Wiring diagrams are essential for planning, documenting, and troubleshooting electrical systems across industries — from audiovisual (AV) installations to automotive, industrial automation, smart homes and solar energy. Wiring diagram software makes it easier to create, edit and share these critical schematics.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the top 10 free wiring diagram software tools available today, highlighting their key features, use cases, and benefits. Whether you're an AV system integrator, electrical engineer, or DIY enthusiast, finding the right wiring diagram software can streamline your workflow and ensure accurate, professional results.

The Importance of Free Wiring Diagram Software Tools

Free wiring diagram software tools offer several advantages:

1. Accessibility: Free tools make it easy for anyone to create, view, and share wiring diagrams without upfront costs.

2. Learning: Beginners can explore wiring diagram concepts and practice their skills before investing in professional-grade software.

3. Collaboration: Many free tools support online sharing and collaboration, enabling teams to work together on wiring projects.

4. Flexibility: Free software often supports multiple file formats and integrates with other tools, allowing interoperability in diverse workflows.

5. Efficiency: By automating tasks like wire labeling and Bill of Materials (BOM) generation, even free tools can save significant time versus manual drafting.

While free wiring diagram software has limitations compared to paid alternatives, it remains a valuable resource for education, small projects, and initial concept development. Let's dive into the top 10 options.

1. XTEN-AV

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XTEN-AV is the best wiring diagram software built specifically for AV integrators. Unlike generic CAD or flowchart tools, XTEN-AV offers native features for AV design, rack elevations, automated cable management, and more. It's a top choice for users moving on from D-Tools, AutoCAD, or manual drawing methods.

XTEN-AV Key Features

X-DRAW — Automated Wiring & Schematic Generation

X-DRAW, XTEN-AV's AV-specific drawing engine, can auto-generate wiring diagrams and cable connections from an equipment list and placement — turning a BOM into a diagram. It handles cable labeling, length calculations, and updates, saving hours of drafting per project.

AV-Centric Libraries & Templates

Extensive built-in AV product models, connector symbols, and room templates enable fast, accurate designs without manually re-creating industry-standard components each time. Symbols link to item metadata for synced BOMs and proposals.

End-to-End Workflow: Diagrams, BOMs, Proposals (x.doc)

XTEN-AV links wiring diagrams to BOMs, proposals (x.doc), and project management docs. That integration reduces data re-entry and version control issues common when diagrams are static PDFs separate from the sales process.

Integrations & API

XTEN-AV can sync with CRM, ERP, procurement and accounting systems (Salesforce, Dynamics 365, QuickBooks, etc.), so wiring diagram BOMs flow to purchasing and client records without manual import/export.

Rack Diagram & Elevation Automation

An automated rack elevation tool helps optimize rack space and inter-device wiring. It outputs mounting diagrams and wiring guides suitable for installers, eliminating a tedious manual drawing step.

Cloud & Mobile Access

Cloud-hosted designs and mobile apps give on-site techs instant access to the latest plans and rack diagrams, reducing field errors and RFIs from outdated paper drawings.

AI Design Assistance (XAVIA)

XTEN-AV's AI features (XAVIA) can suggest device placement, automate repetitive drawing tasks, and speed up bulk updates — very useful for large multi-room projects.

Export & Interoperability

Support for PDF, CAD, schematic, and BOM exports allows handing off wiring diagrams to consultants, engineers, and permit authorities in universal formats, enabling collaboration.

In summary, XTEN-AV earns the top spot for its AV-first design, automated wiring and rack tools, and integrated end-to-end workflow. It's the go-to wiring diagram software for streamlining AV projects.

2. AutoCAD Electrical

AutoCAD Electrical, part of the AutoCAD family, is a professional wiring diagram software used across electrical contracting, engineering, and manufacturing. Its industry-specific toolsets, extensive symbol libraries, and integration with the broader AutoCAD ecosystem make it a standard for complex electrical design.

