Simulation software noob questions

[famousmockingbird]

I currently have gEDA, KiCad, and Eagle on my computer. I plan on running simulations with ngSpice.


I can't find symbols for AC signal source or sine wave source in Eagle or Kicad. Do they exist?

I like the gEDA schematic because it is the only one I have been able to complete a simulation with but there doesn't seem to be a lot in the component library especially for tubes. Can I just use one of their tube symbols and change the attributes and/or place a .model in the netlist for the tube I want to simulate?


For example I wanted to simulate a circuit using a mje340 transistor and couldn't find it in gEDA schematic editor library. Do I just use a generic transistor symbol in the schematic, name it mje340 and add the model to the netlist?


I guess a roll call of the software your using and why would be great. Also any links to good tutorials on the subject would be great.

 

[famousmockingbird]

I found LTspice and currently using it through wine on my PC. I have to say it is a little more on par for my skills and what I need.

 

[JimT]

LTSPICE in wine.

Jim

 

[29285]

I found LTspice and currently using it through wine on my PC. I have to say it is a little more on par for my skills and what I need.

LTspice should be a good starting point. For me it is a powerful tool to understand and design analog circuitry.
Whatever software you choose - your special parts are always missing in the libraries.

 

[famousmockingbird]

So far it's unanimous, LTspice is the way to go.

I spent the past two days simulating circuits and adding models. I know the "buzz" will wear off but it's quite fun using the program.