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Use Circuit Builder

1. One-line motor control

The Circuit Builder tool comes prepopulated with data to build and annotate a sampling of motor control circuits and power feed circuits. It includes three-phase, single-phase, and one-line circuit representations. Each circuit is built dynamically with the following features:

Connects to an adjacent power bus.
Adds wiring between components.
Annotates selected components with suggested values based upon the selected load.

Each time a circuit is configured, it is added to a history list of circuits. This list provides for quick re-insertion at a later time.

You can customize Circuit Builder to insert other circuit types.

One-line motor control

Circuit Build supplies and uses a one-line symbol library when building a one-line circuit. Each one-line symbol has a WDTYPE attribute with a value of “1-” or “1-1”. The WDTYPE attribute value distinguishes the one-line symbol from a schematic symbol. A schematic symbol either has no WDTYPE attribute or a blank WDTYPE attribute value. One-line symbols follow the same symbol naming conventions and have the same attribute requirements as schematic symbols with a few attribute exceptions.

Attribute	Description
WDTYPE	The attribute must be present and carry a value of “1-” to indicate it is a one-line symbol, or “1-1” for the one-line bus-tap symbols. A bus-tap symbol is used to mark the beginning of a one-line circuit. Schematic symbols do not carry this attribute or have the attribute but with a blank value.
RATING1	Omitted from one-line cable markers symbols since a one-line cable marker can represent multiple conductors, multiple wires, or core color assignments.
TERM01	Omitted from one-line terminal symbols since a one-line terminal can represent multiple independent terminals. If a TERM01 attribute is added to a one-line symbol and carries a non-blank value, it can be edited in the Insert/Edit Terminal Symbol dialog box. However, terminal number text on one-line terminal symbols is not linked back to terminal number assignments on schematic or panel terminal representations. Note One-line terminals are not processed by Terminal Strip Editor.

Attribute

Description

WDTYPE

The attribute must be present and carry a value of “1-” to indicate it is a one-line symbol, or “1-1” for the one-line bus-tap symbols. A bus-tap symbol is used to mark the beginning of a one-line circuit. Schematic symbols do not carry this attribute or have the attribute but with a blank value.

RATING1

Omitted from one-line cable markers symbols since a one-line cable marker can represent multiple conductors, multiple wires, or core color assignments.

TERM01

Omitted from one-line terminal symbols since a one-line terminal can represent multiple independent terminals.

If a TERM01 attribute is added to a one-line symbol and carries a non-blank value, it can be edited in the Insert/Edit Terminal Symbol dialog box. However, terminal number text on one-line terminal symbols is not linked back to terminal number assignments on schematic or panel terminal representations.

Note

One-line terminals are not processed by Terminal Strip Editor.

Procedures

Insert a 3-phase circuit

Builds a circuit based on your selection from a list of available circuits and circuit elements.

The circuit builds dynamically and matches the rung spacing, adds wiring between components, and can annotate the circuit with calculated values based upon the assigned load amperage of the circuit. Circuit Builder extracts these annotation values from a database based on engineering standards, motor horsepower, and supply voltage.

Click Schematic tabInsert Components panelCircuit Builder drop-downCircuit Builder.
Select the circuit from the Circuits list. For example:
Circuits: 3ph Motor Circuit, Horizontal - FVNR - non reversing
Note
You can also select History to display the list of previously configured circuits.
A circuit inserted from the Circuits list contains all default circuit elements as defined in the circuit template and circuit builder spreadsheet. See How to set circuit element defaults to change the default circuit setup.
A circuit inserted from the History list contains all circuit elements and values of the previously configured circuit.
(Optional) Enter a Circuit Scale. This value sets an insertion scale value for the circuit template drawing.
(Optional) Enter a Component Scale. This value sets an insertion scale value for the individual components inserted while building the circuit.
(Optional) Enter a Horizontal Rung Spacing.
(Optional) Enter a Vertical Rung Spacing.
(Optional) Select to apply some specific annotation:
- Presets - defined in the ANNO_CODE sheet of the Circuit Builder spreadsheet file that map to the selected circuit.
- Reference an existing circuit - reference values from an existing circuit selected from a list of circuits extracted from the active project. The state of the Retag new components check box controls the retagging of the components within the new circuit. Values can include catalog assignment, component descriptions, annotation values, and more.
  Note
  This option is not available if the circuit is selected from the History list.
Select Insert.
Select an insertion point location on the drawing.

