Electrical Systems Training

Class Information
Class Name:Electrical Print Reading 225
Description:This class explains the basic principles of reading electrical prints with an emphasis on schematic symbols. Includes an Interactive Lab.
Prerequisites: 550120 550140 
Number of Lessons:15
Language:English, Spanish
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Class Outline
  • Objectives
  • What Are Electrical Prints?
  • Types of Electrical Prints
  • One-Line Diagrams
  • The Symbol Key
  • Schematic Diagrams
  • Basic Schematic Symbols
  • Switches, Cells, and Meters
  • Rectifiers, Capacitors, Inductors, and Transformers
  • Reading Schematic Diagrams
  • Pictorial Diagrams
  • Wiring Diagrams
  • Other Types of Diagrams
  • Troubleshooting
  • Summary
Class Objectives
  • Describe an electrical print.
  • Identify types of electrical prints.
  • Describe one-line diagrams.
  • Describe the importance of the symbol key in electrical prints.
  • Describe schematic diagrams.
  • List basic schematic symbols.
  • Distinguish among the schematics for switches, cells, and meters.
  • Distinguish among the schematics for rectifiers, capacitors, inductors, and transformers.
  • Explain strategies for learning to read schematic diagrams.
  • Describe pictorial diagrams.
  • Describe wiring diagrams.
  • Describe other common types of electrical diagrams.
  • Describe how electrical prints assist with troubleshooting.

Class Vocabulary

Vocabulary TermDefinition
3-D diagram A type of electrical print that shows all dimensions of the project. A 3-D diagram is more common for construction sites.
block diagram A simple type of electrical print that shows each component in a circuit in simple block form. The terms "one-line diagram" and "block diagram" are sometimes used interchangeably.
blueprint A document containing all the necessary information to create a product, such as a part, machine, or system. When dealing with electrical systems, a blueprint is commonly called an electrical print.
capacitor A material capable of storing an electrical charge.
cell A single unit of a battery that generates electrical current.
coil A bundle of wire that is wrapped continuously around a magnetic core.
combination diagram A type of electrical print that combines two or more types of electrical prints in one.
conductor A material or element that allows free movement of electrons and therefore allows easy flow of electricity. Conductors are represented in electrical prints as solid, straight lines.
electrical floor plan A very detailed type of electrical print, typically used in construction, to show the location and types of electrical devices for a construction project.
electrical print A document containing all the necessary information needed to create an electric circuit.
fixed resistor A device that resists only a specific amount of current flow.
inductor A device that opposes change in the flow of electricity.
key A guide to the various schematics or symbols used in a particular electrical print.
ladder diagram A type of electrical print that depicts the electrical circuit in vertical planes similar to the rungs of a ladder.
legend An area of a blueprint that lists notes and otherwise provides the meaning of the symbols or pictures in a fluid blueprint.
meter A device that measures electricity. Depending on the type of meter, it may measure many different quantities, including voltage, amperage, or wattage. The schematic for a meter usually has a corresponding letter that indicates the type of meter.
one-line diagram The most basic type of electrical print. A one-line diagram shows the relationship of electrical components along just one line.
pictorial diagram A type of electrical print that shows the external appearance of each component in the circuit. A pictorial diagram is much like a photograph of the circuit.
potentiometer A type of variable resistor that resists electric current and adjusts electrical devices. A potentiometer is similar to a rheostat, but it is more efficient.
rectifier A device used in an electrical circuit that converts AC power to DC power.
rheostat A type of variable resistor that is used to resist electric current. A rheostat is often used for high-energy devices.
schematic A type of symbol used to represent an electrical component in an electrical print. Every electrical component can be represented with a schematic.
schematic diagram An electrical print in which all electrical components are represented with a schematic symbol. Schematic diagrams show the electrical relationship of all components, but not the physical relationship of the components.
switches Devices that open or close circuits.
transformer An electrical device used to adjust voltage.
troubleshooting A method by which a problem is solved. Troubleshooting often involves using the prints as a guide to find the problem area.
variable resistor A type of resistor that can be adjusted. A variable resistor can be used to adjust properties such as the speed of a motor or the volume on a stereo.
wiring diagram The most detailed of electrical prints. A wiring diagram shows the physical relationship of all the components, as well as the information needed to wire the circuit.