Key Features

• Comprehensive symbol libraries (60,000+) for fast, standards-based designs

• Automated wire numbering and component tagging

• Real-time error checking for electrical rule violations

• Integration with AutoCAD and Revit for construction and BIM workflows

• Support for PLC I/O drawings and terminal strip layouts

3. EPLAN Electric P8

EPLAN Electric P8 is a high-end wiring diagram software for electrical engineering and automation. Its intelligent design features, multi-language support, and integration with PLM and ERP systems cater to global industrial projects.

Key Features

• Multi-language support for international collaboration

• 3D panel layout and virtual wiring

• Automated reports (BOMs, terminal plans, cable lists)

• Integration with PLM, ERP, and PDM systems

• Support for IEC, NFPA, and other global standards

4. D-Tools System Integrator (SI)

D-Tools System Integrator (SI) is a popular AV and low-voltage systems design software that includes wiring diagram capabilities. Its end-to-end project workflow, product library, and QuickBooks integration appeal to small and mid-sized integration firms.

Key Features

• Drag-and-drop schematic and elevation drawings

• Extensive AV product library with dealer-specific pricing

• Integrated proposal and project management tools

• QuickBooks and third-party accounting integration

• Mobile Install app for field deployment

5. Visio (Microsoft)

Microsoft Visio is a general diagramming tool that's often used for basic wiring diagrams and schematics. Its wide availability (bundled with some Office plans), simple interface, and template library make it a go-to for quick drawings.

Key Features

• Drag-and-drop interface with pre-drawn shapes and symbols

• Electrical and network diagram templates

• Integration with other Microsoft Office apps

• Support for custom shape creation and import

• Cloud sharing and collaboration via Visio Online

6. SmartDraw

SmartDraw is a multi-purpose diagramming tool with templates for circuit diagrams, wiring diagrams, schematics, and more. Its online version and integrations cater to distributed teams.

Key Features

• Electrical, circuit, and wiring diagram templates

• Automated formatting and alignment tools

• Integration with Atlassian Confluence, Google Workspace, MS Teams

• Online, Windows, and Mac versions

• Active Directory support for enterprise deployment

7. EdrawMax

EdrawMax is a vector-based diagramming suite that supports 280+ diagram types, including wiring diagrams, schematics, circuit layouts, and industrial P&IDs. Its industry-specific symbol libraries and templates aim to accelerate specialized drawings.

Key Features

• 26,000+ built-in symbols and objects

• Electrical, industrial, fluid power, and logic circuit diagrams

• Automated tools for wire numbering, BOM generation, and error checking

• Visio import and export for legacy file migration

• Cloud, desktop, and mobile (iOS/Android) versions

8. LibreCAD

LibreCAD is a free, open-source 2D CAD tool that can be used for schematic capture and wiring diagrams. Its lightweight footprint, compatibility, and active developer community make it popular for small electrical projects and DIY use.

Key Features

• Free and open-source (GNU GPLv2)

• Cross-platform support (Windows, macOS, Linux)

• DXF/DWG import and export for interoperability

• Extensive add-on library from community contributors

• Supports ANSI, Arc, NIST, and ISO standards

9. Dia

Dia is another free, open-source diagramming tool inspired by Visio. While not electrical-specific, it includes templates and shape libraries for circuit diagrams, logic schematics, and basic wiring diagrams.

Key Features

• Free and open-source (GNU GPLv2)

• Cross-platform (Windows, macOS, Linux)

• Built-in shape libraries for circuits, logic, networks

• Scriptable in Python for custom shape creation

• Exports to SVG, PNG, PDF, PS, and more

10. draw.io (diagrams.net)

draw.io, also known as diagrams.net, is a free, web-based diagramming tool that supports wiring diagrams, circuit layouts, and schematics. Its browser-based interface, Google Drive integration, and simple sharing make it handy for quick collaborative drawings.

Key Features

• Free and web-based (no install required)

• Electrical engineering and circuit diagram shapes

• Real-time collaboration and sharing

• Integration with Google Drive, OneDrive, GitHub

• Offline desktop version for local saving

User Questions & Answers

What's the best wiring diagram software for beginners?

