Engineers can finally study anywhere with SBE’s new web-based certification tools

The broadcast engineering landscape is rapidly evolving, and professional development tools are finally catching up. The Society of Broadcast Engineers (SBE) has made a significant leap forward by transitioning their CertPreview practice exams to a fully web-based platform. This development represents more than just a technological upgrade—it’s a fundamental shift in how broadcast professionals can prepare for certification and advance their careers in an increasingly mobile work environment.

For years, broadcast engineers faced unnecessary hurdles when studying for SBE certifications. The previous system required local installation of software that often created compatibility issues, leaving engineers spending precious time troubleshooting rather than studying. If you were moving between work locations—from studio to transmitter site to home—accessing your study materials meant being tethered to whichever computer had the software installed. This outdated approach stood in stark contrast to the evolving nature of broadcast engineering work, which demands flexibility and mobility from professionals who are rarely confined to a single workspace.

The new web-based CertPreview system eliminates these barriers, offering instant access from any device with a browser. Engineers can now log in, select their certification area, and immediately begin practicing with random questions that simulate the actual exam experience. The system provides immediate grading and allows unlimited attempts, making it an invaluable resource for identifying knowledge gaps and strengthening weak areas. This accessibility is particularly crucial for engineers who work across multiple sites or states, enabling them to transform previously unproductive downtime—during overnight transmitter shifts or airport layovers—into valuable study opportunities.

The breadth of certifications supported by the new platform is impressive, covering the full spectrum from entry-level to advanced specialist certifications. Whether you’re pursuing a Certified Broadcast Technologist (CBT), Certified Broadcast Networking Technologist (CBNT), or aiming for higher-tier certifications like Certified Broadcast Engineer (CBRE) or specialized certifications in 8-VSB or AM Directional systems, CertPreview now offers relevant practice materials accessible from anywhere. This comprehensive coverage is increasingly important as the lines between traditional broadcast engineering disciplines continue to blur, requiring professionals to develop expertise across multiple domains.

The shift to web-based training tools reflects broader industry trends, with the 2024 Broadcast Engineering Trends Report indicating that 61% of engineers now prefer browser-based training options. This statistic highlights a significant evolution in how broadcast professionals approach continuous education and skill development. As automation systems, routers, and monitoring tools have migrated to web interfaces, it was inevitable that professional development resources would follow the same path. The SBE’s adaptation to this reality demonstrates a commitment to meeting engineers where they are and how they work in the 21st century.

This upgrade represents the latest step in a long evolution of certification preparation resources—from paper sample tests to CD-ROMs to installed applications, and now finally to cloud-based access. Each iteration has increased accessibility, but this latest development represents the most significant leap forward. For an industry that depends on staying current with rapidly evolving technology, having training tools that match the pace and flexibility of modern work patterns isn’t just convenient—it’s essential for maintaining a strong, diverse, and well-qualified engineering workforce.

As broadcast technology continues its convergence with IT systems and workflows become increasingly software-defined, the importance of certification and continuous learning will only grow. The SBE’s modernization of their certification preparation tools sends a clear signal that the organization understands this reality and is committed to removing unnecessary barriers to professional development. For engineers who have delayed pursuing certification due to the limitations of previous study tools, there has never been a better time to reconsider that decision and take advantage of these newly accessible resources.