Configure a 3-phase circuit

Click Schematic tabInsert Components panelCircuit Builder drop-downCircuit Builder.
Select the circuit from the Circuits list. For example:
Circuits: 3ph Motor Circuit, Horizontal - FVNR - non reversing
Note
You can also select History to display the list of previously inserted circuits.
(Optional) Enter a Circuit Scale. This value sets an insertion scale value for the circuit template.
(Optional) Enter a Component Scale. This value sets an insertion scale value for the individual components inserted while building the circuit.
(Optional) Enter a Horizontal Rung Spacing.
(Optional) Enter a Vertical Rung Spacing.
(Optional) Select to apply some specific annotation:
- Presets - defined in the ANNO_CODE sheet of the Circuit Builder spreadsheet file that map to the selected circuit.
- Reference an existing circuit - reference values from an existing circuit selected from a list of circuits extracted from the active project. The state of the Retag new components check box controls the retagging of the components within the new circuit. Values can include catalog assignment, component descriptions, annotation values, and more.
  Note
  This option is not available if the circuit is selected from the History list.
Select Configure.
Select an insertion point location on the drawing. The template drawing for the selected circuit is inserted at the specified location. The template drawing contains marker blocks. Each block is marked with a code value that links to instructions for either inserting a component, wire number, or adjusting the wiring of the circuit.
The dialog box has three sections, Circuit Elements, Select, and Setup & Annotations. The options differ depending on the circuit and circuit element selected.
Select a circuit element, for example:
Circuit Elements: Motor Setup
Click the Motor Setup Browse button to display the Select Motor dialog box. This dialog box is where you select the motor and horsepower or KW size from the electrical standards database. For other components, the Catalog lookup dialog box displays. You can also type in values for each entry.
Click the Wire Setup Browse button to display the Wire Size Lookup dialog box. This dialog box is where you select or adjust the wire size based on an analysis of the load and various installation parameters. You can also type in values for each entry.
Select a circuit element, for example:
Circuit Elements: Disconnecting means
The options for this circuit element, defined in the circuit builder spreadsheet, are displayed in the Select section.
Select the options for this circuit element, for example:
Main Disconnect: Circuit breaker
Include N.O. auxiliary contact: Yes
(Optional) Modify values in the Setup & Annotations section for the selected circuit element.
Note
Depending upon how this circuit element is set up in the circuit builder spreadsheet, this section may not be available for circuit element modification.
Select the Browse button to make a part number assignment from the Catalog lookup dialog box. The “TABLE” entry defines the catalog lookup table for the component in the circuit builder spreadsheet. You can also type in values for each entry.
Repeat to configure each circuit element.
(Optional) Enter a name for the circuit. This name is added to the History list on the Circuit Selection dialog box and makes it easier to find this same circuit for future re-insertion.
Select from one of three ways to insert the circuit elements.
Click to insert just the highlighted circuit element.
Click to insert all the circuit elements up to and including the highlighted circuit element.
Click to insert all the circuit elements.
Note
If the circuit contains a nested template, the circuit elements tree structure may expand when the nested circuit is inserted into the overall circuit. You may need to go back and configure the circuit elements that are part of the nested template.
Select Done. The circuit is finalized by:
- Remaining untagged child components are matched up with parent components and tags are assigned.
- The selection information for the circuit is applied to the main component of the circuit, for example the motor or load symbol.
- The remaining marker blocks are removed from the circuit template for any circuit elements not inserted.

Note

The Circuit Elements list is built dynamically based on the template for the selected circuit. As the circuit elements are inserted, if the element contains a nested circuit, the circuit element becomes expandable so you can configure the nested circuit elements.

Insert a power feed circuit

Click Schematic tabInsert Components panelCircuit Builder drop-downCircuit Builder.
Select the power feed circuit. For example:
Circuits: 3ph Power Feed, Horizontal - Single feed
Note
You can also select History to display the list of previously inserted circuits.
A circuit inserted from the Circuits list contains all default circuit elements as defined in the circuit template and circuit builder spreadsheet. See Customize Circuit Builder to change the default circuit setup.
A circuit inserted from the History list contains all circuit elements and values of the previously inserted circuit.
(Optional) Enter a Circuit Scale. This value sets an insertion scale value for the circuit template.
(Optional) Enter a Component Scale. This value sets an insertion scale value for the individual components inserted while building the circuit.
(Optional) Enter a Horizontal Rung Spacing.
(Optional) Enter a Vertical Rung Spacing.
(Optional) Select to apply some specific annotation:
- Presets - defined in the ANNO_CODE sheet of the Circuit Builder spreadsheet file that map to the selected circuit.
- Reference an existing circuit - reference values from an existing circuit selected from a list of circuits extracted from the active project. The state of the Retag new components check box controls the retagging of the components within the new circuit. Values can include catalog assignment, component descriptions, annotation values, and more.
  Note
  This option is not available if the circuit is selected from the History list.
Select Insert.
Select an insertion point location on the drawing.

