AutoCAD

How to Insert Electrical Symbols in AutoCAD 2019?

Steps to Insert Electrical Symbols in AutoCAD 2025

Inserting electrical symbols in AutoCAD requires following specific methods tailored for efficiency and accuracy. This guide will provide detailed steps for effectively adding various electrical symbols within the platform.

Method 1: Using the Text Editor

  1. Open the In-Place Text Editor:

    • Begin by accessing the area where you want to insert the symbol. Double-click on the text to enable the In-Place Text Editor.
  2. Right-click to Access Symbol Options:

    • Right-click within the text editor window. A context menu will appear. Select “Symbol” to view available symbols.
  3. Utilizing the Text Formatting Toolbar:

    • Alternatively, you can navigate to the expanded Text Formatting toolbar and click on the “Symbol” option. This displays a selection of symbols you can choose from for your text.
  4. Copy and Paste from Character Map:

    • Open the Character Map application on your computer. Choose the desired symbol, copy it, and then paste it directly into the AutoCAD text editor.
  5. Use Control Codes or Unicode Strings:

    • If you’re familiar with control codes or Unicode strings, enter them directly in the text editor. Remember to prefix the Unicode with a backslash for recognition.

Method 2: Inserting Electrical Components

  1. Access the Toolset:

    • Ensure you’re using AutoCAD Electrical, which is designed specifically for electrical design tasks. Open the application and select the specific schematic you’re working on.
  2. Use the Icon Menu:

    • Go to the Schematic tab, then navigate to the Insert Components pane. Click on the Icon Menu to reveal a comprehensive list of electrical components.
  3. Select and Insert Symbol:

    • Browse through the list to find the specific electrical symbol you need. Once located, click on the symbol; it will attach to your cursor. Position the cursor where you wish to place the symbol in your drawing and click to insert.
  4. Customize Attributes with Symbol Builder:

    • For circuit breaker symbols or any specific components, utilize the Symbol Builder Attribute Editor. Draw the required graphics, and follow the naming conventions when saving.

Method 3: Importing Symbols

  1. Installation of Additional Symbol Libraries:

    • To enhance your library of symbols, access the AutoCAD Electrical toolset Installation Wizard. Choose to add or remove features to include specific manufacturers’ content.
  2. Symbol Libraries Selection:

    • During the installation process, select the libraries you wish to import. Follow the on-screen instructions and finish by finalizing your selections.
  3. Verify Installation:

    • After completing the installation, ensure that the newly added symbols are accessible from the icon menu or the text editor for future use.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use symbols from previous versions of AutoCAD?
Yes, you can import symbols from older versions, but it’s essential to ensure compatibility with AutoCAD 2025 to prevent issues.

2. Is there a way to customize my electrical symbols?
Yes, you can customize symbols using the Symbol Builder in AutoCAD Electrical, allowing you to create tailored symbols to fit specific design criteria.

3. Are all electrical symbols included in AutoCAD 2025?
While AutoCAD 2025 includes a wide range of symbols, you may need to add specific libraries or use the Symbol Builder for specialized symbols depending on your needs.

About the author

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang is a renowned figure in the CAD (Computer-Aided Design) industry in Canada, with over 30 years of experience spanning his native China and Canada. As the founder of a CAD training center, Wei has been instrumental in shaping the skills of hundreds of technicians and engineers in technical drawing and CAD software applications. He is a certified developer with Autodesk, demonstrating his deep expertise and commitment to staying at the forefront of CAD technology. Wei’s passion for education and technology has not only made him a respected educator but also a key player in advancing CAD methodologies in various engineering sectors. His contributions have significantly impacted the way CAD is taught and applied in the professional world, bridging the gap between traditional drafting techniques and modern digital solutions.