A free powerful circuit simulator
LTspice is free graphic design software that allows you to draft circuit designs with ease. Developed by Analog Devices, this is a high-performing multimedia program that is based on the SPICE software. It’s an analog electronic circuit simulator that offers features for drafting, testing, and analyzing how your circuit designs perform before manufacturing them. It also doubles as educational material thanks to its extensive online documentation.
What is LTspice used for?
"Simulation Program with Integrated Circuit Emphasis"—more colloquially known as SPICE—is a general-purpose open-source analog electronic circuit simulator first released in 1973. It’s used in integrated circuit and board-level design and its basic function are to check the integrity of circuit designs. This is to predict circuit behavior and test its capabilities in a more controlled environment without having to waste materials. The success of this program led to numerous successors and spin-off software to its design.
One of these is LTspice, which became highly popular because of the enhancements it added to SPICE’s features. For one, you can easily simulate quick regulator-switching. You can also quickly view waveforms with this tool. It provides schematic captures and can even let you configure each component individually. Additionally, it includes an extensive library of macro models and passive components—most of which are found in its developer’s other programs.
However, what’s really great about this program is that it's a freeware that has no limits on its features and you can even use it for commercial purposes as long as your business isn’t in the circuit manufacturing industry. Plus, it can be used by beginners for educational purposes. However, using the interface can be mildly frustrating since it sports an outdated look that doesn’t match its powerful features.
Still performs great
Overall, LTspice is no doubt a powerful program and can be easy to use with its tutorials and guides. Its features are also a step up from SPICE’s and being completely free means that you don’t have to worry about restrictions. However, its interface can be uninspiring so users who value interface design may find this software’s appearance a bit disappointing. Nevertheless, this is a highly recommended free circuit simulator.
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