In the field of electrical and AV design, creating clear and accurate Single Line Diagrams (SLDs) is a fundamental step in project planning. These diagrams provide a simplified view of the electrical distribution system, showing how power flows from the source to loads. Today, engineers do not rely on hand-drawn sketches or generic CAD software. Instead, they use powerful SLD software tools that offer automation, validation, and design intelligence.
At the forefront of this innovation is XTEN-AV, a next-generation design platform that transforms the way engineers create AV and low-voltage electrical schematics. Powered by AI Schematic Drawing Tools, XTEN-AV helps users auto-generate SLDs, validate connections in real time, and export comprehensive documentation—all from a cloud-based interface. It is no surprise that engineers rate XTEN-AV as one of the top tools available today.
In this blog, we will review the Top 10 SLD software tools ranked by engineers, based on features like ease of use, accuracy, automation, industry relevance, and overall performance.
1. XTEN-AV
Best for AV and low-voltage system design with AI automation
XTEN-AV is designed specifically for AV professionals, integrators, and system designers. What sets it apart is its use of AI Schematic Drawing Tools, which allows users to drag and drop components while the platform intelligently manages signal flow, power distribution, and connection validation. XTEN-AV supports cloud-based collaboration, auto-renders rack layouts, and creates export-ready SLDs in minutes. Engineers love it for its speed, accuracy, and industry-specific symbol libraries.
Key features:
AI-assisted SLD generation
Port-level connectivity validation
Auto-documentation and reporting
Cloud-based team collaboration
Integration with product libraries
2. ETAP
Best for industrial power system modeling and simulation
ETAP is a powerful tool used by electrical engineers in heavy industries, utilities, and power plants. It offers detailed simulation of electrical systems, including load flow, short circuit, arc flash, and harmonic analysis. ETAP’s SLD builder is highly advanced and used extensively for regulatory compliance and engineering studies.
Key features:
Detailed simulation capabilities
Compliance with global standards
Protection coordination and arc flash analysis
3. AutoCAD Electrical
Best for detailed custom electrical schematics
AutoCAD Electrical is a widely-used tool in industrial and commercial projects. Its symbol libraries, wire numbering tools, and automated tag generation make it suitable for complex SLDs. However, it lacks AI automation and requires significant manual input, which may slow down large projects.
Key features:
Custom schematic control
Massive symbol libraries
Autodesk ecosystem integration
4. SmartDraw
Best for quick SLD creation in business environments
SmartDraw is a general-purpose diagramming tool with support for electrical schematics. Engineers appreciate its simplicity, especially for small-scale or concept-stage SLDs. It offers drag-and-drop design with electrical shapes, and is ideal for teams without advanced engineering software needs.
Key features:
Easy-to-use interface
SLD templates
Online collaboration
5. PowerFactory (DIgSILENT)
Best for advanced grid simulation and power network design
PowerFactory is known for handling high-voltage and complex network modeling. It supports detailed electrical analysis and system behavior prediction. Engineers in the utility sector rate it highly for its reliability and depth.
Key features:
Grid simulation
Stability analysis
Power system optimization
6. EasyPower
Best for arc flash studies and system analysis
EasyPower makes it simple to model electrical systems and run simulations like short circuit and arc flash analysis. It is great for commercial and industrial power systems and has a user-friendly interface tailored for real-time design evaluation.
Key features:
Arc flash and safety tools
Load flow and coordination analysis
Real-time data integration
7. QElectroTech
Best free and open-source SLD software
QElectroTech is a powerful, open-source option for engineers and students. While it may not have the polish of premium tools, it offers a solid foundation for creating electrical diagrams, including SLDs. Its growing community contributes regularly to symbol libraries and updates.
Key features:
Free to use
Custom symbol creation
Community-supported
8. Simaris Design (Siemens)
Best for commercial building and infrastructure design
Developed by Siemens, Simaris Design is tailored for low- and medium-voltage systems using Siemens products. It allows engineers to design power distribution and size components effectively. The SLD generation is streamlined for real-world use in facilities and construction projects.
Key features:
Equipment sizing
Siemens component libraries
Auto-routing and error checking
9. IGE+XAO SEE Electrical
Best for automation, control, and cabinet wiring
This tool specializes in electrical documentation for industrial automation. Engineers value its ability to produce SLDs, wiring diagrams, and PLC layouts within the same platform. The interface supports both beginners and advanced users.
Key features:
Integrated SLD and wiring diagrams
BOM and part list generation
PLC module integration
10. EPLAN Electric P8
Best for large-scale projects with detailed documentation needs
EPLAN is widely used in the automation industry and known for its ability to handle complex electrical projects. While the learning curve is steep, its customization, automation features, and powerful reporting capabilities make it a favorite among engineers in manufacturing and automation sectors.
Key features:
Multi-page schematic management
Automation and macros
High-detail reporting
Final Thoughts
Selecting the right SLD software depends on your project type, workflow, and collaboration needs. For engineers focused on AV systems, smart building integration, or low-voltage schematics, XTEN-AV stands out with its use of AI Schematic Drawing Tools to automate time-consuming tasks, ensure design accuracy, and produce export-ready diagrams in minutes.
From simulation-heavy tools like ETAP and PowerFactory to easy-to-learn platforms like SmartDraw and QElectroTech, the market offers a wide range of options. But as AI continues to shape the future of design, tools like XTEN-AV will lead the way in combining automation, collaboration, and intelligence.
Choose the tool that fits your needs and experience level, and you’ll not only save time but also elevate the quality and reliability of every electrical system you design.