For beginners, we recommend starting with free, easy-to-learn options like Dia, draw.io, or Visio. These tools have simple drag-and-drop interfaces, built-in templates, and plenty of online tutorials to help you get started quickly.

Can I use AutoCAD for wiring diagrams?

Yes, AutoCAD Electrical is specifically designed for professional electrical and wiring diagram design. It includes comprehensive symbol libraries, automated numbering and tagging, and integration with the broader AutoCAD suite for construction and manufacturing projects.

What's the difference between a schematic and a wiring diagram?

A schematic shows the abstract electrical connections and functions in a circuit, while a wiring diagram depicts the actual physical wire routes and connections. Schematics are used for circuit design and theory, while wiring diagrams guide real-world assembly and troubleshooting.

How can I make wiring diagrams for my home?

For residential wiring projects, you can use general diagramming tools like SmartDraw, Visio, or draw.io. They include templates for common home electrical layouts. However, always consult a licensed electrician for complex or high-voltage home wiring work.

Is there wiring diagram software for mobile devices?

Yes, several wiring diagram software tools offer mobile apps for iOS and Android. XTEN-AV and D-Tools both have mobile viewers for field technicians. EdrawMax also offers mobile versions of its diagramming suite.

What's the best free wiring diagram software for Mac?

For Mac users, LibreCAD and Dia are excellent free, open-source options that run natively on macOS. Web-based tools like draw.io also work well on Macs, with no installation required.

Can I create wiring diagrams for vehicles?

Yes, many wiring diagram software tools support automotive applications. Options like AutoCAD Electrical, EPLAN, and EdrawMax offer vehicle-specific templates and symbol libraries for cars, trucks, motorcycles, and more.

What file formats do wiring diagram tools use?

Most wiring diagram software can import and export common formats like DXF, DWG (AutoCAD), SVG, and PDF. Some tools use proprietary formats for their native files, but still allow exporting to interoperable standards.

Case Studies

AV Integrator Saves 30 Hours/Project with XTEN-AV

Sonic AV, a mid-sized integration firm, switched from AutoCAD to XTEN-AV for its wiring diagram needs. Using XTEN-AV's automated drawing generation and integrated proposal tools, Sonic cut its design time by 30+ hours per project, while improving field install accuracy. Leveraging the XTEN-AV product library and rack elevations also simplified Sonic's procurement process.

Industrial Facility Streamlines Global Electrical Design

ABB, a global technology company, standardized on EPLAN Electric P8 for industrial control panel and wiring diagram design. EPLAN's multi-language support and integration with ABB's PLM platform enabled efficient collaboration between ABB's regional engineering teams. Automated reports and BOMs from EPLAN sped up purchasing and production.

University AV Team Enables Remote Work with draw.io

The audiovisual services group at Middlesex University adopted draw.io during the COVID-19 pandemic to create and share wiring diagrams while working remotely. The free, browser-based tool allowed the team to collaborate on designs in real-time, even without access to their usual desktop software. Leveraging draw.io's Google Drive integration and offline mode helped the team stay productive.

Conclusion

Choosing the right wiring diagram software is key to efficient, accurate, and collaborative electrical design. For AV integrators, XTEN-AV leads the pack with its purpose-built features, automation, and end-to-end workflow integration. Industrial users may prefer AutoCAD Electrical or EPLAN for their advanced capabilities and global compliance. And for simple projects or learning, free tools like LibreCAD and draw.io are solid choices.

Ultimately, the best wiring diagram software for you depends on your specific industry, project complexity, budget, and team needs. By evaluating the options outlined here, you can find the perfect tool to streamline your wiring design process — whether you're an AV pro, electrical engineer, or DIY enthusiast.

For AV integrators looking to maximize efficiency and profitability, we highly recommend exploring XTEN-AV's unique advantages: automated drawing generation, integrated proposal and project management, mobile field apps, and a focus on solving AV-specific challenges. You can learn more and request a demo at