Configure a power feed circuit

Click Schematic tabInsert Components panelCircuit Builder drop-downCircuit Builder.
Select the circuit from the Circuits list. For example:
Circuits: 3ph Power Feed, Horizontal - Single feed.
Note
You can also select History to display the list of previously inserted circuits.
(Optional) Enter a Circuit Scale. This value sets an insertion scale value for the circuit template.
(Optional) Enter a Component Scale. This value sets an insertion scale value for the individual components inserted while building the circuit.
(Optional) Enter a Horizontal Rung Spacing.
(Optional) Enter a Vertical Rung Spacing.
(Optional) Select to apply some specific annotation:
- Presets - defined in the ANNO_CODE sheet of the Circuit Builder spreadsheet file that map to the selected circuit.
- Reference an existing circuit - reference values from an existing circuit selected from a list of circuits extracted from the active project. The state of the Retag new components check box controls the retagging of the components within the new circuit. Values can include catalog assignment, component descriptions, annotation values, and more.
  Note
  This option is not available if the circuit is selected from the History list.
Select Configure.
Select an insertion point location on the drawing. The template drawing for the power feed is inserted at the specified location. The template drawing contains marker blocks, with instructions for building the circuit, and the circuit wiring.
The dialog box has three sections, Circuit Elements, Select, and Setup & Annotations. The options differ depending on the circuit selected.
Select a circuit element, for example:
Circuit Elements: Load
The options for this circuit element, driven from the circuit builder spreadsheet, are displayed in the Select section.
Select the option for this circuit element, for example:
Load: Generic box
Select another circuit element, for example:
Circuit Elements: Load Setup
Click the Load Setup Browse button to display the Select Load dialog box. This dialog box is where you select the load from the electrical standards database. For other components, the Catalog lookup dialog box displays. You can also type in values for each entry.
Click the Wire Setup Browse button to display the Wire Size Lookup dialog box. This dialog box is where you select or adjust the wire size based on an analysis of the load and various installation parameters. You can also type in values for each entry.
Repeat to configure each circuit element.
(Optional) Enter a name for the circuit. This name is added to the History list on the Circuit Selection dialog box and makes it easier to find for future re-insertion.
Select from one of three ways to insert the circuit elements.
Click to insert just the highlighted circuit element.
Click to insert all the circuit elements up to and including the highlighted circuit element.
Click to insert all the circuit elements.
Note
If the circuit contains a nested template, go back and configure the circuit elements in the nested template.
Select Done. The circuit is finalized by:
- Remaining untagged child components are matched up with parent components and tags are assigned.
- The selection information for the circuit is applied to the main component of the circuit.
- The remaining marker blocks are removed from the circuit template for any circuit elements not inserted.

Configure a dual power feed circuit

A dual power feed circuit has two distinct circuits running off the same bus-tap. Each circuit can be independently configured.

