Electronic circuit simulation uses mathematical models to replicate the behavior of an actual electronic device or circuit. Simulation software allows for modeling of circuit operation and is an invaluable analysis tool.
Simulating the circuit with SPICE is the industry-standard way to verify circuit operation at the transistor level before committing to manufacturing an integrated circuit. The SPICE simulators help to predict the behavior of the IC under different operating conditions, such as different voltage and current levels, temperature variations, and noise.
Here’s our verdict captured in a legendary LinuxLinks-style ratings chart.
Let’s explore the circuit simulators at hand. For each title we have compiled its own portal page, a full description with an in-depth analysis of its features, together with links to relevant resources.
| Backend Electronic Circuit Simulators | |
|---|---|
| ngspice | SPICE simulator for electric and electronic circuits |
| SPICE | General-purpose circuit simulation program |
| Xyce | SPICE-compatible analog circuit simulator |
| SPICE OPUS | General purpose circuit simulator specially suited for optimization loops |
| CIDER | Mixed-level circuit and device simulator |
 Read our complete collection of recommended free and open source software. Our curated compilation covers all categories of software. The software collection forms part of our series of informative articles for Linux enthusiasts. There are hundreds of in-depth reviews, open source alternatives to proprietary software from large corporations like Google, Microsoft, Apple, Adobe, IBM, Cisco, Oracle, and Autodesk. There are also fun things to try, hardware, free programming books and tutorials, and much more. |