11.5: Schematic Symbols
- Page ID
- 132190
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Circuit schematics use standard symbols. The symbols used in the Circuit Design Project are:
| Component | Symbol description | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| DC Voltage Source | Long/short parallel lines (+ and −) | Provides constant voltage |
| Resistor | Zigzag line (US) or rectangle (IEC) | Opposes current, dissipates energy as heat |
| Ammeter | Circle with A | Measures current — placed in series |
| Voltmeter | Circle with V | Measures voltage — placed in parallel across a component |
| Ground | Line to downward triangle | Reference point (0 V) |
| LED | Triangle with lines (directional) | Light-emitting diode — only conducts one direction |
| Switch (SPST) | Line with a gap and lever | Opens or closes the current path |
Figure \(\PageIndex{1}\): Labeled circuit schematic showing a DC voltage source, SPST switch, ammeter, resistor, voltmeter, and ground reference. The ammeter is placed in series so all circuit current flows through it, while the voltmeter is placed in parallel across the resistor to measure the voltage drop. (Copyright; Jonathan Compton, AI-assisted original figure, CC BY-NC 4.0)