Click Schematic tabInsert Components panelCircuit Builder drop-downCircuit Builder.
Select the circuit from the Circuits list. For example:
Circuits: 3ph Power Feed, Horizontal - Dual feed.
Note
You can also select History to display the list of previously inserted circuits.
(Optional) Enter a Circuit Scale. This value sets an insertion scale value for the circuit template.
(Optional) Enter a Component Scale. This value sets an insertion scale value for the individual components inserted while building the circuit.
(Optional) Enter a Horizontal Rung Spacing.
(Optional) Enter a Vertical Rung Spacing.
(Optional) Select to apply some specific annotation:
- Presets - defined in the ANNO_CODE sheet of the Circuit Builder spreadsheet file that map to the selected circuit.
- Reference an existing circuit - reference values from an existing circuit selected from a list of circuits extracted from the active project. The Retag new components check box controls the retagging of the components. Values can include catalog assignment, component descriptions, annotation values, and more.
  Note
  This option is not available if the circuit is selected from the History list.
Select Configure.
Select an insertion point location on the drawing. The template drawing for the dual power feed is inserted at the specified location. The template drawing contains marker blocks, with instructions for building the circuit, and the circuit wiring.
The dialog box has three sections, Circuit Elements, Select, and Setup & Annotations. The options differ depending on the circuit selected.
Note
The circuit elements with a “(2)” prefix make up the second circuit.
Select a circuit element, for example:
Circuit Elements: Load
The options for this circuit element, driven from the circuit builder spreadsheet, are displayed in the Select section.
Select the option for this circuit element, for example:
Load: Generic box
Select another circuit element, for example:
Circuit Elements: Load Setup
Click the Load Setup Browse button to display the Select Load dialog box. This dialog box is where you select the load from the electrical standards database. For other components, the Catalog lookup dialog box displays. You can also type in values for each entry.
Click the Wire Setup Browse button to display the Wire Size Lookup dialog box. This dialog box is where you select or adjust the wire size based on an analysis of the load and various installation parameters. You can also type in values for each entry.
Repeat to configure each circuit element including the ones with the “(2)” prefix indicating they are part of the second circuit.
(Optional) Enter a name for the circuit. This name is added to the History list on the Circuit Selection dialog box and makes it easier to find for future re-insertion.
Select from one of three ways to insert the circuit elements.
Click to insert just the highlighted circuit element.
Click to insert all the circuit elements up to and including the highlighted circuit element.
Click to insert all the circuit elements.
Note
If the circuit contains a nested template you, go back and configure the circuit elements in the nested template.
Select Done. The circuit is finalized by:
- Remaining untagged child components are matched up with parent components and tags are assigned.
- The selection information for the circuit is applied to the main component of the circuit.
- The remaining marker blocks are removed from the circuit template for any circuit elements not inserted.

Insert a one-line circuit

Builds a one-line circuit based on your selection from a list of available circuits and circuit elements.

Circuit Builder builds the circuit dynamically and annotates the circuit. Annotation values are extracted from a database based on engineering standards, motor horsepower, and supply voltage.

NoteAdd the one-line library search path to the project so Circuit Builder can find the one-line circuit templates. By default, the one-line library is installed in a 1- folder under the schematic library folder.

Click Schematic tabInsert Components panelCircuit Builder drop-downCircuit Builder.
Select a one-line circuit from the Circuits list. For example:
Circuits: One-line Motor Circuit, Vertical - FVNR - non reversing.
Note
You can also select History to display the list of previously inserted circuits.
(Optional) Enter a Circuit Scale. This value sets an insertion scale value for the circuit template.
(Optional) Enter a Component Scale. This value sets an insertion scale value for the individual components inserted while building the circuit.
(Optional) Select to apply some specific annotation:
- Presets - defined in the ANNO_CODE sheet of the Circuit Builder spreadsheet file that map to the selected circuit.
- Reference an existing circuit - reference values from an existing circuit selected from a list of circuits extracted from the active project. The state of the Retag new components check box controls the retagging of the components within the new circuit. Values can include catalog assignment, component descriptions, annotation values, and more.
  Note
  This option is not available if the circuit is selected from the History list.
Select Insert.
A circuit inserted from the Circuits list contains all default circuit elements as defined in the circuit template and circuit builder spreadsheet. See How to set circuit element defaults to change default circuit setup.
Select an insertion point location on the drawing.

Configure a one-line circuit

Configures and builds a one-line circuit based on your selection from a list of available circuits and circuit elements.

