Connect Your Project to the Electrical Parts Database

In this EPLAN Data Portal tutorial, you will learn how to link your electrical design project to real component data inside EPLAN.
You will understand how the electrical parts database is structured, how it stores device information, and why a complete database improves design accuracy, consistency, and engineering efficiency.

Working with a structured database allows you to build professional industrial schematics based on real technical specifications rather than symbolic placeholders.

Assign Parts to Symbols Correctly

A key step in professional electrical design is learning how to assign parts to symbols properly.

In this lesson, you will practice multiple assignment methods, including:

• Manual selection from the electrical parts database

• Searching for components by name or specification

• Direct entry of manufacturer part numbers

These workflows ensure every symbol in your schematic represents a real physical device.

Import Device Data Using the EPLAN Data Portal

Another essential skill covered in this EPLAN Data Portal tutorial is how to import device data EPLAN projects require for real-world engineering.

You will learn how to install and use offline Data Portal libraries (EDZ files) and integrate manufacturer equipment directly into your project.

As a practical example, we install the offline device library from Schneider Electric and work with real industrial components such as:

• Miniature circuit breakers (MCB)

• RCCB and RCBO protection devices

• Fuses and fuse holders

• Contactors (LC1D9)

• Overload relays

• Signal lamps

• Start and stop push buttons

You will learn how to locate these devices, review their specifications, and assign them correctly to your schematics.

Evaluate Technical Specifications Before Selection

Professional design requires correct component selection.
In this lesson, you will learn how to review key technical parameters, including:

• Rated current

• Coil voltage

• Tripping curve type (for example B-Curve)

• Functional characteristics

This ensures every component you use is suitable for the electrical system being designed.

Practical Engineering Rules for Part Assignment

You will also learn important real-world engineering guidelines, such as:

• Assign parts only to the coil of contactors or relays — not to their terminals

• Two-piece fuse systems require separate parts for the holder and the fuse element

These practical rules help prevent common modeling and documentation errors.

Practice Exercise — Apply What You Learned

To reinforce the lesson, you are encouraged to:

• Select parts for push buttons

• Assign contactor components

• Configure signal lamps

• Apply real device data to your schematic

Hands-on practice is essential for mastering the electrical parts database workflow.

Introduction to Project Reports and Part Lists

You will also see a basic introduction to project documentation, including:

• Part lists

• Equipment lists

• Project output reports

These reporting tools will be explored in greater depth in upcoming lessons.

What Comes Next in Your EPLAN Training

This lesson is designed at a beginner level and builds a foundation for advanced engineering workflows.

In future training sessions, you will move on to:

• Advanced database management

• Macro creation and reuse

• 3D panel layout

• Advanced reporting and documentation

These topics will expand your ability to create fully professional electrical engineering projects.

✅ This free course includes the first 20 sessions of our full 90-session Complete EPLAN P8 Program.
If you want to continue and access the full professional training, the remaining sessions are available in the complete package.

🚀 Start learning EPLAN step by step and build strong practical skills for your engineering career.