What are the key elements of a good electrical schematic layout and style?

1 Symbols and labels

One of the first elements of a good schematic layout and style is the use of clear and consistent symbols and labels for the electrical components. Symbols are graphical representations of the components, such as resistors, capacitors, switches, and so on. Labels are text annotations that provide additional information, such as component values, names, references, and functions. Symbols and labels should follow the standards and conventions of your industry, field, or project, and be easily recognizable and distinguishable. They should also be aligned, spaced, and oriented properly, to avoid confusion and clutter.

2 Wires and connections

Another element of a good schematic layout and style is the use of neat and logical wires and connections for the electrical paths. Wires are lines that connect the symbols and show the direction of current flow. Connections are points where wires intersect or join, either by a dot or a junction. Wires and connections should be drawn as straight as possible, and avoid crossing or overlapping each other. They should also follow a grid or a snap system, to maintain alignment and order. When wires need to cross without connecting, use a bridge or a loop symbol to indicate that.

3 Blocks and sections

A third element of a good schematic layout and style is the use of blocks and sections for the modularization and organization of the circuit. Blocks are rectangular shapes that enclose a group of symbols and wires that perform a specific function, such as a power supply, a sensor, or a controller. Sections are areas of the schematic that separate different parts of the circuit, such as inputs, outputs, or signals. Blocks and sections should be labeled and numbered clearly, and have input and output terminals that match the corresponding wires. They should also be arranged in a logical and hierarchical manner, to show the flow and structure of the circuit.

4 Notes and comments

A fourth element of a good schematic layout and style is the use of notes and comments for the explanation and documentation of the circuit. Notes are text annotations that provide additional details, such as specifications, parameters, assumptions, or calculations. Comments are text annotations that provide insights, tips, warnings, or recommendations. Notes and comments should be concise and relevant, and placed near the symbols, wires, blocks, or sections they refer to. They should also use a different font, color, or style than the labels, to avoid confusion and emphasize their importance.

5 Title and legend

A fifth element of a good schematic layout and style is the use of a title and a legend for the identification and reference of the schematic. A title is a text annotation that provides the name, date, author, version, and purpose of the schematic. A legend is a table or a chart that provides the meaning, symbol, value, or unit of the components, wires, connections, or blocks used in the schematic. A title and a legend should be placed at the top or bottom of the schematic, and be visible and legible. They should also be updated and verified whenever the schematic is modified or revised.

6 Format and size

A sixth element of a good schematic layout and style is the use of a suitable format and size for the presentation and printing of the schematic. A format is the file type or extension that determines how the schematic is stored, viewed, or edited. A size is the dimension or resolution that determines how the schematic is displayed or printed. A format and a size should be compatible with the software, hardware, or platform that you use to create, share, or print your schematic. They should also be optimized for quality, clarity, and efficiency, and avoid distortion, pixelation, or truncation.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?