 1.

Basic Schematic Symbols

 2. Transformer Schematic Symbols
 3. Semiconductor Schematic Symbols
 4. Electronics Tools and Simulators

Basic Schematic Symbols

Electrical & electronic symbols and images are used by engineers in circuit diagrams and
schematics to show how circuit’s components are connected together

  
Circuit layouts and schematic diagrams are a simple and effective way of showing
pictorially the electrical connections, components and operation of a particular
electrical circuit or system. Basic electrical and electronic graphical symbols
called Schematic Symbols are commonly used within circuit diagrams, schematics
and computer aided drawing packages to identify the position of individual
components and elements within a circuit.
Graphical symbols not only identify a components position but the type of electrical
element too, whether its resistive, inductive, capacitive, mechanical, etc. Thus in
circuit diagrams and schematics, graphical symbols identify and represent electrical
and electronic devices and show how they are electrically connected together while
drawing lines between them represents the wires or component leads.
A the connecting leads or pins of a component in a schematic diagram can be
identified using letters or abbreviations. For example, the connecting leads of a
bipolar junction transistor, (BJT) are identified as E (emitter), B (base),
and C (collector). Arrows are also used within schematic symbols to indicate the
direction of conventional current flow around a circuit or through a component, or are
used as part of their graphical symbol to show that the components has a variable or
adjustable value. For example, a potentiometer or rheostat.
Although electrical components are represented by universally accepted schematic
symbols, there are a number of variants and alternative symbols used throughout
the world to represent the same electrical component or device. For example, the
IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) have one set of symbols, while the
IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) has an alternative set of
symbols for the same component.
The basic electrical and electronic graphical symbols presented here are the more
generally accepted graphical symbols because of their common usage across a
range of electrical and electronic fields. The individual graphical symbols below are
given along with a brief description and explanation.

Power Supply Schematic Symbols

Schematic
Symbol Identification Description of Symbol
Symbol

Single Cell A single DC battery cell of 0.5V

DC Battery Supply A collection of single cells forming a DC battery supply

DC Voltage Source A constant DC voltage supply of a fixed value

DC Current Source A constant DC current supply of a fixed value

A dependent voltage source controlled by an external voltage

Controlled Voltage Source
or current
 A dependent current source controlled by an external voltage
Controlled Current Source
or current

AC Voltage Source A sinusoidal voltage source or generator

Electrical Grounding Schematic Symbols

Schematic
Symbol Identification Description of Symbol
Symbol

Earth Ground Earth ground referencing a common zero potential point

Chassis Ground Chassis ground connected to the power supplies earthing pin

Digital Ground A common digital logic circuit ground line

Resistor Schematic Symbols

Schematic
Symbol Identification Description of Symbol
Symbol
Fixed Resistor (IEEE Design)

A fixed value resistor whose resistive value is indicated next

to its schematic symbol

Fixed Resistor (IEC Design)

Potentiometer (IEEE Design)

Three terminal variable resistance whose resistive value is

adjustable from zero to its maximum value

Potentiometer (IEC Design)

Rheostat (IEEE Design)

Two terminal fully adjustable rheostat whose resistive value

varies from zero to a maximum value

Rheostat (IEC Design)

Trimmer Resistor Small variable resistors for mounting onto pcb’s

 Thermistor (IEEE Design)

Thermal resistor whose resistive value changes with changes

in surrounding temperature

Thermistor (IEC Design)

Capacitor Schematic Symbols

Schematic
Symbol Identification Description of Symbol
Symbol

Fixed Value Capacitor

A fixed value parallel plate non-polarised AC capacitor

whose capacitive value is indicated next to its schematic
symbol

Fixed Value Capacitor

A fixed value polarised DC capacitor usually an electrolytic

Polarized Capacitor
capacitor which must be connected to the supply as indicated

An adjustable capacitor whose capacitance value can be

Variable Capacitor
varied by means of adjustable plates
Inductor and Coil Schematic Symbols

Schematic
Symbol Identification Description of Symbol
Symbol

An open inductor, coil or solenoid that generates a magnetic

Open Inductor
field around itself when energised

An inductor formed by winding the coil around a solid

Iron Core Inductor
laminated iron core indicated by solid lines

An inductor formed by winding the coil around a non-solid

Ferrite Core Inductor
ferrite core indicated by dashed lines

Switch and Contact Schematic Symbols

Schematic
Symbol Identification Description of Symbol
Symbol

Single-pole single-throw toggle switch used for making

SPST Toggle Switch
(ON) or breaking (OFF) a circuits current

Single-pole double-throw changeover switch used for

SPDT Changeover Switch changing the direction of current flow from one terminal to
another
 Normally open contacts pushbutton switch – push to close,
Pushbutton Switch (N.O)
release to open

Normally closed contacts pushbutton switch – push to open,

Pushbutton Switch (N.C)
release to close

Electromechanical relay with internal single-pole single-

SPST Relay Contacts
throw toggle contacts

Electromechanical relay with internal single-pole double-

SPDT Relay Contacts
throw changeover contacts

Electromechanical relay with internal double-pole single-

DPST Relay Contacts
throw toggle contacts

Electromechanical relay with internal double-pole double-

DPDT Relay Contacts
throw changeover contacts

PCB mounted DIP switch with 1-to-10 toggle switches either

DIP Switch Assembly
single-pole, double-pole, rotary or with a common terminal

Semiconductor Diode Schematic Symbols

 Schematic
Symbol Identification Description of Symbol
Symbol

Semiconductor pn-junction diode used for rectification and

Semiconductor Diode
high current applications

Zener diode used in its reverse voltage breakdown region for

Zener Diode
voltage limiting and regulation applications

Schottky diode consisting of an n-type semiconductor and

Schottky Diode
metal electrode junction for low voltage applications

Transistor Schematic Symbols

Schematic
Symbol Identification Description of Symbol
Symbol

Characterised as being a lightly doped p-type base region

NPN Bipolar Transistor between two n-type emitter and collector regions with the
arrow indicating direction of conventional current flow out.
 Characterised as being a lightly doped n-type base region
PNP Bipolar Transistor between two p-type emitter and collector regions. Arrow
indicates direction of conventional current flow in.

