Reading Electrical Diagrams and Schematics

Learning Objectives
Identify the standards for electrical drawings Answer questions related to the different types of electrical diagrams Read the identification system of highway diagrams

Learning Objectives
Read cable diagrams and assemblies Read pictorial and semipictorial drawings and parts lists

Electrical Diagrams
Communicate information about the electrical system or electrical circuit
Simple, easy-to-understand format of lines and symbols Generally not drawn to scale

Pictorial Diagram
Represent the electrical circuit as a 3-D drawing Most realistic and easy-to-understand representation Common uses:
Sales brochures Catalogs Service manuals Assembly drawings

Pictorial Diagram

Schematic Diagram
Series of lines and symbols representing the electrical current path and the components of the circuit

One-Line Diagram
Simplified version of the schematic diagram

Wiring Diagram
Often referred to as point-to-point interconnecting wiring diagram
Schematic that shows all of the interconnections of the system components

Schematic Wiring Diagram

Series of lines and symbols that represent the electrical current path and the components of the circuit

Highway Wiring Diagram

Simplified or condensed representation of a point-to-point interconnecting wiring diagram Trunk lines or highways Feed lines Coded identification system

Highway Wiring Diagram

Wireless Diagram
Similar to highway diagrams without interconnecting lines

Cable Diagram
Associated with multiconductor systems
Connect components, equipment assemblies, or systems together

Usually provide circuit destination, conductor size, number of leads, conductor type, and power rating

Pictorial Drawings
Common applications:
Vendors catalogs Instruction manuals Assembly instructions Maintenance instructions

Pictorial Assembly Drawing

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