATA data cable to determine if the
problem was with the data or power cables.

Table 2: Hard drive problems and their solutions

Problem Cause Solution

Use scandisk to locate and block
Hard drive error Hard disk has bad sectors or
usage of bad sectors. If necessary,
occurs has failed
reformat the hard drive.
Either the directory structure is
Disk transaction bad or there is a problem with
Run a scandisk on the hard drive.
problem a file

Drive not found Cable could be loose Check cable connection

37 | P a g e
 Check to see if the device is listed
within computer setup. If it’s listed,
System may not have
the probable cause is a driver
automatically recognized a
problem. If it’s not listed the
newly installed device.
possible cause is a hardware
problem.
If the drive is a secondary that has
just been installed on the same
Drive jumper settings may be
controller as he primary drive the
incorrect.
jumper of both drives have to set
correctly
The system is trying to start
from a diskette that is not Remove diskette from drive
Non system disk bootable
message System is trying to start from
Insert a bootable diskette into the
the hard drive but the hard
drive and restart the computer
drive has been damaged.

3.2.6.6 Motherboard
This is the main part of the system unit. It contains most of the computer's electronic components.
Peripherals and adapters connect either directly or indirectly to the motherboard. A motherboard is
an arrangement that contains the basic circuitry and components for a computer. As a standard, the
circuitry of a motherboard is imprinted or affixed to a firm flat surface, usually manufactured in a
single print or step. Problems occurring in the motherboard are mainly caused by its components
and the failing components should be replaced. If the motherboard is found to be faulty, replace it.

3.3 Training at the Distribution Division

In this division, very much electrical engineering was in application. My work here included use of
software systems for design and construction of electricity connections, specifically DCS. Other
software I worked with was DTMMS, and FDB. I did a great deal of drawing using AutoCAD
2019.
The procedure for electricity supply and connection for a new customer involves design. The
design process is where the customer geographical location is noted, the engineers design how
electricity will be supplied. This include determining the availability of electricity lines passing in
the vicinity, available transformer and load capacity that can be supported and that which is
already been spent. The access to the client’s location terrain is also analyzed for available
impediments to electricity lines such as large trees, and buildings and private property.
Though my work with IMS, and FDB was limited to observing the systems for electricity
anomalies and reporting, my interaction with the practicing engineers was quite educative.

38 | P a g e
 Article IV. KPLC SWOT ANALYSIS

4.1 Introduction
KPLC being a monopoly electricity supplier and distributor state corporation has a lot to be
praised, emulated and condemned for, just like any company. Highlighted below is the SWOT
analysis of the company.

4.2 Strengths
 Experienced staff members: The top management is composed of engineers
 Excellent leadership and management levels.
 Fast transport and communication between the offices
 Company stable economic stand.
 High technological literacy and application
 Courteous staff
 Corporate respect
 Strong ICT application backbone

4.3 Weakness
 Poor company image. With several electrical outages, slow replacement of vandalized
transformers, disconnections and inflated bills, the public holds a negative attitude towards
the company.
 Poor employees’ transportation system. Staff transport is a privilege to a few.
 Insufficient employees. A good number of employees are either college interns or casual
workers. One wouldn’t expect their work motivation to be harmoniously driven to the
success of the company.
 Lack of a competitive edge as the company is government owned monopoly.

4.4 Opportunities
 IT applications support
 Ready and expanding market extending to the rural areas
 Conducive political and government involvement
 Company’s popularity

4.5 Threats
 Political influence
 Continued vandalism
 Corrupt staff especially the disconnection and personnel departments
 High costs of production that results in high electric bills that customers complain of

