Difference Between Pictorial And Schematic Diagram

Learning to read and understand different types of diagrams is an important skill for anyone interested in engineering, electronics, or mechanics. While both pictorial and schematic diagrams are used to express information visually, they perform different functions so it is important to be able to tell them apart.

A pictorial diagram utilizes graphical symbols to represent physical components and connections. Pictorial diagrams illustrate how components are connected using symbols to signify the elements and lines for the wiring. This type of diagram is particularly useful for providing an overall view of a system’s structure, but it does not include exact details about individual components.

On the other hand, schematic diagrams represent a system with a series of symbols and lines. The symbols represent the specific parts and their connections to one another, while the lines indicate how those parts are connected. Schematic diagrams are more detailed than pictorial diagrams, and their accuracy makes them especially useful when troubleshooting faults or assembling a system.

While pictorial and schematic diagrams each have their own uses, they can also be combined to provide a complete overview of a system. For example, a combination of pictorial and schematic diagrams could be used to illustrate the whole system, while the schematic portion would be used to display the exact details of individual components. This way, the viewer can easily understand both the overall layout and the specifics of the system.

Pictorial and schematic diagrams are invaluable tools when it comes to understanding complex systems. While both types of diagrams have their own unique purposes, they can also be used together to provide a comprehensive overview. Knowing how to distinguish between pictorial and schematic diagrams, and being able to use them together, will help you become a more effective engineer or technician.

Pictorial Diagram