Click Schematic tabInsert Components panelCircuit Builder drop-downCircuit Builder.
Select the circuit from the Circuits list. For example:
Circuits: One-line Motor Circuit, Vertical - FVNR - non reversing
Note
You can also select History to display the list of previously inserted circuits.
(Optional) Enter a Circuit Scale. This value sets an insertion scale value for the circuit template.
(Optional) Enter a Component Scale. This value sets an insertion scale value for the individual components inserted while building the circuit.
(Optional) Select to apply some specific annotation:
- Presets - defined in the ANNO_CODE sheet of the Circuit Builder spreadsheet file that map to the selected circuit.
- Reference an existing circuit - reference values from an existing circuit selected from a list of circuits extracted from the active project. The state of the Retag new components controls the retagging of the components within the new circuit. Values can include catalog assignment, component descriptions, annotation values, and more.
  Note
  This option is not available if the circuit is selected from the History list.
Select Configure.
Select an insertion point location on the drawing. The template drawing for the selected circuit is inserted at the specified location. The template drawing contains marker blocks, with instructions for building the circuit, and the circuit wiring.
The dialog box has three sections, Circuit Elements, Select, and Setup & Annotations. The options differ depending on the circuit and circuit element selected.
Select a circuit element, for example:
Circuit Elements: Motor Setup
Click the Motor Setup Browse button to display the Select Motor dialog box. This dialog box is where you select the motor and horsepower or KW size from the electrical standards database. For other components, the Catalog lookup dialog box displays. You can also type in values for each entry.
Click the Wire Setup Browse button to display the Wire Size Lookup dialog box. This dialog box is where you select or adjust the wire size based on an analysis of the load and various installation parameters. You can also type in values for each entry.
Select a circuit element, for example:
Circuit Elements: Disconnecting means
The options for this circuit element, defined in the circuit builder spreadsheet, are displayed in the Select section.
Select the options for this circuit element, for example:
Main Disconnect: Disconnect switch and fuses
(Optional) Modify values in the Setup & Annotations section for the selected circuit element.
Note
Depending upon how this circuit element is set up in the circuit builder spreadsheet, this section may not be available for circuit element modification.
Select the Browse button to make a part number assignment from the Catalog lookup dialog box. The “TABLE” entry for the component in the circuit builder spreadsheet defines the catalog lookup table. You can also type in values for each entry.
Repeat to configure each circuit element.
(Optional) Enter a name for the circuit. This name is added to the History list on the Circuit Selection dialog box and makes it easier to find for future re-insertion.
Select from one of three ways to insert the circuit elements.
Click to insert just the highlighted circuit element.
Click to insert all the circuit elements up to and including the highlighted circuit element.
Click to insert all the circuit elements.
Note
If the circuit contains a nested template, go back and configure the circuit elements in the nested template.
Select Done. The circuit is finalized by:
- Remaining untagged child components are matched up with parent components and tags are assigned.
- The selection information for the circuit is applied to the main component of the circuit.
- The remaining marker blocks are removed from the circuit template for any circuit elements not inserted.

Configure a dual one-line circuit

Click Schematic tabInsert Components panelCircuit Builder drop-downCircuit Builder.
Select the circuit from the Circuits list. For example:
Circuits: One-line Motor Circuit, Vertical - Dual FVNR - non reversing
Note
You can also select History to display the list of previously inserted circuits.
(Optional) Enter a Circuit Scale. This value sets an insertion scale value for the circuit template.
(Optional) Enter a Component Scale. This value sets an insertion scale value for the individual components inserted while building the circuit.
(Optional) Select to apply some specific annotation:
- Presets - defined in the ANNO_CODE sheet of the Circuit Builder spreadsheet file that map to the selected circuit.
- Reference an existing circuit - reference values from an existing circuit selected from a list of circuits extracted from the active project.The state of the Retag new components controls the retagging of the components within the new circuit. Values can include catalog assignment, component descriptions, annotation values, and more.
  Note
  This option is not available if the circuit is selected from the History list.
Select Configure.
Select an insertion point location on the drawing. The template drawing for the selected circuit is inserted at the specified location. The template drawing contains marker blocks, with instructions for building the circuit, and the circuit wiring.
The dialog box has three sections, Circuit Elements, Select, and Setup & Annotations. The options differ depending on the circuit and circuit element selected.
Note
The circuit elements with a “(2)” prefix make up the second circuit.
Select a circuit element, for example:
Circuit Elements: Motor Setup
Click the Motor Setup Browse button to display the Select Motor dialog box. This dialog box is where you select the motor and horsepower or KW size from the electrical standards database. For other components, the Catalog lookup dialog box displays. You can also type in values for each entry.
Select the Wire Setup Browse button to display the Wire Size Lookup dialog box. This dialog box is where you select or adjust the wire size based on an analysis of the load and various installation parameters. You can also type in values for each entry.
Select a circuit element, for example:
Circuit Elements: Disconnecting means
The options for this circuit element, defined in the circuit builder spreadsheet, are displayed in the Select section.
Select the options for this circuit element, for example:
Main Disconnect: Disconnect switch and fuses
(Optional) Modify values in the Setup & Annotations section for the selected circuit element.
Note
Depending upon how this circuit element is set up in the circuit builder spreadsheet, this section may not be available for circuit element modification.
Select the Browse button to make a part number assignment from the Catalog lookup dialog box. The “TABLE” entry for the component in the circuit builder spreadsheet defines the catalog lookup table. You can also type in values for each entry.
Repeat to configure each circuit element including the ones with the “(2)” prefix indicating they are part of the second circuit.
(Optional) Enter a name for the circuit. This name is added to the History list on the Circuit Selection dialog box for future insertion.
Select from one of three ways to insert the circuit elements.
Click to insert just the highlighted circuit element.
Click to insert all the circuit elements up to and including the highlighted circuit element.
Click to insert all the circuit elements.
Note
If the circuit contains a nested template, go back and configure the circuit elements in the nested template.
Select Done. The marker blocks are removed from the circuit template for any circuit elements not inserted.