Two bipolar transistor npn or pnp connected in a series

Darlington Pair Transistor
common collector configuration to increase current gain

N-channel junction field effect transistor having an n-type

N-JFET Transistor semiconductive channel between source and drain with the
arrow indicating direction of conventional current flow

P-channel junction field effect transistor having a p-type

P-JFET Transistor semiconductive channel between source and drain with the
arrow indicating direction of conventional current flow

N-channel metal-oxide semiconductor field effect transistor

N-MOSFET Transistor with an insulated gate terminal which can be operated in
depletion or enhancement mode

P-channel metal-oxide semiconductor field effect transistor

P-MOSFET Transistor with an insulated gate terminal which can be operated in
depletion or enhancement mode

Photodevice Schematic Symbols

Schematic
Symbol Identification Description of Symbol
Symbol

A semiconductor diode which emits coloured light from its

Light Emitting Diode (LED)
junction when forward biased

A 7-segment display used common cathode (CC) or common

7-segment Display
anode (CA) for displaying single numbers and letters

A semiconductor device which allows current to flow when

Photodiode
exposed to incident light energy

P–N junction photovoltaic cell transducer which converts

Solar Cell
light intentsity directly into electrical energy

Light dependent resistor (LDR) which changes its resistive

Photoresistor
value with changes in light intensity

A filament lamp, indicator or other which emits visible light

Indicator Lamp or Light Bulb
when a current flows through it
 An Opto-isolator or Optocoupler which uses photo-sensitive
Opto-isolator or Optocoupler
devices to isolate its input and output connections

Digital Logic Schematic Symbols

Schematic
Symbol Identification Description of Symbol
Symbol

Logic gate with only one input and one output and outputs
NOT Gate a logic 1 (HIGH) when input is 0 (LOW) and outputs a 0
when input is 1 (Inverter)

Logic gate with two or more inputs which outputs a logic

AND Gate
1 (HIGH) when ALL of its inputs are at logic 1 (HIGH)

Logic gate with two or more inputs that outputs a logic 0

NAND Gate (LOW) when ALL of its inputs are HIGH at logic 1
(Equivalent to NOT + AND)

Logic gate with two or more inputs which outputs a logic

OR Gate 1 (HIGH) when ANY (or both) of its inputs are at logic 1
(HIGH)

Logic gate with two or more inputs that outputs a logic 0

NOR Gate (LOW) when ANY (or both) of its inputs are HIGH at
logic 1 (Equivalent to NOT + OR)
 Exclusive-OR gate with two inputs that outputs a logic 1
XOR Gate
(HIGH) whenever its two inputs are DIFFERENT

Exclusive-NOR gate with two inputs that outputs a logic 1

XNOR Gate (HIGH) whenever its two inputs are the SAME (NOT +
XOR)

Set-Reset Flip-flop is a bistable device used to store one

SR Flip-Flop
bit of data on its two complementary outputs

JK (Jack Kilby) Flip-flop has the letter J for Set and the
JK Flip-Flop
letter K for Reset (Clear) with internal feedback

D (Delay or Data) Flip-flop is a single input flip-flop

D-type Flip-Flop
which toggles between its two complementary outputs

Data latch stores one data bit on its single input when EN
Data Latch enable pin is LOW and outputs the data bit transparently
when the EN enable pin is HIGH

A Multiplexer passes the data on one of its inputs pins to a

4-to-1 Multiplexer
single output line

A Demultiplexer passes the data on its single input pin to

1-to-4 Demultiplexer
one of several output lines
Here we have seen a number of basic electrical and electronics schematic symbols
in graphical form used by engineers to show how a particular circuit is connected
together and operates by the types of symbols used within it so that other engineers
may understand.
  

Transformer Schematic Symbols

Transformer schematic symbols used by electrical engineers in circuit diagrams to show the
difference between the various types of transformers and inductors

  
A schematic diagram is a graphical representation of an electrical or electronic
circuit. Schematic diagrams use standard electrical symbols which are generally
drawn to represent the types and operation of the components they symbolise.
Magnetic coils can take on many forms as an inductor, a winding, a choke, a
solenoid, or the coils of a transformer with or without a magnetic core, so the
graphical symbol of these components must demonstrate that are indeed coils of
wire and not just a sequence of semicircles or loops.
While the schematic symbol of a transformer may look like two coils (called
windings) placed next to each other, the magnetic coupling and orientation between
these two coils is also indicated within its schematic symbol. Some coil symbols can
be labeled with letters and/or numbers to indicate their electrical connections or dots
to indicate polarity.
Dot convention markings use dots on the transformer schematic symbol as a way of
specifying the winding direction between input and output and therefore the polarity
between windings. Phase-indicating dots are marked on each winding of a common
core with their position relative to each other showing whether the instantaneous
voltages and currents of each winding rise and fall together indicating zero phase
shift (0o), or whether one voltage and current is rising while the other is falling,
indicating 180 degrees of phase shift (180o) between them.
Either way, the electrical schematic symbols for transformers, inductors and coils
offer a simple and visual way of indicating which components are used with in a
circuit design. There are many different standard transformer configurations each
with its own transformer schematic symbol, but the individual graphical symbols of
inductors and transformers given below along with a brief description and
explanation are some of the more common ones we use daily.

