Which identifiers must survive the trace?
Use the project conventions for device tags, terminal levels, cable identifiers, core identifiers and destinations. Keep source and destination sheet references with them. If the conventions are unavailable, record that gap before interpreting an unfamiliar label.
Autodesk's AutoCAD Electrical 2024 terminal documentation describes terminal levels, internal and external assignments and associated editing controls. These software concepts help explain why a terminal number alone may be incomplete. They do not verify a project circuit. Substation Drafting is independent and is not affiliated with Autodesk.
Sources: Autodesk: Terminal editing, AutoCAD Electrical 2024 documentation
What does a terminal trace worksheet contain?
The worksheet is an original document-control aid. Copy actual connection data from approved sources and record a discrepancy when the sources disagree. Do not infer a missing connection from the nearest similar circuit.
| Trace field | Source to inspect | Mismatch to record |
|---|---|---|
| Device tag and connection | Controlled protection schematic | Tag differs between sheets |
| Terminal designation and level | Terminal plan and schematic reference | Number matches but level differs |
| Cable and core | Cable schedule and schematic | Core label is absent or inconsistent |
| Destination | Receiving device, terminal and sheet | Cross-reference ends at a different point |
| Jumper or link reference | Approved terminal detail | Connection treatment is unresolved |
| Revision and disposition | Issue index and change record | Sources belong to different issue sets |
How should a discrepancy be described?
Illustrative example. A fictional schematic refers to cable C-21, core 4, ending at terminal TB-3:12. The cable schedule gives the same cable and core but lists TB-3:13. Enter both exact references and their revisions. The drafting reviewer raises a terminal-destination mismatch; the reviewer does not choose either terminal as correct.
If a later approved revision resolves the destination, update the affected drawing references through the controlled issue process. Review associated sheets for the same changed identifier rather than correcting only the visible mismatch.
Preserve the original discrepancy and the approved resolution. A closed row should identify the revised document and authorising review, so another checker can follow why the change was made.
What must not be inferred from a passed drawing check?
A consistent set of labels does not prove circuit functionality, protection settings, polarity or safe isolation. These need the responsible engineering and site verification processes. This page is not a wiring instruction or an energization checklist.
Engineering sign-off is performed only by the registered engineer on the job. Do not use this worksheet to connect, disconnect or test live equipment. Qualified personnel follow approved project procedures.
For handover, record which drawing issue set was checked, unresolved rows and the evidence for closure. Avoid saying all terminals verified when the review only covered a selected connection sample.
Common questions
What else should the bid team know?
Is matching the cable number enough?
No. Check the core, terminal designation, level where applicable, destination and revisions.
Should a drafter choose the likely correct terminal?
No. Raise the discrepancy for authorised resolution.
Does this check approve protection settings?
No. Settings and circuit function require the responsible engineering process.