Background Theory > Schematic Design > Schematic Off-page Connectors

In electronic design, off-page connectors (also known as off-page connectors or off-sheet connectors) are symbols used in schematics to represent connections between different sheets or pages of a multi-sheet circuit design. They provide a way to indicate that a particular signal or net extends to another sheet where the rest of the circuit related to that signal is located.

Off-page connectors are essential for organizing complex designs that cannot fit on a single schematic sheet. They allow designers to break down a large circuit into more manageable sections, each represented on separate sheets. The off-page connectors provide a clear and concise way to show how signals are connected between different sheets.

Key characteristics of off-page connectors:

•Symbol Representation: Off-page connectors typically look like small circles or squares placed at the edge of a schematic sheet. Each connector has a unique reference designator or name, allowing it to be easily identified and referenced on other sheets.

•Uniqueness: Each off-page connector must have a unique name or reference designator within the entire project. This uniqueness ensures that the correct connection is made between sheets.

•Connection Lines: When a signal or net extends to another sheet, a line is drawn from the off-page connector on one sheet to the corresponding off-page connector on the other sheet. This line represents the continuation of the signal's path.

•Directional Arrows: To indicate the flow of the signal, directional arrows may be added to the connection lines. These arrows show the direction in which the signal flows from one sheet to another.

•Sheet Numbers: Often, sheet numbers or names are included near the off-page connectors to indicate the order of the sheets and aid in navigating the circuit.

Using off-page connectors, designers can maintain clarity and organization in their multi-sheet circuit designs. They make it easier to follow signal paths and understand the overall connectivity of the entire system.

In modern Electronic Design Automation (EDA) software tools, off-page connectors are often automatically generated and managed by the software when multiple sheets are used in a project. Designers can place the connectors, and the software takes care of the connectivity between the sheets, helping to reduce errors and improve design efficiency.