Electrical schematic troubleshooting program?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding software tools for designing and troubleshooting electrical schematics, specifically for a power supply circuit intended for a Van de Graaff generator. Participants explore options for circuit simulation software that can help test components before physical construction.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about programs that can assist in designing and troubleshooting electrical schematics, mentioning a specific application involving a transformer and a resistor.
  • Another participant suggests using PSpice as a potential solution.
  • A different participant notes the availability of a free student edition of PSpice, indicating they will try it out.
  • Another suggestion is made for SPICE in general, with a reference to Wikipedia listing various options.
  • One participant acknowledges their previous oversight in not considering electronics circuit simulators and expresses gratitude for the suggestions.
  • LTSpice is recommended as a good free option, with one participant stating they have downloaded it and hope it will help assess the efficiency of their design.
  • A participant asks if they are allowed to post schematics for further advice.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the usefulness of circuit simulation software, with multiple suggestions provided. However, there is no consensus on a single preferred program, as different options are discussed.

Contextual Notes

Participants express varying levels of familiarity with circuit simulation tools, and there may be assumptions regarding the capabilities and features of the suggested software that are not fully explored.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in electrical engineering, circuit design, or those looking to troubleshoot and simulate electronic circuits may find this discussion beneficial.

BhutJolokia
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I was wondering if there was a simple program out there that would help me design and toubleshoot schematics I draw? For example, I have a schematic for a power supply that takes a 6.5k "core and coil" transformer and ups the voltage to 15k to supply a Van de Graaff generator. Now, the problem is I want to test a few things about it, including the 1 megohm resistor on the ground, before I actually build this thing.

So, is there a program out there that will allow me to test stuff like this out before I build it and toubleshoot it for real? I'm sure there is I have just missed it, or not been searching google properly. Thanks!
 
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Have you looked at using pspice?
 
I had not. It seems there is a student edition available for free for use by anyone, so I will try it out!
 
Yea I wasn't looking for electronics circuit simulators like a dolt. Thanks!
 
BhutJolokia said:
I had not. It seems there is a student edition available for free for use by anyone, so I will try it out!

LTSpice is a good free option.
 
I think LTSpice is what I am looking for. I've downloaded it with no issues so far and hopefully it will help me figure out if this design is efficient and actually works.

Am I allowed to post schematics on here to get some advice on?
 

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