39 | P a g e
 5.0 CONCLUSION
My experience at the KPLC was quite a landmark in my career. The company exposed me to the
challenges and opportunities that awaited me. It also built in me the confidence to handle any
challenge that I might be presented with at the workplace and the much sought hands on
experience.
My interaction with the various employees while attending to their ICT problems allowed me to
exercise work ethics observing courtesy and mutual respect. I was also able to make friends of all
ages and levels; from fellow ICT staff to foremen to clerks to secretaries to accountants and
various managers.
The attachment had its highlights of challenges though. In the beginning, getting used to the work
environment was a big challenge since the work was done with high standards of professionalism
that I had not familiarized myself with. To portray excellent results in tasks I was assigned, I had
to work extra harder to get to the standards of the company. Being in a new work environment, I
had to consult so much my supervisors on how to go about things without being a bother.
I lacked initiative and I was more of a guided worker- just there to follow instructions. Though I
quickly adapted to the environment, it was only appropriate to keep my head low with humility to
learn new things that KPLC had in place for me for which I did.
A major challenge experienced was with users who lacked basic ICT skills. A client would seek
support to start a computer or call for assistance when the laptop battery died.
A rather unfortunate challenge was lack of finances. The attachees were not paid a single dime
though they did as much work as the regular staff. This lowered interns’ morale as one could
interpret the attachment as a pure liability especially on days when no training went on.
While KPLC has an excellent ICT infrastructure, it would all be unnecessary if users lacked ICT
skills. A good percentage of ICT problems I attended on staff as a support analyst were very
simple tasks that anyone with basic ICT skills could solve. Users seemed to lack these basic skills
which would be necessary for troubleshooting simple failures. The common observation was a
lackluster IT training to staff.
The KPLC embrace to ICT is quite admirable. No wonder they continue making profits. With the
excellent team of staff led by Eng. John Malombe Kyeveo
, the ICT & T Chief Engineer, the company has a bright future.

40 | P a g e
 6.0 RECOMMENDATIONS
With the company having a very broad ICT application, the ICT & T division seemed
understaffed. Even with the extra services of interns and casuals, there was still a shortage
of staff. The company should therefore engage in hiring more staff in the ICT department.
Users demonstrated a general poor ICT skills knowledge. There’s a need for the company to
engage in comprehensive and through training for their staff. This would not only help increase the
output of each worker but also relieve the strained and understaffed ICT support staff.
A recommendation to consider remuneration for attachees can’t go unaired. The company should
pay the attachees a little fee to at least cater for their transport to and from the company.
The company should engage in a massive public relations exercise to boost its tainted image. The
company should be able to convince the public why they’d have to ration supply even as they
await a mouth watering soccer match. I was able to understand why that was important and am
sure the PR office would do better to improve the company image.
The company needs to exert more efforts in its campaigns against vandalism, tampering of meters
and dishonest employees all combined which contribute to losses. There should also be a public
sensitization on tariffs calculations and the billing process. The company should also be
considerate on disconnections and the high reconnection fee which frustrate the customers.
On the side of the university, the CCD&P should seek more collaboration with high flying
companies to expose the students to potential employers. The university should also offer a
flexible internship period where students can attend internship at any time of the year. This is
because internship has of late become very hard to get given the high number of institutions and
duplication of courses. Internship therefore becomes as difficult to get as a job.
The university should also consider frequent supervision by the supervisor from the university.
This is because of the constant temptation by the trainee to skip training on days when the
university and the company supervisor aren’t aware of the trainee’s presence.
The university should work with the insurance companies to offer subsidized insurance policies to
attachees. Where possible, the university can acquire the responsibility through an insurance
company and spread the amount over a number of semester fees.
The university, given its louder voice, seeks attachment for its students rather than students
seeking fruitlessly for internship. This would ensure that students graduate in time and don’t have
a workload form semesters missed while on internship.

41 | P a g e
 7.0 REFERENCES
1. Charles, K.(2001). Technology-based training for A+ Certification[CD-ROM]. gtslearning

2. Single Inline Memory module. (2004). In Microsoft Encarta 1996 Encyclopedia

[CD-ROM]. Redmond, WA: Microsoft Corporation.
3. Strangas, E. G. Notes For An Introductory Course On Electrical Machines. MSU
4. Weiner, F, (1996). Encyclopedia of Networking.
5. http://kplc.co.ke
6. http://freetroubleshootingbook.com

