NI Multisim User Manual

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NI Multisim
User Manual
NI Multisim User Manual

May 2008
374483C-01

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Copyright (C) 2002-2004 Maxim Shemanarev (McSeem)
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Conventions
The following conventions are used in this manual:
»

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to a final action. The sequence File»Page Setup»Options directs you to
pull down the File menu, select the Page Setup item, and select Options
from the last dialog box.
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monospace italic

Italic text in this font denotes text that is a placeholder for a word or value
that you must supply.

Contents
Chapter 1
User Interface
Introduction to the Multisim Interface ..........................................................................1-1
Toolbars ........................................................................................................................1-1
Standard Toolbar ............................................................................................1-2
Main Toolbar ..................................................................................................1-3
Simulation Toolbar .........................................................................................1-4
View Toolbar...................................................................................................1-5
Components Toolbar .......................................................................................1-6
Virtual Toolbar ................................................................................................1-7
Graphic Annotation Toolbar ...........................................................................1-8
Instruments Toolbar.........................................................................................1-9
Pop-up Menus ...............................................................................................................1-11
Pop-up From Circuit Window, with no Component Selected ........................1-11
Pop-up From a Selected Component or Instrument ........................................1-14
Pop-up From a Selected Wire .........................................................................1-15
Pop-up From a Selected Text Block or Graphic ............................................1-16
Pop-up From a Title Block .............................................................................1-17
Pop-up from a Comment or Measurement Probe............................................1-17
Setting Schematic Capture Preferences ........................................................................1-18
Using the Preferences Dialog Box ..................................................................1-19
Preferences—Paths Tab ...................................................................1-19
Preferences—Save Tab ....................................................................1-20
Preferences—Parts Tab ....................................................................1-21
Preferences—General Tab ...............................................................1-22
Using the Sheet Properties Dialog Box ..........................................................1-23
Sheet Properties—Circuit Tab .........................................................1-24
Sheet Properties—Workspace Tab ...................................................1-25
Sheet Properties—Wiring Tab .........................................................1-25
Sheet Properties—Font Tab .............................................................1-25
Sheet Properties—PCB Tab .............................................................1-27
Sheet Properties—Visibility Tab .....................................................1-27
Design Toolbox..............................................................................................................1-28
Visibility Tab...................................................................................................1-28
Hierarchy Tab..................................................................................................1-29

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Customizing the Interface.............................................................................................. 1-31
Commands tab ................................................................................................ 1-32
Toolbars tab .................................................................................................... 1-32
Keyboard tab .................................................................................................. 1-33
Menu tab ........................................................................................................ 1-33
Options tab ..................................................................................................... 1-33
Customization Pop-up Menus......................................................................... 1-34

Chapter 2
Schematic Capture—Basics
Introduction to Schematic Capture................................................................................ 2-1
Working with Multiple Circuit Windows...................................................................... 2-1
Selecting Components from the Database .................................................................... 2-2
Placing Components...................................................................................................... 2-2
Using the Place Component Browser ............................................................ 2-3
Placing Resistors, Inductors or Capacitors ...................................... 2-5
Multi-section Components ............................................................... 2-7
Rotating/Flipping a Part During Placement...................................... 2-9
Other Buttons ................................................................................... 2-10
Placing Virtual Components ........................................................................... 2-10
Virtual Component Toolbars ............................................................ 2-12
Using the In Use List ...................................................................................... 2-13
Drop-Placing Two-Pinned Components ......................................................... 2-14
Selecting Placed Components......................................................................... 2-14
Moving a Placed Component .......................................................................... 2-15
Copying a Placed Component......................................................................... 2-17
Replacing a Placed Component ...................................................................... 2-17
Controlling Component’s Color ..................................................................... 2-18
Wiring Components....................................................................................................... 2-18
Wiring Components Automatically ................................................................ 2-19
Autowire of Touching Pins............................................................... 2-20
Wiring Components Manually........................................................................ 2-21
Combining Automatic and Manual Wiring .................................................... 2-22
Marking Pins for No Connection .................................................................... 2-22
Placing Wires Directly Onto Workspace ........................................................ 2-23
Setting Wiring Preferences ............................................................................. 2-23
Modifying the Wire Path................................................................................. 2-24
Controlling Wire Color .................................................................................. 2-24
Moving a Wire ................................................................................................ 2-25
Virtual Wiring ................................................................................................. 2-25
Manually Adding a Junction ......................................................................................... 2-26
Rotating/Flipping Placed Components.......................................................................... 2-27
Finding Components in Your Circuit ............................................................................ 2-28

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Labeling .........................................................................................................................2-30
Modifying Component Labels and Attributes.................................................2-30
Modifying Net Names ....................................................................................2-31
Adding a Title Block .......................................................................................2-32
Entering the Title Block Contents ....................................................2-32
Adding Miscellaneous Text.............................................................................2-34
Adding a Comment..........................................................................................2-35
Graphic Annotation ........................................................................................2-37
Capturing Screen Area ....................................................................................2-40
Circuit Description Box ................................................................................................2-41
Formatting the Circuit Description Box ..........................................................2-42
Formatting Circuit Description Box Text .........................................2-42
Paragraph Dialog Box ......................................................................2-43
Tabs Dialog Box ..............................................................................2-44
Date and Time Dialog Box ..............................................................2-44
Properties Dialog Box ......................................................................2-45
Insert Object Dialog Box ..................................................................2-45
Scrolling with Events During Simulation........................................................2-46
Scrolling Text During Simulation.....................................................2-46
Playing a Video Clip .........................................................................2-47
Description Label Dialog Box .........................................................2-49
Edit Labels Dialog Box ....................................................................2-50
Other Actions ....................................................................................2-50
Description Edit Bar ........................................................................................2-51
Linking a Form to a Circuit ...........................................................................................2-52
Creating Forms ................................................................................................2-53
Linking to Questions ......................................................................................2-54
Setting Form Submission Options...................................................................2-55
Completing Forms ...........................................................................................2-56
Printing the Circuit ........................................................................................................2-56

Chapter 3
Schematic Capture—Advanced Functions
Placed Component Properties ........................................................................................3-1
Displaying Identifying Information about a Placed Component ....................3-1
Viewing a Placed Component’s Value/Model ...............................................3-2
Real Components ..............................................................................3-2
Resistors, Inductors and Capacitors .................................................3-3
Edit Model Dialog Box ....................................................................3-4
Edit Footprint Dialog Box ................................................................3-5
Virtual Components ..........................................................................3-5
Controlling How a Placed Component is Used in Analyses ..........................3-6
Editing a Placed Component’s User Fields ....................................................3-7

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Assigning Faults to Components .................................................................................. 3-8
Setting a Placed Component’s Faults ............................................................. 3-8
Using the Auto Fault Option .......................................................................... 3-9
Spreadsheet View .......................................................................................................... 3-10
Spreadsheet View Results Tab........................................................................ 3-10
Spreadsheet View Nets Tab ............................................................................ 3-10
Spreadsheet View Components Tab ............................................................... 3-12
Spreadsheet View PCB Layers Tab ................................................................ 3-14
Spreadsheet View Simulation Tab ................................................................. 3-14
Spreadsheet View Buttons .............................................................................. 3-15
Title Block Editor .......................................................................................................... 3-16
Enter Text Dialog Box .................................................................................... 3-18
Placing Fields.................................................................................................. 3-18
Field Codes ...................................................................................... 3-20
Title Block Editor Spreadsheet View.............................................................. 3-21
Title Block Editor Menus................................................................................ 3-22
File Menu ......................................................................................... 3-22
Edit Menu ........................................................................................ 3-22
View Menu ...................................................................................... 3-23
Fields Menu ..................................................................................... 3-24
Graphics Menu ................................................................................ 3-26
Tools Menu ...................................................................................... 3-27
Help Menu ....................................................................................... 3-27
Pop-up Menus .................................................................................. 3-27
Title Block Editor Toolbars ............................................................................ 3-28
Standard Toolbar—Title Block Editor ............................................. 3-28
Zoom Toolbar—Title Block Editor .................................................. 3-29
Draw Tools Toolbar—Title Block Editor ........................................ 3-30
Drawing Toolbar—Title Block Editor ............................................. 3-31
Electrical Rules Checking ............................................................................................. 3-33
ERC Options Tab ........................................................................................... 3-36
Clearing ERC Markers ..................................................................... 3-37
ERC Rules Tab................................................................................................ 3-38
Component’s Pins Tab .................................................................................... 3-40

Chapter 4
Working with Larger Designs
Flat Multi-Sheet Design ................................................................................................ 4-1
Delete Multi-Page Dialog Box........................................................................ 4-2
Hierarchical Design ....................................................................................................... 4-2
Nested Circuits................................................................................................ 4-3
Component Numbering in Nested Circuits..................................................... 4-4
Net Numbering in Nested Circuits.................................................................. 4-5

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Global Nets......................................................................................................4-5
Adding a Hierarchical Block ...........................................................................4-7
Placing a HB from an Existing File ..................................................4-8
Replacing Components with an HB..................................................4-9
Adding a Subcircuit ........................................................................................4-10
Replacing Components with an SC ..................................................4-10
Viewing a Parent Sheet ...................................................................................4-11
Renaming Component Instances ...................................................................................4-11
Reference Designator Prefix Setup Dialog .....................................................4-12
Buses ..............................................................................................................................4-15
Placing a Bus ...................................................................................................4-17
Placing a Bus across Multi-Pages .....................................................4-17
Connecting Buses to HB/SCs ...........................................................4-18
Bus Properties..................................................................................................4-20
Adding Buslines to a Bus .................................................................4-20
Deleting Buslines from a Bus ...........................................................4-20
Renaming Buslines in a Bus ............................................................4-20
Merging Buses ................................................................................................4-21
Wiring to a Bus................................................................................................4-22
Bus Vector Connect.........................................................................................4-25
Variants ..........................................................................................................................4-35
Setting Up Variants ........................................................................................4-35
Placing Parts in Variants .................................................................................4-38
Assigning Variant Status to Components ........................................4-40
Assigning Variant Status to Nested Circuits.....................................4-44
Setting the Active Variant for Simulation ........................................4-44
Project Management and Version Control.....................................................................4-47
Setting up Projects ..........................................................................................4-47
Working with Projects.....................................................................................4-48
Working with Files Contained in Projects ......................................................4-49
Version Control ..............................................................................................4-50

Chapter 5
Components
Structure of the Component Database ..........................................................................5-1
Database Levels ..............................................................................................5-2
Classification of Components in the Database ...............................................5-2
Locating Components in the Database .........................................................................5-3
Browsing for Components ..............................................................................5-3
Searching for Components .............................................................................5-3
Types of Information Stored for Components ..............................................................5-4
Pre-Defined Fields ..........................................................................................5-5
User Fields ......................................................................................................5-5

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Managing the Database ................................................................................................ 5-6
Filtering Displayed Components ................................................................... 5-6
Deleting Components ..................................................................................... 5-7
Copying Components ..................................................................................... 5-7
Exporting Components .................................................................................. 5-8
Saving Placed Components ............................................................................ 5-8
Moving Components Between Databases ...................................................... 5-9
Resetting Master dB User Fields ................................................................... 5-9
Managing Families ......................................................................................... 5-9
Modifying User Field Titles and Content ...................................................... 5-11
Modifying User Field Content for RLC Components ..................... 5-11
Displaying Database Information ................................................................... 5-12
Editing Components........................................................................................ 5-12
Converting Databases ................................................................................................... 5-12
Updating Components from Databases ........................................................................ 5-14
Merging Databases ....................................................................................................... 5-16

Chapter 6
Component Editing
Introduction to Component Editing............................................................................... 6-1
Creating Components with the Component Wizard ..................................................... 6-3
Creating an Analog Component...................................................................... 6-3
Creating a Digital Component ........................................................................ 6-7
Creating a VHDL Component ........................................................................ 6-11
Using a Symbol File Created in the Symbol Editor........................................ 6-15
Editing Components ...................................................................................................... 6-16
Editing a Component’s General Properties .................................................................. 6-17
Editing a Component’s Symbol .................................................................................... 6-17
Copying a Component’s Symbol .................................................................... 6-19
Copying a Multi-Section Component’s Symbol .............................. 6-19
Creating and Editing a Component’s Symbol with the Symbol Editor .......... 6-19
Symbol Editor Spreadsheet View..................................................... 6-21
Working with the Symbol Editor ..................................................... 6-23
Enter Text Dialog Box...................................................................... 6-27
In-Place Edit Mode ........................................................................... 6-28
Symbol Editor Menus ....................................................................... 6-28
Symbol Editor Toolbars.................................................................... 6-33
Editing a Component’s Model....................................................................................... 6-39
Adding a Model to a Component ................................................................... 6-40
Component List Dialog Box............................................................. 6-42

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Creating a SPICE Model for a Component .....................................................6-42
Creating a Model Using a Model Maker ..........................................6-42
Creating a Primitive Model...............................................................6-42
Creating a SPICE Subcircuit ............................................................6-44
Loading an Existing Model .............................................................................6-45
Modify a Model’s Data ...................................................................................6-46
Copying the Model of One Component to Another .......................................6-46
Analog Behavioral Modeling and Controlled Source Syntax ......................................6-47
Accessing Net Voltages and Branch Currents in ABM Expressions .............6-47
Editing a Component Pin Model ..................................................................................6-48
Editing a Component’s Footprint .................................................................................6-49
Select a Footprint Dialog Box ........................................................................6-49
Filter Dialog Box ..............................................................................6-50
Add a Footprint Dialog Box ............................................................................6-52
Advanced Pin Mapping Dialog ......................................................................6-53
Editing a Component’s Electronic Parameters ..............................................................6-56
Editing User Fields .......................................................................................................6-56
Creating a Component Model Using the Model Makers ...............................................6-57
AC Motor ........................................................................................................6-58
BJT Model Maker ...........................................................................................6-58
Converters........................................................................................................6-69
Boost Converter ...............................................................................6-70
Buck Boost Converter ......................................................................6-71
Buck Converter ................................................................................6-71
Cuk Converter ..................................................................................6-71
Diode Model Maker .......................................................................................6-72
Transformers....................................................................................................6-75
Ideal Transformer (Multiple Winding) ............................................6-75
Linear Transformer (Multiple Winding) ..........................................6-76
Linear Transformer with Neutral Terminal .....................................6-76
Two Winding Linear Transformer ...................................................6-76
Non-linear Transformer (Multiple Winding) ...................................6-77
MOSFET (Field Effect Transistor) Model Maker ..........................................6-78
Operational Amplifier Model Maker...............................................................6-84
Silicon Controlled Rectifier Model Maker......................................................6-87
Zener Model Maker.........................................................................................6-90
Creating a Model Using Code Modeling ......................................................................6-94
What is Code Modeling? .................................................................................6-94
Creating a Code Model ...................................................................................6-95
The Interface File (Ifspec.ifs) .........................................................................6-98
Name Table .......................................................................................6-99
Port Table..........................................................................................6-101
Parameter Table ................................................................................6-103
Example Interface File ......................................................................6-104

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The Implementation File (Cfunc.mod) .......................................................... 6-106
Implementation File C Macros ......................................................... 6-106
Example Implementation File .......................................................... 6-114

Chapter 7
Multisim SPICE Reference
Documentation Conventions ........................................................................................ 7-1
General Purpose Syntax ............................................................................................... 7-2
Primitive Device Declarations ....................................................................... 7-2
SPICE Subcircuits .......................................................................................... 7-4
Circuit Parameters .......................................................................................... 7-6
Number Format .............................................................................................. 7-8
Comments and Line Continuation ................................................................. 7-8
Mathematical Expressions ............................................................................................ 7-9
Introduction .................................................................................................... 7-9
Supported Mathematical Functions, Operators and Constants ...................... 7-10
User-Defined Functions ................................................................................. 7-16
Analog Devices ............................................................................................................ 7-17
Resistor ........................................................................................................... 7-18
Capacitor ........................................................................................................ 7-19
Inductor .......................................................................................................... 7-20
Coupled (Mutual) Inductor ............................................................................ 7-21
Diode ............................................................................................................... 7-22
Lossless Transmission Line ............................................................................ 7-23
Lossy Transmission Line ................................................................................ 7-24
Uniform R.C. Line (Lumped-approximation R.C. line) ................................. 7-26
JFET ................................................................................................................ 7-27
MESFET ......................................................................................................... 7-28
Voltage-Controlled Switch ............................................................................ 7-30
Smooth Transition Voltage-Controlled Switch ............................... 7-31
Current-Controlled Switch ............................................................................. 7-33
BJT .................................................................................................................. 7-34
MOSFET......................................................................................................... 7-36
Independent Voltage Source .......................................................................... 7-42
Pulse Source ..................................................................................... 7-44
Sinusoidal Source ............................................................................. 7-45
Single Frequency FM Source ........................................................... 7-45
Exponential Source........................................................................... 7-46
Piecewise Linear Source................................................................... 7-46
Piecewise Linear File Source ........................................................... 7-47
Modulation Source ........................................................................... 7-47
AM Modulation Source .................................................................... 7-48
FM Modulation Source..................................................................... 7-48

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FSK Modulation Source....................................................................7-49
BST Modulation Source....................................................................7-50
SWP Modulation Source...................................................................7-50
Noise Source .....................................................................................7-51
XARB Source ...................................................................................7-52
Independent Current Source ...........................................................................7-52
Arbitrary Source .............................................................................................7-54
Voltage Controlled Voltage Source ................................................................7-56
Polynomial Specifications.................................................................7-57
Current Controlled Voltage Source ................................................................7-58
Voltage Controlled Current Source ................................................................7-59
Current Controlled Current Source ................................................................7-60
XSPICE Syntax Reference ...........................................................................................7-61
XSPICE Code Model .....................................................................................7-61
Unusual Forms of Device Syntax .................................................................................7-62
Compatibility Modes ....................................................................................................7-63

Chapter 8
Simulation
Introduction to Simulation .............................................................................................8-1
Using Multisim Simulation............................................................................................8-2
Interactive Components ..................................................................................8-3
Component Tolerances in Multisim ...............................................................8-3
Start/Stop/Pause Simulation ............................................................................8-4
Simulation Running Indicator ...........................................................8-5
Simulation Speed ..............................................................................8-5
Circuit Consistency Check ..............................................................................8-6
Simulation from Netlist Without Schematic ...................................................8-6
Multisim SPICE Simulation: Technical Detail..............................................................8-6
Circuit Simulation Mechanism........................................................................8-7
Four Stages of Circuit Simulation ...................................................................8-7
Equation Formulation......................................................................................8-9
Equation Solution ............................................................................................8-10
User Setting: Maximum Integration Order......................................................8-10
Convergence Assistance Algorithms...............................................................8-11
Digital Simulation ...........................................................................................8-12
RF Simulation ................................................................................................................8-13
MultiVHDL ...................................................................................................................8-13
Circuit Wizards ..............................................................................................................8-14
555 Timer Wizard............................................................................................8-14
Filter Wizard ...................................................................................................8-16
Common Emitter BJT Amplifier Wizard .......................................................8-18
Op-amp Wizard ..............................................................................................8-20

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Netlist and Simulation Errors ....................................................................................... 8-21
Netlist Errors and Warnings ........................................................................... 8-21
Simulation Errors ........................................................................................... 8-22
Simulation Error Log/Audit Trail ................................................................................. 8-23
Simulation Error Help ................................................................................................... 8-24
Convergence Assistant ................................................................................................ 8-25
Saving/Loading Simulation Profiles ............................................................................. 8-26
Saving a Simulation Profile ............................................................................ 8-26
Loading a Simulation Profile .......................................................................... 8-27

Chapter 9
Instruments
Introduction to the Multisim Instruments...................................................................... 9-1
Saving Simulation Data with Instruments ...................................................... 9-2
Adding an Instrument to a Circuit .................................................................. 9-2
Using the Instrument ...................................................................................... 9-3
Working with Multiple Instruments ............................................................... 9-4
Saving Instrument Data................................................................................... 9-4
Printing Instruments ..................................................................................................... 9-5
Interactive Simulation Settings ..................................................................................... 9-5
Troubleshooting Simulation Errors ................................................................ 9-6
Multimeter ..................................................................................................................... 9-7
Multimeter Settings......................................................................................... 9-8
Function Generator ....................................................................................................... 9-11
Function Generator Settings ........................................................................... 9-12
Wattmeter ...................................................................................................................... 9-13
Connecting the Wattmeter .............................................................................. 9-14
Oscilloscope ................................................................................................................. 9-15
Oscilloscope Settings ...................................................................................... 9-16
Viewing Oscilloscope Results ........................................................................ 9-19
Bode Plotter .................................................................................................................. 9-19
Bode Plotter Settings....................................................................................... 9-21
Viewing Bode Plotter Results ......................................................................... 9-22
Word Generator ............................................................................................................ 9-23
Word Generator Settings ................................................................................ 9-24
Logic Analyzer ............................................................................................................. 9-26
Logic Analyzer Settings.................................................................................. 9-28
Logic Converter ............................................................................................................ 9-31
Logic Converter Settings ............................................................................... 9-32
Distortion Analyzer ...................................................................................................... 9-34
Distortion Analyzer Settings ........................................................................... 9-35
Spectrum Analyzer ....................................................................................................... 9-36
Network Analyzer ......................................................................................................... 9-36

