An early introduction to circuit simulation techniques

It is argued that introducing simulation tools such as SPICE at the undergraduate level can sometimes cause the students to lack an appreciation for circuit theory and solving circuits. Some undergraduates question the need to solve circuit problems by hand when SPICE can easily do the job for them. An approach to introducing circuit simulation to freshman students in order to motivate circuit theory and to instill an appreciation for the limitations of powerful computer aids such as SPICE is discussed. The approach is introduced as part of a pilot course: Introduction to Electrical and Computer Engineering