SIMetrix

SIMetrix is a mixed-mode circuit simulation package designed for professional electronics engineers. SIMetrix comprises a substantially enhanced SPICE simulator, schematic editor and waveform viewer all seamlessly integrated into one program by SIMetrix Technologies Ltd.

Version 6.0 Release Notes

The SIMetrix SPICE Simulator

Superior convergence and speed

Convergence is often a problem with many simulators especially in power electronics. This is because the wide range of currents, voltages and conductances present in power circuits stretches the precision of the underlying algorithms. Many other products have to be coaxed into completing such designs by requiring the user to experiment with various option settings. This is rarely necessary with SIMetrix and is the result of nearly 20 years of development on the core algorithms and model equations along with real world experience in simulator use.

Verilog-HDL Mixed-signal simulation

The Verilog-HDL feature provides the ability to simulate Verilog digital designs included in analog circuits. Not available with all products, see Feature Matrix for more details.

Verilog-A Modelling Language

Verilog-A is a language for defining analog models; it is suitable for defining behavioural models with a high level of abstraction as well as highly detailed models for semiconductor devices. Not available with all products, see Feature Matrix for more details.

S-Parameter AC Lookup Table

The AC Table device implements a circuit device that is defined by a s-parameter vs frequency lookup table and works in the small signal analysis modes. The lookup table for this device is defined by a file using the industry standard ‘Touchstone’ format.

Extended sweep modes

SIMetrix has six sweep modes applicable to DC, AC, Noise and Transfer Function analyses whereas SPICE has just one for each. For example you can sweep a voltage source at a constant frequency in AC analysis with SIMetrix but not other SPICE programs.

Real time noise analysis

Applies noise in transient analysis. This unique feature makes it possible to analyse noise in oscillators and sampled data systems. Not available with all products, see Feature Matrix for more details.

Transient snapshots

Stores the circuit state at any point during a transient run. Result can be used to initialise an AC analysis. Useful for investigating the stability of circuits in operating conditions that cannot be obtained using a DC analysis. Not available with all products, see Feature Matrix for more details.

Model support for IC design

Including support for BSIM3, BSIM4, MOS9, MOS11, PSP, Mextram, Hicum, EKV and VBIC models. Not available with all products, see Feature Matrix for more details.

HSPICE model file compatible

Includes: support for HSPICE syntax for parameter expressions; .LIB/.ENDL support; process binning; .GLOBAL; LEVEL 49 and 53 BSIM3 model parameters. Not available with all products, see Feature Matrix for more details.

Fast Monte Carlo analysis

SIMetrix has possibly the fastest Monte Carlo analysis of any PC based product. Unlike other simulators, the SIMetrix Monte Carlo feature is built into the simulator core making it possible to use algorithms that avoid unnecessary repetition.

Sophisticated tolerance specification

As well as high performance SIMetrix also provides sophisticated tolerance specification allowing simple cases to be setup quickly while providing the flexibility needed for large IC designs. SIMetrix also features a facility to create histograms of analysis data using a wide range of goal functions.

Multi-step analysis

Repeats an analysis while varying some circuit variable using one of six modes.

Safe Operating Area (SOA) analysis

Displays violations of voltage, current or power limits as the simulation runs.

Non-linear magnetics with support for air gaps

Two models are available: the Jiles-Atherton hysteresis model and a simple non-hysteresis model.

Power models

Built-in IGBT model compatible with PSpice.

Full support for Infineon physics based models including CoolMos and Optimos devices.

New soft recovery diode model. Includes parameter extraction facility to create models from data sheet values.

Transient restart

Transient analysis can be restarted after the stop time has been reached. Useful when a circuit takes longer to settle than originally expected.

The SIMetrix Environment

Design Entry

Integrated hierarchical schematic editor designed exclusively for simulation and so is not burdened by features needed only for PCB design.

PSpice "Schematics" Translator

SIMetrix can directly read in schematic and symbol files from the PSpice "Schematics" program. (The original Microsim program not Orcad Capture).

Comprehensive schematic cross-probing.

Just point and click to plot a voltage, current or device power before, during or after a simulation run.

Waveform Viewer

Powerful waveform viewer with all the features you would expect from a professional circuit simulation package including multiple grids and axes, cursor measurements, annotation features and smart analysis functions.

Models

Parts browser with full support for external SPICE model libraries. Displays a categorised list of parts for easy placement onto the schematic.

Drag and drop SPICE model installation. Just pick up a SPICE model file in windows explorer and drop into SIMetrix. SIMetrix is compatible with 99% of available SPICE models.

64 Bit Windows version available

A 64 bit version is available providing access to memory beyond the 4GByte barrier. This allows graph traces with tens of millions of time points to be plotted. Requires a 64 bit operating system, see system requirements.

Scripting language

A BASIC like script language allowing automation of simulations and advanced analysis of data and user interface customisation. The language is supported by over 240 commands and 470 functions.