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Measurement Probe ......................................................................................................9-37
Measurement Probe Settings ..........................................................................9-37
Dynamic Probe Settings....................................................................9-37
Static Probe Settings ........................................................................9-38
Using the Dynamic Measurement Probe ........................................................9-40
Using the Static Measurement Probe .............................................................9-41
Four-Channel Oscilloscope ...........................................................................................9-43
Four-Channel Oscilloscope Settings ...............................................................9-43
Viewing Four-Channel Oscilloscope Results..................................................9-47
Connecting the Four-channel Oscilloscope.....................................................9-50
Frequency Counter.........................................................................................................9-50
Using the Frequency Counter..........................................................................9-51
IV Analyzer....................................................................................................................9-53
Using the IV Analyzer.....................................................................................9-54
Simulate Parameters Dialog Box .....................................................9-57
Reviewing IV Analyzer Data ..........................................................................9-61
Agilent Simulated Instruments ......................................................................................9-63
Agilent Simulated Function Generator............................................................9-63
Supported Features............................................................................9-63
Features Not Supported.....................................................................9-64
Using the Agilent Function Generator .............................................9-64
Agilent Simulated Multimeter.........................................................................9-65
Supported Features............................................................................9-65
Features Not Supported.....................................................................9-65
Using the Agilent Multimeter ...........................................................9-66
Agilent Simulated Oscilloscope ......................................................................9-66
Supported Features............................................................................9-66
Features Not Supported.....................................................................9-68
Using the Agilent Oscilloscope ........................................................9-68
Tektronix Simulated Instruments ..................................................................................9-69
Tektronix Simulated Oscilloscope .................................................................9-69
Supported Features............................................................................9-69
Features Not Supported.....................................................................9-71
Using the Tektronix Oscilloscope.....................................................9-72
Voltmeter ......................................................................................................................9-72
Using the Voltmeter ........................................................................................9-72
Ammeter .......................................................................................................................9-73
Using the Ammeter .........................................................................................9-73
Current Probe ................................................................................................................9-74
Current Probe Properties ................................................................................9-75

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LabVIEW Instruments .................................................................................................. 9-78
System Requirements ..................................................................................... 9-79
Sample LabVIEW Instruments ...................................................................... 9-80
Microphone ...................................................................................... 9-80
Speaker ............................................................................................ 9-81
Signal Analyzer ............................................................................... 9-81
Signal Generator .............................................................................. 9-82
Streaming Signal Generator ............................................................. 9-82
LabVIEW Instruments Toolbar ....................................................... 9-83
Creating a LabVIEW Instrument .................................................................... 9-83
Building a LabVIEW Instrument ................................................................... 9-86
Installing a LabVIEW Instrument................................................................... 9-86
Guidelines for Successfully Creating a LabVIEW Instrument ...................... 9-86

Chapter 10
Analyses
Introduction to Multisim Analyses ............................................................................... 10-1
Viewing the Analysis Results: Grapher ....................................................................... 10-2
Working with Pages on the Grapher ............................................................... 10-6
Working with Graphs ..................................................................................... 10-7
Grids and Legends ........................................................................... 10-7
Cursors ............................................................................................. 10-8
Cursor Pop-up Menu ....................................................................... 10-10
Zoom and Restore............................................................................. 10-11
Title .................................................................................................. 10-11
Axes .................................................................................................. 10-12
Traces ............................................................................................... 10-13
Merging Traces ................................................................................ 10-14
Select Pages Dialog Box .................................................................. 10-14
Graph Pop-up Menu ........................................................................ 10-15
Viewing Charts .............................................................................................. 10-15
Cut, Copy and Paste ....................................................................................... 10-16
Opening Files .................................................................................................. 10-16
Saving Files..................................................................................................... 10-17
Print and Print Preview .................................................................................. 10-19
Adding Traces from the Latest Simulation Results ....................................... 10-19
Working with Analyses ................................................................................................. 10-21
General Instructions ....................................................................................... 10-21
Analysis Parameters Tab ................................................................................ 10-22
Output Tab ..................................................................................................... 10-22
Choosing How to Handle Output Variables .................................... 10-23
Filtering the Variable Lists .............................................................. 10-23

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Adding Parameters to the Variable List ...........................................10-24
Selecting Variables to Save ..............................................................10-25
Adding Analysis Expressions .........................................................................10-26
Analysis Options Tab .....................................................................................10-28
Summary Tab .................................................................................................10-29
Incomplete Analyses .......................................................................................10-29
DC Operating Point Analysis .......................................................................................10-30
Setting up and Running DC Operating Point Analysis ...................................10-30
Setting DC Operating Point Analysis Parameters ............................10-30
Sample Circuit .................................................................................................10-31
Troubleshooting DC Operating Point Analysis Failures.................................10-32
Circuit Failure Example ....................................................................10-33
Troubleshooting Techniques.............................................................10-33
AC Analysis ...................................................................................................................10-35
Setting AC Analysis Frequency Parameters ...................................................10-35
Transient Analysis ........................................................................................................10-37
Setting Transient Analysis Parameters ...........................................................10-38
Troubleshooting Transient Analysis Failures .................................................10-40
Fourier Analysis.............................................................................................................10-40
Setting Fourier Analysis Parameters ...............................................................10-41
Noise Analysis ..............................................................................................................10-44
Setting Noise Analysis Parameters..................................................................10-46
Noise Analysis Example..................................................................................10-48
Distortion Analysis ........................................................................................................10-50
Multisim Approach..........................................................................................10-51
Preparing the Circuit for Distortion Analysis .................................................10-52
Understanding the Distortion Analysis Options .............................................10-52
Distortion Analysis for Harmonic Distortion .................................................10-53
Distortion Analysis for Intermodulation Distortion .......................................10-55
DC Sweep Analysis ......................................................................................................10-57
Setting DC Sweep Analysis Parameters..........................................................10-58
DC Sweep Analysis Examples ........................................................................10-59
DC and AC Sensitivity Analyses ..................................................................................10-62
Sensitivity Analysis Parameters ......................................................................10-63
Setting Up and Running Sensitivity Analysis ................................................10-64
Parameter Sweep Analysis.............................................................................................10-67
Setting Parameter Sweep Analysis Parameters ..............................................10-68
Parameter Sweep Analysis—Example ...........................................................10-70
Temperature Sweep Analysis ........................................................................................10-74
Setting Temperature Sweep Analysis Parameters ..........................................10-75
Transfer Function Analysis............................................................................................10-77
Setting Transfer Function Analysis Parameters .............................................10-77
Examples of Transfer Function Analysis .......................................................10-79

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Worst Case Analysis ..................................................................................................... 10-82
Setting Tolerance Parameters.......................................................................... 10-83
Setting Worst Case Analysis Parameters ........................................................ 10-84
Worst Case Analysis Example ........................................................................ 10-85
Pole Zero Analysis ....................................................................................................... 10-87
Multisim Approach ......................................................................................... 10-90
Setting Pole Zero Analysis Parameters........................................................... 10-91
Running Pole Zero Analysis .......................................................................... 10-92
Monte Carlo Analysis ................................................................................................... 10-93
Uniform Distribution....................................................................................... 10-94
Gaussian Distribution...................................................................................... 10-94
Setting Up and Running Monte Carlo Analysis ............................................. 10-96
Entering a Component Tolerance .................................................... 10-96
Specifying Monte Carlo Analysis Parameters ................................. 10-97
Monte Carlo Analysis Example ...................................................................... 10-98
Setting up the Sample Monte Carlo Analysis .................................. 10-99
Simulation Results ............................................................................ 10-103
Trace Width Analysis ................................................................................................... 10-106
Multisim Approach ......................................................................................... 10-108
Sample Trace Width Analysis......................................................................... 10-110
RF Analyses................................................................................................................... 10-111
Nested Sweep Analyses ................................................................................................ 10-112
Batched Analyses ......................................................................................................... 10-112
User Defined Analyses ................................................................................................. 10-114
Creating and Simulating a SPICE Netlist ...................................................... 10-114
Importing the SPICE netlist into Multisim .................................................... 10-115
Plotting Two Nodes Using the Tran Statement ............................................. 10-116
Custom Analysis Options Dialog Box .......................................................................... 10-116
Global Tab ...................................................................................................... 10-117
DC Tab ........................................................................................................... 10-119
Transient Tab ................................................................................................. 10-120
Device Tab ..................................................................................................... 10-121
Advanced Tab ................................................................................................ 10-122

Chapter 11
Postprocessor
Introduction to the Postprocessor .................................................................................. 11-1
Using the Postprocessor ................................................................................................ 11-2
Basic Steps ..................................................................................................... 11-2
Using the Default Analysis............................................................... 11-7
Creating Multiple Traces ................................................................. 11-8
Working with Pages, Traces, Graphs and Charts .......................................... 11-8

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Postprocessor Variables .................................................................................................11-9
Available Postprocessor Functions ...............................................................................11-9

Chapter 12
Reports
Bill of Materials .............................................................................................................12-1
Using the BOM Report....................................................................................12-3
Component Detail Report ..............................................................................................12-5
Using the Component Detail Report ..............................................................12-5
Netlist Report .................................................................................................................12-6
Using the Netlist Report ..................................................................................12-6
Schematic Statistics Report ...........................................................................................12-7
Using the Schematic Statistics Report.............................................................12-8
Spare Gates Report ........................................................................................................12-9
Using the Spare Gates Report..........................................................................12-9
Model Data Report ........................................................................................................12-10
Using the Model Data Report..........................................................................12-10
Cross Reference Report .................................................................................................12-11
Using the Cross Reference Report ..................................................................12-11
Variants Filter Dialog Box ............................................................................................12-12

Chapter 13
Transfer/Communication
Introduction to Transfer/Communication .....................................................................13-1
Exporting to PCB layout ...............................................................................................13-1
Transferring from Multisim to Ultiboard for PCB Layout..............................13-2
Transfering to Other PCB Layout Packages ..................................................13-3
Forward Annotation .......................................................................................................13-4
Back Annotation ............................................................................................................13-5
Exporting Simulation Results .......................................................................................13-5
Exporting to MathCAD ...................................................................................13-5
Exporting to Excel...........................................................................................13-6
Saving to a Measurement File .........................................................................13-7
Exporting a Netlist .........................................................................................................13-8
Importing Files with Other Formats .............................................................................13-8
Opening an Electronics Workbench 5 File .....................................................13-9
Opening an Ulticap File ..................................................................................13-9
Importing a SPICE or Cadence® PSpice® Netlist ...........................................13-10

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Chapter 14
RF
Introduction to the Multisim RF Module ..................................................................... 14-1
RF Components ............................................................................................................ 14-2
Multisim’s RF Components ............................................................................ 14-3
Theoretical Explanation of the RF Models .................................................... 14-3
Striplines/Microstrips/Waveguides .................................................. 14-3
RF Resistors...................................................................................... 14-5
RF Capacitors ................................................................................... 14-5
RF Inductors .................................................................................... 14-7
Devices ............................................................................................. 14-7
RF Instruments ............................................................................................................. 14-8
Spectrum Analyzer ......................................................................................... 14-8
Using Multisim’s Spectrum Analyzer .............................................. 14-9
Frequency Range .............................................................................. 14-10
Frequency Spans............................................................................... 14-10
Frequency Analysis .......................................................................... 14-11
Amplitude Range .............................................................................. 14-12
Reference Level ................................................................................ 14-12
Frequency Resolution ....................................................................... 14-13
Examples .......................................................................................... 14-13
Network Analyzer .......................................................................................... 14-17
Using the Network Analyzer ............................................................ 14-17
Marker Controls................................................................................ 14-18
Trace Controls .................................................................................. 14-19
Format Controls ................................................................................ 14-19
Data Controls .................................................................................... 14-19
Mode Controls .................................................................................. 14-20
RF Analyses .................................................................................................................. 14-20
RF Characterizer Analysis .............................................................................. 14-20
Matching Network Analysis .......................................................................... 14-23
Noise Figure Analysis .................................................................................... 14-28
Multisim Approach .......................................................................... 14-31
Noise Figure Analysis Tabs.............................................................. 14-31
Sample Noise Figure Analysis ......................................................... 14-32
RF Model Makers.......................................................................................................... 14-33
Waveguide ..................................................................................................... 14-34
Microstrip Line .............................................................................................. 14-35
Open End Microstrip Line ............................................................................. 14-36
RF Spiral Inductor........................................................................................... 14-36
Strip Line Model ............................................................................................ 14-37
Stripline Bend ................................................................................................ 14-38

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Lossy Line ......................................................................................................14-39
Interdigital Capacitor ......................................................................................14-40
Tutorial: Designing RF Circuits ....................................................................................14-41
Selecting Type of RF Amplifier ......................................................................14-42
Selecting an RF Transistor ..............................................................................14-42
Selecting a DC Operating Point ......................................................................14-43
Selecting the Biasing Network ........................................................................14-43
Selecting an Operating Frequency Point ..........................................14-45
Analyzing the RF Network ...............................................................14-45

Chapter 15
Multisim MCU
Introduction to Multisim MCU .....................................................................................15-1
Multisim MCU Basics.....................................................................................15-1
Debugging Tools .............................................................................................15-2
MCU Source Code Editor ...............................................................................15-2
MCU Memory View........................................................................................15-3
Advanced Features ..........................................................................................15-3
Peripheral Devices...........................................................................................15-3
Multisim MCU File Management .................................................................................15-4
MCU Design Overview ..................................................................................15-4
MCU Wizard ..................................................................................................15-5
Adding and Removing Projects, Folders and Files ........................................15-7
Multisim MCU Code Manager .....................................................................................15-8
MCU Code Manager Overview ......................................................................15-8
Adding and Removing Projects, Folders and Files in the
MCU Code Manager ...................................................................................15-10
MCU Project Build Settings ...........................................................................15-11
Documentation for Supported Tools ................................................15-12
8051 Workspace Build Settings Example.........................................15-13
Loading an External Hex File Project ............................................................15-19
Building an MCU Workspace ........................................................................15-19
Errors and Warnings ........................................................................15-20
Simulation of Machine Code File ....................................................15-20
Multisim MCU Source Code Editor .............................................................................15-23
Opening a Source Code File ...........................................................................15-23
Building Source Code Files ............................................................................15-23
Source Code View...........................................................................................15-24
MCU Debugging Features ............................................................................................15-25
Definitions ......................................................................................................15-25
Opening a Debug View ..................................................................................15-25
Debug Window Settings .................................................................................15-26
MCU Toolbar Buttons ......................................................................15-27

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Simulation Markers ........................................................................................ 15-28
Breakpoints .................................................................................................... 15-28
Stepping and Breaking ................................................................................... 15-30
Memory View ................................................................................................. 15-31

Chapter 16
Automation API
Appendix A
Menus and Commands
Appendix B
Archiving Data
Appendix C
Technical Support and Professional Services
Index

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User Interface

This chapter explains the basic operation of the Multisim user interface.
Some of the features described in this chapter may not be available in your
edition of Multisim. Refer to the release notes for a list of the features in
your edition.

Introduction to the Multisim Interface
Multisim is the schematic capture and simulation application of National
Instruments Circuit Design Suite, a suite of EDA (Electronics Design
Automation) tools that assists you in carrying out the major steps in the
circuit design flow. Multisim is designed for schematic entry, simulation,
and feeding to downstage steps, such as PCB layout.
For more information on the Multisim interface, and information on the other
components of NI Circuit Design Suite, refer to the Getting Started with NI Circuit Design
Suite manual.

Note

Toolbars
The toolbars listed below are available in Multisim:
•

Standard Toolbar

•

Main Toolbar

•

Simulation Toolbar

•

View Toolbar

•

Components Toolbar

•

Virtual Toolbar

•

Graphic Annotation Toolbar

•

Instruments Toolbar

Note If the above toolbars are not visible, select View»Toolbars». Refer
to the Multisim Menus section of Appendix A, Multisim Menus, for a description of the
menus and commands found in Multisim.

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Standard Toolbar
The Standard toolbar contains buttons for commonly performed
functions. Its buttons are described below:
Button

Description
New button. Creates a new circuit file.

Open button. Opens an existing circuit file.

Open Sample button. Opens a folder containing sample and
getting started files.
Save button. Saves the active circuit.

Print Circuit button. Prints the active circuit.

Print Preview button. Previews the circuit as it will be
printed.
Cut button. Removes the selected elements and places them
on the Windows clipboard.
Copy button. Copies the selected elements and places them
on the Windows clipboard.
Paste button. Inserts the contents of the Windows clipboard
at the cursor location.
Undo button. Undoes the most recently performed action.

Redo button. Redoes the most recently performed undo.

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Main Toolbar
The buttons in the Main toolbar are described below:
Button

Description
Toggle Design Toolbox button. Switches the Design
Toolbox on and off. Refer to the Design Toolbox section for
more information.
Toggle Spreadsheet View button. Switches the
Spreadsheet View on and off. Refer to the Spreadsheet
View section of Chapter 3, Schematic Capture—Advanced
Functions, for more information.
Database Manager button. Launches the Database
Manager dialog box. Refer to the Editing Components
section of Chapter 6, Component Editing, for more
information.
Create Component button. Launches the Component
Wizard. Refer to the Creating Components with the
Component Wizard section of Chapter 6, Component
Editing, for more information.
Grapher/Analyses button. Displays the grapher. Refer to
the Viewing the Analysis Results: Grapher section of
Chapter 10, Analyses, for more information. Also displays a
list of available analyses. Refer to the Working with
Analyses section of Chapter 10, Analyses, for more
information.
Postprocessor button. Displays the Postprocessor dialog
box. Refer to the Using the Postprocessor section of
Chapter 11, Postprocessor, for more information.
Electrical Rules Checking button. Checks that the
electrical rules established for the wiring of the circuit have
been followed. Refer to the Electrical Rules Checking
section of Chapter 3, User Interface, for more information.
Capture Screen Area button. Refer to the Capturing
Screen Area section of Chapter 2, Schematic
Capture—Basics, for more details.

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Button

Description
Go to Parent Sheet button. Displays the top level sheet in a
hierarchical design. Refer to the Hierarchical Design and
Viewing a Parent Sheet sections of Chapter 4, Working with
Larger Designs, for more details.
Back Annotate from Ultiboard button. Refer to the Back
Annotation section of Chapter 13,
Transfer/Communication, for more information.
Forward Annotate button. Refer to the Forward
Annotation section of Chapter 13,
Transfer/Communication, for more information.

—

In Use List (not shown). Click on the down-arrow to display
a list of the active circuit’s components. Refer to the Using
the In Use List section of Chapter 2, Schematic
Capture—Basics, for more details.
Help button. Launches the help file.

Simulation Toolbar
The Simulation toolbar contains buttons used during simulation.
Button

Description
Run/resume simulation button. Starts/resumes simulation
of the active circuit. Refer to the Start/Stop/Pause Simulation
section of Chapter 8, Simulation, for more information.
Pause simulation button. Pauses simulation. Refer to the
Start/Stop/Pause Simulation section of Chapter 8,
Simulation, for more information.
Stop simulation button. Stops the simulation. Refer to the
Start/Stop/Pause Simulation section of Chapter 8,
Simulation, for more information.
Pause at Next MCU Instruction Boundary button. Refer to
the Stepping and Breaking section for more information.

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Button

User Interface

Description
Step Into button. Refer to the Stepping and Breaking section
for more information.
Step Over button. Refer to the Stepping and Breaking
section for more information.
Step Out button. Refer to the Stepping and Breaking section
for more information.
Run to Cursor button. Refer to the Stepping and Breaking
section for more information.
Toggle Breakpoint button. Refer to the Breakpoints section
for more information.
Remove All Breakpoints button. Refer to the Breakpoints
section for more information.

View Toolbar
The buttons in the View toolbar are described below:
Button

Description
Toggle Full Screen button. Displays only the workspace,
with no toobars or menu items.
Increase Zoom button. Magnifies the active circuit.

Decrease Zoom button. Decreases the magnification of the
active circuit.
Zoom to Selected Area button. Drag the cursor to select an
area on the workspace to magnify.
Zoom Fit to Page button. Shows the entire circuit in the
workspace.

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Components Toolbar
The buttons in the Components toolbar are described below. Each button
will launch the place component browser (Select a Component browser)
with the group specified on the button pre-selected. Refer to the Using the
Place Component Browser section for more information.
Button

Description
Place Source button. Selects the Source components group
in the browser.
Place Basic button. Selects the Basic components group in
the browser.
Place Diode button. Selects the Diode components group in
the browser.
Place Transistor button. Selects the Transistor components
group in the browser.
Place Analog button. Selects the Analog components group
in the browser.
Place TTL button. Selects the TTL components group in the
browser.
Place CMOS button. Selects the CMOS component group in
the browser.
Place Miscellaneous Digital button. Selects the
Miscellaneous Digital component group in the browser.
Place Mixed button. Selects the Mixed component group in
the browser.
Place Power Components button. Selects the Power
component group in the browser.
Place Indicator button. Selects the Indicator component
group in the browser.

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Button

User Interface

Description
Place Miscellaneous button. Selects the Miscellaneous
component group in the browser.
Place Advanced Peripherals button. Selects the Advanced
Peripherals component group in the browser.
Place RF button. Selects the RF component group in the
browser.
Place Electromechanical button. Selects the
Electromechanical component group in the browser.
Place MCU button. Selects the MCU component group in
the browser.
Place Hierarchical Block button. Opens a file to be
embedded as a hierarchical block. Refer to the Hierarchical
Design section of Chapter 4, Working with Larger Designs,
for more information.
Place Bus button. Places a bus with segments created as you
click on the workspace. Refer to the Buses section of
Chapter 4, Working with Larger Designs, for more
information.

Virtual Toolbar
Use the Virtual toolbar to place virtual components on your workspace.
Refer to the Placing Virtual Components section of Chapter 2, Schematic
Capture—Basics, for more information.

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Graphic Annotation Toolbar
The buttons in the Graphic Annotation toolbar are described below. Refer
to the Graphic Annotation section of Chapter 2, Schematic
Capture—Basics, for more information.
Button

Description
Picture button. Click on this button to place a picture on
the workspace.
Polygon button. Click on this button to draw a polygon.

Arc button. Click on this button to draw an arc.

Ellipse button. Click on this button to draw an ellipse.

Rectangle button. Click on this button to draw a rectangle.

Multiline button. Click on this button to draw a multiline.

