Maker Pro
Simulating (absolutely) symmetrical circuits

Simulating (absolutely) symmetrical circuits

Other than a real circuit, SPICE deals with ideal components. In a completely symmetrical circuit this may lead to unexpected behavior. For example a simple astable multivibrator may not vibrate at all but assume a stable state. The circuit in figure 1 simulates a stable 39.7 mV on the out-pin without any tendency to oscillate at all.

figure 1.png

Figure 1 symmetrical astable multivibrator is stable

You may force SPICE to assume a defined initial state for the simulation using the .IC directive (Initial Conditions, see „Adding LTSPICE directives“). In the above example, add

.IC V(out)=10​

This puts the symmetrical circuit into an asymmetrical start condition and the multivibrator starts oscillating with a frequency of 7 kHz, as expected (figure 2).

figure 2.png

Figure 2 oscillating output of the astable multivibrator

Alternatively, you could have clamped, for example, the base of one of the transistors to GND using

.IC V(n004)=0​

But heed this word of caution:
It may need some experimenting if your circuit proves stubborn. Remember to check the circuit for correctness before trying to solve simulation problems with .IC directives. Also, keep the number of .IC directives as small as possible to minimize unexpected side effects.

SPICE help topics to look at: .IC, Dot commands, Schematic editing

Harald Kapp, 2014-05-13
Author
Harald Kapp
Views
63
First release
Last update
Rating
0.00 star(s) 0 ratings

More resources from Harald Kapp

Top