Electrical CAD refers to specialized computer-aided design software used for creating electrical schematics, panel layouts, wiring diagrams, control systems, and circuit boards. It helps electrical engineers design and document power distribution, automation, and electronic systems efficiently and accurately.

🧭 Applications of Electrical CAD

1. Wiring Diagrams & Schematics

   • Design of electrical circuits with symbols and interconnections

   • Shows how components like switches, relays, and motors are connected

2. Panel Layouts

   • Design of electrical control panels (arrangement of breakers, contactors, etc.)

3. PCB Design (Printed Circuit Boards)

   • Circuit layout for electronic components and traces on PCBs

   • Mainly used in electronics and embedded systems

4. Automation & Control Systems

   • Used in industrial automation (PLC, SCADA wiring, etc.)

   • Design and simulate logic sequences and I/O wiring

5. Power Distribution

   • Design of power systems in buildings and infrastructure projects

   • Includes lighting layouts, cable schedules, and circuit breakers

🧰 Popular Electrical CAD Software

🪛 Key Features of Electrical CAD

• 📊 Intelligent Symbols & Components
  Automatically linked with real-world data (voltage, current, manufacturer specs)

• 🔄 Automatic Numbering & Tagging
  For wires, devices, and terminals

• 📄 Reports & BOM Generation
  Auto-generate Bill of Materials, cable lists, wire tags, etc.

• 🔌 Cross-Referencing
  Automatic linking between multi-sheet diagrams

• 🧠 Simulation & Validation
  Identify errors like short circuits, open ends, or overloads

🎯 Benefits of Electrical CAD

• ⚡ Faster design process through templates and smart tools

• 🎯 Error reduction with real-time validation

• 🧾 Accurate documentation for installation and maintenance

• 🛠️ Easier updates when changes are needed

• 💡 Better integration with mechanical and architectural CAD