Line button. Click on this button to draw a line.

Place Text button. Places a text frame on your workspace
into which you can enter miscellaneous text. Refer to the
Adding Miscellaneous Text section of Chapter 2,
Schematic Capture—Basics, for more information.
Place Comment button. Click on this button to place a
comment on the workspace. Refer to the Adding a
Comment section of Chapter 2, Schematic
Capture—Basics, for more information.

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Instruments Toolbar
The buttons in the Instruments toolbar are described below. In each case,
the button places a specific instrument on the workspace.
Some versions of Multisim do not include all of the instruments described
below.
Button

Description
Multimeter button. Places a multimeter on the workspace.
Refer to the Multimeter section of Chapter 9, Instruments,
for more information.
Function Generator button. Places a function generator on
the workspace. Refer to the Function Generator section of
Chapter 9, Instruments, for more information.
Wattmeter button. Places a wattmeter on the workspace.
Refer to the Wattmeter section of Chapter 9, Instruments, for
more information.
Oscilloscope button. Places an oscilloscope on the
workspace. Refer to the Oscilloscope section of Chapter 9,
Instruments, for more information.
Four Channel Oscilloscope button. Places a four-channel
oscilloscope on the workspace. Refer to the Four-Channel
Oscilloscope section of Chapter 9, Instruments, for more
information.
Bode Plotter button. Places a Bode plotter on the
workspace. Refer to the Bode Plotter section of Chapter 9,
Instruments, for more information.
Frequency Counter button. Places a frequency counter on
the workspace. Refer to the Frequency Counter section of
Chapter 9, Instruments, for more information.
Word Generator button. Places a word generator on the
workspace. Refer to the Word Generator section of
Chapter 9, Instruments, for more information.
Logic Analyzer button. Places a logic analyzer on the
workspace. Refer to the Logic Analyzer section of
Chapter 9, Instruments, for more information.

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Button

Description
Logic Converter button. Places a logic converter on the
workspace. Refer to the Logic Converter section of
Chapter 9, Instruments, for more information.
IV-Analysis button. Places an IV Analyser on the
workspace. Refer to the IV Analyzer section of Chapter 9,
Instruments, for more information.
Distortion Analyzer button. Places a distortion analyzer on
the workspace. Refer to the Distortion Analyzer section of
Chapter 9, Instruments, for more information.
Spectrum Analyzer button. Places a spectrum analyzer on
the workspace. Refer to the Spectrum Analyzer section of
Chapter 9, Instruments, for more information.
Network Analyzer button. Places a network analyzer on the
workspace. Refer to the Network Analyzer section of
Chapter 9, Instruments, for more information.
Agilent Function Generator button. Places an Agilent
function generator on the workspace. Refer to the Agilent
Simulated Function Generator section of Chapter 9,
Instruments, for more information.
Agilent Multimeter button. Places an Agilent multimeter
on the workspace. Refer to the Agilent Simulated Multimeter
section of Chapter 9, Instruments, for more details.
Agilent Oscilloscope button. Places an Agilent oscilloscope
on the workspace. Refer to the Agilent Simulated
Oscilloscope section of Chapter 9, Instruments, for more
information.
Tektronix Oscilloscope button. Places a Tektronix
oscilloscope on the workspace. Refer to the Tektronix
Simulated Oscilloscope section of Chapter 9, Instruments,
for more information.
Current Probe button. Places a current probe on the
workspace. Refer to the Current Probe section of Chapter 9,
Instruments, for more information.

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User Interface

Description
LabVIEW Instruments button. Places a LabVIEW
instrument on the workspace. Refer to the LabVIEW
Instruments section of Chapter 9, Instruments, for more
information.
Measurement Probe button. Attaches a probe to the mouse
pointer that measures voltage, current and frequency on any
wire on your schematic. Can be placed before simulation
(static probe), or during simulation (dynamic probe). Use
the arrow to place static probes. Refer to the Measurement
Probe section of Chapter 9, Instruments, for more
information.

Pop-up Menus
In addition to the standard menus at the top of the screen (for example, File,
Edit), there are also a number of context-sensitive pop-up menus available.

Pop-up From Circuit Window, with no Component Selected
When you right-click on the circuit window with no component selected, a
pop-up menu of appropriate commands appears. These commands are:
•

Place Component—Lets you browse the databases (Master,
Corporate and User) for components to be placed. Refer to the Using
the Place Component Browser section of Chapter 2, Schematic
Capture—Basics, for more information.

•

Place Schematic»Component—Lets you browse the databases
(Master, Corporate and User) for components to be placed. Refer to
the Using the Place Component Browser section of Chapter 2,
Schematic Capture—Basics, for more information.

•

Place Schematic»Junction—Places a connector. Refer to the
Manually Adding a Junction section of Chapter 2, Schematic
Capture—Basics, for more information.

•

Place Schematic»Wire—Use to place a wire on the workspace. Refer
to the Placing Wires Directly Onto Workspace section of Chapter 2,
Schematic Capture—Basics, for more information.

•

Place Schematic»Bus—Places a bus with segments created as you
click. Refer to the Buses section of Chapter 4, Working with Larger
Designs, for more information.

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•

Place Schematic»HB/SC Connector—Adds connectors to a circuit
for use in a hierarchical block or a subcircuit.

•

Place Schematic»Off-Page Connector—Places an off-page
connector on your workspace. Refer to the Flat Multi-Sheet Design
section of Chapter 4, Working with Larger Designs, for more
information.

•

Place Schematic»Bus HB/SC Connector—Adds bus connectors to a
circuit for use in a hierarchical block or a subcircuit.

•

Place Schematic»Bus Off-Page Connector—Places an off-page
connector for use with buses only on your workspace.

•

Place Schematic»Hierarchical Block from File—Opens a file to be
embedded as a hierarchical block. Refer to the Placing a HB from an
Existing File section of Chapter 4, Working with Larger Designs, for
more information.

•

Place Schematic»New Hierarchical Block—Displays the
Hierarchical Block Properties dialog box. Refer to the Adding a
Hierarchical Block section of Chapter 4, Working with Larger
Designs, for more information.

•

Place Schematic»New Subcircuit—Places a new subcircuit on the
workspace. Refer to the Adding a Subcircuit section of Chapter 4,
Working with Larger Designs, for more information.

•

Place Schematic»Replace by Subcircuit—Replaces the selection by
a subcircuit.

•

Place Schematic»Multi-Page—Opens a new page. Refer to the Flat
Multi-Sheet Design section of Chapter 4, Working with Larger
Designs, for more information.

•

Place Schematic»Merge Bus—Merges selected buses.

•

Place Schematic»Bus Vector Connect—Use to place numerous
connections from a multi-pinned device, such as an IC, to a bus. Refer
to the Bus Vector Connect section of Chapter 4, Working with Larger
Designs, for more information.

•

Place Graphic»Text—Places text on the circuit. Refer to the Adding
Miscellaneous Text section of Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics,
for more information.

•

Place Graphic»Line—Places a straight line on your workspace. Refer
to the Graphic Annotation section for more information.

•

Place Graphic»Multiline—Places a multiline on your workspace.
Refer to the Graphic Annotation section of Chapter 2, Schematic
Capture—Basics, for more information.

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•

Place Graphic»Rectangle—Places a rectangle on your workspace.
Refer to the Graphic Annotation section of Chapter 2, Schematic
Capture—Basics, for more information.

•

Place Graphic»Ellipse—Places an ellipse on your workspace. Refer
to the Graphic Annotation section of Chapter 2, Schematic
Capture—Basics, for more information.

•

Place Graphic»Arc—Places an arc on your workspace. Refer to the
Graphic Annotation section of Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics,
for more information.

•

Place Graphic»Polygon—Places a polygon on your workspace.
Refer to the Graphic Annotation section of Chapter 2, Schematic
Capture—Basics, for more information.

•

Place Graphic»Picture—Places a picture on your workspace. Refer
to the Graphic Annotation section of Chapter 2, Schematic
Capture—Basics, for more information.

•

Place Comment—Use to “pin” a comment to the workspace, or
directly to a component. Refer to the Adding a Comment section of
Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics, for more information.

•

Cut—Removes the selected item from the circuit and places it on the
clipboard.

•

Copy—Copies the selected item from the circuit to the clipboard.

•

Paste—Pastes the current contents of the clipboard onto the circuit.

•

Delete—Deletes the selection from the workspace.

•

Select All—Selects all elements on the workspace.

•

Toggle NC Marker—Places an NC (no connection) marker on a
component’s pin. Refer to the Marking Pins for No Connection section
of Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics, for more information.

•

Clear ERC Markers—Clears existing ERC (electrical rules check)
markers from the workspace. Refer to the ERC Options Tab section of
Chapter 3, Schematic Capture—Advanced Functions, for more
information.

•

Paste as Subcircuit—Pastes the contents of the clipboard onto the
workspace as a subcircuit.

•

Replace by Subcircuit—Replaces the elements that you have selected
with a subcircuit. Refer to the Hierarchical Design section of
Chapter 4, Working with Larger Designs, for more information.

•

Font—Displays a dialog box where you set font information for the
circuit. Refer to the Sheet Properties—Font Tab section for more
information.

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•

Properties—Displays the Sheet Properties dialog box. Be sure that
you have no elements on the workspace selected, or the properties for
that element will appear instead. Refer to the Using the Sheet
Properties Dialog Box section for more information.

Pop-up From a Selected Component or Instrument
When you right-click on a selected element (component or instrument), a
pop-up menu of appropriate commands appears. These commands are:

NI Multisim User Manual

•

Cut—Removes the selected components, circuits or text, and places
them on the clipboard.

•

Copy—Copies the selected components, circuits or text, and places
them on the clipboard. Refer to the Copying a Placed Component
section of Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics, for more
information.

•

Paste—Places the contents of the clipboard on the workspace. The
cursor shows a “ghosted” image of the item to be pasted. Click to
indicate where the item is to be pasted.

•

Delete—Deletes the selection from the workspace.

•

Flip Horizontal —Flips the selection horizontally. Refer to the
Rotating/Flipping Placed Components section of Chapter 2,
Schematic Capture—Basics, for more information.

•

Flip Vertical—Flips the selection vertically. Refer to the
Rotating/Flipping Placed Components section of Chapter 2,
Schematic Capture—Basics, for more information.

•

90 Clockwise—Rotates the selection 90 degrees clockwise. Refer to
the Rotating/Flipping Placed Components section of Chapter 2,
Schematic Capture—Basics, for more information.

•

90 CounterCW—Rotates the selection 90 degrees counterclockwise.
Refer to the Rotating/Flipping Placed Components section of
Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics, for more information.

•

Bus Vector Connect—Displays the Bus Vector Connect dialog box.
Refer to the Bus Vector Connect section for more information.

•

Replace by Hierarchical Block—Replaces the elements that you
have selected with a hierarchical block. Refer to the Replacing
Components with an HB section for more information.

•

Replace by Subcircuit—Replaces the elements that you have selected
with a subcircuit. Refer to the Hierarchical Design section of
Chapter 4, Working with Larger Designs, for more information.

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•

Replace Components—Invokes the Select a Component browser
from which you can select a new component. Refer to the Replacing a
Placed Component section of Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics,
for more information.

•

Save Component to DB—Lets you save the selected component,
including any changes you made to it, to the database. Refer to the
Saving Placed Components section of Chapter 5, Components, for
more information.

•

Edit Symbol/Title Block—Depending on the selected item, launches
either the Symbol Editor or the Title Block Editor.

•

Reverse Probe Direction—Reverses the polarity of a selected
Measurement Probe or Current Probe.

•

Change Color—Displays a color palette where you can change the
color of the selected element’s lines.

•

Font—Changes the font of various elements on the workspace from
their default values. Refer to the Sheet Properties—Font Tab section
for more information.

•

Properties—If a component is selected, displays that component’s
properties dialog box. If an instrument is selected, opens the
instrument face.

Pop-up From a Selected Wire
When you right-click on a selected wire in the circuit window, a pop-up
menu of appropriate commands appears. These commands are:
•

Delete—Deletes the selected wire from the workspace.

•

Change Color—Changes the color of the selected wire from its
default value.

•

Color Segment—Changes the color of the selected wire segment from
its default value.

•

Font—Changes the font of various elements on the workspace from
their default values. Refer to the Sheet Properties—Font Tab section
for more information.

•

Properties—Displays the Net dialog box. Refer to the Modifying Net
Names section of Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics, for more
information.

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Pop-up From a Selected Text Block or Graphic
When you right-click on a selected text block or graphic element in the
circuit window, a pop-up menu of appropriate commands appears. These
commands are:

NI Multisim User Manual

•

Delete—Deletes the selected item.

•

Flip Horizontal—Flips the selection horizontally. Refer to the
Rotating/Flipping Placed Components section of Chapter 2,
Schematic Capture—Basics, for more information.

•

Flip Vertical—Flips the selection vertically. Refer to the
Rotating/Flipping Placed Components section of Chapter 2,
Schematic Capture—Basics, for more information.

•

90 Clockwise—Rotates the selection 90 degrees clockwise. Refer to
the Rotating/Flipping Placed Components section of Chapter 2,
Schematic Capture—Basics, for more information.

•

90 CounterCW—Rotates the selection 90 degrees counterclockwise.
Refer to the Rotating/Flipping Placed Components section of
Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics, for more information.

•

Pen Color—Changes the color of the selected item from its default
value.

•

Pen Style—Changes the style of the pen for a selected graphic. Is
disabled if text is selected.

•

Fill Color—Changes the color of the fill for selected rectangles,
ellipses and polygons. Is disabled if any other graphic element, or text
is selected.

•

Fill Type—Changes the appearance of the fill for selected rectangles,
ellipses and polygons. Is disabled if any other graphic element, or text
is selected.

•

Arrow—Places an arrow on selected lines and multilines. Is disabled
if any other graphic element, or text is selected.

•

Order—Use to Bring to Front or Send to Back the selected element.

•

Assign to Layer—Places selected element on the selected layer.
Deselect to remove an element from the assigned layer. Refer to the
Sheet Properties—Visibility Tab section for more information.

•

Font—Lets you select a font, font style and size for selected text.

•

Properties—Is inactive for text blocks or graphics.

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Pop-up From a Title Block
When you right-click on a selected title block in the circuit window, a
pop-up menu of appropriate commands appears. These commands are:
•

Delete—Deletes the selected title block.

•

Edit Symbol/Title Block—Launches the Title Block Editor. Refer to
the Title Block Editor section of Chapter 3, Schematic
Capture—Advanced Functions, for more information.

•

Change Color—Displays a palette where you can change the
selection’s color.

•

Move to»Bottom Left—Places the selected title block at the bottom
left corner of the document.

•

Move to»Bottom Right—Places the selected title block at the bottom
right corner of the document.

•

Move to»Top Left—Places the selected title block at the top left
corner of the document.

•

Move to»Top Right—Places the selected title block at the top right
corner of the document.

•

Properties—Lets you change the information that you see in the title
block. Refer to the Entering the Title Block Contents section of
Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics, for more information.

Pop-up from a Comment or Measurement Probe
When you right-click on a selected Comment or Measurement Probe, a
pop-up menu of appropriate commands appears. These commands are:
•

Cut—Removes the selected item and places it on the clipboard.

•

Copy—Copies the selected item and places it on the clipboard.

•

Paste—Places the contents of the clipboard to the workspace. The
cursor shows a “ghosted” image of the item to be pasted. Click to
indicate where the item is to be pasted.

•

Delete—Deletes the selected item from the workspace.

•

Show Comment/Probe—Displays the contents of the comment or
placed probe.

•

Edit Comment—Is active for a selected comment only. Use to enter
text into the comment.

•

Reverse Probe Direction—Is active for a selected probe only.
Reverses the probe’s polarity.

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•

Font—Changes the font of various elements on the workspace from
their default values. Refer to the Sheet Properties—Font Tab section
for more information.

•

Properties—Depending on the element selected, displays either the
Comment Properties, or the Probe Properties dialog box. Refer to
the Adding a Comment sectionof Chapter 2, Schematic
Capture—Basics, and the Measurement Probe Settings section of
Chapter 9, Instruments, for more information.

Setting Schematic Capture Preferences
You can customize virtually any aspect of Multisim preferences, including
the colors used in your circuit, page size, zoom level, auto-backup interval,
symbol set (ANSI or DIN) and printer setup. Your customization settings
are saved individually with each circuit file you use so you could, for
example, have one color scheme for one circuit and another for a different
circuit. You can also override the settings for individual instances (for
example, change one particular component from red to orange) or for the
entire circuit.
Customization is done through the:

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•

Preferences dialog box—Used to set up global preferences. These
preferences can vary from computer to computer. Refer to the Using
the Preferences Dialog Box sections for more information.

•

Sheet Properties dialog box—Used to set up the preferences for the
active sheet. These preferences are saved with the circuit files so that
if the circuit is opened on another computer, it will use the same
settings. Refer to the Using the Sheet Properties Dialog Box section
for more information

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Using the Preferences Dialog Box
This section explains general procedures for setting preferences. The
following sections describe details of setting specific options.
Note Refer to the Using the Sheet Properties Dialog Box section for information on sheet
preferences.

Complete the following steps to set your user preferences:
1.

Choose Options»Global Preferences. The Preferences dialog box
appears, offering you the following tabs:
•

Paths—Where you can change the filepaths for the databases and
other items.

•

Save—Where you set up auto-backup timing and whether you
want to save simulation data with instruments.

•

Parts—Where you set up component placement mode and the
symbol standard (ANSI or DIN). You also set up phase shift
direction and digital simulation settings.

•

General—Where you set up selection rectangle behavior, mouse
wheel behavior, bus wiring and auto-wiring behavior.

Select the desired tab.

Set the desired customization options. The specific options and
settings available in the tabs are described in the following sections of
this chapter.

Click OK to save your changes.

Preferences—Paths Tab
The Multisim installation puts specific files in specific locations. If
necessary you can point to a new location to find, for example, database
files.
Tip

Click on an item in the Paths tab to show its description.
Complete the following steps to change file locations:
1.

Choose Options»Global Preferences. The Preferences dialog box
appears.

Select the Paths tab.

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Change the General settings as desired:
•

Circuit Default Path—This is where all new files are saved,
unless you manually navigate to a new location when saving.

•

User Button Images Path—This is where you store any
user-created button graphics.

Change the User Settings as desired:
•

Configuration File—Contains the user interface settings.

•

New User Configuration File—Click to create a new user
configuration file and select an item from the drop-down list.

Change the settings in the Database Files area as desired:
•

Master Database—The location of the Master Database.

•

Corporate Database—The location of the Corporate Database.

•

User Database—The location of the User Database.

Refer to the Structure of the Component Database section of
Chapter 5, Components, for information on Multisim’s databases.
6.

Change the Miscellaneous settings as desired:
•

User LabVIEW Instruments Path—The location where
user-created LabVIEW instruments are found. Refer to the
LabVIEW Instruments section of Chapter 9, Instruments, for
information on these.

•

Code Models Path—The location where user-created code
models are found.

Preferences—Save Tab
The options in this tab let you set up auto-backup timing and whether you
want to save simulation data with instruments.
Complete the following steps to set up save preferences:

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Choose Options»Global Preferences and click on the Save tab that
appears in the Preferences dialog box.

Set the following as desired:
•

Create a Security Copy—Enable to save a security copy when
you do a save.

•

Auto-backup—Dnable to create a recovery file that is saved at
the interval that you specify in the Auto-backup interval field.

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•

Save simulation data with instruments—Enable to save data
displayed on instruments with the circuit file. Enter the maximum
size of the simulation data in the Maximum size field.

•

Save .TXT files as plain text (not Unicode)—When enabled,
text files saved from reports will be in plain text file format, not
Unicode text file format.

Preferences—Parts Tab
The options in this tab determine where you set up default component
placement mode, the symbol standard (ANSI or DIN), and phase shift
direction.
Complete the following steps to set up parts preferences:
1.

Choose Options»Global Preferences and click on the Parts tab that
appears in the Preferences dialog box.

In the Place component mode box, select one of:
•

Place single component—Allows you to place one selected
component at a time.

•

Continuous placement for multi-section part only—Allows
you to place multiple sections of a multi-section component. For
example, 7400N has four NAND gates, so using this option means
each time you place a 7400N you place a different one of its
NAND gates. Refer to the Using the Place Component Browser
section of Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics, for an example
of multi-section part placement.

•

Continuous placement—Allows you to place several
components of the same type by continuing to click on the
workspace after each component is placed. End continuous
placement by pressing Esc.

Optionally, enable the Return to Component Browser After
placement checkbox to display the Select a Component dialog box
after you place a component on the workspace. This is useful when you
have many parts to place. (Click Esc when finished part placement).
3.

In the Symbol standard box:
•

Select the symbol set to be used for components (ANSI or DIN).
The graphic changes to represent the selected symbol set. Refer to
the Creating and Editing a Component’s Symbol with the Symbol
Editor section of Chapter 6, Component Editing, for information
on how to override this setting for individual components.

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In the Positive Phase Shift Direction box:
•

select the desired direction for positive phase shift. (This setting
only affects the Phase parameter in AC sources).

Preferences—General Tab
In this tab, you set up selection rectangle, mouse wheel, auto-wiring, and
netlist error behavior.
Complete the following steps to set up parts preferences:
1.

Choose Options»Global Preferences and click on the General tab
that appears in the Preferences dialog box.

In the Selection Rectangle box, select either Intersecting or Fully
enclosed. Refer to the Setting Dragging Selection Options section of
Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics, for more information.

In the Mouse Wheel Behavior box select one of:
•

Zoom workspace—Mouse wheel will let you zoom in and out on
workspace.

•

Scroll workspace—Mouse wheel will let you scroll up and down
the page.

Enable the Show line to component when moving its text and Show
line to original location when moving parts checkboxes as desired.

