circuit-using-latex

Lesson 1: Introduction to LaTeX and Circuitikz in Overleaf

1. Introduction

Circuitikz is a powerful LaTeX package used by Electrical Engineers to create professional, publication-quality circuit diagrams. Unlike drag-and-drop tools, Circuitikz uses code to define components, ensuring perfect alignment and standard symbols.

2. Basic Structure

Every circuit drawing requires a specific setup in the LaTeX preamble.

The Skeleton Code

\documentclass{article}
\usepackage{circuitikz} % Essential package for circuits

\begin{document}
    \begin{circuitikz}
        % Drawing commands go here
    \end{circuitikz}
\end{document}

3. The \draw Command

The fundamental command to place components is \draw. It works on a Cartesian coordinate system (x, y).

Syntax:

\draw (starting_point) to[component_type, label] (ending_point);

Example:

\draw (0,0) to[R, l=$R_1$] (3,0);

Key Rules:

• Coordinates: Defined as (x,y). E.g., (0,0).
• The Connector: The keyword to connects two coordinates.
• The Component: Inside square brackets [...]. E.g., [R] for Resistor.
• The Semicolon: Every path must end with ;.

4. Labeling Components (MOST IMPORTANT)

Horizontal Label (Above the Component):

\draw (0,0) to[R, l=$R_1$] (3,0);

• l= → label
• $R_1$ → LaTeX math notation for subscript

Horizontal Label (Below the Component):

\draw (0,0) to[R, l_=$R_1$] (3,0);

• l_ → Below the Component

5. Common Component Labels

Component	Syntax
Resistor	to[R]
Capacitor	to[C]
Inductor	to[L]
Voltage source	to[V]
Current source	to[I]
Wire	to[short]

6. Drawing Multiple Components in Series (Two Methods)

When drawing components in series, there are two valid approaches in circuitikz. Both work, but one is recommended.

🔹 Method 1:

\begin{circuitikz}
    \draw (0,0) to[R, l=$R_1$] (3,0);
    \draw (3,0) to[R, l=$R_2$] (6,0);
\end{circuitikz}

🔹 Method 2- Chaining: (Recommended)

\begin{circuitikz}
    \draw (0,0) to[R, l=$R_1$] (3,0)
              to[R, l=$R_2$] (6,0);
\end{circuitikz}

Example:
Three Resistors in Series (Chaining Method)

\begin{circuitikz}
    \draw (0,0) to[R, l=$R_1$] (3,0)
              to[R, l=$R_2$] (6,0)
              to[R, l=$R_3$] (9,0);
\end{circuitikz}

• The semicolon ; appears only once, at the end