Side-by-side reference

Understand the difference.

Compare the meaning, drawing context and source references of two entries. A similar graphic or shared abbreviation does not establish equivalence.

First referenceCompare with

Q070108

IEC

Maintained-position qualifier

A maintained-position qualifier indicates that the operating position remains after actuation. The mechanism retains the selected position after the operating action ends. The next manual action, release or other documented event changes that retained state.

Drawing use: Schematic
Application: Control circuits
Reference family: IEC / Manufacturer
Form evidence: Maintained-position qualifier. Autodesk IEC-60617 Symbol Preview — Operating-device and function qualifiers; vendor family reference, not certified IEC geometry or database identifier.

A distinction that matters

Maintained operation differs from a timed hold and from automatic spring return.

Full reference

Coil

Symbols

Relay coil

A relay coil represents an operating element that changes the state of associated contacts when the device operates. Coil and contact representations are often drawn in different locations to make the circuit easier to read. Their shared identifier and cross-references establish the relationship.

Drawing use: Schematic
Application: Control circuits
Reference family: IEC / IEEE / ANSI

A distinction that matters

A relay coil is not a contactor power pole. Similar operating-element marks can represent equipment with different switching duties.

Full reference

Original educational previews. Follow the source references on each full entry for the appropriate standard or selected product.