Schematic Symbols for Inductors

Schematic
Symbol Identification Description of Symbol
Symbol

A fixed value air-core inductor, coil, solenoid or choke

which uses either a self-supporting form or a solid or hollow
Air-core Inductor
ceramic, plastic, or some other form of non-magnetic
material as its inner core for high frequency applications

A fixed value solid iron-core inductor formed by winding the

coil around a solid laminated iron core, indicated by the
Iron-core Inductor
symbols two solid lines, to concentrate the magnetic field
generated around itself when energised

A fixed value inductor formed by winding the coil around a

Ferrite Core Inductor non-solid compressed powdered ferrite core or bead
indicated by the symbols two dashed lines
 An inductor coil with either one or more fixed value
Tapped Inductor connections called, taps, along its length for impedance
matching and tank circuits

An adjustable or continuously adjustable inductor whose self

Adjustable Inductor inductance value can be varied from some minimum value to
a maxiumum value when adjusted

Schematic Symbols for Transformers

Schematic
Symbol Identification Description of Symbol
Symbol

Single-phase air-core voltage transformer with two inductive

Air-core Transformer coils wrapped closely together around a solid or hollow
plastic non-magnetic core for radio frequency applications

Single-phase iron-core voltage transformer (VT) formed by

winding the two coils around a solid laminated iron core,
Iron-core Transformer indicated by the symbols two solid lines, for the transfer of
electrical energy from one winding to the other changing an
AC voltage from high to low or low to high
 Single-phase power transformer (PT) shown as two
Power Transformer interconnecting circles for the transmission and distrubution
of electrical power from high to low or low to high

Single-phase transformer formed by winding the two coils

around a non-solid compressed ferrite core to decrease eddy
Ferrite-core Transformer
current losses, hum and increase the magnetising flux. Used
mainly in toroidal transformers

Single-phase step-down isolation transformer which converts

a higher primary winding voltage into a lower secondary
Step-down Transformer
winding voltage by an amount determined by the turns ratios
of the transformer

Single-phase step-up isolation transformer which converts a

lower primary winding voltage into a higher secondary
Step-up Transformer
winding voltage by an amount determined by the turns ratios
of the transformer

Inline dot orientation used to indicate the 0o phase-shift

0o Phase Shift between the primary and secondary windings used to
correctly parallel connect transformers together

Diagonal and opposite dot orientation used to indicate the

180o Phase Shift 180o phase-shift between the primary and secondary
windings resulting in voltage and current inversion

Single-phase center-tapped voltage transformer with either

primary, secondary or both sides divided into two windings
Center-tapped Transformer allowing for multiple voltage points. Primary center tap
allows for dual supplies, while secondary center tap is useful
in rectifier circuits
 Single-phase Multi-tapped voltage transformer either
Multi-tapped Transformer primary, secondary or both allowing for multiple voltage
connection and take-off points

Single-phase voltage transformer with one or more

magnetically coupled secondary windings to supply
Multi-load Transformer individual loads, or the secondary windings may be
connected in parallel for a greater current, or in series for a
higher voltage

Single-phase voltage transformer consisting of two

transformers on the same core, with the primary and
Dual-winding Transformer secondary windings of each transformer wound on the same
magnetic core. For use in both low and high voltage supplies
and psu applications

Single-phase step-down autotransformer with one single coil

for both the primary and the secondary windings wrapped
Iron-core Autotransformer around a magnetic iron-core and one or more fixed tapping
points giving a secondary voltage equal to or less than the
primary voltage

Single-phase step-up autotransformer with one single coil for

both the primary and the secondary windings wrapped
Iron-core Autotransformer around a magnetic iron-core and one or more fixed tapping
points giving a secondary voltage equal to or more than the
primary voltage

Single-phase variable autotransformer called a variac with

Variac one single tapping point which can be adjusted to produce a
variable secondary voltage. Does not provide isolation
 Step-down current transformers (CT) wound, toroidal or bar
Current Transformer type which provides electrical isolation between the high-
current carrying conductor and metering device

Semiconductor Schematic Symbols

Semiconductor schematic symbols give a graphical presentation of the various solid state devices we
commonly use in cicruits from diodes to transistors to power devices

  
Semiconductor symbols are used to represent various electronic devices and
components as pictograms. A typical electrical or electronic symbol comprises of an
outline together with one or more identification symbols. Letter symbols, numbers
and subscripts based on the Roman and Greek alphabets are commonly used with
a semiconductor symbol to identify their different input or output terminals with
regards to conventional current flow.
The shape and outline of a semiconductor symbol is used to represent exactly their
operation and current flow direction for connection to the correct electrical polarities
allowing them to be connected together. The physical layout and positioning of
semiconductor devices on a circuit board is generally quite different from that of a
circuit diagram.
Graphical symbols used on electrical circuit diagrams are wide and varied and many
of these symbols vary from country to country. These days semiconductor symbols
are being standardised internationally with the symbols for diodes, transistors, and
power electronic devises being of a common design. The symbols listed below
conform to the recommendations of the International Electrotechnical Commission
(IEC) and the British Standards Institution (BSI).

