drawing electrical symbols

changing existing symbol

Start editing a symbol by double clicking it in the textual symbols pane or right-click it in the graphical palette.

creating a symbol

Use command File - New symbol. A new document is created. Draw the graphics elements (lines, rectangles) that make up the symbol. Completed symbol must be saved in the library - the directory that is set in the program settings in the "path" dialog.

If you plan to create a symbol that is similar to some other symbol that already exists in the library, it is advisable to create it as a copy and sketch in the parts that are different. This will ensure the symbols in the library will keep their consistency in terms of dimensions, outlet locations, etc.

In the symbols palette, right-click on the symbol used as a pattern to open a menu containing two commands. The first one is "Open symbol"; the second one is "Create similar symbol".

A dialogue box appears upon selecting the second command. Enter the new symbol title. If the symbol is supposed to be in a different group, press the "Change" button and select the target group.

When confirmed using the OK button, the process of creating the new symbol is completed. All that is left to be done is making the changes that distinguish the new symbol from the original (sample) and saving the symbol.

The symbols are stored in files with "ppd" extension (normal symbols) or "picd" extension (integrated circuits).

When creating a symbol, graphical shapes needs to be placed in a symmetric way, so that the symbol is symmetric to axes of the working screen.

Correct	Incorrect

positioning the outlets

The outlets need to be aligned. The figure shows an incorrectly positioned outlet which results in inability to wire the symbol, because the wire to another symbol would not be horizontal.

The majority of the symbols supplied with the program were designed with outlets spaced 2 mm or 4 mm. It is therefore preferable to keep these values in your symbols.

renaming a symbol

The name of a symbol matches the name of the file in which it is stored, so just rename the file in any file manager (eg Windows Commander, Total Commander, Windows Explorer, etc.)

moving symbol to a different group

Move the file to a different folder.

deleting a symbol or IC

Delete the file from the symbols library. You will find the path to the library in File - Options - Paths

For organizing the files you can use any file manager, such as Windows Commander, Total Commander, Windows Explorer, etc.

have the symbols drawn for you

If you cannot be bothered by drawing the symbols yourself, you can have them drawn for you for a fee. The price depends on the quantity and complexity of your symbols. For any questions, please use our contact form.