# Diode

Canonical URL: https://eloragrid.ai/symbols/diode
Publisher: Elora Grid
Updated: 2026-10-13
Lookup label: D
Drawing use: Schematic
Reference families: IEC, Manufacturer

A diode provides a semiconductor path with documented directional conduction characteristics.

## What it represents

A diode provides a semiconductor path with documented directional conduction characteristics. The schematic must identify anode, cathode and the intended circuit function.

## How to read it

- Use terminal polarity rather than page orientation to identify the forward direction.
- The preview is an original explanation of this function. Match the actual drawing convention to its legend and the selected equipment documentation.

## Information to show or reference

- Mark anode/cathode
- State selected ratings
- Reference circuit purpose

## Important distinction

A diode's reverse behaviour depends on its type and rating; it is not an ideal mechanical open contact.

## Facts

- Drawing role: Semiconductor function
- Representation scope: Functional concept; not an official standard graphic or a product footprint
- Public vendor block reference: HDI1, VDI1 (Autodesk identifiers; not IEC symbol numbers)
- Identifier status: The short label is a functional lookup label, not an assigned IEC or IEEE symbol number. Any separately listed Autodesk code is a verified vendor block name.

## Public references

- [AutoCAD Electrical: Semiconductor components](https://help.autodesk.com/cloudhelp/2021/ENU/AutoCAD-Electrical/files/GUID-AC954072-7314-4682-88AF-38160D61E9A2.htm) — Autodesk. Public documentation of this equipment function or named vendor variant; the illustration is independently authored and is not the source graphic.

## Graphic scope

Independent original educational concept illustration by Elora Grid. Not a certified standards graphic or manufacturer footprint. Unitless; not to scale. Original artwork licence: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/. Publisher material is linked only.