Flux Simulator Models Reference Guide

Flux's built-in circuit simulator provides a powerful way to validate your designs before manufacturing. This page catalogs all the simulator models available in the Flux backend, allowing you to understand the capabilities and limitations of the simulation engine.

Overview of Simulation in Flux

The Flux simulator is based on a modified version of the industry-standard SPICE engine, providing accurate real-time simulation of your circuits as you design. These models represent the electrical behavior of components in your design, allowing you to:

• Verify circuit functionality before manufacturing
• Test different component values and configurations
• Identify potential issues with power distribution
• Analyze signal integrity and timing
• Validate thermal performance

Available Simulator Models

Flux includes a comprehensive library of simulator models covering most common electronic components. These models are automatically applied when you add components to your design.

Power Sources

• Voltage Source - DC, AC, and pulse voltage sources
• Current Source - Constant and variable current sources
• Voltage-Controlled Voltage Source - Amplifiers and buffers
• Current-Controlled Current Source - Current mirrors and amplifiers

Passive Components

• Resistor - Fixed and variable resistors
• Capacitor - Fixed and variable capacitors
• Inductor - Fixed and variable inductors
• Transformer - Coupled inductors with configurable coupling coefficient

Semiconductors

• Diode - PN junction diodes with configurable parameters
• BJT - Bipolar junction transistors (NPN and PNP)
• MOSFET - N-channel and P-channel MOSFETs
• JFET - Junction field-effect transistors

Digital Components

• Digital Gates - Basic logic gates (AND, OR, NOT, etc.)
• Flip-Flops - D, JK, and SR flip-flops
• Counters - Binary and decade counters

Specialized Models

• Transmission Lines - Models for high-frequency signal paths
• Operational Amplifiers - Ideal and realistic op-amp models
• Voltage Regulators - Linear and switching regulator models
• Crystal Oscillators - Quartz crystal models for timing circuits

Using Simulator Models

To use these models in your designs:

1. Add components to your schematic
2. Ensure components have appropriate simulation models assigned
3. Configure model parameters as needed in the component properties
4. Run the simulation using the simulator panel

For detailed information on each model, including parameters and usage examples, click on the specific model in the list above.

Troubleshooting Simulation Issues

Convergence Problems

• Issue: Simulation fails to converge to a solution
• Solution: Try simplifying your circuit, check for floating nodes, or adjust simulation parameters

Unexpected Results

• Issue: Simulation results don't match expected behavior
• Solution: Verify component values and model parameters, check connections, and ensure proper ground references

Performance Issues

• Issue: Simulation runs slowly or crashes
• Solution: Reduce circuit complexity, increase step size, or limit simulation time range

What's Next

Now that you understand the available simulator models, you might want to explore:

• Simulator Deep Dive - Learn how to effectively use the simulator
• Creating Custom Models - Develop your own simulation models
• Signal Integrity Analysis - Analyze and improve signal quality
• Power Distribution Design - Optimize your power delivery network