The electrical and AV design industry has undergone a major shift in recent years with the rise of cloud-based solutions. Among these, cloud-based Single Line Diagram (SLD) software stands out as a game-changer for engineers, AV integrators, and system designers. No longer limited by traditional desktop tools, professionals can now design, collaborate, and deliver electrical system layouts faster and with greater accuracy.

At the forefront of this transformation is XTEN-AV, a platform that harnesses the power of AI Schematic Drawing Tools to automate the creation of SLDs and system schematics. XTEN-AV is built from the ground up for cloud-native design, allowing users to access their projects from anywhere, collaborate in real time, and generate documentation at scale.

In this blog, we will explore the key benefits of using cloud-based SLD software and highlight some of the top tools making waves in 2025.

What Is Cloud-Based SLD Software?

Cloud-based SLD software allows users to design Single Line Diagrams using a web-based platform. Unlike traditional software that requires local installation, cloud-based tools operate entirely online. This enables real-time access, auto-saving, remote collaboration, and seamless integration with other digital platforms.

With these tools, users can draw and manage power distribution layouts, signal flow diagrams, and equipment placement using drag-and-drop interfaces, component libraries, and AI assistance.

XTEN-AV and AI Schematic Drawing Tools

XTEN-AV is one of the most innovative platforms in this space. It offers a full suite of cloud-based features specifically designed for AV, IT, and electrical system designers. Its most powerful feature is its AI Schematic Drawing Tools, which:

Automatically place components based on smart design logic

Generate cable schedules and connection diagrams

Suggest port mappings and device compatibility

Produce professional-grade drawings without manual effort

The AI engine makes XTEN-AV ideal for professionals who want to save time, reduce errors, and create detailed documentation with just a few clicks.

Key Benefits of Cloud-Based SLD Software

1. Anywhere Access
2. Cloud-based platforms like XTEN-AV allow users to work from anywhere, whether in the office, on-site, or at home. All you need is an internet connection and a browser.

No need to carry files on USB drives

Access the latest version of the project anytime

Ideal for hybrid teams and remote collaboration

1. Real-Time Collaboration
2. Gone are the days of emailing back-and-forth versions of drawings. Cloud-based SLD tools allow multiple users to:

Edit the same file at the same time

Leave comments and feedback directly on diagrams

Assign tasks and track changes

This significantly improves team productivity and reduces design delays.

1. Automatic Backups and Version Control
2. With local software, data loss due to crashes or hardware failure is a constant risk. Cloud software eliminates that risk.

Every project is auto-saved in real time

Previous versions can be restored easily

Changes are logged and can be tracked

This gives peace of mind and ensures that no work is lost.

1. Lower Setup Costs
2. Traditional software often requires licenses, hardware upgrades, and IT support. Cloud-based tools are:

Subscription-based or free for basic use

Accessible without powerful workstations

Easy to scale as your team or workload grows

This makes them more budget-friendly, especially for small to medium-sized businesses.

1. Faster Design with AI
2. Using AI Schematic Drawing Tools speeds up the design process. Features like auto-routing, intelligent component placement, and error detection reduce manual work.

XTEN-AV takes this further by allowing users to:

Generate diagrams from templates or past projects

Auto-connect devices based on rules and standards

Identify missing connections and suggest fixes

Top Cloud-Based SLD Tools in 2025

1. XTEN-AV
2. Best for: AV and IT system designers

Uses AI Schematic Drawing Tools for fast, error-free design

Built-in libraries for AV, IT, and electrical equipment

Auto-generates cable schedules, rack layouts, and BOMs

Cloud-native with excellent real-time collaboration features

XTEN-AV is ideal for those who want intelligent design features along with professional-grade visuals and automation.

1. Lucidchart
2. Best for: General diagramming

Cloud-based drawing tool with templates for electrical diagrams

Supports collaboration and cloud storage integration

Not specialized for power system calculations

Good for simple or conceptual SLDs

While not tailored for electrical engineers, Lucidchart is intuitive and easy to use.

1. SmartDraw Online
2. Best for: Business and facilities planning

Offers cloud-based SLD and electrical templates

Integrates with Google Workspace and Microsoft Teams

Good shape libraries but lacks deep technical tools

No AI assistance or device libraries

SmartDraw is suitable for basic layouts but may fall short for complex system designs.

1. EPLAN eVIEW
2. Best for: Electrical engineers using EPLAN

Cloud platform to view and comment on EPLAN projects

Not a full design tool but great for approvals and markup

Requires EPLAN base software for editing

Good for enterprise-level workflows

This is a good add-on if your organization already uses the EPLAN ecosystem.

1. CADMATE Cloud
2. Best for: AutoCAD-style SLDs in the cloud

AutoCAD-compatible cloud platform

Basic tools for drawing and layer management

Does not offer smart design assistance

Lacks AI or electrical-specific features

CADMATE is a good choice if you prefer a traditional CAD interface online.

Choosing the Right Tool

When selecting a cloud-based SLD tool, consider the following:

Criteria Questions to Ask

Project Type Are you designing AV, electrical, or IT systems?

Collaboration Needs Do you need real-time team collaboration?

Automation Level Do you want AI to assist with layouts and connections?

Integration Does the tool work with your other software (BIM, CAD, etc.)?

Budget Do you need a free tool, or can you invest in a subscription?

For most AV and low-voltage system designers, XTEN-AV hits the sweet spot. It combines intelligent automation, cloud flexibility, and professional outputs all in one platform.

Final Thoughts

Cloud-based SLD software is reshaping how we design and document electrical and AV systems. With tools like XTEN-AV leveraging AI Schematic Drawing Tools, professionals can move faster, reduce errors, and stay connected no matter where they work.

Whether you are a small business working on smart home setups or an enterprise managing multi-site AV installations, switching to a cloud-based solution can transform your workflow. Explore your options, test the tools, and choose the platform that best supports your future projects.

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