In the Wiring box select the desired options to control the degree of
automation used in wiring. Refer to the Setting Wiring Preferences
section of Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics, for more
information.

Enable Delete associated wires when deleting component if you
wish to delete wires that are connected to components being deleted;
if this box is unchecked, wires connected to deleted components will
remain.

In the Language box, select the desired locale. You must restart
Multisim for the new setting to take effect.

In the Netlist Errors box, set the following as desired:
•

When a netlist error occurs drop-down list—Select one of
Prompt user; Cancel Simulation/analysis; Proceed with
Simulation/analysis.

•

When a netlist warning occurs drop-down list—Select one of
Prompt user; Cancel Simulation/analysis; Proceed with
Simulation/analysis.

Refer to the Netlist Errors and Warnings section for more information.
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Using the Sheet Properties Dialog Box
The Sheet Properties dialog box is used to set up the preferences for each
sheet. These preferences are saved with the circuit file so that if the circuit
is opened on another computer, it will use the same settings.
Refer to the Using the Preferences Dialog Box section for information on personal
(user) preferences.

Note

Complete the following steps to set sheet preferences:
1.

Select Options»Sheet Properties.
Or
Right-click on a blank area of the workspace and choose Properties
from the pop-up menu that appears. Do not select any elements (for
example, components, wires) on the workspace, or the properties
dialog box for the selected element will display instead.
The Sheet Properties dialog box appears, offering you the following
tabs:
•

Circuit—Where you set the color scheme and the display
properties of workspace text

•

Workspace—Where you set the sheet size and properties

•

Wiring—Where you set the wire and bus options

•

Font—Where you select the font, font size and style for text
elements on the circuit.

•

PCB—Where you set up options for your printed circuit board

•

Visibility—Where you enable and disable custom annotation
layers.

Select the desired tab.

Set the desired customization options. The specific options and
settings available in the tabs are described in the following sections of
this chapter.

The Save as Default checkbox is normally enabled. If you do not wish
to have the settings saved as the default, disable this checkbox. Default
settings are those used when you create new circuits (File»New).

Click OK to save your changes. (If you wish to apply the changes
without closing the dialog, click Apply).

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Sheet Properties—Circuit Tab
The options in this tab control the way your circuit and its components
appear on the workspace, and the level of detail which appears. Multisim
comes with several color schemes that affect the circuit window
background color, wire color, and component color. You can also develop
your own color scheme to meet your individual needs.
1.

In the Component box, enable those items you want shown on the
workspace. The results of enabling these options is shown in the
preview area. Refer to the Displaying Identifying Information about a
Placed Component section of Chapter 3, Schematic
Capture—Advanced Functions, for information on how to override
your choices for a particular component.
For symbol and footprint pin names:
•

Symbol Pin Names checkbox—When fully checked, shows all
symbol pin names; when not checked, shows no symbol pin
names; when grey checked, shows symbol pin names for those
components whose default behavior is to show them.

•

Footprint Pin Names checkbox—When fully checked, shows all
footprint pin names; when not checked, shows no footprint pin
names; when grey checked, shows footprint pin names for those
components whose default behavior is to show them.

Pin names and numbers are made visible as detailed above; checking and
unchecking in the Visibility tab of the Design Toolbox has no effect.

Note

In the Net Names box, select how net names will be shown:
•

Show All—Check to display all net names on the workspace.

•

Use Net-specific Setting—Check to show net names as set in the
Net dialog box. Refer to the Modifying Net Names section of
Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics, for more information.

•

Hide All—Check to hide all net names on the workspace.

In the Bus Entry box, enable the Show Labels checkbox if you wish
to display the busline name in circuits that contain buses.

In the Color box:
•

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To use one of the built-in color schemes :
–

Choose the scheme from the drop-down list.

–

A representation of the scheme’s settings appears in the
preview box below the list.

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User Interface

To create a custom color scheme:
–

Choose Custom from the drop-down list.

–

Click on the colored button next to any item. A Color selector
dialog box appears.

–

Click on the color you want to use for that item and click OK.

–

You are returned to the Sheet Properties dialog box.

–

The results of your choice appear in the preview area.

–

Repeat until all your color settings are made.

Sheet Properties—Workspace Tab
The options on this tab determine the appearance and behavior of the circuit
window.
Multisim comes with standard sheet sizes that you can use to capture your
circuit. You can modify any of the settings of these sizes to make your own
custom sheet.
1.

In the Show box, enable the Show grid, Show page bounds and
Show border checkboxes as desired. The results appear in the preview
area.

In the Sheet size box, select the desired size from the drop-down list.

Select either Portrait or Landscape in the Orientation box.

In the Custom size box, you can set the Width and Height as desired.

Sheet Properties—Wiring Tab
The options on this tab control the wire width, bus width and bus wiring
mode options.
1.

In the Drawing Option box, change the Wire width and Bus width
as desired for current or subsequent wires and buses.

In the Bus Wiring Mode box, select either Net or Busline. Refer to
the Buses section of Chapter 4, Working with Larger Designs, for more
information.

Sheet Properties—Font Tab
Use this tab to set the font parameters for some or all of the elements in the
workspace that contain text.
Caution

Changing to larger fonts may cause labels to collide or exceed boundaries.

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Complete the following steps to change the font for any text element of the
circuit:
1.

Select the Font, Font Style and Size for the desired elements.
Multisim supports Unicode characters, which lets you use Cyrillic and
Asian fonts. However, you must be sure to select a font that is
Unicode-compatible, or the desired character will display as a
rectangle.

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Select the elements you want to change from the following options in
the Change All section of the tab:
•

Component RefDes—The component’s unique identifier
(Reference Designator). For example, R22.

•

Component Values and Labels—The value being used by the
component and identified in the Value tab of the component’s
properties dialog box. Refer to the Viewing a Placed Component’s
Value/Model section of Chapter 3, Schematic
Capture—Advanced Functions, for information on viewing and
modifying this value. The component label is assigned by
Multisim and identified in the Label tab of the component’s
properties dialog box. Refer to the Modifying Component Labels
and Attributes section of Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics,
for information on changing this label.

•

Component Attributes—Descriptive information you add to
specific components using the component’s properties dialog box.
Refer to the Modifying Component Labels and Attributes section
of Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics, for more information.

•

Footprint Pin Names—The name assigned to a pin when it is
transferred to PCB layout.

•

Symbol Pin Names—The name assigned to a pin, for example,
GND (for ground).

•

Net Names—The name automatically assigned to a net when it is
placed on your circuit. Refer to the Modifying Net Names section
of Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics, for information on
changing this name.

•

Schematic Texts—Notes that you add to your circuit using the
Place»Text command. Refer to the Adding Miscellaneous Text
section of Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics, for more
information.

•

Comments and Probes—Text found in comments that you add to
the circuit from the Place»Comment command. Also for text
found in probes that placed from the Instruments toolbar. Refer

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to the Adding a Comment section of Chapter 2, Schematic
Capture—Basics, and the Measurement Probe section of
Chapter 9, Instruments, for more information.
•

Busline Name—The name that you assign to a busline. Refer to
the Buses section of Chapter 4, Working with Larger Designs, for
more information.

Note In the Apply to box, Entire Circuit changes the font for all instances of the
elements selected in the Change All box. To change the font for a specific selection,
right-click on the desired element and select Font from the pop-up that appears, or select
it before you open the Sheet Properties dialog box, then enable the Selection radio button
in the Font tab.

Sheet Properties—PCB Tab
This tab is used to set options used when exporting data for PCB layout.
1.

In the Ground Option box, select Connect digital ground to Analog
ground if you wish to make the digital and analog grounds the same
when exporting to PCB layout packages.

In the Export Settings box, select the Units to use during export to
PCB layout.

Enter the desired Number of Copper Layers. As this value increases,
the number of copper layers (inner) increases, and is reflected in the
list below the Number of Copper Layers field. This setting is used by
Ultiboard to determine the default board setup.

Sheet Properties—Visibility Tab
This tab lets you add the custom annotation layers that are available in
Multisim.

Note

In the Custom Layers box, click Add to add custom annotation layers
to the schematic.

Show/hide these layers from the Visibility tab in the Design Toolbox.
Refer to the Visibility Tab section for more information.

Refer to the Visibility Tab section for information on annotation layers.

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Design Toolbox
The Design Toolbox is used to manage various elements in the schematic.
Refer to the Project Management and Version Control section of Chapter 4,
Working with Larger Designs,for information on the Project View tab.

Note

Visibility Tab
The Design Toolbox Visibility tab lets you choose which layers to display
on the current sheet on the workspace.
The Schematic Capture layers consist of:
•

RefDes—This layer contains the reference designators for all elements
on the workspace, for example, R1, U2A.

•

Label and Value—This layer contains the label entered in the
component’s properties dialog box in the Label field in the Label tab.
It also contains the component’s value, for example, 1 kohm. Refer to
the Placed Component Properties section of Chapter 3, Schematic
Capture—Advanced Functions, for more information.

•

Attribute and Variant—This layer contains the attribute information
entered in the component’s properties dialog box in the Attributes
fields in the Label tab. It also includes the Variant Status. Refer to the
Variants section of Chapter 4, Working with Larger Designs, for more
information.

•

Net Name—This layer contains the netnames.

•

Pin Name—This layer contains the pin names.

•

Pin Number—This layer contains the pin numbers.

•

Bus Entry Label—This layer contains the labels that appear at the
point where a wire enters a bus, for example, “Ln 1”.

The Fixed Annotations layers consist of:

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•

ERC Error Mark—This layer contains the marks that are placed on
the schematic that indicate ERC error points. Refer to the Electrical
Rules Checking section of Chapter 3, Schematic Capture—Advanced
Functions, for more information.

•

Static Probe—This layer contains the static measurement probes that
can be placed on the schematic. Refer to the Measurement Probe
section of Chapter 9, Instruments, for more information.

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•

Comment—This layer contains any comments that you “pin” to the
workspace. Refer to the Adding a Comment section of Chapter 2,
Schematic Capture—Basics, for more information.

•

Text/Graphics—This layer contains any graphic elements that you
place on the workspace.

Custom Annotation layers can be added from the Sheet Properties dialog
box. Refer to the Sheet Properties—Visibility Tab section for more
information.
To hide a layer, disable the layer’s checkbox.
To show a hidden layer, enable the layer’s checkbox.

Hierarchy Tab
The Design Toolbox’s Hierarchy tab contains a tree that shows the files
in the design that you have open.

1
2
3

Design Root
Active Variant
Page 1 of Multi-sheet

4
5

Subcircuit
Hierarchical Blocks

6
7

Included in Active
Variant
Page 2 of Multi-sheet

Refer to the Variants, Flat Multi-Sheet Design, and Hierarchical Design
sections of Chapter 4, Working with Larger Designs, for more information.
Note

Variants are not available in all versions of Multisim.

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Pop-up Menus
Complete the following steps to view and use context-sensitive menus in
the Hierarchy tab:
1.

Right-click on an item. Depending on the item, different
context-sensitive menus appear.

From the Design Root select:

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•

Close—To close the entire design.

•

Save—To save the design.

From an active or in-active variant that branches from the Design
Root, select:
•

Set Variant Active—To set the active variant. A blue box
displays beside the active variant. Refer to the Setting the Active
Variant for Simulation section of Chapter 4, Working with Larger
Designs, for more information.

•

Variant Manager—To display the Variant Manager dialog
box. Refer to the Setting Up Variants section of Chapter 4,
Working with Larger Designs, for more information.

From a page of a multi-sheet design (in this example, PowerSupply#1),
select:
•

Open Window—To open the page on the workspace.

•

Close Window—To close the page.

•

Rename Page—To change the multi-page’s name.

From a subcircuit, select:
•

Open Window—To open the subcircuit on the workspace.

•

Close Window—To close the subcircuit.

•

Map Variants—To display the subcircuit’s properties dialog box,
where you can assign its variant status. Refer to the Assigning
Variant Status to Components section of Chapter 4, Working with
Larger Designs, for more information.

•

Rename Subcircuit—To change the subcircuit’s name.

From a hierarchical block, select:
•

Open Window—To open the hierarchical block on the
workspace.

•

Close Window—To close the hierarchical block.

•

Map Variants—To display the hierarchical block’s properties
dialog box, where you can assign its variant status. Refer to the

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Assigning Variant Status to Components section of Chapter 4,
Working with Larger Designs, for more information.
7.

From a variant that branches from a hierarchical block, select:
•

Variant Manager—To display the Variant Manager dialog
box. Refer to the Setting Up Variants section of Chapter 4,
Working with Larger Designs, for more information.

•

Exclude from Active Variant—To exclude this variant from the
active variant. If desired, you can exclude all variants in a
hierarchical block from the active variant.

•

Include in Active Variant—To include this variant in the active
variant. A blue triangle appears beside the included variant. You
can only include one variant at a time in the active variant.

Customizing the Interface
The Multisim user interface is highly customizable. Separate
customizations can be applied whenever a different type of sheet becomes
active. For example, the toolbars and docking windows can be
re-configured as you move from a circuit sheet to a description sheet.
Toolbars can be docked in various positions and orientations. The contents
of the toolbars can be customized. New toolbars can be created. The menu
system is fully customizable, including all pop-up menus for the various
object types.
As well, the keyboard shortcut system is customizable. This allows for any
keys or key combinations to be assigned to any command that can be placed
in a menu or on a toolbar.
Complete the following steps to customize the interface:
1.

Select Options»Customize User Interface.

Make changes as detailed in the following sections:

•

Commands tab

•

Toolbars tab

•

Keyboard tab

•

Menu tab

•

Options tab

•

Customization Pop-up Menus.

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Commands tab
The Commands tab in the Customize dialog box is used to add commands
to menus and toolbars.
Complete the following steps to add a command to a menu or toolbar:
1.

Drag it from the Commands list to the desired menu or toolbar. When
a command is selected in the Command list, its description is
displayed in the Description field.

If you do not see the command that you require, click on another
selection in the Categories list to display more commands.

Click Close when customizations are complete.

To remove a command from a menu or toolbar, right-click on it and select
Delete from the pop-up that appears. The Customize dialog box must be
open when you do this.
To change the position of a command that is in a menu or toolbar, drag it to
its new location. The Customize dialog box must be open when you do
this.

Toolbars tab
The Toolbars tab in the Customize dialog box is used to show or hide
toolbars, and to add new custom toolbars.
Complete the following steps to use the features in this tab:

Note

To display a toolbar, switch on the checkbox beside the desired toolbar
in the Toolbars list.

Switch off a checkbox to hide a toolbar.

You cannot switch off the Menu bar.
3.

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User the following buttons and checkbox as desired:
•

Reset All—Displays the Reset Toolbars dialog box, where you
select whether to reset the currently selected toolbars, or all
toolbars. You are prompted to select the configuration file you
wish to use, for example, “default.ewcfg”.

•

New—Displays the Toolbar Name dialog box, where you enter
the name for a new toolbar. When you click OK, a new toolbar
with the name that you entered is created. Follow the steps in the
Commands tab section to add buttons to the toolbar.

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•

Rename—Use to rename a toolbar that you have created yourself.
You cannot rename toolbars that are included in Multisim by
default, for example, Components, Menu Bar.

•

Delete—Use to delete the selected toolbar. You cannot delete
toolbars that are included in Multisim by default, for example,
Components, Menu Bar.

•

Show text labels—Select this checkbox to show the text labels
(for example, “Save”) in the toolbar, along with the command’s
icon.

Click Close when customizations are complete.

Keyboard tab
The Keyboard tab is used to set up keyboard shortcuts.
Complete the following steps to set up keyboard shortcuts:
1.

Choose a category from the Category drop-down list and the desired
command from the Commands drop-down list. If a shortcut is already
assigned, it appears in the Current Keys field.

Enter a new shortcut in the Press New Shortcut Key field.

Click Close when customizations are complete.

Menu tab
The Menu tab is used to modify the various context-sensitive menus that
appear when you right-click from various locations in Multisim.
Complete the following steps to display the desired menu:
1.

Select the desired menu set from the Select Context Menu drop-down
list.

Right-click on the menu that appears and edit as desired.

Select the desired menu effects using the Menu animations
drop-down list and the Menu shadows checkbox.

Options tab
The Options tab in the Customize dialog box is used to set up toolbar and
menu options.
To set up menu and toolbar options, switch the checkboxes on or off as
desired.

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Customization Pop-up Menus
To customize the appearance of toolbar buttons and menu items, a pop-up
menu is available when the Customize dialog box is open.
Complete the following steps to display the above pop-up:

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Be sure you have the Customize dialog box open.

Right-click on either a menu item or toolbar and select the desired
option from the pop-up menu that appears.

When you select Button Appearance, the Button Appearance dialog
box appears, where you can change the appearance of the selected
toolbutton.

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This chapter describes the basic functions involved in creating a circuit in
the circuit window. It explains the fundamental steps in circuit creation, but
is not intended to describe all the potential aspects of circuit design. For
example, you should look to other chapters for details on the component
database and instructions on editing components.
Some of the features described in this chapter may not be available in your
edition of Multisim. Refer to the release notes for a list of the features in
your edition.

Introduction to Schematic Capture
Schematic capture is the first stage in developing your circuit. In this stage
you choose the components you want to use, place them on the circuit
window in the desired position and orientation, wire them together, and
otherwise prepare your design. Multisim lets you modify component
properties, orient your circuit on a grid, add text and a title block, add
subcircuits and buses, and control the color of the circuit window
background, components and wires.
Refer to the Setting Schematic Capture Preferences section of Chapter 1, User
Interface, for information on how to set up your workspace.

Note

Working with Multiple Circuit Windows
You can open as many circuits as you want at the same time. Each circuit
appears in its own circuit window. The active circuit window is, as in other
Windows applications, the window with the highlighted title bar. You can
use the Window menu to move from circuit window to circuit window or
just click on the tab at the bottom of the workspace for the circuit you want
to see.
Each window is distinct, and can have its own preferences settings, set of
components and so on. You can copy, but not move, a component or
instrument from one circuit window to another.

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Selecting Components from the Database
The first step in schematic capture is placing the appropriate components
on your circuit window.
You can use the following methods to locate a component in the database:
•

use the Components toolbar to browse through all the component
groups. Refer to the Using the Place Component Browser section for
more information.

•

search for a specific component group/family in the database. Refer to
the Searching for Components section of Chapter 5, Components, for
more information.

There are multiple “levels” of the component database. Refer to the Database Levels
section of Chapter 5, Components, for more information.

Note

The first of these choices is normally used. Each button on the
Components toolbar corresponds to a group of components with similar
functionality. Click one of these buttons to open the place component
browser (that is, the Select a Component dialog box) with the contents of
that button’s group displayed.
Multisim provides the unique concept of virtual components. Virtual
components have a symbol and a model, but no footprint and hence are not
“real” in the sense that they cannot be purchased. They are included for
simulation flexibility. Virtual component families are color coded green in
the Select a Component dialog box.

Placing Components
The component browser is used to select parts from the component
databases and place them on a circuit. Parts are organized by database,
group, and family (for example, Master Database, Sources Group,
Power Sources Family). Filters are provided as appropriate to narrow lists
based on value range and tolerance where applicable. Type-ahead allows
you to type a few characters to jump to the component you are looking for.
Search capabilities allow you to find parts using generalized wildcard
searches throughout all the databases.

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Using the Place Component Browser
The procedure described in this section applies for the placement of most
components. Refer to the Placing Resistors, Inductors or Capacitors
section for information on the placement of R, L, or C components. Refer
to the Multi-section Components section for information on the placement
of multi-section components.
Complete the following steps to place a component:
1.

Click on the desired group in the Components toolbar, for example,
Transistors. The Select a Component dialog box appears with the
selected component group displayed.
Alternatively, you can display the Select a Component dialog box by
choosing Place»Component and selecting the desired group from the
Group drop-down list.
Or
Right-click in the workspace and select Place Component from the
pop-up that appears.

Note The Select a Component browser is also referred to as the place component
browser.

The default database that displays in the browser is the Master
Database. If you wish to select a component from either the
Corporate Database or User Database, you must select that database
from the Database drop-down list before selecting a component. Once
changed, the database will remain as selected for subsequent part
placements.

Click on the desired component family in the Family list.

Click on the desired component in the Component list.

To make your scroll through the Component list faster, type the first few characters
of the component’s name in the Component field. As you type, matches are displayed in
the top of the Component list. If you make a mistake, you can use the Backspace key to
remove one character at a time.

Tip

Note The Function area shows any available information about the component selected
in the Component list.

Select the desired model and model manufacturer in the
Model manuf./ID area.

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Selected the desired footprint in the Footprint manuf./Type list.
Some virtual components (for example, power sources) do not have
footprints available. Refer to the Real Components section of
Chapter 3, Schematic Capture—Advanced Functions, for a discussion
of “real” vs. virtual components.
The Hyperlink field is intended to contain, for example, the internet
address for the component’s manufacturer. The contents of this field
can be edited in the Components tab of the Database Manager. Refer
to the Modifying User Field Titles and Content section of Chapter 5,
Components, for more information. If you want to go to the link, hover
your cursor it, hold down the Ctrl key and click your mouse.

Click OK to confirm that this is the component you want to place. The
browser closes and the cursor on the circuit window changes to a ghost
image of the component. This indicates that the component is ready to
be placed.

If you are placing a component that is one part of a multi-section component such
as a quad 2-input NAND gate, a dialog box displays, where you specify which of the
sections you want to place. Refer to the Multi-section Components section for more
information about the dialog’s functionality.

Note

Move your cursor to the location where you want to place the
component. The workspace automatically scrolls if you move your
cursor to its edges.

