Modelling and Simulating Circuits
Modelling and simulating circuits are an essential aspect of electronic product design with the use of software occupying a central place in these activities.
| Modelling and Simulating Circuits |
| Introducing |
- Understand that circuit (schematic) diagrams are symbolic representations of real circuits and components with little resemblance to physical reality.
- Use CAD to produce circuit diagrams.
- Use circuit modelling and simulation to explore the effect of minor changes to components or values.
|
| Developing |
- Understand that PCB layouts show tracks and component outlines to scale.
- Use CAD to produce PCB layouts.
- Use computer modelling to explore aspects of systems and circuit function.
- Use functional modelling of PCB layouts to test circuit design.
|
| Enhancing |
- Use CAD for auto-routing of circuit diagrams to produce PCB layouts.
- Use circuit simulation to support circuit design.
- Understand that auto-routed layouts can often be improved.
|
| Advancing |
- Understand that functional modelling of circuits can include programmable elements.
- Use prototyping systems for real-world modelling of electronic circuits.
- Use PCB CAD software for fine control of PCB layout.
|
| Science Links |
- Know that circuits require conducting paths.
- Be able to use continuity testing to test for conducting paths in a circuit
- Understand current as a flow of electrons in a circuit.
- Understand resistance as a feature of a circuit that reduces current.
- Understand the role of a capacitor in a circuit and the various uses of charge storage (smoothing, timing, powering).
- Understand voltage as a potential difference in a circuit.
- Know that to measure potential difference between two places in a circuit, a voltmeter’s probes are placed on the two places
- Know that to measure current, the current path in a circuit must be broken and then bridged with an ammeter
|
| Maths Links |
- Be able to use flowcharts to represent a sequence of events or an algorithm.
- Be able to carry out multiplicative calculations (such as RC timing, area calculations, costing).
- Make use of a spreadsheet to investigate such calculations.
|
