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Electric circuits symbols
Beginner
Standard diagrams for components.
Standard symbols: cell, battery, resistor, variable resistor, lamp, switch, capacitor, ammeter (A), voltmeter (V), diode. Circuit diagrams show the connections, not the physical layout.
Learn them to read and draw circuits.
Ammeter in series, voltmeter in parallel.
In more detail
Circuit symbols are standard drawings for components such as resistors, capacitors, cells and switches. Using standard symbols lets engineers read diagrams worldwide.
Real-world uses
- Engineers communicate designs using standard circuit diagrams.
- Students learn to read schematics from standard symbols.
- Engineers read circuit diagrams that use standard symbols for resistors, capacitors, batteries and switches.
Open the interactive lesson, with simulation and quiz →
Frequently asked questions
Is there one standard?
Most countries use IEC or ANSI symbols, which are similar but not identical.
Why use schematics?
They show connections clearly without the physical layout.
Do all countries use the same symbols?
Most international symbols are standardised, though some older or regional symbols may still appear in textbooks.
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