Click on the circuit window where you want the component placed.
The component’s symbol and labels appear (unless you have specified
that they are not to be displayed, as explained in the Displaying
Identifying Information about a Placed Component section of
Chapter 3, Schematic Capture—Advanced Functions), as well as a
unique RefDes made up of a letter and number. The letter represents
the type of component and the number is a sequential number that
indicates the order in which the components were originally placed.
For example, the first digital component has the RefDes “U1”, the next
is “U2”, the first inductor has the RefDes “L1”, and so on.
If you have Return to Component Browser after Placement
selected in the Parts tab of the Preferences dialog box, the Select a
Component browser reappears. Refer to the Preferences—Parts Tab
section of Chapter 1, User Interface,for more information.

If the component you place is a virtual component, it appears in a different
color from real components. This color is set in the Sheet Properties

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dialog box. Refer to the Sheet Properties—Circuit Tab section of
Chapter 1, User Interface, for more information.

Placing Resistors, Inductors or Capacitors
The procedure used to place resistors, inductors or capacitors is quite
similar to the procedure used to place other types of components. However,
there are some differences.
When placing any of these components, you can choose any combination
of: the component’s value (for example, resistance); type (for example,
carbon film); tolerance; footprint and manufacturer.
If you are placing a component that will ultimately be exported to PCB layout,
and become part of a Bill of Materials, you must be careful that the combination of values
that you select in the Select a Component dialog box are available in a real-world,
purchaseable component.

Caution

Complete the following steps to place an R, L or C component:
1.

Click on the Basic group in the Components toolbar. The Select a
Component dialog box appears with the Basic component group
displayed.
Alternatively, you can display the Select a Component dialog box by
choosing Place»Component and selecting the Basic group from the
Group drop-down list.
Or
Right-click in the workspace and select Place Component from the
pop-up that appears.

If it is not already selected, select the Master Database in the
Database drop-down list.

Click on the desired component family in the Family list, for example
Resistor.

Type the value of the component that you want to place in the field at
the top of the Component list. The value does not need to appear in
the list to be placed on the schematic.

Optionally, enable the Save unique component on placement
checkbox. When this is enabled, any component with a unique
combination of the values in the various fields of the Select a
Component dialog box is saved.

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R, L, and C components found in the Master database are in fact a combination of
the component’s value, component type, tolerance, and footprint manufacturer/type.
Whenever a unique combination of these values is selected in the Select a Component
dialog box, and the Save unique component on placement checkbox is enabled, the
combination of these values is saved in the Corporate database. Consequently, if the
Corporate dB is deleted, these components no longer appear in the Master database.
Refer to the Backing up the Corporate Database section of Appendix B, Archiving Data
for information.
Note

Select the desired Component Type. If you do not see the desired type
in the list, you can type it manually.

Select the desired Tolerance. If you do not see the desired tolerance in
the list, you can type it manually. This list does not appear for
potentiometers, variable inductors, or variable capacitors.

Selected the desired footprint in the Footprint manuf./Type list. If
you are placing a part for simulation only, select . If you
intend to export the schematic to PCB layout, select a value in this list.
The Hyperlink field is intended to contain, for example, the internet
address for the component’s manufacturer. The contents of this field
can be edited in the Components tab of the Database Manager. Refer
to the Modifying User Field Titles and Content section of Chapter 5,
Components, for more information. If you want to go to the link, hover
your cursor over it, hold down your Ctrl key and click your mouse.

To confirm that this is the component you want to place, click OK. The
browser closes and the cursor on the circuit window changes to a ghost
image of the component you wish to place. This indicates that the
component is ready to be placed.

10. Move your cursor to the location where you want the component
placed. The workspace automatically scrolls if you move your cursor
to its edges.
11. Click on the circuit window where you want the component placed.
If you have Return to Component Browser after Placement
selected in the Parts tab of the Preferences dialog box, the Select a
Component browser reappears. Refer to the Preferences—Parts Tab
section of Chapter 1, User Interface, for more information.
Note You can also create resistors, inductors or capacitors using Multisim’s Component
Wizard, however, R, L, and C components created in this way will only contain basic
simulation model information. Those that are placed from the Master Database as
described in this procedure have additional SPICE simulation parameters that can be
viewed from the Value tab of the placed component’s properties dialog box. When you are

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placing components that were created using the Component Wizard, you must select
them from either the Corporate or User Database.
To edit a placed R, L, or C component, double-click on the component and
click the Value tab.

Multi-section Components
Certain non-virtual part symbols do not have a one-to-one correspondence
with a footprint. Rather, several component symbols may correspond to a
single physical package. An example is a quad 2-input NAND gate such as
the Texas Instruments 74LS00D. For this particular device, up to four
component symbols on a schematic diagram may correspond to a single
part for the purposes of PCB layout.
To place a multi-section part, select the individual part (in this case, a
NAND gate) from the component browser. Immediately prior to placing the
component, a section chooser pops up that lists parts that have free sections,
or allows you to start placing a new part. You must select one of these
sections for placement. Once placed, optimizing facilities are provided to
enable multi-section parts to be efficiently packed into chips. A Spare
Gates Report is available to show sections not used on multi-section parts
in the circuit. Refer to the Spare Gates Report section of Chapter 12,
Reports, for more information.
As well as being available in components with individual sections as
described above, some multi-section TTL and CMOS components are
available in a single-footprint format containing all of the devices. These
components’ parts families are found in the place component browser, and
are appended with “_IC”, as in the part family “74LS_IC”.

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Individual 74LS00D Gates

Single-footprint 74LS00D IC

In the above figure, (1) shows 74LS00D gates placed as individual
components. These four gates were place from the 74Ls component family,
and will be contained in one component package when the circuit is
exported for PCB layout. It also shows a single-footprint 74LS00D IC
containing four NAND gates (2). This was placed from the 74LS_IC
component.
Complete the following steps to place a multi-section part with a single
footprint:

Note

Select Place»Component and navigate to the desired Group, Family
and Component.

Click to place the IC on the workspace.

Single-IC components are not available for all multi-section components.
Complete the following steps to place one device of a multi-section part:

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Select Place»Component and navigate to the desired Group, Family
and Component.

Click OK. If this is the first multi-section component of this type (for
example, 74LS00D) being placed on the circuit, a dialog box appears
as shown in the figure below:

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If there are already other multi-section components placed, the dialog
box will be similar to the following:
1

2
1

Darker Text

Greyed-out Text

Darker text (1) indicates available sections for placement. Greyed-out
text (2) indicates this section has already been placed.
3.

Click on an available section to place it.

Note It is a good idea to place all the sections of a multi-section device (U1 in this
example) before going to a new multi-section device of the same type. Only instances of
the same component type are shown as available to place. In the above example, U1 and
“New” are both quad 2-input 74LS00D ICs. If there are other quad 2-input NAND devices
in the circuit, for example 74LS01N, they will not be displayed.

Click on any available section. The dialog box closes and a ghost
image of the device is attached to your cursor.

Click to place the device in the desired location.

If you selected either Continuous placement for multi-section part
only or Continuous placement in the Parts tab of the Preferences
dialog box, the dialog box re-appears.

Continue placing parts from this dialog. When finished, press ESC to
exit.

Rotating/Flipping a Part During Placement
Complete the following steps to rotate or flip a part during placement:
1.

Select a part as detailed in the Using the Place Component Browser
section.

As you are dragging the “ghost” image of the part that you are placing,
press one of the following key combinations:

•

Ctrl-R—rotates the component 90 degrees clockwise.

•

Ctrl-Shift-R—Rotates the component 90 degrees
counter-clockwise.

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•

Alt-X—Flips the component horizontally.

•

Alt-Y—Flips the component vertically.

Other Buttons
To display the Search Component dialog box, click the Search button.
Refer to the Searching for Components section of Chapter 5, Components,
for more information.
To display the Component Detail Report dialog box, click the
Detail Report button. Refer to the Component Detail Report section of
Chapter 12, Reports, for more information.
To display the Model Data Report dialog box, click the Model button.
Refer to the Model Data Report section of Chapter 12, Reports, for more
information.

Placing Virtual Components
Use the Virtual toolbar to place virtual components on your workspace.
Complete the following steps to place a virtual component:
1.

Click on the desired button in the Virtual toolbar.
Button

Description
Show Power Source Components button. Displays the
Power Source Components toolbar, which contains
buttons that let you place different virtual Power Source
components.
Show Signal Source Components button. Displays the
Signal Source Components toolbar, which contains
buttons that let you place different virtual Signal Source
components.
Show Basic Components button. Displays the Basic
Components toolbar, which contains buttons that let you
place different virtual Basic components.
Show Diode Components button. Displays the Diodes
Components toolbar, which contains buttons that let you
place different virtual diodes.

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Description
Show Transistor Components button. Displays the
Transistor Components toolbar, which contains buttons
that let you place different virtual transistors.
Show Analog Components button. Displays the Analog
Components toolbar, which contains buttons that let you
place different virtual Analog components.
Show Miscellaneous Components button. Displays the
Miscellaneous Components toolbar, which contains
buttons that let you place miscellaneous virtual
components.
Show Measurement Components button. Displays the
Measurement Components toolbar, which contains
buttons that let you place different virtual Measurement
components.
Show Rated Virtual Components button. Displays the
Rated Virtual Components toolbar, which contains
buttons that let you place different virtual components
that are found in the Rated Virtual component group. This
component group contains a number of virtual
components that can be rated to "blow" if pre-set
tolerance(s) are exceeded when the circuit is simulated.
These tolerances are set in the Values tab of each
component's properties window. This feature is not
available in all versions of Multisim.
Show 3D Components button. Displays the 3D
Components toolbar, which contains buttons that let you
place different virtual 3D components. These
components function normally when the circuit is
simulated, but appear like the real component on the
circuit schematic. This feature is not available in all
versions of Multisim.

Note Refer to the Virtual Component Toolbars section for information about the various
toolbars that appear when buttons on the Virtual toolbar are pressed.

From the toolbar that displays, click on the desired virtual component.
The cursor changes to a “ghost” image of the component you wish to
place.

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Tip You can click on the down-arrow beside any of the buttons in the Virtual toolbar to
display the components available for that button and select the desired component directly
from the drop-down list that appears.

Click the workspace in the desired location to place the virtual
component.

Virtual Component Toolbars
This section describes the virtual components that can be placed from the
various virtual component toolbars that are accessed by pressing the
corresponding button on the Virtual toolbar. Refer to the Placing Virtual
Components section for more information.

Power Source Components
The buttons (from left to right) in the Power Source Components toolbar
place the following virtual components: AC Power Source; DC Power
Source; Digital Ground; Ground; 3 Phase Voltage Source Delta; 3 Phase
Voltage Source Wye; VCC Supply; VDD Supply; VEE Supply; VSS
Supply.

Signal Source Components
The buttons (from left to right) in the Signal Source Components toolbar
place the following virtual components: AC Current Source; AC Voltage
Source; AM Source; Clock Current Source; Clock Voltage Source; DC
Current Source; Exponential Current Source; Exponential Voltage Source;
FM Current Source; FM Voltage Source; PWL Linear Current; PWL
Linear Voltage; Pulse Current Source; Pulse Voltage Source; Thermal
Noise Source.

Basic Components
The buttons (from left to right) in the Basic toolbar place the following
virtual components: capacitor; coreless coil; inductor; magnetic core coil;
non-linear transformer; potentiometer; normally open relay; normally
closed relay; combination relay; resistor; audio transformer; miscellaneous
transformer; power transformer; transformer; variable capacitor; variable
inductor; pullup resistor; voltage controlled resistor.

Diodes
The buttons (from left to right) in the Diodes toolbar place the following
virtual components: diode; zener diode.

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Transistor Components
The buttons (from left to right) in the Transistor Components toolbar
place the following virtual components: BJT NPN 4T; BJT NPN; BJT PNP
4T; BJT PNP; GaASFET N; GaASFET P; JFET N; JFET P; several
enhancement and depletion mode NMOSFETs and PMOSFETs.

Analog Components
The buttons (from left to right) in the Analog Components toolbar place
the following virtual components: Comparator; 3 Terminal Op-amp; 5
Terminal Op-amp.

Miscellaneous Components
The buttons (from left to right) in the Miscellaneous Components toolbar
place the following virtual components: 555 Timer; Analog Switch;
Crystal; DCD Hex; Current Rated Fuse; Lamp; Monostable; Motor;
Optocoupler; Phase Locked Loop; 7 Segment Display Common Anode; 7
Segment Display Common Cathode.

Measurement Components
The buttons (from left to right) in the Measurement Components toolbar
place the following virtual components: Ammeter (4 configurations);
Digital Probe (5 colors); Voltmeter (4 configurations).

Using the In Use List
Each time you place a component, it is added to the In Use List. To place
another instance of any currently placed component, select it from the list
and click to place it in the desired location.

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Drop-Placing Two-Pinned Components
Once you have wired a circuit, you can drop two-pinned components such
as resistors directly onto a wire.
2
1

Original Circuit

New Component

Placed Component

Complete the following steps to drop a two-pinned component onto a wire
in the original circuit in the above figure (1):
1.

Select the desired two-pinned component as described in the Using the
Place Component Browser section.

Move the “ghost” image of the component to the desired wire as shown
in (2) in the above figure.

Release the mouse to “break” the wire and place the component in the
break, as shown in (3) in the above figure.

Selecting Placed Components
You can select a component that has been placed on the workspace by
either clicking on it or dragging the mouse to make a selection.
To select a component using the mouse, left-click on its center.
If you wish to select a component’s label or other text, but not the entire component,
do not click on the center of the component—click directly on the text.

Tip

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Complete the following steps to select a component by dragging the mouse:
1.

Click and hold the left mouse button and drag the cursor to form a
selection rectangle on the workspace that contains the component to be
selected.

You can set whether you must enclose all or part of a component in the selection
rectangle. Refer to the Setting Dragging Selection Options section for more information.

Note

Release the mouse. The component is selected.

You can select individual elements in a component like the RefDes, label and so on.
To move the selection to another element of the component, use the TAB key.

Tip

Setting Dragging Selection Options
You can use the Selection Rectangle box in the General tab of the
Preferences dialog box to set how part selection by mouse dragging
functions.
If you select:
•

Intersecting—The part is selected when a portion of it is contained in
the dragged rectangle.

•

Fully enclosed—The entire part, including all text and labels must be
in the dragged rectangle for part to be selected.

To toggle between the Intersecting and Fully enclosed modes, press and hold the Z
key before dragging the mouse.

Tip

Moving a Placed Component
To move a placed component to another location, do one of the following:
•

drag the component.

•

select the component and press the arrow keys on your keyboard to
move it up, down, or to either side in increments of one grid space.

Moving a component automatically adjusts its wiring to an appropriate
configuration, unless you have disabled the Autowire on move option. Refer to the Setting
Wiring Preferences section for more information.

Note

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Complete the following steps to move a component by dragging:
1.

Click and hold the left mouse button on the desired component. The
component is selected with a dashed line.

A component’s symbol and labels (for example, RefDes, Value) can be moved
independently or together—if you plan to move the component, be sure the whole
component is selected, not just its label. Refer to the Selecting Placed Components section
for more information.

Note

Drag the component to the desired location.
As shown in the figure below, as you drag the mouse, a ghost image of
the selected part appears attached to the cursor, along with a dashed
line that connects the ghost image to the selected component’s original
location.

Release the mouse button when the ghost image is in the desired
location.

Complete the following steps to move a component’s label:
1.

Click and hold the left mouse button on the desired label.

Drag the label to the desired location.
As you drag the mouse, a ghost image of the selected label appears
attached to the cursor, along with a dashed line that connects the ghost
image to the selected label’s original location, as shown in (1) in the
figure below.
A solid line connects the ghost image to the component to which it
belongs, as shown in (2) in the figure below. This is very useful in
circuits that have a large number of components.

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Ghost Image

Solid Line

Release the mouse button when the ghost image is in the desired
location.

Copying a Placed Component
Complete the following steps to copy a placed component:
1.

Select the desired component and choose Edit»Copy.
Or
Right-click on the desired component, and, from the pop-up menu that
appears, choose Copy.

Select Edit»Paste.
Or
Right-click on the workspace select Paste from the pop-up menu that
appears.

The cursor shows a “ghosted” version of the copied component. Click
at the location where you want the copied component placed.

Note You can also copy a component using the Windows control keys for cut (Ctrl-X),
copy (Ctrl-C) and paste (Ctrl-V).

Replacing a Placed Component
You can easily replace a placed component by using the Replace button in
the component’s properties dialog box. The most common use for this
feature is when you wish to start a circuit with virtual components, and then
replace them with the nearest real components.
Complete the following steps to replace a placed component:
1.

Double-click on the component you want to replace. The component’s
properties dialog box appears.

Click Replace. The Select a Component browser appears.

Select a new component and click OK. The new component appears
on the circuit window in the place of the previous one. Refer to the

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Using the Place Component Browser section for more information
about the component browser.
If you wish to replace multiple selected parts with the same quantity of one specific
part, select Tools»Replace Components. Refer to the Tools»Replace Components section
of Appendix A, Multisim Menus, for more information.

Note

Controlling Component’s Color
The default color is controlled in the Sheet Properties dialog box. Refer to
the Sheet Properties—Circuit Tab section of Chapter 1, User Interface, for
more information.
Complete the following steps to change the color of a placed component:
1.

Right-click on the component and choose Change Color from the
pop-up menu that appears. You are presented with a color palette.

Choose a color and click OK to apply it to the selected item.

Wiring Components
A basic wire can be created by clicking on any one of a part's symbol pins.
This creates a wire that can then be routed to either another symbol pin, or
to another wire. If routed to a wire, when placed a junction is automatically
created to differentiate between two wires crossing and two wires
connected.
Wires can also be started by double-clicking anywhere on the circuit. This
creates a junction at that location and starts wiring from that point. If a
symbol's pins are dropped onto either a wire or another pin, a connection is
automatically made.
Each time a wire is placed it either creates a new net, or joins an existing
one. A net is a collection of wires all of which define a common electrical
potential. The term net is typically used to describe this concept when
discussing PCB layout. This concept is equivalent to the concept of a node
when discussing SPICE-based circuit simulation.
Nets are typically assigned the next available small integer value. If two
nets are merged by wiring them together, there are rules used to decide
which of the two names the new net will bear, however in general the
smaller-numbered net wins. You may also manually assign a name to a net.

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Within a single-page of a circuit, a net may be manually renamed to be the
same name as another on the same page. In this case, the two nets are
merged together. This is called virtual wiring and may be used to reduce the
complexity of circuits. Except for special reserved nets, virtual wiring may
not be used across pages or across levels in the hierarchy. Refer to the
Virtual Wiring section for more information.
Certain pre-defined named nets are considered global across an entire
design. That is to say, anytime a net at any level in the hierarchy or on any
page is re-named to one of these reserved nets, it joins this net. These
reserved nets are 0, GND, VCC, VDD, VEE, and VSS. Net 0 corresponds
to analog ground, and is the reference for all voltages during simulation.
GND is a digital ground (as it is common for the purposes of PCB layout
to wish to isolate these two ground nets).
These reserved nets are most often used in conjunction with hidden symbol
pins. These are pins that are not shown on a schematic, as they and their
accompanying wires would clutter the schematic to too great an extent, but
are nonetheless connected for the purposes of simulation and layout. For
example, a TTL digital AND gate would be connected to GND and VCC
via hidden pins.

Wiring Components Automatically
Complete the following steps to wire two components together
automatically:
1.

Click on a pin from the first component to start the connection. Your
pointer turns into a crosshair ( ).

Move the mouse. A wire appears, attached to your cursor.

Click on a pin on the second component to finish the connection.
Multisim automatically places the wire, which snaps to an appropriate
configuration (unless you have disabled the “autowire on connection”
option, as described in the Setting Wiring Preferences section). The
wire is numbered as a net. After a wire is connected between two pins
the cursor returns to its normal mode and is ready for the next
command.

If the connection was not successful, you may be trying to place the wire too close to
other surrounding components. Try to make the connection at a slightly different location,
or use manual wiring. Refer to the Wiring Components Manually section for more
information.

Tip

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When wiring a component with multiple sections, an “X” indicates that a
common pin has been connected in another section of the component. In
the figure below, U5A and U5B are sections of a Dual, Current Controlled
Operational Transconductance Amplifier. These two sections share a
common pin on the IC (pin 11, VB+). (1) shows Pin 11 connected to Q1
from component U5A (section A of U5). In the same figure (2), Pin 11 of
U5B (section B of U5) is marked with an “X”. This indicates that pin 11 is
connected in another section of U5.

Connected Pin

Common Pin Connection

To delete a wire, click on it and press Delete on your keyboard or right-click
on it and choose Delete from the pop-up menu that appears.

Autowire of Touching Pins
You have the option to make an automatic connection if a component pin
is touching a wire, another pin or a junction.
To enable/disable this option, select or deselect the Autowire when pins
are touching checkbox in the General tab of the Preferences dialog box.
Complete the steps below to automatically connect a component to a wire:
1.

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Drag the component so that the desired pin is in contact with the
desired wire.

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Release the mouse button. A junction is automatically placed at the
contact point between the component’s pin and the wire.

Optionally, drag the component to a new location. The component
stays connected to the wire.

Complete the steps in the example below to connect two components:
1.

Drag one component into pin-to-pin contact with another component.

Release the mouse button. A junction is automatically placed at the
contact point.

Optionally, drag a component to a new location. The two components
stay connected.

Wiring Components Manually
If you want to select the precise path a wire will take on a schematic, use
the procedure documented in this section.
Complete the following steps to wire two components together manually:
1.

Click on a pin from the first component to start the connection. Your
pointer turns into a crosshair ( ).

Move the mouse. A wire appears, attached to your cursor.

Control the flow of the wire by clicking on points as you move the
mouse. Each click “fixes” the wire to that point.

By default, Multisim “skips over” (avoids) components to which the wire is not
connected. To pass through intermediary components instead, position the wire at the
desired location beside the intermediary component and press Shift on your keyboard
while dragging the wire.