References

Circuit Selection

Select to insert a circuit. A circuit is built based on a circuit template assigned to the selected circuit type. The rung spacing of the circuit adjusts to match the rung spacing setting for the drawing (Drawing properties: drawing format tab). Each individual device is inserted at a location predefined on the circuit template. Devices are annotated based on values in the Circuit Builder spreadsheet. The spreadsheet file name is displayed near the top of the Circuit Selection dialog box.

Ribbon: Schematic tab

Insert Components panel

Circuit Builder drop-down

Circuit Builder.

Toolbar: Main Electrical

Menu: Components

Circuit Builder

Command entry: AECIRCBUILDER

Circuits	The tree structure is created by reading the ACE_CIRCS sheet of the circuit builder spreadsheet and constructing the tree from the data found in columns CATEGORY and TYPE. The default spreadsheet file is ace_circuit_builder.xls. The tree has two levels. The first level is the circuit category, for example 3-phase Motor Circuit. The second level is the circuit type, for example Horizontal - Full Voltage Non-reversing.
History>>	Expands the dialog box to show the history of configured and inserted circuits.
History<<	Collapses the dialog box to hide the history of configured and inserted circuits.
History	Select a previously inserted circuit, including all annotation values, to insert or configure. Select a circuit from this history list and then select Insert or Configure. Select Delete to remove the displayed circuit from the history listing. Note This option is not available if Reference existing circuit is selected.
Circuit Scale	Sets an insertion scale value for the entire template.
Component Scale	Sets an insertion scale value for the individual components inserted while building the circuit.
Horizontal Rung Spacing	Sets the 3-phase horizontal rung spacing for the circuit. The ladder rung spacing for the drawing is the default value.
Vertical Rung Spacing	Sets the 3-phase vertical rung spacing for the circuit. The multi-wire spacing for the drawing is the default value.
None	Specifies to ignore special annotation options.
Presets	Specifies whether to use the preset annotation values from the circuit builder spreadsheet.
Presets - List	Displays the Annotation dialog box. Use this dialog box to specify which annotation values from the spreadsheet ANNO_CODE sheet to apply.
Reference existing circuit	Specifies whether to use annotation values from an existing circuit. Note This option is not available if the circuit is selected from the history list. Select <Default> from the History list to re-enable the Reference existing circuit option.
Reference existing circuit - List	Displays the Existing Circuits dialog box showing the existing circuits found in the active project. Select a circuit from the list. The values from the selected circuit are applied to the new circuit.
Retag new components	When Reference existing circuit is selected, specifies whether to retag the components inserted as part of the new circuit.
Insert	Inserts the circuit with all default circuit elements and settings.
Configure	Opens the Circuit Configuration dialog box. Modify the options for the circuit and insert it.

Annotation Presets

Predefine component attribute values in the ANNO_CODE sheet of the Circuit Builder spreadsheet file. The values are applied to the components when the circuit is inserted.

Selection grid	Specifies which preset annotation values to apply. Double click to edit a value. Highlight a row before selecting Drawing or Project to display a dialog with a list of used values for the attribute.
Clear all	Clears all selections.
Drawing	Displays a dialog box with a list of values used on the active drawing for the highlighted attribute.
Project	Displays a dialog box with a list of values used within the project for the highlighted attribute.

Circuit Configuration

This dialog box provides options to configure a circuit before inserting it. You can configure the circuit both in terms of the physical devices and the device annotation values.

Ribbon: Schematic tab

Insert Components panel

Circuit Builder drop-down

Circuit Builder.

Toolbar: Main Electrical

Menu: Components

Circuit Builder

Command entry: AECIRCBUILDER

On the Select Circuit dialog box, select a circuit and click Configure.

Name	Enter a name for the circuit. This name is added to the History list on the Circuit Selection dialog box for future insertion.
Circuit Elements	Displays the circuit elements for the selected circuit for configuring. The tree structure is created dynamically based on the circuit template. Select a circuit element to configure it.
Select	Select the options for the highlighted circuit element. Note The displayed options, along with default values, are defined in the circuit builder spreadsheet.
Setup & Annotation	Enter device annotation values, rung spacing, and wire type for the circuit. Note The displayed values for the circuit are based on a motor or load lookup in the electrical standards database.
	Inserts only the highlighted circuit element.
	Inserts all the circuit elements up to and including the highlighted circuit element.
	Inserts all the circuit elements.
	Reverses the most recently inserted circuit element.
Motor or Load Setup	Displays the Select Motor or Select Load dialog box. Use this dialog box to specify settings by selecting from a list of predefined parameters.
Motor or Load Setup	Temporarily closes the dialog box so that you can select an existing motor or power feed and reuse the existing values.
Wire Setup	Displays the Wire Size Lookup dialog box. Use this dialog to select a wire size based on load and various other parameters.

