Electrical Symbols and Symbol Types used within AutoCAD Electrical

In this blog article, we are going to take a look at different electrical symbols and symbol types within AutoCAD Electrical.

Electrical Symbols and Symbol Types used within AutoCAD Electrical

Electrical symbols within AutoCAD Electrical consist of an attributed block with required and optional electrical attributes that defined the symbol type. A feature within AutoCAD Electrical called ‘Symbol Builder’ is used to define the symbol and component type, including the block objects and insertion point.

The different symbol types available are:

  • Parent Symbols (Horizontal and Vertical)
  • Child Symbols (Horizontal and Vertical)
  • Terminals (Horizontal and Vertical)
  • Panel Footprint Symbols
  • Panel Nameplates
  • Panel Terminals

The component type list can be adjusted to include/remove specific component types by amending the attribute template files within the specified library path within ‘Symbol Builder’.

An example of an attribute template files for a circuit breaker is shown below:

AT_HP_CB

where AT = Attribute Template, HP = Horizontal Parent and CB = Circuit Breaker

AT_VP_CB

where AT = Attribute Template, HC = Vertical Parent and CB = Circuit Breaker

AT_HC_CB

where AT = Attribute Template, HC = Horizontal Child and CB = Circuit Breaker

AT_VC_CB

where AT = Attribute Template, HC = Vertical Child and CB = Circuit Breaker

Depending on what symbol type and component type is selected, this will provide the user with the specific required and optional attributes.

If the component type description is required for the new component i.e. (PU) Power Distribution Unit. This is achieved by adding the new table to the catalogue database  (Project Tab > Other Tools drop down), select the required catalogue that is being used and within the existing table ‘_FAMILY_DESCRIPTION’, Add the table name and description as shown in the example below:

Once the attribute templates have been set up, they will also be available when saving custom symbols within the symbol builder using the file naming convention in AutoCAD Electrical as shown in the example below:

If you would like further information on the benefits of using AutoCAD Electrical for your electrical design, feel free to contact us at Symetri to arrange a consultation with one of our electrical specialists.

We offer scheduled AutoCAD Electrical essentials training, as well as bespoke training tailored to your requirements to help you work smarter for a better future.

To learn more about AutoCAD Electrical, please visit our product page or contact us by email  info@symetri.co.uk or telephone 0345 370 1444.


How Civil 3D 2026 can support your workflows

16 April 2025

In this blog post, our Principal Consultant, Enrique Barriuso, takes a closer look at what's new in Autodesk Civil 3D 2026. Building on previous versions, this release brings a range of new features, enhancements, and updates.

OPTIMISING BIM & DIGITAL: IN ARCHITECTURE & ENGINEERING

14 April 2025

Optimising BIM and digital tools in architecture and engineering is revolutionising the industry. By integrating technologies like AI, cloud computing, and data analytics, professionals can enhance collaboration, reduce errors, and streamline workflows. In this blog, we'll explore how leveraging these tools can lead to more efficient and successful project outcomes.

How Inventor 2026 can support your workflows

07 April 2025

Consultant James Lodge explores what’s new in Autodesk Inventor Professional 2026. Including smarter workflows, a modern UI, enhanced sheet metal tools, and improved Revit interoperability to boost performance and cross-team collaboration.