Symbol library

After installation, the symbol library is located in the folder "C:\Users\Public\Documents\ProfiCAD Library". ⚠️ We recommend moving the library to a folder that you back up regularly. Set the path in F12 - Paths.

The library has a three-level structure. The list (1) contains the main groups. Selecting an item in (1) shows its subgroups in the area (2). After selecting in (2), you see the folders and symbols in the area (3).

⚠️ Do not place symbols directly in levels (1) and (2) — the program would have nowhere to display them.

electrical symbol library

The program works with three types of symbols:

  • Library symbols — files with the extension .PPD. You can freely edit them in the symbol editor.
  • Integrated circuits — files with the extension .PICD. Also editable in the symbol editor.
  • Built-in symbols — gates and transformers. For these you change parameters (number of pins, windings, etc.), not the shape.

Creating a group

Simply create a new folder in the symbol library.

Renaming a group

Rename the corresponding folder in the symbol library.

How to delete a symbol or a group of symbols

In the program settings (F12), Paths tab, click the Open in File Explore button under Symbols Library. Delete the files or folders you don't need there.

How to rename a symbol

In the library

Right-click the symbol in the symbol palette and choose Rename from the context menu.

In the drawing

Select the symbol and click the Rename link at the bottom of the Properties panel.

Special folders in the library

The library contains folders starting with "_" that have a special purpose:

_TB — title blocks (.ptb files)
_LIN — line definitions (.lin files)
_conf — configuration, for example default symbol attributes

Standards used for the symbols

  • Most symbols comply with EN 60617.
  • Some symbols (used in the USA) are based on IEEE Std 315-1975 and ANSI Y32.2-1975.
  • Symbols for industrial processes comply with EN ISO 10628.
  • IEC 61082 — preparation of documents used in electrotechnology.

How to change the language of the symbol library

Changing the program language alone does not change the language of the symbol library. Symbols are stored as separate files and their names differ according to the language version of the library.

To change the language of the symbol library, uninstall the program and install the required language version. Links to the individual language versions of the program are in the website footer.

Shared library for multiple users

Need to share symbols in a team? Create a shared folder on the server and connect it on the employees' computers as a network drive (e.g. Z:).

When you place the symbol library on this drive, everyone in the team will share symbols and drawings and can work on them together.

💡 Pro tip: If you share the library over the network, agree in the team on one person who will be in charge of managing and editing the symbols. This prevents situations where two people edit the same symbol at the same time and one overwrites the other's changes.

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