Connect Symbols

A item can be added to a busbar by simply dragging and dropping the symbol onto the busbar symbol. The item is then assigned to the busbar and the required cable, compartment and default connector in the compartment are automatically created.

Where the above method is not applicable, to connect a symbol (load, supply or equipment):

1. Hover the cursor over it. Note the blue squares that are displayed. These are the connection points of the symbol (see the load in the example below).

   

2. Left-click on the required connection point, and drag the cursor towards the item that is to be connected to. All free connection points on the diagram are then displayed as blue squares (except in the case of MCCs, switchboards and distribution boards).

   Note:
   The size of the blue square can be changed using the Symbol Connector settings in the Distribution Diagram Options window.

3. As the cursor is dragged towards the equipment, a blue line ending in an arrow is drawn on the diagram from the selected equipment point to the position of the mouse cursor. The arrow head end of the line indicates the "load" end of the line.

4. Connect the end of the line to the required connection point in the item to be connected to. The symbol for that connection point then changes from a blue square to a pink one, indicating a valid connection.

   

5. Release the mouse button. The connection is then made, as indicated by the black line between the two items.

   

   Note:
   A supply, whether primary or secondary (Secondary Supply checkbox checked), cannot be a fed item in the layout. It can only be connected to loads and equipment. If an attempt is made to connect a supply to a supply, and error message will be displayed.

   Note:
   Once connections have been established they need to be converted into cables. Refer to Create Cables for further information.

To connect to or from an MCC, switchboard or distribution board:

6. Drag the cursor, as described above, to or from the required busbar (or the distribution board), which will change to pink to indicate a valid connection point.

   

7. Release the mouse button. The connection is then made, as indicated by the black line between the two items.

8. When a connection if made to or from a busbar, a compartment with a default connector element in it is automatically created as a result of creating this connection, the symbols of which are added to the layout.

   

9. Compartments will be created with a default name and details which the user may then edit. The connector can be replaced with the elements from a compartment typical.