Note

Click on the desired pin of the second component to finish the
connection.

To stop the wiring process at any time, press ESC on your keyboard.
To delete a wire, select it and press Delete on your keyboard or right-click
on it and choose Delete from the pop-up menu that appears.

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Combining Automatic and Manual Wiring
You can combine the two methods of wiring when placing a single wire.
When in autowiring mode, Multisim assumes you always want to perform
automatic wiring until you click somewhere, which “locks” the wire to that
point (this is manual wiring). Multisim then continues with automatic
wiring, until you click once more—either at a destination pin or wire to
complete the connection, or at another interim point on the wire you are
placing. This method allows you to use automatic wiring for most
connections, and use manual wiring only for difficult, critical or sensitive
paths.

Marking Pins for No Connection
You can place NC (no connection) markers on selected component pins to
prevent inadvertantly wiring to these pins.
If you attempt to connect a wire to a pin with an NC marker, the connection
is prevented and a message appears advising that you cannot connect to a
pin marked as “no connection”.
Complete the following steps to place an NC marker on a component’s pin:
1.

Select Tools»Toggle NC Marker. The cursor changes to a crosshair.

Click the crosshair on the desired pin to place the NC marker ( ).

Complete the following steps to exit the place NC marker mode:
1.

Select Tools»Toggle NC Marker.
Or
Press ESC on your keyboard.
The crosshair on the cursor is replaced with a pointer.

Complete the following steps to place an NC marker on a component’s pin
via the component’s properties dialog:
1.

Double-click on the component and click the Pins tab.

Click in the field in the NC column for the desired pin, select Yes from
the drop-down list that appears and click OK to close the dialog box.
An NC marker is added to the selected pin on the schematic.

You cannot change the NC state of a pin that is already wired to a net. If you try, a
warning appears indicating that this is not permitted.

Note

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Placing Wires Directly Onto Workspace
For more flexibility during wiring, you can start and end a wire in
“mid-air”, that is, without attaching it to a component or starting from a
previously placed junction.
Complete the following steps to place a wire using the menu:
1.

Select Place»Wire.
Or
Right-click on the workspace and select Place Schematic»Wire from
the pop-up menu that appears.

Click to place a junction on the workspace and then move the mouse
to route the wire as desired.

Click as desired to lock the wire to a specific point on the workspace.

Double-click to place a junction in “mid-air” and end the wire
placement.
Or
Click to attach the wire to an existing wire or component pin.

Setting Wiring Preferences
You can set your preferences for how Multisim controls the automatic
wiring by following the procedure below.
Complete the following steps to set your wiring preferences:
1.

Choose Options»Global Preferences and select the General tab.

In the Wiring box, enable any or all of the following options:

•

Autowire when pins are touching—Makes an automatic
connection if a component pin is touching a wire, another pin or a
junction.

•

Autowire on connection—Chooses the most efficient path to
wire the selected components together. Disabling this option gives
you more control over the wire path, as Multisim follows the exact
path of your cursor.

•

Autowire on move, for components with less than ...—when
you move a wired component, Multisim reshapes the wire to the
most efficient path. When this checkbox is selected, the associated
spin selector becomes active. You can leave the default value in
this field, or change it as desired. Disabling this checkbox means

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that the wires will move exactly in the shape and direction that you
move a wired component.
3.

Enable/disable the Delete associated wires when deleting checkbox.
When enabled, wires attached to a component will be deleted when
that component is deleted.

Click OK.

Modifying the Wire Path
Complete the following steps to change the location of a wire once it is
placed:
1.

Click on the wire. A number of drag points appear on the wire, as
shown in (1) in the following figure:
1

Drag Points

Click any of these and drag to modify the shape.
Or, more commonly,
Move your cursor anywhere on the wire. When your cursor changes to
a double arrow, click and drag, in the direction of the arrows, to modify
the shape.

You can add or remove a drag point to give you even more control over the
wire.
To add or remove drag points, press Ctrl on your keyboard and click on the
wire at the location where you want the drag point added or removed.

Controlling Wire Color
The default color used for wires is controlled by the Sheet Properties
dialog box. Refer to the Sheet Properties—Circuit Tab section of
Chapter 1, User Interface, for more information.

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Complete the following steps to change the color of a placed wire, or a wire
segment, from its default values:
1.

Right-click on the wire and choose Change Color or Segment Color
from the pop-up menu that appears. You are presented with a color
palette.

Choose a color and click OK to apply it to the selected item.

Moving a Wire
Complete the following steps to disconnect a wire and move it to another
location in your schematic:
1.

Place your cursor at the point where you wish to disconnect the wire.
The cursor changes to an “x” with two parallel lines, as shown in the
figure below (1).
1

Cursor

Click once. The cursor changes to a crosshair.

Move the cursor to the pin where you wish to reconnect the wire and
click once. The wire is now connected to the new location.

You can create a floating (unconnected) junction and reconnect the wire you are
moving to that junction by double-clicking on a blank space on the schematic.

Tip

Virtual Wiring
Within a single page of a circuit, a net can be manually renamed to be the
same name as another on the same page. In this case, the two nets are
merged together. This is called virtual wiring and can be used to reduce the
complexity of circuits. Except for special reserved nets (for example, Vcc),
virtual wiring may not be used across pages or across levels in the
hierarchy.
You should exercise caution when changing net names, as they are critical to your
circuit’s connectivity as understood by simulation or PCB layout.

Note

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Complete the following steps to make a virtual connection between
components:

Note

Double-click on the wire. The Net dialog box displays. The net name
that appears on the schematic is shown in the Net name field.

Change the Net name to match that of the net to which you wish to
make the virtual connection. For instance, if you want to connect the
selected net to net 21, enter 21 in the Net name field.

Click OK. Multisim prompts you to confirm that you want this
duplication.

Click Yes. Multisim creates a virtual connection between the pins with
the same net number.

Refer to the Modifying Net Names section for more information on the Net dialog

box.

Manually Adding a Junction
Multisim automatically inserts junctions when you connect one wire to
another wire to differentiate them from wires that are crossing but not
connected. You can also manually place junctions on the workspace as
desired.
Complete the following steps to manually add a junction:
1.

Choose Place»Junction, or right-click on the workspace and select
Place Schematic»Junction from the pop-up.

Click on the location where you want the junction placed. A junction
appears at the selected location.

You can place junctions on wires, on the workspace without them being attached to
any other circuit element, and directly on the end of component pins. If you place a junction
over two intersecting wires, they will be electrically connected.

Note

Complete the following steps to make a connection from a placed junction:

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Move your cursor close to the junction, until the cursor changes to a
crosshair ( ) symbol.

Click and drag a wire from the junction to the desired location and
click to place.

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Rotating/Flipping Placed Components
You can rotate or flip a placed component by using the pop-up menu or
selecting the component and using commands from the Edit menu. The
instructions below describe the pop-up menu method only, but the
commands for rotating/flipping placed components that are found in the
Edit menu are the same. Refer to the Edit Menu section of Appendix A,
Multisim Menus, for more information.
Complete the following steps to rotate a component:
1.

Right-click on the component.

From the pop-up menu that appears, choose 90 Clockwise to rotate the
component 90 degrees clockwise.
Or
Choose 90 CounterCW to rotate the component 90 degrees counter
clockwise.

Text associated with the component, such as labels, and values and model
information, will be repositioned and rotated as a result of your action. Pin numbers will
rotate along with the associated pin. Any wires attached to the component are rerouted
automatically to maintain their connections using rubberbanding. If you do not want this
to happen, it can be controlled in the General tab of the Preferences dialog box.

Note

Complete the following steps to flip a component:
1.

Right-click on the component.

From the pop-up menu that appears, choose Flip Horizontal to flip the
component horizontally.
Or
Choose Flip Vertical to flip the component vertically.

Note Text associated with the component, such as labels, model information and values,
may be repositioned, but is not flipped. Any wires attached to the component are rerouted
automatically.

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Finding Components in Your Circuit
You can use the Find Component dialog box for larger schematic
diagrams where you want to quickly locate a component or net.
Complete the following steps to quickly find a component or net in the
workspace:
1.

Choose Edit»Find. The Find Component dialog box appears.

Enter a string in the Find what field that represents all or part of a
reference designator (RefDes) or net name as explained below.
Wildcards are allowed, for example:

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•

“V1” finds only the exact string “V1”

•

“*1” finds any string ending with “1”

•

“V*” finds any string starting with “V”

•

“*V*” finds any string containing “V”

•

a “?” anywhere in the string will match exactly one character. For
example, “R?” will match “R1”, but not “R12”.

In the Search for box, select one of the following radio buttons:
•

All—Searches all elements for entered string

•

Parts—Searches all parts for entered string

•

Nets—Searches all nets for entered string

•

Off-Page Connectors—Searches all off-page connectors for
entered string

•

HB/SC Connectors—Searches all HB/SC connectors for entered
string.

In the Search Options box, select one of the following from the
Search From drop-down:
•

Current Sheet—Search will be conducted on the contents of the
current sheet only

•

Current Design—Search will be conducted on the contents of the
current design only

•

All Open Sheets—Search will be conducted on the contents of all
open sheets

•

All Open Designs—Search will be conducted on the contents of
all open designs.

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Optionally, select one or both of the following checkboxes in the
Search Options box:
•

Match case—Select if you wish to make the search case sensitive

•

Match whole word only—Click if you wish to find only whole
words that match the entered string. If not selected, search will be
for entered string anywhere. For example, if “1” is entered, search
will yield “V1”, R1”, “C1”, and so on. If you enter a wildcard (*)
in the search string, and also select this option, the * will be treated
as a character, not a wildcard.

Click the Find button. The results of your search are displayed in the
Results tab of the Spreadsheet View, as shown in the example in the
figure below (1).

Search Results

Double-click on the desired search result in the Results tab. The
element is zoomed and selected on the workspace, as shown in the
example in the figure below.

Click on the workspace to clear the shading from the display.

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Note You can also right-click on the desired result and select Go to from the pop-up that
appears.

Labeling
This section contains the following subjects:
•

Modifying Component Labels and Attributes

•

Modifying Net Names

•

Adding a Title Block

•

Adding Miscellaneous Text

•

Adding a Comment

•

Graphic Annotation

•

Capturing Screen Area

Modifying Component Labels and Attributes
Complete the following steps to assign a label or change the reference
designator (RefDes) of a placed component:
1.

Double-click on the component. The component’s properties dialog
box appears.

Click the Label tab.

Enter or modify the Label and/or RefDes (which must be composed
of letters, numbers and underscores only—no special characters or
spaces).

Enter or modify the component Attributes (which can be any name or
value you choose to give them). For example, you could give the
component the manufacturer name or a name that is meaningful to you
such as “new resistor” or “revised May 15”.
The Name field accepts letters, numbers, “+”, “-” and “_”.
The Value field accepts letters, numbers, “+”, “-”, “_” and “%”.

Select the component attributes to display by clicking in the Show
column and selecting one of All, Value or None. The selected
attributes display with the component.

Click OK.

If you assign the same RefDes to more than one component, Multisim warns you
that this is not possible. Because all RefDes’s must be unique, you must change the RefDes
or cancel before you can proceed.

Note

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Modifying Net Names
Multisim automatically assigns a net name to each node in the circuit. If
desired, you can modify a net name to something more meaningful to the
circuit design. For example, you may wish to change a net name to
“Output”.
If you are planning to modify net names for certain “global” reserved nets such as
VCC and GND, there are some cautions that apply. Refer to the Global Nets section of
Chapter 4, Working with Larger Designs, for more information.
Note

Complete the following steps to modify a net name:
1.

Double-click on the wire. The Net dialog box appears.

Change the net name as desired.

Click OK.

You should exercise caution when changing net names, as they are critical to your
circuit’s connectivity as understood by simulation and PCB layout.

Note

You are not permitted to change the net name for any wires connected to ground. The
net name for these is permanently set to “0”. However, you can change the label for the net
by double-clicking on any wire attached to ground and entering a name in the Label field.

Note

Complete the following steps to lock a net name in position so that it will
not move when the wire is moved:
1.

Double-click on the net name and click Yes when prompted.
Or
Right-click on the net name and select Lock/Unlock name position.

Complete the following steps to unlock a net name that has been locked in
place:
1.

Double-click on the net name and click Yes when prompted.
Or
Right-click on the net name and de-select Lock/Unlock name
position.

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Adding a Title Block
The Title Block Editor is where you create customized title blocks. If
desired, a title block can be included on every page of your design.
Various fields in the title block are automatically completed depending
upon the context and various document properties. When designing the title
block, you can choose a pre-defined field or create your own. You choose
appropriate fonts depending upon your language of preference.
Title blocks can include elements such as text, lines, arcs, bezier curves,
rectangles, ovals, arcs, and bitmaps.
Complete the following steps to add a title block to your circuit:
1.

Choose Place»Title Block. A standard Open dialog box appears. If
necessary, navigate to the titleblocks folder.

Select the desired title block template and click Open. The selected
title block appears attached to your cursor. Drag and drop it to the
desired location, typically the lower-right corner of the page.

You can also move the placed title block by right-clicking on it and
selecting one of:
•

Move to»Top Left—Places the title block in the top-left corner of
the workspace.

•

Move to»Top Right—Places the title block in the top-right
corner of the workspace.

•

Move to»Bottom Left—Places the title block in the bottom-left
corner of the workspace.

•

Move to»Bottom Right—Places the title block in the
bottom-right corner of the workspace.

To add a title block with a new format, refer to the Title Block Editor section
of Chapter 3, Schematic Capture—Advanced Functions, and then place the
new title block on the circuit following the procedure above.

Entering the Title Block Contents
Complete the following steps to edit the contents of the title block:
1.

Right-click on the title block and select Properties from the pop-up
that appears.
Or
Double-click on the title block.

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The Title Block dialog box appears.
2.

The information that displays is described in this step. Make edits as
desired and click OK.

If a field in the Title Block dialog box contains information, and that information
does not appear in your title block, it is because the field that contains that information was
not placed in the title block. If this occurs, right-click on the title block, select Title Block
Editor, and place the required field in the title block. Refer to the Placing Fields section
of Chapter 3, Schematic Capture—Advanced Functions, for more information.

Note

•

Title—Title of the circuit. Defaults to the circuit’s filename.
Corresponds to the #TITLE field that is placed using the Title
Block Editor.

•

Description—A description for your project. Defaults to
Project 1. Corresponds to the #DSCRPT field that is placed using
the Title Block Editor.

•

Document No.—Document number. Defaults to 0001.
Corresponds to the #DOC_N field that is placed using the Title
Block Editor.

•

Revision—Revision number of the circuit. Corresponds to the
#REV field that is placed using the Title Block Editor.

•

Checked by—Name of person checking the circuit. Corresponds
to the #CHECKED field that is placed using the Title Block Editor.

•

Date—Defaults to the date that the circuit was created.
Corresponds to the #DATE field that is placed using the Title
Block Editor.

•

Size—Size of the sheet, for example, “A”. Corresponds to the
#FMT field that is placed using the Title Block Editor.

•

Approved by—Name of person approving the circuit.
Corresponds to the #APPROVED field that is placed using the Title
Block Editor.

•

Sheet—The number of the current sheet and the total number of
sheets. For example, Sheet 2 of 3. Corresponds to the #SN and
#TSN fields that are placed using the Title Block Editor.

•

Custom Field 1—Information entered here will be placed in
Custom Field 1. Corresponds to the #CUSTOM_1 field that is
placed using the Title Block Editor.

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•

Custom Field 2—Information entered here will be placed in
Custom Field 2. Corresponds to the #CUSTOM_2 field that is
placed using the Title Block Editor.

•

Custom Field 3—Information entered here will be placed in
Custom Field 3. Corresponds to the #CUSTOM_3 field that is
placed using the Title Block Editor.

•

Custom Field 4—Information entered here will be placed in
Custom Field 4. Corresponds to the #CUSTOM_4 field that is
placed using the Title Block Editor.

•

Custom Field 5—Information entered here will be placed in
Custom Field 5. Corresponds to the #CUSTOM_5 field that is
placed using the Title Block Editor.

Caution The width of a field as displayed in the Title Block Editor is not the same as the
actual text that is placed in that field in the title block. The text in the title block will be as
wide as the amount of text. It is also dependant on the font size. So if two fields are placed
closed to each other they may overlap.

You can also place the following special symbols in the Title Block dialog
box. When you return to the workspace, the symbol will be replaced by text
as described below:
•

&p—Page number

•

&P—Total number of pages

•

&d—Date

•

&t—Time

•

&s—Page name

•

&j—Project name

•

&&—Ampersand.

Adding Miscellaneous Text
Multisim allows you to add text to a circuit, for example to label a particular
part of a circuit.
Complete the following steps to add text:

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Choose Place»Text or right-click on the workspace and select
Place Graphic»Text from the pop-up.

Click on the location where you want the text placed. A text box with
a blinking cursor appears.

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Type the text. The text box correctly sizes when you finish typing and
click elsewhere in the workspace.

Click elsewhere on the circuit window to stop adding text.

Complete the following steps to delete text:
1.

Right-click on the text box.

Choose Delete from the pop-up menu that appears.
Or

Select the text and press Delete on your keyboard.

Complete the following steps to change the color of text:
1.

Right-click on the text box.

Choose Pen Color from the pop-up menu that appears, and choose the
desired color.
Refer to the Pop-up From a Selected Text Block or Graphic section of
Chapter 1, User Interface, for more information.

Complete the following steps to change the font options for the text:
1.

Right-click on the text box.

Choose Font from the pop-up menu that appears, and choose the
desired font options.

Adding a Comment
Adding a comment permits "redlining", which can be used to show
engineering change orders, to facilitate collaborative work among team
members, or to allow background information to be attached to a design.
You can “pin” a comment to the workspace, or directly to a component.
When a component with an attached comment is moved, the comment also
moves.
Complete the following steps to pin a comment to a component or the
workspace:
1.

Select Place»Comment.

Move the cursor to the desired location and click to place the comment.

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Comment Pinned to Component

Comment on Workspace

The figure above shows a comment “pinned” to a component (1); if the
component is moved, the comment moves with it. A comment can also be
placed on the workspace, as shown in the figure above (2). It does not move
when components are moved.
Complete the following steps to enter text in the placed comment:
1.

Double-click on the placed comment and the select the Display tab.
The Comment Properties dialog box appears. The layer on which the
comment appears displays in the Drawing Layer list. Change this if
desired. Refer to the Visibility Tab section of Chapter 1, User
Interface, for more information.

Type the desired text in the field at the bottom of the dialog. If you wish
to show the note’s contents, enable the Show popup window
checkbox.

Optionally, set the Background and Text colors in the Color box.

“Tooltip” refers to the text that appears attached to the cursor if you hover it above
a tool button.

Note

In the Size box, enter the Width and Height, or enable Auto-Resize
to have the info box automatically resize to show all content.

Optionally, click on the Font tab to change the comment’s font.

Click OK. If you checked Show popup window in the Display tab,
the comment displays. Otherwise, the Comment icon displays.

To enter text without using the Comment Properties dialog box,
right-click on the placed comment, select Edit Comment from the pop-up
that appears and type the desired text.

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Complete the following steps to display a hidden comment:
1.

Right-click on the desired Comment icon.

Select Show Comment/Probe from the pop-up that appears.

Complete the following steps to see the contents of a hidden comment:
1.

Hover the cursor over the comment.

Move the cursor to hide the comment.

Complete the following steps to change the size of a displayed comment:
1.

Select its textbox.

Drag the handles that appear, as in the example (1) in the figure below.
1

Drag Handles

The size can also be changed from the Display tab of the Comment Properties
dialog box.

Note

Graphic Annotation
Use Graphic Annotation to add the following graphic elements to your
workspace:
•

Line

•

Multiline

•

Rectangle

•

Ellipse

•

Arc

•

Polygon

•

Picture

•

Comment.

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Complete the following steps to add a graphic element:
1.

If the Graphic Annotation toolbar is not already showing, select
View»Toolbars»Graphic Annotation.
Or
Right-click in the menu area and select Graphic Annotation from the
pop-up that appears.

Click on the button in the Graphic Annotation toolbar for the desired
graphic element and follow the directions for that element from the
table below.

Button

Description
Click on this button to place text on the workspace. Then
click on the workspace in the location where you wish to
place the text and type in the desired text. When finished,
click anywhere on the workspace. The text box automatically
sizes to display your text.
Click on this button to draw a line. The cursor changes to a
crosshair. Place the crosshair where you wish to start the line
and click and hold the mouse button. Drag the crosshair to
where you wish to end the line and release the mouse button.
(To add an arrowhead, right-click on the placed line and
select Arrow from the pop-up).
Click on this button to draw a multiline, which consists of
multiple connected line segments. The cursor changes to a
crosshair. Place the crosshair where you wish to start the
multiline and click the mouse button once. Move the
crosshair to where you wish to end the current segment of the
multiline and click the button once. Repeat until all segments
of the multiline have been drawn. When you have drawn the
last segment of the multiline, double-click the mouse button.
(To add an arrowhead, right-click on the placed line and
select Arrow from the pop-up).
Click on this button to draw a rectangle. The cursor changes
to a crosshair. Place the crosshair where you wish to start the
rectangle and click and hold the mouse button. Drag the
crosshair to where you wish to end the rectangle and release
the mouse button.