8.0 GLOSSARY

Power on self test (POST) - The POST procedure is a hardware checking system that is
built into the PCs BIOS operating system. This test sequentially monitors the state of the
memory chips, the processor, system clock, display and BIOS itself.
Single Inline Memory Modules (SIMM)-memory module used by older systems
Socket- Means of attaching ICs to a printed circuit board that allows the ICs to be removed
and replaced by technicians.
RJ-45. RJ-xx is a modular connection mechanism originally developed by the telephone
company. (RJ stands for registered jack.) The connection allows for up to eight wires (used

42 | P a g e
as four pairs). In RJ-xx connections, the jack is the female component and the plug is the
male component. Various RJ configurations are available.
These are distinguished by the following: Number of wire pairs used (generally two, three,
or four), Which wire pairs are used (known as the wiring sequence), Keying or other
modifications to the plug and jack, designed to make correct connections easier and
incorrect connections less likely For example, the telephone company commonly uses two-
pair wire in an unkeyed connection. The first wire pair, which uses the two middle
positions, carries the voice signal for the primary line. RJ-45: Eight-wire (four-pair)
connection is the telephone company version is used for connections with multiple lines in
the same location. If there is no competition for wires, such a connection can also be used
for 10BaseT networks. An RJ-45 connection uses a larger plug and jack than for RJ-11 or
RJ-12. For unkeyed connections, you can connect
an RJ-11 or RJ-12 plug to an RJ-45 jack, but you cannot fit an RJ-45 plug into an RJ-11/12
jack.
LAN- A LAN is a collection of two or more computers that are located within a limited
distance of each other and that are connected to each other, directly or indirectly. LANs
differ in the way the computers are connected, in how information moves around the
network, and in what machine (if any) is in charge of the network. The computers in a LAN
may be PCs, Macintoshes, minicomputers, mainframes, or machines with other
architectures. However, there are restrictions on the combinations that are feasible and
sensible.
Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM)-memory modules used by newer systems
Basic Input/output System (BIOS) - Firmware consisting of small programs stored in
non-volatile memory. The BIOS is a ROM chip that contains programs and information
relating to the basic operation of PC components such as drives, keyboard, video display
and ports.
Jumper- Removable connector located on a motherboard, adapter board, or other circuit
board. Jumpers are used to define configuration settings. The term Berg header is also used
to refer to jumpers.
DHCP- On a TCP/IP-based network, DHCP is used to get information about a client host’s
(i.e., a network node’s) configuration from a DHCP server, which is a specially designated
network node. This is useful, for example, in situations where clients are assigned IP
addresses dynamically, and where these addresses disappear after a session or after the host
relinquishes the address. This is common with Internet Access Providers that assign IP
addresses as subscribers connect for a session. The configuration information may not exist
until the client requests it. This helps keep down administrative chores.

43 | P a g e
 9.0 APPENDIX

9.1 Appendix A: KPLC Organizational Structure

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

MANAGING DIRECTOR

DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR

INTERNAL AUDIT

ENERGY HUMAN RESOURCES COMPANY FINANCE & DISTRIBUTION & IT

TRANSMISSION & ADMINISTRATION SECRETARY PROCUREMENT CUSTOMER SERVICE &TELECOMMUNICATI
ON

WEST REGION COAST REGION MT KENYA REGION NAIROBI REGION

44 | P a g e
9.2 Appendix C: KPLC Systems

45 | P a g e
Below are screenshots of selected KPLC in-house system

Figure 7: ICS in operation. The figure shows electricity bill for a customer named Arthur
Macheho

46 | P a g e
Figure 8: A snapshot of DCS in operation

47 | P a g e
Figure 9: DTTMS Login screen

48 | P a g e
Figure 10: IMS Login screen

49 | P a g e
 Section IV.1 Appendix D: KPLC offices and Branches
Table 3: Offices & Branches List
 AREA TEL NUMBER ADDRESS PHYSICAL ADDRESS  
ELECTRICITY HOUSE
 NAIROBI REGION    HARAMBEE AVENUE -  
NAIROBI
(020) 221251, P.O Box
 Nairobi Office  Odeyseus9  
312957 - E - House 30177, Nairobi
(020) 375 – 4000 – P.O Box
 Emergency Office    
Pilot Line 30177, Nairobi
P.O Box
 Emergency Mobiles (0735) 333222/3    
30177, Nairobi
P.O Box
   (0722) 207997/ 8    
30177, Nairobi
(0735) 602200 P.O Box
      