Schematic Symbols for Semiconductor Diodes

There are many different types of semiconductor devices which can be classed as
a diode, and for most of these types they have a distinct circuit symbol. Some of the
major diode types include here are the pn-junction, Schottky, photo diode, and light
emitting diode. The schematic symbols for each of these diode types uses the same
basic diode format, but is modified to indicate their different functions.
Diodes are two-terminal devices which consist of two semiconductor materials fused
together to produce a pn-junction where the “n”-type material is the cathode and the
“p”-type material is the anode. Generally a diodes cathode lead is identified by a
coloured band.
The basic schematic symbol for a diode looks like an arrow head that points in the
direction of conventional current flow from its Anode (A) terminal to its Cathode (K)
terminal. The schematic symbol of a diode also shows that if forward-biased, current
will flow through the direction of the arrow. However, if the polarity of the voltage is
reversed, no current flows.
The schematic symbol for a zener diode and a Schottky diode are similar to that of
the basic pn-junction diode except that the line representing the Cathode (K)
terminal of the symbol is bent at both ends. The schematic symbol for a light
emitting diode (LED) shows light energy dipicted by smaller arrows radiating from it
when forward-biased.

Schematic
Symbol Identification Description of Symbol
Symbol

Semiconductor pn-junction diode which passes curent when

forward-biased, and blocks current when reverse-biased.
Semiconductor Diode
Used in small-signal, rectification or high current
applications
 Schottky diode consisting of an n-type semiconductor and
metal electrode junction producing a very low forward
Schottky Diode
voltage drop and power dissipation and faster switching
speed compared to a pn-junction diode

Zener diode used in its reverse voltage breakdown region for

voltage limiting, transient suppression and regulation
Zener Diode
applications. Available in a range of reverse breakdown
voltage values

A semiconductor diode which emits a range of visible and

Light Emitting Diode (LED) non-visible coloured light from its pn-junction depending on
the materials and doping used when forward biased

A semiconductor photosensor which allows current to flow

Photodiode through itself in the reverse direction when exposed to
incident light energy

Schematic Symbols for Bipolar Junction Transistors

The schematic symbols used for bipolar junction transistors, or BJT’s indicate the
two main types, NPN (Negative-Positive-Negative) transistors and PNP (Positive-
Negative-Positive) transistors. Bipolar transistor symbols with a circle around them
indicate a descrete device while those without a circle indicate its use within an
internal circuitry. For example, logic gates and digital IC’s.
Bipolar transistors are 3-terminal devices with the schematic symbol of a bipolar
transistor marked with the letters of “C”, “B” and “E” corresponding to the terminals
of Collector, Base and Emitter respectively. Conventional current flows through a
bipolar transistor from the Emitter terminal to the Collector terminal while the Base
terminal controls the amount of current flow. Normally, these identification letters are
not used in circuit diagrams but are included here for clarity.
Other types of bipolar transistor circuit symbols include those for Darlington
transistors where two bipolar transistors are connected together to form a single
descrete device, and phototransistors which use light energy to operate instead of a
Base terminal.

Schematic
Symbol Identification Description of Symbol
Symbol

Characterised as being a lightly doped p-type base region

NPN Bipolar Transistor between two n-type emitter and collector regions with the
arrow indicating direction of conventional current flow out

Characterised as being a lightly doped n-type base region

PNP Bipolar Transistor between two p-type emitter and collector regions. Arrow
indicates direction of conventional current flow in

Two bipolar transistor npn or pnp connected in a series

Darlington Pair Transistor common collector configuration to increase overall current
gain. Available in PNP and Sziklai pair configuration
 NPN Phototransistor sealed in a protective case with glass
lens or window for detecting external visible and near
Phototransistor
infrared light sources. Some models have a base (B) lead
available to enable biasing and sensitivity control

Schematic Symbols for Field Effect Transistors

Field Effect Transistors or FETs are 3-terminal devices which come in a large variety
of different types, each with its own semiconductor symbol to describe its operation.
The schematic symbols used to represent field effect transistors are marked with the
letters of “D”, “G” and “S” corresponding to the terminals
of Drain, Gate and Source respectively.
The two main types of field effect transistors are: Junction FET’s or JFETs, and
Insulated Gate FET’s or IGFETs. Junction FETs have a symbol which uses an arrow
to show conventional current flow direction through their diode junction. Insulated
Gate FETs, which are commonly termed MOSFETs due to their metal, oxide and
silicon form of construction, have a schematic symbol which shows the Gate
insulated from the Drain-to-Source channel. Both the JFET and the IGFET
(MOSFET) are available as N-channel or P-channel types.

Schematic
Symbol Identification Description of Symbol
Symbol

N-channel junction field effect transistor having an n-type

semiconductive channel between the Source (S) and Drain
N-JFET Transistor
(D) terminals with the Gate (G) arrow pointing inwards to
indicate direction of conventional current flow
 P-channel junction field effect transistor having a p-type
semiconductive channel between Source (S) and Drain (D)
P-JFET Transistor
terminals with the Gate (G) arrow pointing outwards to
indicate direction of conventional current flow

Depletion N-channel Metal-Oxide Semiconductor FET

(nMOSFET) has a Gate terminal insulated from the main
N-channel D-MOSFET Transistor
conductive channel and which is normally-on and
conducting when VG = 0 volts

Depletion P-channel Metal-Oxide Semiconductor FET

(pMOSFET) has a Gate terminal insulated from the main
P-channel D-MOSFET Transistor
conductive channel and which is normally-on and
conducting when VG = 0 volts

Enhancement N-channel Metal-Oxide Semiconductor FET

(nMOSFET) has a Gate terminal insulated from the main
N-channel E-MOSFET Transistor
channel and which is normally-off and closed when VG = 0
volts

Enhancement P-channel Metal-Oxide Semiconductor FET

(pMOSFET) has a Gate terminal insulated from the main
P-channel E-MOSFET Transistor
channel and which is normally-off and closed when VG = 0
volts

Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor (IGBT) is a cross between

a BJT and IGFET offering high input MOS characteristics
IGBT Transistor
and large bipolar output current-carrying capability and low
saturation voltage
Schematic Symbols for Power Electronics Devices
Power semiconductor devices are a range of electronic devices that are used in
electrical circuits to convert, control or switch electrical power. The electrical power
that these semiconductor devices control is usually much larger than those
controlled by bipolar transistors or field effect transistors above.
Power electronics semiconductor devices such as Thyristors and Triacs are voltage-
driven components used to switch and control AC supplies for use in controlled
rectifiers, power supplies or AC motor drive controllers. Power electronics devices
along with the components detailed above are finding new applications in energy,
power, industrial and transportation applications, such as renewable energy
technologies, battery charging systems, energy storage, solar inverters, electric
vehicles, power converters, HVAC, and many more.
Power electronics circuits and applications are different compared to digital or small
circuit electronics systems in terms of its efficiency, size, and power handling
capabilities with the following components of silicon controlled rectifiers, gate turn-off
rectifiers, triacs and diacs being the key components along with their schematic
symbols.

Schematic
Symbol Identification Description of Symbol
Symbol

A Silicon Controlled Rectifier (SCR) or Thyristor is a 3-

terminal, four-layered PNPN semiconductor unidirectional
device with its main terminals labelled Anode (A), Cathode
Silicon Controlled Rectifier
(K) and Gate (G). Once triggered ON it remains conducting
as long as current flows through it and can operate at higher
voltages and currents

The TRIAC named from Triode for Alternating Current is a

3-terminal bidirectional device which can conduct current in
Triac both directions. Its main terminals are labelled MT2, MT1
and Gate (G) and can be triggering into conduction in either
direction of the sinusoidal waveform
 The DIAC named from Diode for Alternating Current is a 2-
terminal bidirectional semiconductor device similar to a PNP
transistor without a base terminal characteristic of two diodes
Diac
back-to-back. Used together with a Triac to conduct current
in both directions in AC phase-control, dimming, speed-
control and power-control applications

The Unijunction Transistor (UJT) is a semiconductor 3-

terminal, single pn-junction switching device with its main
terminals labelled Base-1 (B1), Base-2 (B2) and Emitter (E).
Unijunction Transistor
Programmable UJT’s use external resistors to set their
switching parameters and are common in relaxation
oscillators

Electronics Tools and Simulators

A collection of Electronics Tools, Simulators, Calculators and Resources for use by Electrical
and Electronics Engineers in designing and testing circuits

We have gathered together below a collection of free Electronics Tools,

Simulators, Calculators and Resources from various sources which every electrical
engineer or student can use in their daily work to help design and simulate their
electronic circuits.
We hope you find these electronics tools and online simulators useful for building
your own personal and professional projects making your circuit design and
simulation will be much easier. If you have any suggestions or recommendations for
improving our existing range of electronics tools or additional tools you would like to
see in our collection below, then please feel free to get in touch.

Electronic Components Symbols (Active & Passive) :–

 Electro
nic Component Symbols

Electronic component symbols are used to denote the components in circuit diagrams. There are
standard symbols for each of the components which represent that particular component. Here in this
article, we are explaining some basic and mostly used electronic components with their symbols. 

  Passive Components –
Resistor:

The resistor is a two-terminal component which is denoted by R. Symbol of the resistor is represented by Zig-Zag lines
between two terminals. It is a common and widely used symbol in schematics. It can also be represented by another
symbol that has an unfilled rectangle between two terminals instead of Zig-Zag lines. There are various types of resistors
like a variable resistor, LDR, Thermistor, MOV, etc.
 
The resistor is a non-polarized component that means both sides have the same polarity and can be connected from both
sides. The value of the resistor is measured in ohms (Ώ).
 
Capacitor:

The capacitor is a two-terminal component denoted by C. Symbol of the capacitor looks like the two
parallel plates are placed in between two terminals. In the schematic, two types of capacitor symbols
are available. One is for a polarized capacitor and the other one is for the non-polarized capacitor.  Learn
more about capacitors here and check about various types of capacitors.

The difference between both the symbols is that in the polarized capacitor symbol, one parallel plate
has a curved shape. The curved plate represents the cathode of the capacitor and should be at a lower
voltage than the anode pin (plane-parallel plate). The plane-parallel plate is the anode of the capacitor
and is marked by plus (+) sign.

As the name indicates, a non-polarized capacitor can be connected in two ways but for polarized
capacitor only specified one-way Connection is possible. The value of the capacitor is measured in farads
(f).

Diode:

The diode is a polarized device with two terminals and denoted by D. In a diode, one terminal is positive
(anode) and another one is negative (cathode). The closed side of a triangle is the cathode, and the base
of a triangle is an anode.

The symbol of a diode looks like a horizontal isosceles triangle pressed up against a line between two
terminals. The diode works in the forward bias or we can say that the diode will let the current flow in
the forward bias condition.
 

Therefore, it is important to note that the positive terminal (anode) of the diode is connected to the
positive pole of the battery and negative pole (cathode) of the diode is connected to the negative
terminal of the battery.

There are some other diodes with additional specifications and features explained below. Also, check
various diodes and their working here.

Light Emitting Diode (LED):

LED stands for light-emitting diode. The LED symbol is similar to the diode symbol with additional
arrows. These arrows appear to point in the opposite direction of the triangle and seem to radiate from
the triangle. LED is a polarized component with anode and cathode terminals.

 
Photodiode:

The symbol of the photodiode is similar to the LED Symbol except that it contains arrows striking the
diode. Arrows striking the diode represent photons or light. The photodiode has two terminals named
anode and cathode. A photodiode is used to convert light into electrical current.

Zener Diode:

It is similar to the normal forward diode; it also allows reverse current when the applied voltage reaches
the breakdown voltage. The diode has a special, heavily doped P-N junction, which is designed to
operate in the reverse direction when a certain specified voltage is reached.