Select Motor

Browse the motor lookup table in the electrical standards database, ace_electrical_standards.mdb, and select the appropriate motor and annotation values. You can also modify the motor lookup table from this dialog box.

Ribbon: Schematic tab

Insert Components panel

Circuit Builder drop-down

Circuit Builder.

Toolbar: Main Electrical

Menu: Components

Circuit Builder

Command entry: AECIRCBUILDER

On the Select Circuit dialog box, select a circuit, click Configure, and then select the Motor Setup Browse button.

Type	Filter the listing based on motor type. Select <All> from the list to turn off filtering for this field.
Voltage (V)	Filter the listing based on motor voltage. Select <All> from the list to turn off filtering for this field.
Frequency (HZ)	Filter the listing based on motor frequency. Select <All> from the list to turn off filtering for this field.
Selection grid	Select a motor to pass the values back to the Circuit Configuration dialog box.
Edit or add records	Specifies whether you can edit or select the values. Values you edit are written back to the electrical standards database file.
	Temporarily closes the dialog box so that you can select an existing motor symbol and reuse the values from the motor.
FLA	Displays or sets the full load amps (FLA) value. The FLA value is multiplied by the FLA Multiplier value to calculate the Maximum load value.
FLA multiplier	Sets the multiplier factor. The FLA value is multiplied by this value to calculate the Maximum load value.
Maximum load	Displays the calculated maximum load based on the product of FLA and FLA multiplier.

Note

The initial default values used for Voltage and the FLA multiplier are controlled from the active OPT table in the electrical standards database file.

Select Load

Browse the load table, named FEED in the electrical standards database file, ace_electrical_standards.mdb, and select the appropriate load and annotation values. You can also modify the lookup table from this dialog box.

Ribbon: Schematic tab

Insert Components panel

Circuit Builder drop-down

Circuit Builder.

Toolbar: Main Electrical

Menu: Components

Circuit Builder

Command entry: AECIRCBUILDER

On the Select Circuit dialog box, select a power feed circuit, click Configure, and then select the Load Setup Browse button.

Type	Filter the listing based on load type. Select <All> from the list to turn off filtering for this field.
Voltage (V)	Filter the listing based on voltage. Select <All> from the list to turn off filtering for this field.
Phase	Filter the listing based on phase. Select <All> from the list to turn off filtering for this field.
Selection grid	Select a load to pass the values back to the Circuit Configuration dialog box.
Edit or add records	Specifies whether you can edit or select the values. Values you edit are written back to the electrical standards database file.
	Temporarily closes the dialog box so that you can select an existing power feed load symbol and reuse its values.
FLA	Displays or sets the full load amps (FLA) value. The FLA value is multiplied by the FLA Multiplier value to calculate the Maximum load value.
FLA multiplier	Sets the multiplier factor. The FLA value is multiplied by this value to calculate the Maximum load value.
Maximum load	Displays the calculated maximum load based on the product of FLA and FLA multiplier.

Note

The initial default values used for Voltage and the FLA multiplier are controlled from the active OPT table in the electrical standards database file.

Wire Size Lookup

Specify the wire parameters and select a wire size from a list of wire sizes that meet or exceed the parameters. Estimated energy losses per wire size can provide valuable information in this selection.

Ribbon: Schematic tab

Insert Components panel

Circuit Builder drop-down

Circuit Builder.

Toolbar: Main Electrical

Menu: Components

Circuit Builder

Command entry: AECIRCBUILDER

On the Select Circuit dialog box, select a circuit, click Configure, enter the Motor Setup parameters, and then select the Wire Setup Browse button.

Load

Voltage	Sets the voltage for the wire conductor.
Phase	Sets the phase of the electrical power.
FLA	Sets the full load amps carried by the wire conductors.
FLA multiplier	Sets the value that is multiplied by the FLA value to calculate the maximum load for the wire conductors.
Other	Sets the amp value of any additional loads to be combined with the main motor or load and fed from this common branch circuit set of conductors. This value is added to the product of the FLA times FLA multiplier.
Maximum load	Displays the calculated maximum load for the conductors. It is based on the FLA (Other) value added to the product of the FLA times the FLA multiplier value.