(0722) 207999 30177, Nairobi
P.O Box
 Training School (020) 850 1205    
30177, Nairobi
Transport Depot (020) 856316, 856 P.O Box
     
Ruaraka 1916 30177, Nairobi
Central Stores, Isiolo P.O Box
  (020) 559488    
Road 30177, Nairobi
Eastleigh Revenue P.O Box
  (020) 6761643    
Centre 30177, Nairobi
Makadara Revenue P.O Box
  (020) 652496    
Office 30177, Nairobi
P.O Box
 Sarit Centre (020) 4449597    
30177, Nairobi
P.O Box
 Dagoretti Office (020) 3873190/1    
30177, Nairobi
(020) 780775, P.O Box
 Juja Control Office    
781659 30177, Nairobi
P.O Box 3017,
 Wilson Office 607372    
Nairobi
          
          
P O Box 103 ,
 Limuru Office (066) 71033 – 103    
Limuru
 Emergency Office (066) 71068      
P O Box 155,
 Machakos Office (044) 20139 – 155    
Machakos
Athi-River Sub- P O Box 155,
  (045) 20061    
station Machakos
50 | P a g e
 P O Box 155,
 Sultan Hamud (044) 52025    
Machakos
Ruiru Power
  (067) 54030      
Station/Emergency
P.O Box 30177
 Ruiru Transmission (067) 54522    
Nairobi
P O Box
 Garissa Office (046) 2043, 2028    
9 ,Garissa
P O Box 103 ,
 Marsabit Office (069) 2029    
Marsabit
P O Box 127,
 Wajir Office (046) 421020    
Wajir
P O Box 103,
 Moyale Office (069) 52463    
Moyale
P O Box 76 ,
 Mandera Office (046) 52188    
Mandera
P.O Box
 Magadi Office (045) 3000    
30177, Nairobi
P.O Box
 Ongata Rongai (0723) 963839    
30177, Nairobi
          
 AREA TEL NUMBER ADDRESS PHYSICAL ADDRESS  
ELECTRICITY-HOUSE –
ALONG MOI ROAD
 WEST REGION      
OPPOSITE NAKURU
MUNICIPAL HALL
(051) 2211594 –7, P.O Box 104 ,
 Nakuru Office    
2213857 Nakuru
(051) 42170,
 Emergency Office      
2216754
P O Box 180 ,
 Naivasha Office (050) 21506/7    
Naivasha
 Emergency Office (050) 2020169      
P O Box 196 ,
 Nyahururu Office (065) 32068    
Nyahururu
 Emergency Office (065) 22360 – 22840      
P O Box 196,
 Maralal Office (065) 62048    
Maralal
P O Box 469 ,
 Narok Office (050) 22046    
Narok
P O Box 579 ,
 Ravine Office (051) 752175 Eldama    
Ravine
 Lanet Office (051) 850050      

51 | P a g e
 Molo Office (051) 721551      
P O Box 21,
 Lodwar Office (054) 21038    
Lodwar
          
 North Rift        
P O Box 74 ,
KVDA & NATIONAL BANK
Eldoret
 Eldoret Office (053) 2033012-5 BUILDINGS - OLOO  
STREET
 
   2033026, 2031599      
 Emergency Office (053) 2033011      
P O Box 185 ,
Kitale
 Kitale Office (054) 30341    
 
 Emergency Office (054) 30341      
 Power station (054) 20073      
 Kapenguria Office (054) 2083      

 Kabarnet Office (053) 22089    

P O Box 120 ,
Kabarnet
 Emergency Office (053) 22159      
 Ravine Office (051) 752175      
 Lessos Office (053) 35004      
P O Box 762 ,
 Kabsabet Office (053) 52432    
Kapsabet
 Iten (053) 2295      
          
