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

PLC I/O

Symbols

PLC input / output

A PLC input or output point connects a field signal with a controller module and channel. Input and output, digital and analogue, and one-wire or multi-wire arrangements are distinct characteristics. The module specification establishes electrical behaviour and terminal information.

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

A distinction that matters

An input point, output point and communications connection are different interfaces. A generic box cannot establish their electrical compatibility.

Full reference

Terminal

Symbols

Terminal connection

A terminal representation identifies a connection point for conductors. The terminal number and strip or assembly identifier link the schematic to physical wiring documentation. A wire number and terminal number identify different things and should not be substituted for one another.

Drawing use: Schematic
Application: Connections & wiring
Reference family: IEC / IEEE / ANSI

A distinction that matters

An electrical junction and a physical terminal are different concepts. A connection dot alone does not necessarily identify a terminal block.

Full reference

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