Circuit simulation software

Circuit simulation lets a designer predict how an electronic circuit will behave by solving its equations on a computer instead of building and measuring a physical prototype. A simulation model represents each component — resistors, capacitors, transistors, integrated circuits — by mathematical equations, and the program computes the voltages and currents throughout the circuit under the conditions the designer specifies. This shortens development, exposes problems early and allows experiments that would be awkward or costly in hardware.

Most analogue simulators descend from SPICE, the Simulation Program with Integrated Circuit Emphasis developed at the University of California, Berkeley. SPICE performs several kinds of analysis: a direct-current operating-point analysis finds the steady bias conditions, a transient analysis traces how signals change over time, and an alternating-current analysis sweeps frequency to reveal a circuit's frequency response. The accuracy of the result depends on the quality of the component models supplied to the simulator.

A virtual electronic workbench wraps a simulator in a graphical interface, letting components be placed on a schematic and virtual instruments such as oscilloscopes and meters be connected, so the experience resembles working at a real bench. Mixed-signal simulators combine analogue circuit simulation with digital logic simulation in one run. Such tools are widely used both in education, to demonstrate circuit behaviour safely, and in professional design, where simulation precedes committing a circuit to a printed board.

Frequently asked questions

What is SPICE?

It is a widely used circuit-simulation program, originally from Berkeley, that solves a circuit's equations to predict its voltages, currents and waveforms.

What kinds of analysis can a simulator perform?

Common analyses include the direct-current operating point, a transient analysis over time, and an alternating-current sweep that shows how the circuit responds across frequency.

What is a virtual electronic workbench?

It is a simulator with a graphical front end that lets the user draw a schematic and connect on-screen instruments, making simulation feel like working at a real test bench.