Teaching circuit analysis with MICRO-CAP II

The author describes the experiences gained while incorporating MICRO-CAP II into a basic circuit analysis course. MICRO-CAP II is a SPICE-based software that can be used to do AC, DC, transient and Fourier analysis. MICRO-CAP II not only allows one to draw the schematic of a circuit but also to do computer analysis directly from the schematic. A set of exercises solved with the aid of the MICRO-CAP II that enhances the teaching of such topics as transient analysis, frequency response, and input/output characteristics of circuits at DC conditions is described. Special features of the MICRO-CAP II and the reaction of the students who used the software are pointed out. It is shown that the MICRO-CAP II can be used by students to obtain, verify, or check the characteristics of electrical circuits of various degrees of complexity