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Description
Click on this button to draw an ellipse. The cursor changes to
a crosshair. Place the crosshair where you wish to place the
center of the ellipse and click and hold the mouse button.
Drag the crosshair to where you wish to end the ellipse and
release the mouse button.
Click on this button to draw an arc. The cursor changes to a
crosshair. Place the crosshair where you wish to place the
center of the arc and click and hold the mouse button. Drag
the crosshair to where you wish to end the arc and release the
mouse button. The arc will appear as an ellipse while it is
being drawn, but when released, the right side only of the
ellipse will be shown, thereby giving the arc.
Click on this button to draw a polygon. The cursor changes to
a crosshair. Place the crosshair where you wish to start the
polygon and click the mouse button once. Move the crosshair
to where you wish to end the the current segment of the
polygon and click the button once. Repeat until all segments
of the polygon have been drawn. When you have drawn the
last segment of the polygon, double-click the mouse button.
Click on this button to place a picture on the workspace. A
dialog opens from where you can select the desired bitmap
image. You can place either a .bmp or .dib file.
Click on this button to place a comment on the workspace.
For details, see Adding a Comment.

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Complete the following steps to change the size of placed graphic elements:
1.

Select the graphic.

Click and drag the drag points that appear, as in the example (1) shown
in the figure below.
1

Drag Points

Placed graphics can also be manipulated using the pop-up menu. Refer to the Pop-up
From a Selected Text Block or Graphic section of Chapter 1, User Interface, for more
information.
Note

Capturing Screen Area
You can capture an area of the screen and then manipulate the image as you
would any other screen capture contained in the system clipboard. For
example, you can paste it into the Circuit Description Box. Refer to the
Circuit Description Box section for more information.
Complete the following steps to copy a section of your screen to the
clipboard:

NI Multisim User Manual

Select Tools»Capture Screen Area. A selection frame appears on
your workspace.

Optionally, to move the frame to a different location:
•

Move your cursor to the border of the frame. A crosshair is added
to the cursor, indicating that the selection frame can be moved to
a different location.

•

Drag the selection frame to the desired location.

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Optionally, to re-size the selection frame:
•

Move the cursor to one of the sizing handles.

•

Drag the cursor to re-size the selection frame.

Click the copy button at the top left corner of the selection frame. The
image inside the selection frame is copied to the system clipboard.

Click the x at the top right corner of the selection frame to close it.

Circuit Description Box
In addition to adding text to a particular portion of a circuit, you can add
general descriptions to your circuit using the Circuit Description Box.
You can also place bitmaps, sound and video in the Circuit Description
Box.
The contents of the Circuit Description Box are viewed in the top pane of
the Circuit Description Box window (select View»Circuit Description
Box). To edit the contents of the Circuit Description Box, select
Tools»Description Box Editor.
The bottom pane of the Circuit Description Box contains any questions that you
have entered using Multisim’s Forms functionality. Refer to the Linking a Form to a
Circuit section for more information.

Note

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Complete the following steps to add or edit a description:
1.

Choose Tools»Description Box Editor. The Edit Description
window appears.

Enter text by typing directly into the window, or choose Insert»Insert
Object to place a bitmap, etc.

Changes made in the Edit Description window are not reflected in the
Circuit Description Box (selected by View»Circuit Description Box) until you exit the
Edit Description window.

Note

Use the Description Edit Bar to edit the contents of the Circuit
Description Box as needed. Refer to the Description Edit Bar section
for more information.

When you are finished entering text, select File»Close. The Edit
Description window closes and you are returned to the main Multisim
workspace.

To print your description, from the Edit Description window, click the
Print button.

Formatting the Circuit Description Box
You can format the contents of the Circuit Description Box as listed
below:
•

Paragraph Dialog Box—Use to enter paragraph formatting
information.

•

Tabs Dialog Box—Use to enter tab settings.

•

Date and Time Dialog Box—Use to place a formatted date and/or time.

•

Properties Dialog Box—Use to set measurement units and text
wrapping settings.

•

Insert Object Dialog Box—Use to select the type of object for
insertion.

Formatting Circuit Description Box Text
You can format currently-selected text in the Circuit Description Box by
using the following commands from the Description Edit Bar:

NI Multisim User Manual

•

Font button—Click to select the desired font settings.

•

Bold button—Click to make the selection bold.

•

Italic button—Click to italicize the selection.

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•
Note

Note

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Underline button—Click to underline the selection.

The above commands are also available by selecting Format»Font.
•

Color button—Click to display a palette where you pick a color for the
text. This palette will also display if you select Format»Font Color.

•

Left Justification button—Click to align the selected paragraph(s)
along the left margin. You can also select Format»Align Left to
perform this command.

•

Center Justification button—Click to center-align the selected
paragraph(s). You can also select Format»Align Center to perform
this command.

•

Right Justification button—Click to align the selected paragraph(s)
along the right margin. You can also select Format»Align Right to
perform this command.

•

Insert Bullet button—Click to insert a bullet at the beginning of the
selected paragraph(s). You can also select Format»Insert a Bullet to
perform this command.

Refer to the Description Edit Bar section for more information.

Paragraph Dialog Box
Use the Paragraph dialog box to enter paragraph formatting information
for the Circuit Description Box.
Complete the following steps to enter paragraph formatting information for
the Circuit Description Box:
1.

Open the Edit Description window as described in the Circuit
Description Box section.

Select Format»Paragraph to display the Paragraph dialog box.

In the Indentation box, enter the measurements in the following fields
as desired:

•

Left—The distance the left side of the paragraph is indented from
the left margin.

•

Right—The distance the right side of the paragraph is indented
from the right margin.

•

First Line—The distance the first line of the paragraph is
indented from the left margin.

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In the Alignment drop-down list, select whether the paragraph is left-,
right-, or center-aligned.

Click OK.

Tabs Dialog Box
Use the Tabs dialog box to enter tab settings for the Circuit Description
Box.
Complete the following steps to enter tab settings for the Circuit
Description Box:

Note

Open the Edit Description window as described in the Circuit
Description Box section.

Select Format»Tab to display the Tabs dialog box.

Enter the desired position for the tab (for example 1.25”) in the Tab
Stop Position field and click Set.

You can also click in the top ruler bar to place a tab.
Complete the following steps to remove a tab setting:
1.

Highlight the desired tab setting and click Clear.

To clear all tabs, click Clear All.

Date and Time Dialog Box
Use the Date and Time dialog box to enter a formatted date and/or time in
the Circuit Description Box.
Complete the following steps to place a date and/or time in the Circuit
Description Box:

NI Multisim User Manual

Open the Edit Description window as described in the Circuit
Description Box section.

Click at the location where you wish to place the date and/or time.

Select Insert»Insert Date to display the Date and Time dialog box.

Select the desired date/time format from the Available formats list
and click OK to place the selection.

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Properties Dialog Box
Use the Properties dialog box to select the measurement units and text
wrapping settings used in the Circuit Description Box.
Complete the following steps to set the measurement units and text
wrapping settings:
1.

Open the Edit Description window as described in the Circuit
Description Box section.

Select Options»Rich Edit Options to display the Properties dialog
box and click the Options tab.

In the Measurement units box, select one of Inches; Centimeters;
Points; Picas.

Optionally, enable Automatic Word Selection to select one word at a
time when you drag the cursor. If you wish to select one character at a
time, clear this checkbox.

Click the Rich Text tab and select one of:

•

No wrap—Typed text will be on one line until you press the
ENTER key.

•

Wrap to window—Typed text will go to the next line when it
reaches the edge of the window.

•

Wrap to ruler—Typed text will go to the next line when it
reaches the page margin.

Click OK.

Insert Object Dialog Box
Use the Insert Object dialog box to select an object, such as a bitmap or
chart, to insert in the Circuit Description Box.
Complete the following steps to insert an object:
1.

Open the Edit Description window as described in the Circuit
Description Box section.

Select Insert»Insert Object to display the Insert Object dialog box.

To create a new object, enable Create New.

Select the desired object from the Object Type list.

Optionally, enable Display As Icon to view an icon representing the
file.

Click OK.

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Complete the following steps to create an object from an existing file:
1.

Enable the Create from File button.

Enter the desired filepath and name in the File field, or click Browse
and navigate to the desired file from the Browse dialog box that
appears.

Optionally, enable Link to link the object to the original file. Any
updates to the original file are reflected in the object.

Scrolling with Events During Simulation
Along with descriptive text and graphics, the Circuit Description Box lets
you synchronize scrolling and display of text, graphics or video with events
in the simulation. You do this by placing measurement probes in your
design and setting the probe properties with the events that you would like
to have synchronized with the scrolling or display of text, graphics or
video.

Scrolling Text During Simulation
Complete the following steps to make text scroll automatically during a
simulation:
1.

Enter text in the Circuit Description Box as desired.

Select Simulate»Instruments»Measurement Probe and click to
place a probe at the desired point, as in the figure below. The
simulation must not be running.
This is the point where the desired event occurs. For example, when the
voltage is equal to 5 V.

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Refer to the Measurement Probe section of Chapter 9, Instruments, for more
information on the probe.

Note

Double-click on the placed probe to display the Probe Properties
dialog box, and click on the Description Box tab.

Click New. The blinking text cursor moves to the Condition(s) field.

Click on the button to the right of the Condition(s) field and build the
equation from the pop-up that appears. In this case we are entering the
condition “V=5”, meaning the condition required to scroll the text will
be achieved when the voltage at the probe equals 5 volts.

From the Action drop-down list, select Start Scrolling.

In the Parameter field, type the scroll speed, for example, “100” (this
equals a scroll rate of 100 pixels per 10 seconds).

Click Apply.

Click OK to close the dialog box.
When you run the simulation, the text will scroll when the voltage at
the probe equals 5 V.

Note To disable a trigger, highlight it in the Description Box Triggers area and deselect
the Enabled checkbox.

10. Click Run/Resume Simulation in the Simulation toolbar. The text in
the Circuit Description Box will scroll when the conditions set in the
Description Box tab of the Probe Properties dialog box are met.
Note

Remember to leave the Circuit Description Box open when you click Simulate.

Playing a Video Clip
Complete the following steps to play a video clip during simulation:
1.

Open the Edit Description window by selecting Tools»Description
Box Editor.

Click at the point where you wish to place the video clip.

Select Insert»Insert Object and select Create from File.

If you wish to have changes to the original file reflected in Multisim,
enable Link.

Click Browse and navigate to the desired video clip.

Click OK to place the clip.

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Click once on the clip to select it and select Insert»Insert Label. Enter
the name of the label in the Label Name field of the Description
Label dialog that appears and click OK. The clip’s filename (in this
case, “Filmclip.mpg”) appears enclosed in rails as shown in the figure
below.

Select Simulate»Instruments»Measurement Probe and click to
place a probe at the desired point, as in the example in the figure below.
The simulation must not be running at this point.

This point is where the desired condition will occur. For example, the voltage
becomes equal to 5 V.

Note

Double-click on the placed probe to display the Probe Properties
dialog box, and click on the Description Box tab.

10. Click New. The blinking text cursor moves to the Condition(s) field.
11. Click on the button to the right of the Condition(s) field and build the
equation from the pop-up that apppears. In this case we are entering the
condition “V=5”, meaning the condition required to run the clip will
be achieved when the voltage at the probe is 5 volts.
12. From the Action drop-down list, select Play Media Clip.
13. In the Parameter field, type the name of the label that you placed
around the video clip in the Circuit Description Box, (as described in
the Scrolling with Events During Simulation section). In this case, we
used Label 2.

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14. Click Accept.
15. Click OK to close the dialog box.
When you run the simulation, the video clip will play when the voltage
at the probe equals 5 V.
16. Click Run/Resume Simulation in the Simulation toolbar. The video
clip will run when the parameters set in the Description Box tab of the
Probe Properties dialog box are met.
Remember to leave the Circuit Description Box open when you click Simulate.
You can also run audio clips during simulation using the above procedure.

Note

Description Label Dialog Box
You can insert labels in the Circuit Description Box that mark points
where a certain action is to occur during simulation. For example, you
might want to jump to a specific point in the text when the voltage at a
specific node in the circuit drops below a pre-set value. Or, you may wish
to run a film clip when another parameter has been met. The specific point
in the text, and the film clip, are both marked with labels.
These actions are set up in the Description Box tab of the
Probe Properties dialog box.
Use the Description Label dialog box to create a label to insert in the
Circuit Description Box.
Complete the following steps to insert a label:

Note

Open the Edit Description window as described in the Circuit
Description Box section.

Select a block of text or an object that you wish to label. (This will be
the content of the label).

Select Insert»Insert Label to display the Insert Label dialog box.

Enter a name for the label in the Label Name field.

If you wish the content of the label to display in the Circuit
Description Box, enable the Show content in description bar
checkbox.

The content of the label is the text or object that you selected in step 2.

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Click OK to accept your selections and close the dialog box. The label
contents appear as show in the example in the figure below (2),
enclosed by upper and lower rails (1).
2

1
1

Rails Indicate Label

Label Contents

Edit Labels Dialog Box
Complete the following steps to edit existing labels in the Circuit
Description Box:
1.

Open the Edit Description window as described in the Circuit
Description Box section.

Select Edit»Labels to display the Edit Labels dialog box.

To show/hide the contents of labels in the Circuit Description Box,
enable/disable checkboxes as desired.
To delete a label, highlight the desired label and click Remove.
To rename a label, highlight the desired label and click Rename.

Other Actions
You can set up the following actions in the Description Box tab of the
Probe Properties dialog box:

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•

Jump to Label—When the conditions entered in the Condition
field are met (for example, V=5), the text in the Circuit
Description Box will jump to the label that you entered in the
Parameter field.

•

Pause Simulation—When the conditions entered in the
Condition field are met (for example, V=5), the simulation will
pause for the amount of time (in seconds) that you entered in the
Parameter field.

•

Stop Scrolling—When the conditions entered in the Condition
field are met (for example, V=5), scrolling of the text in the
Circuit Description Box will stop.

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Description Edit Bar
The Description Edit Bar contains the buttons described in the table
below.
Button

Description
Add Question Link button. Inserts a question link at the
current cursor position. Refer to the Linking a Form to a
Circuit section for more information.
Insert Date and Time button. Displays the Date and Time
dialog box, where you select the format for the date and time.
Refer to the Date and Time Dialog Box section for more
information.
View and Select Options button. Displays the Options
dialog box, where you select measurement units and text
wrapping settings. Refer to the Properties Dialog Box section
for more information.
Insert Embedded Object button. Displays the Insert
Object dialog box, where you select the type of object to
insert. Refer to the Insert Object Dialog Box section for more
information.
Create New Label button. Displays the Description Label
dialog box, where you enter the name of the new label to be
inserted. Refer to the Description Label Dialog Box section
for more information.
Edit Labels button. Displays the Edit Labels dialog box.
Refer to the Edit Labels Dialog Box section for more
information.
Bold button. Makes the selection bold.

Italic button. Makes the selection italic.

Underline button. Underlines the selection.

Left Justification button. Aligns the selected paragraph(s)
along the left margin.

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Button

Description
Center Justification button. Center-aligns the selected
paragraph(s).
Right Justification button. Aligns the selected paragraph(s)
along the right margin.
Font button. Changes the font, size and color of the selected
text.
Color button. Displays a color palette where you pick a color
for the currently-selected text.
Paragraph Format button. Displays the Paragraph dialog
box, where you enter paragraph formatting information.
Refer to the Paragraph Dialog Box section for more
information.
Insert Bullet button. Inserts a bullet at the beginning of the
selected paragraph(s).
Insert Tabs button. Displays the Tabs dialog box, where you
enter tab formatting information. Refer to the Tabs Dialog
Box section for more information.

Linking a Form to a Circuit
You can use Multisim’s form functionality to send circuits for approval,
design reviews, or anywhere feedback on a design is needed. Once the form
has been completed, the circuit file, including the completed form, can be
returned to the originator via email.
Education edition users will find this particularly useful for assignments
and tests that are given to students to be completed remotely. Once the
questions have been answered, the circuit file, including the completed
form, can be emailed to the instructor at the click of a button.
A form can include any of the following types of questions:
•

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Multiple Choice—The correct response is selected from two or more
possible responses.

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•

True/False—A statement is made on the form and either True or
False is selected as the response.

•

Data Entry—A field for limited data entry is provided.

•

Free Form—A field for more extensive data entry is provided.

You can also insert links in the Circuit Description Box that will, when
double-clicked, take the person completing the form directly to a linked
question. This is useful where clarification or further explanation of a
specific question may require more text than you want to put on the form.
Refer to the Linking to Questions section for more information.
The following sections discuss how to create a form, how to link to the form
from the Circuit Description Box, how to set form submission options,
and how the recipient should complete and submit the form.

Creating Forms
When reviewing these instructions, please note that the dialog box where
you enter the questions is called Edit Questions in the Education Edition
of Multisim. To access this dialog, select Edit»Forms/Questions.
Complete the following steps to create a form:
1.

Select Edit»Forms/Questions. The Edit Form dialog box displays.
•

Title—Text entered here appears as a title when the form is
viewed.

•

Instruction—Enter instructions as desired in this field. Text
entered here appears above the first question when the form is
viewed.

•

User Profile—Each line entered here appears as a separate line
with a user-editable field when the questions are viewed from the
form. You can add, edit, or delete items in this area as desired.

Click on the Add a question button and select the desired question
type from the pop-up that appears. The Edit Form dialog box changes
to reflect your selection.

Enter the question based on the following:

•

Multiple Choice—Enter a question in the Question field and
enter possible responses in the Candidate Answers fields.

•

True/False—Enter a question requiring a true or false answer in
the Question field.

•

Data Entry—Enter a question or instruction in the Question
field.

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•
4.

Free Form—Enter a question or instruction in the Free Form
field.

As you proceed, the question types appear in the Form tree of the Edit
Form dialog box as shown in the figure below.

Click on a specific question in the tree to view its contents in the dialog
box.
Click on the Remove Selected Question button to remove it
completely.
Use the up and down arrows to change the position of the selected
question in the tree. The sequence of the questions in the tree will be
reflected when you view the completed form in lower pane of the
Circuit Description Box.
5.

Once you have entered the desired questions, click OK to close the
Edit Form dialog box.

Select View»Circuit Description Box. The questions are displayed in
the bottom pane of the Circuit Description Box.

Save the Multisim circuit file, which now includes the form. The
completed circuit file can be electronically sent (for example, via
email) to the desired recipients.

Linking to Questions
You can insert links in the Circuit Description Box that will, when
double-clicked, take the person completing the form directly to the linked
question.
Complete the following steps to insert links in the Circuit Description Box
to specific questions in a form:

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Create the form as detailed in the Creating Forms section.

Select Tools»Description Box Editor.

Enter text, graphics, etc. in the usual fashion. Refer to the Circuit
Description Box section for more information.

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Place the cursor where you wish to insert a link and select
Insert»Insert Question Link. The Select a Form dialog box appears,
listing all questions that are on the current form.

Highlight the question that you wish to link to and click OK. The link
is placed at the cursor’s positon.

Insert other links as desired and close the Description Box Editor.
Your changes, including the links, appear in the Circuit Description
Box.

Double-click on a link in the Circuit Description Box to jump to the
linked question in the lower pane of the Circuit Description Box.

Refer to the Completing Forms section for more information.

Setting Form Submission Options
Form submission options are usually set by the person that creates the form,
before it is sent for completion.
When reviewing these instructions, please note that the dialog box where
you enter the questions is called Edit Questions in the Education Edition
of Multisim. To access this dialog, select Edit»Questions.
Complete the following steps to set options for submitting completed
questions:
1.

Select Edit»Forms/Questions. The Edit Form dialog box displays.

Click Options in the Categories area and complete the following:

•

Email the circuit file to—Enable checkbox and enter the desired
email address.

•

Subject—Enter text to be placed in the email’s subject line.

•

Body—Enter text to be placed in the body of the email message.

•

Display the message—Enable checkbox and enter text that you
wish to appear in the message that appears on the Multisim
workspace when you click Submit.

Click OK to close the Edit Form dialog box.

Refer to the Creating Forms and the Completing Forms sections for more
information.

Note

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Completing Forms
Complete and submit the form from a Multisim circuit that you received as
explained below. Questions are answered directly from the Circuit
Description Box.
Complete the following steps to answer questions:
1.

Select View»Circuit Description Box.

Enter the default information in the fields found at the top of the form
in the lower pane of the Circuit Description Box (for example, Name,
Date). These fields may vary from circuit to circuit.

Complete the questions by selecting the desired response for multiple
choice and true/false questions, or typing in answers to data entry and
free form questions.

If the Circuit Description Box contains links to questions
on a link to jump directly to the associated question.

Tip

, you can double-click

Submit the completed questions as described below:
•

To submit the completed questions on paper, click Print. A
standard Print dialog appears. Enter the desired settings and click
Print.

•

To submit the completed questions by email, click Submit. The
circuit file, including the completed questions will be attached to
an email that is addressed as set up in the On Submit options.
Refer to the Setting Form Submission Options section for more
information.
Send this email in the usual manner.

Printing the Circuit
Multisim allows you to control specific aspects of your printing, including:

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•

whether to output in color or black and white.

•

which pages of a design to print.

•

whether to include the background in the printed output.

•

page margins for printing.

•

scaling of the circuit’s image to fit the printed output.

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Complete the following steps to set the printing environment for circuits:
1.

Select File»Print Options»Print Circuit Setup.

Set the Page Margins, Zooms and Page Orientation options as
desired.

Set the Output Options as desired:

•

In Black/White—Prints the circuit in black and white (for
non-color printers). When disabled, colored components print in
shades of grey.

•

Instruments—Prints the circuit and faces of the instruments used
in the circuit on separate sheets.

•

Background—Includes the background in printed output. Use for
color printers or white on black output. This option is disabled if
In Black/White is selected.

•

Current Circuit—Prints the window that is currently active on
the workspace.

•

Current and Subcircuits—Prints the currently active window
and any subcircuits or hierarchical blocks that it contains.

•

Entire Design—Prints all circuits, subcircuits, hierarchical
blocks and multi-pages from the design which includes the
currently active window. Refer to the Hierarchical Design section
of Chapter 4, Working with Larger Designs, for more information
about hierarchical blocks and subcircuits.

