The Beauty home

Archive for the ‘Computers’ Category

Guest Blog By: Ted D.

Upon first glance, a circuit diagram can appear to be a complicated map of foreign symbols. However, a circuit diagram, also known as an electronic schematic, is actually a simplified version of an electrical circuit. Electrical engineers create schematics to act as a recipe with step-by-step instructions describing how to make a circuit.

Know Your Symbols
An electrical circuit is a loop of energy made up of electrical sources, conducting pathways and devices. A schematic maps the components using standardized symbols to illustrate the connections between devices like signal and power connections. Obtain a list of standard schematic symbols to use as reference when reading electrical diagrams. Due to the array of electronic components used in circuitry, each has its own symbol. Symbols for electrical ground on the schematic are often noted with current ratings, voltage and polarity.

Follow the Path
The easiest way to read an electronic schematic is to begin at the current source and follow its path. Note the number of connection points, also known as pins, connecting to the device. The more pins, the more complex the device; though, most components have two or three connection points. Many schematics contain additional notation along with the standard symbols. These are often part types or specific values to help navigate the circuit diagram.

Follow each line from the current source through the entire diagram and back to the starting point. The lines on a schematic diagram will form at least one complete loop of energy.