Learn more about it by going through various Zener Diodes.

Schottky Diode:

The Schottky diode has a lower forward voltage drop than the PN junction diode, and it is a metal-
semiconductor diode. It can be used in high-speed switching applications. The Schottky diode is a
unipolar device because it has electrons as majority carriers on both sides of the junction. 

 
For this reason, electrons cannot flow across the Schottky barrier. Under the forward biased condition,
an electron present on the N side receives more energy to cross the barrier and enter into the
metal. Therefore, the diode is called a hot carrier diode. Due to this, the electrons are also called hot
charge carriers.

Inductor:

An inductor is a non-polarized two-terminal component. Inductor’s Symbol contains loopy coils or

curved bumps in between two terminals. The international symbol of an inductor considers a filled-in
rectangle instead of loopy coils. An inductor is denoted by ‘L’ and the unit is Henry (H). Here are
few Inductors with their pinouts and working.

Transformers:

Switches:
Switches are electronic devices designed to interrupt or divert the flow of electric current or signals in a
circuit. The simplest switch, a single-throw switch (SPST), consists of two terminals with a semi-
connected lead representing the actuator.

In electronics, 4 types of switches are available named Single Pole Single Throw Switch (SPST), Single
Pole Double Throw Switch (SPDT), Double Pole Single Throw Switch (DPST), and Double Pole Double
Throw Switch (DPDT).

All 4 switches have different symbols, although the number of poles and throws changes in symbol
according to their name. Symbols are given below to clear the illustration.
Digital Logic Gates:
Logic gates are the fundamental building blocks of any digital system. Logic gates have two inputs and
one output however, the number of inputs can be changed as per the requirement while the output
should be the same.

Usually, there are 4 standard logic gates available named AND, OR, XOR, and NOT. Moreover, adding a
bubble to the output negates the function and generates NANDs, NORs, and XNORs.

All the logic gates have a unique schematic symbol as shown below.

 

Power Sources:
The power supply is an essential part of any electrical or electronic system. While selecting an accurate
power supply, various requirements must be considered.

There is a variety of power supply circuit symbols that indicate the power source.

DC or AC Voltage Source:
Generally, constant voltage sources are used while working with electronics. We can use one of these
two symbols to define if the source supplies Direct Current (DC) or Alternating Current (AC).

Batteries:

Instead of a constant voltage source, you can also use batteries. The battery symbol looks like a pair of
disproportionate parallel lines, while more line pairs usually indicate more row cells in the battery.

Voltage Nodes:
 
Voltage nodes are single-terminal schematic components that are used to denote power supply and can
also be connected to component terminals to specify a specific voltage level. The device can be directly
connected to this one-terminal symbol which denotes 5V, 3.3V, VCC or GND (ground). Positive voltage
nodes are usually indicated by an Up-pointing arrow, while ground nodes typically include one to three
flat lines or sometimes down-pointing arrows or triangles as shown in the image above.

Transformer:
 

A transformer is a static device that transmits electrical energy from one circuit to another through
electromagnetic induction. The transformer symbol is denoted by two coils placed side by side, and
separated by parallel lines. They are generally used to step up or step down the voltage levels.

Relay:

Relay is an electromagnetic switch that can be turned on with small electrical current which further
allows a large amount of current to flow from it. It usually pairs a coil with a switch which can be seen in
the symbol itself.

 
The relay has 5 pins consisting of a pair of coil pins, a common pin, a normally open pin (NO), and a
normally closed pin (NC). We previously covered a detailed article on Relay and its working.

Buzzer and Speaker:

 

In buzzer, there is usually an oscillating transistor circuit, so it produces sound whenever a voltage is
applied to it. The buzzer is a polarized component and can only be connected with a positive terminal to
positive and negative to negative. 

A speaker can play all kinds of sound. However, due to its integrated circuits, a buzzer is only able to
compose the tone of the oscillator. Learn more about Buzzer and Speaker by following the links.

Motor:

The motor is a transducer that converts electrical energy into kinetic energy (motion). The motor symbol
looks like an embellishment encircled 'M' around the terminals.

We have covered various types of motors with their symbol and working.

 
Fuse and PTCs:

A fuse or a PTC is an electrical safety device that provides overcurrent protection for a circuit. The PTC
symbol is actually the general symbol for a thermistor.

Below table shows the unit, pin name and no of terminals of all the components we covered above:

Component Denoted by Unit Polarity/Pins Terminals

Resistor R Ohms(Ώ) Not 2

Capacitor C Farads(f) Anode-Cathode 2

Diode D   Anode-Cathode 2

Inductor L Henry(H) Not 2

Transistors(BJT) NPN/PNP - Emitter, Base, Collector 3

Transistor(MOSFET) n-Channel - Drain, Source, Gate 3

P-Channel

Relay - - NC, NO, C, 2-Coil Pins 5

Power Sources - Voltage, Current Positive, Negative 2

Motor M RPM Positive, Negative 2

So this is a beginner guide to learn about different types of basic electronic components, their symbols,
and working.
Active Components –

Transistors:
In schematics, various transistors are available, either BJTs or MOSFETs. The transistor is a three-
terminal device that amplifies or switches electronic signals and electrical power. We have previously
covered various Transistors with their symbols, pinouts, and specifications.

Bipolar Junction Transistor (BJT):

BJT is a bipolar transistor with three terminals: emitter (E), base (B) and collector (C). For the BJT symbol,
emitter and collector are arranged in a line and the base is arranged vertically. There are two types of
BJTs: NPN and PNP.

