Introduction: Reading Schematics and PCB Boards 101: Electronic Circuit Reference Abbreviations and Symbols
In this instructable I will talk about how to read a schematic and how to identify electrical components on a PCB (Printed Circuit Board).
Electrical components are identified two main ways.
- Abbreviations
- Symbols.
On a schematic you will also see a electrical components symbol next to it will have a identification number next to its abbreviation (ie. You will see the symbol for a resistor. The abbreviation for a resistor "R" followed by a number to identify it on a PCB "R102". Next to the symbol you will also see its value "2.2K". This tells you resistor 102 has a value of 2.2K ohm's. Ohm's because resistance is measured in Ohm's.
On a PCB is a completely different story. Sometimes you will not have any abbreviations, and Most of the time you will not see any symbols. Most of the time you will see a components next to a letter with a number next to it(ie. "R102") the "102" wont mean much unless you have the schematic But know you know its a resistor and you can look up how to read a resistor value. (the colored lines on the resistor will tell you its value.)
Step 1: Abbreviations.
There is a good list Here.
7 Comments
Question 4 weeks ago on Step 1
my arduino uno (knockoff model) has a power terminal labeld "VIIN" what does it stand for?
Answer 4 weeks ago
Should be VIN (Voltage in). Just google Arduino Uno Vin for referance.
Question 3 months ago on Introduction
Can you tell me what all these are ? It's a dual dc204 car stereo and I have an idea I want to try but I'm 2nd guessing myself so maybe you can help settle my debate with
Answer 3 months ago
Can't seem to get the images to up load which makes it kinda hard to get the answer I'm looking for hmm
5 years ago
Nice.
Thanks for this :)
Reply 5 years ago
Your welcome.
Reply 5 years ago
You're*