Note

Controls are disabled if the values are predefined on the Circuit Configuration dialog.

Wire

Size standard	Sets the wire standard. Directs Circuit Builder to use specific tables from the electrical standards database for that wire size standard. The available values are extracted from the electrical standards database table names.
Type/method	Sets the wire metal type. Directs Circuit Builder to use specific tables from the electrical standards database for that wire metal type. The available values are extracted from the electrical standards database table names.
Insulation	Sets the wire insulation and temperature rating type. The available values are extracted from the electrical standards database file.

De-rating factors

Continuous load correction	Specifies whether to include a continuous load de-rating factor in the calculation of the wire ampacity. For example, continuous equals three hours or longer. When Continuous load correction is on, sets the de-rating factor. This value is used in the total de-rating factor used to calculate wire ampacity.
Fill correction	Specifies whether to include a fill correction de-rating factor in the calculation of the wire ampacity. When Fill correction is on, sets the range of current carrying conductors that are grouped in a common conduit, raceway, or cable. When Fill correction is on, sets the de-rating factor for the selected fill range. This value is used in the total de-rating factor used to calculate wire ampacity.
Ambient temperature correction	Specifies whether to use a de-rating factor for an elevated ambient temperature. When Ambient temperature correction is on, sets the range of maximum ambient temperature. When Ambient temperature correction is on, sets the correction factor value. This value is used in the total de-rating factor used to calculate wire ampacity.
Total correction	Displays the calculated total correction factor based on the individual de-rating settings. You can manually set the total de-rating value. The value is multiplied with the defined ampacity to calculate the actual de-rated ampacity of the wire.

Parameters

Run distance	Specifies whether to consider the length of the wire run in calculation of the voltage drop. When Run distance is on, sets the distance.
Units	When Run distance is on, sets the distance units.
Via	When Run distance is on, sets the type of conduit or raceway which affects the voltage drop calculation. The available types are extracted from the electrical standards database file.
Power factor	When Run distance is on, sets the power factor value used to calculate the voltage drop.
Maximum % voltage drop	Specifies whether to apply a maximum percent voltage drop limit on what size wires are appropriate. When Maximum voltage drop is on, sets the acceptable maximum percentage of voltage drop along the wire length.

Paralleled wires

Include paralleled wire options	Specifies whether to include paralleled wire options in the display. When on, the display includes entries consisting of two or more smaller size conductors per phase to meet the ampacity requirement of the load.
Maximum paralleled wire count	When Include paralleled wire options is on, sets the maximum conductors per phase to use in the calculation and display.
Minimum paralleled wire size	When Include paralleled wire options is on, sets the minimum wire size to use for paralleled conductor calculations.

Cost per kwh

Sets the cost per kilowatt hour used in the wire loss calculations.

Wire grid

Displays the available wire conductors, extracted from the electrical standards database, for selection. Wires that do not meet the ampacity requirements are shown in red.

Size	Wire sizes extracted from the wire ampacity table in the electrical standards database.
Count	When Include Paralleled Wire options is on, indicates the number of conductors per phase.
Fill	When Include Paralleled Wire options is on, indicates the fill calculation which takes into account the fill correction. Note This value is displayed regardless of the state of the Fill correction check box when the Include Paralleled Wire options is on.
Ampacity	Calculated ampacity for the conductor. It is the ampacity, extracted from the wire ampacity table, multiplied by the total correction de-rating factor.
%Ampacity	The Maximum load value divided by the Ampacity. It indicates if the wire is close to being fully loaded.
Voltage Drop	The calculated voltage drop from one end of the power run to the other. It can only be calculated if the conductor length is defined.

%Voltage Drop	The Voltage Drop value divided by the applied voltage and multiplied by 100.
Wire KW Loss	Calculated from the Voltage Drop and FLA.

Wire Loss estimate (maximum annual cost)

Maximum cost of wire losses for continuous use at rated load.

Show all

Specifies whether to display entries where the %Ampacity value is greater than 100%. When Show all is on, values that are greater than 100% are shown in red. Entries >= 300% ampacity are never shown in the list.

Grounding conductor size

Displays the minimum size grounding conductor based on the FLA of the motor or power feed. Select a larger conductor size from the list.

The suggested wire conductor size is determined from the appropriate AMPG* table in the electrical standards database file.

Save as

Save as	Saves the current settings, wire options, and identifying values from the Select Motor dialog box as an external file.
Description	Assigns a description for the parameters and wire options. Uses this description when you select Save as to save the current settings and wire options as an external file.

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