In the BJT symbol, the emitter has an arrow and the arrow's direction tells whether it’s a PNP or NPN
transistor. If the arrow points inward, it is a PNP, and if the arrow points outward, it is an NPN.

To remember the configuration you can learn it like this- “NPN: Not Pointing In”

MOSFET:
 
 MOSFET stands for Metal Oxide Field Effect Transistor and it has three terminals named Source (S),
Drain (D), and Gate (G). MOSFET has two types of symbols for n-channel or p-channel MOSFET. Here
you can learn about various types of MOSFETs.

Just like BJT, in MOSFET, the direction of the arrow is used to distinguish between n-channel and p-
channel MOSFET. If the arrow at the center of the symbol is pointing IN, it is an n-channel MOSFET and if
the arrow is pointing OUT, it is a p-channel MOSFET.

N-Channel MOSFETs use electron flow as the charge carrier. P-Channel MOSFETs use hole flow as the
charge carrier, which has less mobility than electron flow. And therefore, they have  higher resistance
and are less efficient. In other words, a P-Channel MOSFET will get hotter than an N-Channel MOSFET
with higher loads.

The significant difference between the two MOSFET is:

1. N-channel MOSFET ends with even number, i-e, 0, 2, 4, 6, 8
2. P-channel MOSFET ends with an odd number, i-e, 1, 3, 5, 7, 9

This N-channel MOSFET ends with 8, which is even number.

 
This P-channel MOSFET ends with 5, which is odd number.

MOSFET can be either Enhancement-Type or Depletion-Type and N-Channel or P-Channel.

Roughly speaking, we have four different kinds:
  Enhancement-Type N-Channel
 Enhancement-Type P-Channel
 Depletion-Type N-Channel
 Depletion-Type P-Channel

All MOSFETs have Gate (G), Source (S), and Drain (D) pins. The voltage between Gate and
Source (Vgs) determines if the current is flowing through Source and Drain or not. Each kind has
its own logic of when the MOSFET is turned ON or OFF.

Symbols for MOSFETs:

A MOSFET is classified as Logic Level MOSFET if it gets fully turned on with Vgs in the
range of 3 to 5 volts. If you use a 5V Arduino board, then all Logic Level MOSFETs should be
OK. If you are using a 3.3V board, then you have to check that the MOSFET you are using is
compatible with 3.3V switching.

Normal MOSFETs typically need Vgs to be 10V or more to be fully ON.

Enhancement-Type MOSFET vs Depletion-Type MOSFET?

Every MOSFET is either Enhancement-Type or Depletion-Type.
Of the two types, the more common Enhancement-Type is not conducting electricity, when
Vgs (voltage between Gate and Source) is zero - "Normally OFF." Depletion-Type is logical
inversions of that, and is conducting when Vgs is zero - "Normally ON."

For example, an Enchantment-Type N-Channel MOSFET with a pull-down resistor will be OFF
while your Arduino pin is not initialized as output (the first few seconds on startup). But a
Depletion-Type will be ON in the same conditions.

When deciding between those two types, you have to think of what do you want to happen while
your controller board is not actively driving the MOSFET Gate. If you don't know, then pick the
Enchantment-Type. It's easy to put a 10k resistor between the Gate and the Source, which makes
it OFF by default.

In the rest of the article, all the examples are about Enhancement-Type MOSFETs. Everything
also applies to the Depletion-Type, just the ON/OFF status would be inverted.

N-Channel MOSFET vs P-Channel MOSFET

The main difference between an N-Channel and a P-Channel MOSFET is that N-Channel
usually goes to the Ground (-) side of the load (the device you are powering), and P-
Channel to the VCC (+) side.

But why do you have to connect one to the negative and the other to the positive side?
Enhancement-Type ("Normally OFF") N-Channel MOSFET starts to conduct if Gate value
is sufficiently higher than Source. For Logic Level MOSFETs, it's typically 3 to 5 volts. If you
connect the Source to the Ground, then you can use a voltage between Ground (-) and VCC (+)
to activate it.

If you decided to connect it to the VCC side of the load, then the value of the Source would also
be very close to VCC. It means that you need to apply a higher voltage than VCC to the Gate to
active the MOSFET. Typically you don't have this higher voltage readily available, and it makes
more sense to connect the Source of an N-Channel MOSFET to Ground.

Enhancement-Type ("Normally OFF") P-Channel MOSFET is like an upside-down N-

Channel MOSFET. It starts to conduct if Gate value is sufficiently lower than Source. If you
connect the Source of a P-Channel MOSFET to VCC, then you can use a voltage between VCC
(+) and Ground (-) to turn it ON and OFF.
Connecting it to the negative side of the load has a similar problem that the N-Channel MOSFET
had. Only this time, Source would be too close to Ground. You would need to apply a negative
voltage (compared to Ground) to the Gate to activate it.

It is easy to remember: you should connect the Source pin of an N-Channel MOSFET to
the negative output of your power supply, and the Source pin of a P-Channel MOSFET to
the positive output of your power supply.

The same rules apply to Depletion-Type N-Channel and P-Channel MOSFETs. Only ON and
OFF state is inverted.

Why Prefer an N-Channel MOSFET to a P-Channel

MOSFET?
Functionally you could design your circuit in a way that you could use either of them. If you
have an Arduino that runs on 5V and the device you are turning ON also runs on 5V, then it
doesn't even matter. You could use an N-Channel or P-Channel MOSFET as long as you wire it
accordingly.

Then why prefer N-Channel over P-Channel?

 You can have a Common Ground between the 12V power source and your Arduino.

With a P-Channel MOSFET, you have to create a Common VCC instead of a Common
Ground. But it's standard practice to have a Common Ground between connected devices
and modules. You can easily have that with an N-Channel MOSFET.