 West Kenya        
ELECTRICITY HOUSE,
P O Box 151,
 Kisumu Office (057) 2020536/7-9 ALONG OGINGA ODINGA  
Kisumu
STREET
 Emergency Office (057) 2020927/6      
P O Box 440,
 Kakamega Office (056)30023, 31015    
Kakamega
 Emergency Office (056) 30023      
P O Box 467,
 Bungoma Office (055) 30516    
Bungoma
P O Box 526,
 Busia Office (055) 22076    
Busia
P O Box 541,
 Siaya Office (057) 321406    
Siaya
 Unguja Office (057) 34071      

52 | P a g e
 P O Box 296,
 Kericho Office (052) 20012    
Kericho
P O Box 328,
 Sotik Office (052) 532181    
Sotik
P O Box 5,
 Kisii Office (058) 30559    
Kisii
 Emergency Office (058) 30828      
 Stores (058) 30833      
P O Box 530,
 Migori Office (058) 20053    
Migori
P O Box 117,
 Homabay Office (059) 22030    
Homa bay
 Nyamira Office (058) 6144420      
 Webuye Office (055) 41220      
          
 AREA TEL NUMBER ADDRESS PHYSICAL ADDRESS  
ELECTRICITY HOUSE,
NEAR JUNCTION – DIGO
 COAST REGION      
ROAD OPPOSITE
AMBALAL HSE
P O Box
 Mombasa Office (041) 2225564/7 90104,    
Mombasa
   2221153, 2226626      
   2226598/88/16/08      
   222461/57      
P O Box
(041) 2224533/5,
 Emergency Office 90104,    
2220048
Mombasa
 Emergency Office        
 Emergency Mobiles (0735) 331763/2      
   (0723) 965321      
P O Box
 Ukunda Office (040) 3203021 90104,    
Mombasa
P O Box
 Kilifi Office (041) 25426 90104,    
Mombasa
P O Box
(041) 2220362,
 Mbaraki Depot 90104,    
2220276/7
Mombasa
P O Box
 Kipevu Office (041) 3435000/1 90104,    
Mombasa

53 | P a g e
 P O Box
 Rabai Office (041) 2229811 90104,    
Mombasa
P O Box 144,
 Voi Office (043) 31231    
Voi
P O Box 132,
 Taveta Office (043) 5352056    
Taveta
P O Box 377,
 Loitoktok office (045) 622077    
Loitoktok
P O Box 144,
 Wundanyi office (043) 42464    
Voi
P O Box 72,
 Lamu office (042) 632068    
Lamu
P O Box 294,
 Malindi office (042) 30200    
Malindi
 Nyali Beach office (041) 54876      
          
 AREA TEL NUMBER ADDRESS PHYSICAL ADDRESS  
MT KENYA
         
REGION
Nyeri - Stima House (061) 2030646/7/8, P O Box 106, STIMA HOUSE,
   
Office 2030545 Nyeri KAMAKWA ROAD
(061) 2030799,
 Diana Centre Office   DIANA HSE TEMPLE ROAD 
2030800
          
P O Box 80,
 Nanyuki Office (062) 32558/9    
Nanyuki
 Emergency Office (062) 32560      
P O Box 221,
 Meru Office (064) 20184    
Meru
 Emergency Office (064) 20588      
P O Box 45,
 Murang’a Office (060) 30197    
Muranga
P O Box 116,
 Isiolo Ofice (064) 52013    
Isiolo
(068) 30068, 30210, P O Box 205,
 Embu Office    
30216 Embu
 Emergency Office (068) 30442      
P O Box 1079,
 Kerugoya Office (060) 21359, 21190    
Kerugoya
P O Box 221,
 Maua Office (064) 21358    
Meru
          
 Theca Office (067) 22320, 21514, P O Box 202 ,    

54 | P a g e
 21207 Theca
(067) 31574, 31582,
        
31636
(067) 21614, 22065,
 Emergency Office      
21991
 Kati (044) 22051      
          
 

55 | P a g e