Contribution of Computer Simulation in Undergraduate Electric Circuits Courses

Abstract

Computers can be powerful tools if used properly, especially in the realms of science and engineering. Software exists for the simulation of electronic circuits by computer and these programs can be useful in helping circuit designers test ideas before actually building real circuits, saving much time and money. The main advantages of using these computer simulations are: the reinforcement of student understanding of theoretical principles by means of enhanced graphical aids and interactive simulations, analysis of more complex systems that can be treated by pencil and paper, and the instructors ability to assign fairly complex design problems that otherwise would have be unrealistic without the help of such software. Student response concerning the use of these programs is generally favorable. One interesting response received from students is an increased interest in the subject material. It is also worth mentioning that the uses of these programs are no longer limited to a specific field. In this work we show the software AWR Design Environment development by Agilent.