 You can power your Arduino from the same 12V power source by connecting the Arduino's
barrel jack or the Vin pin to the power supply.

The negative input of the barrel connector leads directly to Arduino Ground. When you
are using an N-Channel MOSFET as a power switch, then that is not a problem. The
Grounds are connected anyways. With a P-Channel MOSFET, we can't connect the
negative output of the power supply to the Arduino Ground since the 5V pin has to be
pulled up to the positive output of the power supply. By also connecting the Grounds,
you will send 12 volts through the Arduino.

 N-Channel MOSFETs are more efficient than P-Channel MOSFETs.

It comes down to physics. N-Channel MOSFETs use electron flow as the charge carrier.
P-Channel MOSFETs use hole flow as the charge carrier, which has less mobility than
electron flow. And therefore, they have higher resistance and are less efficient. In other
words, a P-Channel MOSFET will get hotter than an N-Channel MOSFET with higher
loads.

There are use-cases where P-Channel MOSFET is preferred or even required. For example the
Arduino self-power-off circuit needs both: https://circuitjournal.com/arduino-auto-power-off

 
Passive Tools

Resistor Calculators
4-Band Colour Code – eeweb.com/tools/4-band-resistor-calculator

5-Band Colour Code – eeweb.com/tools/5-band-resistor-calculator

6-Band Colour Code – eeweb.com/tools/6-band-resistor-calculator

Standard Resistor Values – eeweb.com/tools/resistor-tables

Coil and Wire Calculators

Standard Inductor Values – www.eeweb.com/tools/inductor-tables

Magnetic Field Calculator – www.eeweb.com/tools/magnetic-field-calculator

Wire Self Inductance – www.eeweb.com/tools/wire-self-inductance-calculator

Parallel Wires – www.eeweb.com/tools/parallel-wire-inductance

Coax Cables – www.eeweb.com/tools/coax-inductance

Wire over Plane – www.eeweb.com/tools/wire-over-plane-inductance

Loop Inductance – www.eeweb.com/tools/loop-inductance

Rectangular Loop – https://www.eeweb.com/tools/rectangle-loop-inductance

Coil Inductance – www.eeweb.com/tools/coil-inductance

Broadside-Coupled Traces – www.eeweb.com/tools/broadside-trace-inductance

Edge-Coupled Traces – www.eeweb.com/tools/edge-coupled-trace-inductance

Twisted Pair – eeweb.com/tools/twisted-pair

 
RF Tools

Impedance Matching Calculators

L-Match Attenuator – eeweb.com/tools/l-match

Pi-Match Attenuator – eeweb.com/tools/pi-match

T-Match Attenuator – eeweb.com/tools/t-match

Coax Impedance – eeweb.com/tools/coax

Microstrip Crosstalk – https:/eeweb.com/tools/microstrip

Stripline Crosstalk – eeweb.com/tools/stripline

RF Unit Converter – eeweb.com/tools/rf-unit-converter

 
PCB Tools and Software
 Schematic Capture & Layout
PCBweb CAD Design – pcbweb.com

PartSim Simulator – partsim.com

Internal Trace Width – eeweb.com/tools/internal-trace-width-calculator-pcb

External Trace Width – eeweb.com/tools/external-pcb-trace-width

Trace Resistance – eeweb.com/tools/trace-resistance

Internal Trace Current – eeweb.com/tools/internal-pcb-trace-max-current

External Trace Current – eeweb.com/tools/external-pcb-trace-max-current

PCB Impedance Calulators

Microstrip – eeweb.com/tools/microstrip

Embedded Microstrip – eeweb.com/tools/embedded-microstrip-impedance

Symmetric Stripline – eeweb.com/tools/symmetric-stripline-impedance

Asymmetric Stripline – eeweb.com/tools/asymmetric-stripline-impedance

Wire Microstrip – eeweb.com/tools/wire-microstrip-impedance

Wire Stripline – eeweb.com/tools/wire-stripline-impedance

Edge-Coupled Microstrip – eeweb.com/tools/edge-coupled-microstrip-impedance

Edge-Coupled Stripline – eeweb.com/tools/edge-coupled-stripline-impedance

Broadside Coupled Stripline – eeweb.com/tools/broadside-coupled-stripline-impedance

 
Schematic Tools and Simulators

Schematic Editors
SPICE Simulator – partsim.com

CircuitLab – circuitlab.com

DoCircuits – docircuits.com

SchemeIt – digikey.com/schemeit

SPICE Schematics – ischematics.com

Schematic Capture Tool – schematics.com

Schematics Converter – schematics.io

Schematic Circuits – next.gr

Datasheets – datasheets.com

 
Maths Helpers

Math Calculators
Basic Calculator – eeweb.com/tools/basic-calculator

Scientific Calculator – eeweb.com/tools/online-scientific-calculator

Alegbra Reference Sheet – eeweb.com/tools/algebra-reference-sheet

Geometry Reference Sheet – eeweb.com/tools/geometry-reference-sheet

Trigonometry Definitions – eeweb.com/tools/trigonometry-definition-reference-sheet

Trigonometry Laws – eeweb.com/tools/trigonometry-laws-and-identities-sheet

Calculus – eeweb.com/tools/calculus-derivatives-and-limits-reference-sheet

Calculus Integrals – eeweb.com/tools/calculus-integrals-sheet

 
Engineering Graph Papers

Online Graph Paper Tools

Engineering Graph Paper – eeweb.com/tools/engineering-graph-paper

Log/Log Graph Paper – eeweb.com/tools/log-log-graph-paper

Semi-Log Graph Paper – eeweb.com/tools/semi-log-graph-paper

Smith Chart Graph Paper – eeweb.com/tools/smith-chart