OREM, UT - November 1, 1997 - MicroCode Engineering Inc. today announced the availability of CircuitMakerŽ Version 5, the popular Windows-based schematic capture and simulation tool that now features fast, accurate mixed-signal simulation previously available only in high-cost EDA software.
"With Version 5 engineers can simulate any combination of analog and digital components, without manually inserting A/D or D/A translators," said Ozzie Boeshans, president of MicroCode. "Mixed-signal simulation is as easy as analog-only simulation, and CircuitMaker Version 5's speed and accuracy rivals EDA tools costing thousands of dollars."
Along with the expanded simulation capability, the new release features a larger device library of over 4,000 devices, easier SPICE model import, and no limit on the number of pins for an individual device.
CircuitMaker is an EDA software tool that seamlessly integrates schematic capture and simulation in one complete program. Professional schematic capabilities include a built-in symbol editor, a macro feature for hierarchical devices, and SmartWiresTM automatic wire routing. These features allow users to quickly create high-quality schematics for documentation.
Designers can export CircuitMaker schematics as PCB netlists for use in MicroCode's TraxMakerŽ or other printed circuit board layout products.
CircuitMaker Version 5 features a proven, accurate 32-bit SPICE3f5/XSpice-based simulator for analog and mixed-signal circuits, and a fully interactive digital logic mode when only logic simulation is needed.
"CircuitMaker has used SPICE-based analog simulation for the last 5 years it's proven, very accurate, and fast. The simulations give real-world results designers can trust," said Boeshans. "With Version 5, we've added and greatly enhanced XSpice to facilitate the mixed analog/digital simulation."
A host of analyses in CircuitMaker allow designers to test and troubleshoot circuits in a "Virtual Electronics Lab"TM, without worrying about bad parts or faulty connections that often plague traditional prototyping. And with a click of the free-floating Probe tool, users can instantly see waveforms and measurements on virtual instruments like the digital oscilloscope, curve tracer, bode plotter or digital multimeter.
Using simulation tools like CircuitMaker, engineers have the freedom to try all the "what-if" scenarios changing parts or component values, then re-running the simulation to see how changes affect the circuit's operation and performance. This type of testing is not always feasible with traditional breadboarding methods.
CircuitMaker Version 5 operates on the Windows 3.1x, 95 and NT platforms. Single-user copies are priced at $299, and special upgrade offers are available for current registered users. Multi-user site licenses for corporate networks and labs are also available.