Introduction
Electronic systems consist of different
blocks which are
interconnected. A
block diagram indicates which blocks
interact with each other. However, in addition to simple indicating
which blocks interact, it is possible for a block diagram to indicate
the
type of signal(s) which connect the blocks.
One way this kind of diagram can be particularly useful is that if each
block identifies the type of signals that it requires for inputs and
outputs, then it can only directly connect to other blocks providing or
requiring those specific signals. In this way, any device added to a
diagram implicitly indicates what other devices will also be needed to
connect it with some other component.
Block Diagram elements
Signals for block diagrams library for Dia
To make block diagrams more informative, I've created
some of my own symbols for signal types
like
- digital signals
- analog signals
- pulse width modulated (PWM) signals
in both horizontal and vertical versions, and in
versions for both single and multiple signals.
There are also symbols for common interfaces, such as
These make it easy for a block diagram to show not only
what items are connected, but the
types of
connections between them as well.
Signal types (single)
Signal types (multiple)
Interface types
Converters
Motors and actuators
Multiplexers
Sensors