Click OK to set the printing environment for the current circuit, or
click Set As Default to set the the printing environment for all circuits.

To preview your file before printing, choose File»Print Preview. The
circuit appears in a preview window where you can zoom in, move from
page to page, and send the circuit to the printer using the provided tool
buttons.
To print the circuit file, choose File»Print. We recommend that you set
your print options first.

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Functions

This chapter describes the advanced functions involved in creating a circuit
in Multisim.
Some of the features described in this chapter may not be available in your
edition of Multisim. Refer to the release notes for a list of the features in
your edition.

Placed Component Properties
Each component placed on the circuit window has a set of properties that
control certain aspects of it beyond those stored in the Multisim database.
These properties affect only the placed component, not other instances of
that component in other circuits or other locations in this circuit. Depending
on the type of component, these properties determine some or all of the
following:
•

the identifying information and labels about the placed component to
be displayed on the circuit window. Refer to the Modifying Component
Labels and Attributes section of Chapter 2, Schematic
Capture—Basics, for more information.

•

the model of the placed component.

•

for some components, how the placed component will be used in
analyses.

•

the faults to be used for the placed component.

•

the component’s value or model and footprint.

•

user fields.

Displaying Identifying Information about a Placed Component
The settings in the Circuit tab of the Sheet Properties dialog box
determine which identifying information is displayed on your circuit. Refer
to the Sheet Properties—Circuit Tab section of Chapter 1, User Interface,
for more information.

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You can also override these settings for an individual placed component, as
described here.
Complete the following steps to set the identifying information to be
displayed for a placed component:
1.

Double-click on the component. A properties dialog box for the
selected component appears.

Click the Display tab.

Disable Use Schematic Global Setting. The “Show” options become
available.

When this option is enabled, the types of identifying information displayed for the
selected component are controlled by the circuit’s settings.

Note

Enable the identifying information you want displayed for this
component, and disable the identifying information you do not want
displayed for this component. For example, if you wish to hide the
component’s reference designator, disable Show RefDes.

Click OK to save your settings.

Viewing a Placed Component’s Value/Model
The Value tab of the “properties” dialog box for a component shows the
value/model being used for the placed component. Depending on the
component, the contents of the Value tab will differ when you double-click
on a placed component.

Real Components
In one sense of the word, all components found in Multisim are virtual.
They are virtual representations of components like diodes and transistors.
Wired together and simulated in Multisim, they will give you an idea of
how such a circuit will function when prototyped.
However, when a “real” component is referred to in this manual, it
corresponds to a real, purchasable component with values that include
footprints and package types for use in PCB layout programs, like
Ultiboard.
“Virtual” components, however, give you a means to experiment with a
specific component’s parameters early in the design process. Once you
have determined the desired parameters, you can replace the “virtual”

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component with a “real” component (for example, substitute a virtual diode
with a 1N1199C diode).
For real components, the tab looks similar to this:

Note

Refer to the Virtual Components section for information on virtual components.
Complete the following steps to edit the component in the database:
1.

Click on Edit Component in DB.

Refer to the Introduction to Component Editing section of Chapter 6,
Component Editing.

Resistors, Inductors and Capacitors
Complete the following steps to edit the value of a resistor, inductor, or
capacitor:
1.

Double-click on the component and select the Value tab.

Change the parameters as desired, and click OK.

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Note For complete details on the contents of the Value tab for these types of components,
refer to the Component Reference help file.

Edit Model Dialog Box
You can edit the model of a placed component using the Edit Model dialog
box.
This procedure does not apply to resistors, inductors, or capacitors, as these are all
generated using a common resistance, inductance, or capacitance model. Parameters for
specific R, L, or C devices are set during or after part placement. Refer to the Placing
Resistors, Inductors or Capacitors section of Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics, for
more information.

Note

Complete the following steps to edit the selected component’s model:
1.

Double-click the component to display its properties dialog box.

Click Edit Model in the Value tab. The Edit Model dialog box
appears.

Edit the model in the listbox (unlabelled) as desired.

Make a selection based on the following:

•

Current Instance Parameters field—Available for standard
Cadence® PSpice® models that contain paramaters (PARAMS).
Enter edits to PARAMS here.

•

Change Part Model—Changes the model information for the
selected component only. The button becomes active when a
change is made to the model information.

•

Change All Models—Changes all models for the same part on the
active workspace only, (that is, not in the database). The button
becomes active when a change is made to the model information.

•

Restore—Restores the model to its original state. The button
becomes active when a change is made to the model information.

•

Cancel—Closes the window without making the changes.

Click OK to save your settings and close the dialog box.

Depending on your selection in the above step, changes made here apply to either
the selected component, or all components for the same part on the active workspace. They
do not apply to the same component in the database from which it was selected.

Caution

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Edit Footprint Dialog Box
You can edit the footprint of a selected component using the Edit
Footprint dialog box.
Complete the following steps to edit the selected component’s footprint:
1.

Double-click on the component and click on Edit Footprint in the
component’s Value tab. The Edit Footprint dialog box appears.

Click Select From Database to display the Select a Footprint dialog
box.
Select the desired footprint. Refer to the Select a Footprint Dialog Box
section of Chapter 6, Component Editing, for information about using
the Select a Footprint dialog box.
Or
Click Change to display the Change Footprint dialog box.
Enter the desired Footprint Manufacturer and Footprint Type and
click OK to return to the Edit Footprint dialog box.

Click OK.

Click Map Pins to display the Advanced Pin Mapping dialog. Refer to the
Advanced Pin Mapping Dialog section of Chapter 6, Component Editing, for more
information.

Note

Virtual Components
Virtual components are not real; that is, you could not go to a supplier and
purchase them. They have a symbol and a model, but no footprint. They are
provided for your convenience to allow you to simulate “what-if”
scenarios. Multisim treats them slightly differently from real components.
By default, virtual components are shown in a different color from that of
real components on your schematic. This is to remind you that, since they
are not real, these components will not be exported to PCB layout software.

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For virtual components, whose value can be set manually, the Value tab
looks similar to this:

Note

The contents of the Value tab change depending on the component selected.
You can modify any of these fields.

Controlling How a Placed Component is Used in Analyses
For some components, such as power sources, you can determine how they
are to be used in any analyses you might perform on the circuit. These
components offer additional parameters in the Value tab.
Complete the following steps to control how the component is used in
analyses:

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Double-click on the component. The “properties” dialog box for the
component appears.

Click the Value tab.

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Modify the settings as desired.

Click OK.

Schematic Capture—Advanced Functions

Editing a Placed Component’s User Fields
Components have up to 20 user fields that provide user-specific
information about the component (for example, vendor, manufacturer,
hyperlink). The titles of the user fields are entered and edited from the
Database Manager. Refer to the Modifying User Field Titles and Content
section of Chapter 5, Components, for more information.
Complete the following steps to edit the contents of a placed component’s
user fields:
1.

Double-click on the component to display its properties dialog box.

Click on the User Fields tab.

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In the Value column, click in the field beside the desired user field
Title and enter the desired information.

Assigning Faults to Components
You may want to assign faults to analog components for instructional
purposes, such as troubleshooting exercises. You can manually assign
faults to individual components in a circuit or let Multisim randomly assign
faults to various components across a circuit.
Note

You cannot assign faults to digital components.

Setting a Placed Component’s Faults
You can assign a fault to any terminal of the placed component using the
Fault tab of that component’s properties dialog box.
Complete the following steps to assign a fault to a placed component:

Note

Double-click on the component. The component’s properties dialog
box appears.

Click the Fault tab and select the terminal(s) to which the fault should
apply, as in the following example:

The contents of the Fault tab vary depending on the component type.
3.

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Enable the type of fault you want assigned to a terminal:
•

None—No fault.

•

Open—Assigns a very high resistance to the selected terminals,
as if the wire leading to the terminals was broken.

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•

Short—Assigns a very low resistance to the selected terminals, so
the component has no measurable affect on the circuit.

•

Leakage—Assigns the resistance value specified in the fields
below the option, in parallel with the selected terminals. This
causes the current to leak past the terminals instead of going
through them.

Click OK to save your changes.

You cannot assign faults to digital components.

Using the Auto Fault Option
When you use the Auto Fault option, you specify the number of any type
of fault or, optionally, the number of faults per different type of fault, that
you want Multisim to assign to placed components in the circuit.
Complete the following steps to use the auto fault option:
1.

Note

Choose Simulate»Auto Fault Option. The Auto Fault dialog box
appears.

The Auto Fault option is disabled until a component is placed on the workspace.
2.

Use the up/down keys or enter numerical values directly in the Short,
Open, and Leak fields, or enter a numerical value in the Any field to
let Multisim randomly select the type of faults to assign (in the quantity
entered).

If you specify a number of leaks, enter a number and unit of
measurement in the Specify Leak Resistance fields.

Click OK to apply the faults and return to the circuit window.

You cannot assign faults to digital components.

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Spreadsheet View
The Spreadsheet View allows fast advanced viewing and editing of
parameters including component details such as footprints, reference
designators, attributes and design constraints and provides a global
perspective on object properties.

Spreadsheet View Results Tab
If you select Result Pane in the ERC Options tab of the Electrical Rules
Check dialog box, the Results tab will display the results of Electrical
Rules Checks (ERCs). Refer to the Electrical Rules Checking and the
Result Pane sections for more information.
The results of an Edit»Find command will also appear in the Results tab.
Refer to the Finding Components in Your Circuit section of Chapter 2,
Schematic Capture—Basics, for more information.

Pop-up from the Results tab
Complete the following steps to use the pop-up menu on the results of an
ERC or Find:
1.

Right-click on the desired result to display the pop-up menu.

Select one of:
•

Copy—Copies entire contents of Results tab onto clipboard.

•

Clear Results—Clears content of Results tab.

•

Go to—Selects the item on the workspace.

Spreadsheet View Nets Tab
The Nets tab contains the following columns:

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•

Net Name—The net’s name.

•

Sheet—The filename of the sheet on which the net is found.

•

Color—The net’s color. Default is based on the color scheme selected
in the Circuit tab of the Sheet Properties dialog box. Click to display
a Color palette and select the desired color.

•

Trace Width—Width of the traces after export to PCB layout. Unit of
measure is set in Ultiboard.

•

Min Width—Trace’s minimum allowable width. Unit of measure is
set in Ultiboard. Select desired row and then click in the field to edit.

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•

Max Width—Trace’s maximum allowable width. Unit of measure is
set in Ultiboard. Select desired row and then click in the field to edit.

•

Min Length—Trace’s minimum allowable length. Unit of measure is
set in Ultiboard. Select desired row and then click in the field to edit.

•

Max Length—Trace’s maximum allowable length. Unit of measure is
set in Ultiboard. Select desired row and then click in the field to edit.

•

Trace to Trace—Minimum allowable space between traces in the net
and traces in any other net on the PCB (printed circuit board). Unit of
measure is set in Ultiboard. Click and type to make changes.

•

Trace to Pad—Minimum allowable space between traces in the net
and pads on any other net on the PCB. Unit of measure is set in
Ultiboard. Click and type to make changes.

•

Trace to Via—Minimum allowable space between traces in the net
and vias on any other net on the PCB. Unit of measure is set in
Ultiboard. Click and type to make changes.

•

Trace to Copper Area—Minimum allowable space between traces in
the net and copper areas on the PCB. Unit of measure is set in
Ultiboard. Click and type to make changes.

•

Routing Layer—The copper layer where the net will be placed. Click
to display a drop-down list with the available selections. This
drop-down is populated based on the selections made in the PCB tab
of the Sheet Properties dialog box in the Number of Copper Layers
field. Refer to the Sheet Properties—PCB Tab section of Chapter 1,
User Interface, for more information.

•

Net Group—Click in this field to enter a group for a net. This group
can be used in Ultiboard to keep nets together during the PCB layout
process.

•

IC Initial Condition—The net’s initial condition for Transient
Analysis in Multisim.

•

NODESET—The net’s initial condition for DC Operating Point
Analysis in Multisim. Helps the program find the DC or initial solution
by making a preliminary pass with the specified nodes held to the given
voltages. The restriction is then released and the iteration continues to
the true solution. The .NODESET line may be necessary for
convergence on bistable or a-stable sircuits. Refer to the DC Operating
Point Analysis section of Chapter 1, User Interface, for more
information.

•

Type—Type of net. Can be Power, Ground or Signal.

•

Net Specific Setting—If Use Net-specific Setting in the Sheet
Properties dialog box is enabled, (refer to the Sheet

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Properties—Circuit Tab section of Chapter 1, User Interface), the
setting for the selected net is entered here. Choices are Show Net
Name or Hide Net Name.

Spreadsheet View Components Tab
The Components tab contains the following columns:

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RefDes—The component’s unique identifier (Reference Designator).

•

Sheet—The filename of the sheet on which the component appears.

•

Section—The section of a multi-section component such as a quad
NAND gate.

•

Section Name—The name of the section of a multi-section
component.

•

Family—The component’s database family.

•

Value—The component’s value, for example, 5 V for a battery; or the
component’s model, for example, 2N2222A. Double-click to edit the
component’s model.

•

Tolerance—The component’s tolerance. Refer to the Component
Tolerances in Multisim section of Chapter 1, User Interface, for more
information.

•

Manufacturer—The component’s manufacturer; either Generic or a
specific company.

•

Footprint—The physical footprint of the component. Click on the
field to change the footprint. Refer to the Editing a Component’s
Footprint section of Chapter 6, Component Editing, for more
information.

•

Description—The component’s description.

•

Label—The component’s user-defined label. Click on the field and
type in desired text. Can also be entered in the Label tab in the
component’s properties dialog box. Refer to the Modifying Component
Labels and Attributes section of Chapter 2, Schematic
Capture—Basics, for more information.

•

Coordinate X/Y—The position of the component on the workspace.
This field is read-only and changes as the component is moved on the
workspace.

•

Rotation—Click to display a drop-down list of the selections available
to rotate the component. Unrotated is the component’s original
position. Other selections are: Rotated 90 (90 degrees clockwise from
original position), Rotated 180 (180 degrees clockwise from original
position), Rotated -90 (90 degrees counter-clockwise from original

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position). You can also rotate a component by right-clicking on it in the
workspace. Refer to the Pop-up Menus section of Chapter 1, User
Interface, for more information.

Note

•

Flip—Click to display a drop-down list of the selections available to
flip the component. Unflipped is the component’s original position.
Other selections are: Flipped X (horizontal flip from original
position), Flipped Y (vertical flip from original position), Flipped XY
(a horizontal and a vertical flip from original position). You can also
flip a component by right-clicking on it in the workspace. Refer to the
Pop-up Menus section of Chapter 1, User Interface, for more
information.

•

Color—Component’s color. Default is based on the color scheme
selected in the Circuit tab of the Sheet Properties dialog box. Click
to display a Color palette and select the desired color.

•

Component Spacing—Minimum distance between the component
and another component when using the shove option in Ultiboard. Unit
of measure is set in the PCB tab of the Sheet Properties dialog box.
Click to enter new data.

•

Component Group—Click in this field to enter a group for a
component. This group can be used in Ultiboard to keep components
together during the PCB layout process.

•

Pin Swap—If enabled, allows pins for like-components to be swapped
during the PCB layout process. Click to toggle between Yes and No.

•

Gate Swap—If enabled, allows gates with same functionality, such as
two NAND gates to be swapped during PCB layout process. Click to
toggle between Yes and No.

•

Fault—Double-click to display the Change Fault dialog box. This is
the same information that is available in the Fault tab in the
component’s properties dialog box.

You cannot assign faults to digital components.
•

VCC—Supply voltage. If not blank, indicates that the part has the
corresponding input. You may choose to assign a netname from those
power and ground nets that are placed on the schematic.

•

VDD—Supply voltage. If not blank, indicates that the part has the
corresponding input. You may choose to assign a netname from those
power and ground nets that are placed on the schematic.

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•

VEE—Supply voltage. If not blank, indicates that the part has the
corresponding input. You may choose to assign a netname from those
power and ground nets that are placed on the schematic.

•

VPP—Supply voltage. If not blank, indicates that the part has the
corresponding input. You may choose to assign a netname from those
power and ground nets that are placed on the schematic.

•

GND—Ground. If not blank, indicates that the part has the
corresponding input. You may choose to assign a netname from those
power and ground nets that are placed on the schematic.

•

VSS—Usually ground, but for some components can be a negative
supply voltage. If not blank, indicates that the part has the
corresponding input. You may choose to assign a netname from those
power and ground nets that are placed on the schematic.

•

Variant—Displays a checkbox for each available variant. Enable the
checkbox for each variant of the circuit that you wish the component
to be included in. Refer to the Variants section of Chapter 4, Working
with Larger Designs, for more information.

Spreadsheet View PCB Layers Tab
The PCB Layers tab contains the following columns:
•

Layer Name—The contents of this column are set from the PCB tab
of the Sheet Properties dialog box. Refer to the Sheet
Properties—PCB Tab section of Chapter 1, User Interface, for more
information.

•

Routable—When enabled, the layer can be routed during the PCB
layout process. Click to toggle between Yes and No.

•

Type—Defines the type of layer. Double-click to display a drop-down
list and choose from Signal, Power, Ground or Unassigned.

Spreadsheet View Simulation Tab
The Simulation tab is where errors and warnings from SPICE netlist
checks, as well as simulation errors appear.
Refer to the Netlist and Simulation Errors section of Chapter 8, Simulation,
for more information.

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Spreadsheet View Buttons
The following buttons are available in the Spreadsheet View.
Button

Description
Export to Textfile button. Displays a standard Windows
Save dialog where you save the selection as a textfile.
Export to CSV File button. Displays a standard Windows
Save dialog where you save the selection as a file with
comma-separated values.
Export to Excel button. Click to open a Microsoft® Excel
spreadsheet with the selected data displayed. (You must have
Excel installed to use this function).
Sort Ascending button. Sorts the selected column in
ascending order.
Sort Descending button. Sorts the selected column in
descending order.
Print button. Prints the data in the selected tab.

Select All button. Selects all elements in the spreadsheet.

Copy button. Copies the selection to the clipboard.

Find and Select button. Finds and highlights the selected
component or net on the workspace. This feature is not
available in all versions of Multisim.
All button. Displays all of the netlists or components
(depending on the selected tab) from all sheets, multi-pages,
subcircuits and hierarchical blocks in the current design.
Replace Selected Components button. Before using, select
the desired component(s) in the circuit window to be
replaced. Invokes the Select a Component browser from
which you can select a new component. Click OK to replace
the old component(s) with the selected new one.

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Title Block Editor
The Title Block Editor is a specialized graphics editor that allows you to
create or modify a title block. For example, you can insert and position title
block data, change font properties and place or move graphic objects.
The Title Block Editor looks like this:

1
2
3

4
5
6

8
1
2

Menu Bar
Toolbars

3
4

Workspace
Draw Grid

5
6

Fields
Boundary Box

7
8

Spreadsheet View
Status Bar

The Title Block Editor consists of:

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the Menu Bar (1), which contains the menus with their associated
commands.

•

the Toolbars (2), which give quick access to the most commonly-used
tools.

•

the Workspace (3), which is where you build or modify your title
blocks. The Draw Grid (4) aids in the placement of graphic elements
and Fields (5) inside the Boundary Box (6).

•

the Spreadsheet View (7), which is where you find and edit various
title block parameters.

•

the Status Bar (8), which gives information on the currently selected
object or action.
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Complete the following steps to edit a title block that is already in your
circuit:
1.

Right-click on the desired title block and select Edit Title Block from
the pop-up. The Title Block Editor appears with the selected title
block loaded.

In-Place Edit Mode displays at the bottom of the dialog box when the Title Block
Editor is launched using the method described above. Changes will apply to the selected
title block only.

Note

Edit the title block as described in:
•

Enter Text Dialog Box.

•

Placing Fields.

•

Title Block Editor Spreadsheet View.

•

Title Block Editor Menus.

•

Title Block Editor Toolbars.

Select File»Exit and click Yes when prompted to save changes. The
Title Block Editor closes and you are returned to the main Multisim
workspace. The changes are reflected in the title block.

Complete the following steps to edit a title block that is stored in the
Title Block folder, or to create a new title block:
1.

Select Tools»Title Block Editor. The Title Block Editor appears
with a new un-named title block.

To create a new title block, start working from here.
Or
To edit an existing title block, select File»Open, navigate to the
Titleblocks folder, select the desired title block and click Open.

Edit the title block using the menus and toolbars as described in the
following sections.

Select File»Exit and click Yes when prompted to save your changes.
If this is a new title block, a standard Save As dialog box appears.
Enter the desired filepath and filename, and click Save.
If it is an existing title block the changes are saved and the Title Block
Editor closes.

The following sections describe the Title Block Editor functionality in
more detail.

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Enter Text Dialog Box
The Enter Text dialog box is used to enter and format text and place it on
the title block.
Complete the following steps to enter text on a title block:
1.

Select Graphics»Text to display the Enter Text dialog box.

Type the desired text in the Enter Text field.

Change the formatting of the text as desired:

•

Font field—Select desired font from the list or type in.

•

Font Style field—Select desired style from the list.

•

Size field—Select desired size from the list or type in.

•

Text Orientation box—Select either horizontal or vertical
orientation.

•

Automatic drop-down list—Optionally, select a new color from
the pop-up that appears when you click on the down-arrow.

Click OK, move the cursor to the desired location and click the mouse
to place the text.

Placing Fields
Fields are placeholders for text that appears in the title block on your circuit
schematic.
Note The actual text that appears in these fields is entered in the Title Block dialog box,
which is accessed from Multisim’s main screen.

For a field’s text to appear in the title block in Multisim, you must first place
the field for that text in the title block using the Title Block Editor.
Complete the following steps to place a field on the title block:
1.

Select the desired field type from the Fields menu (for example,
Revision).
Or
Click on the Text Field button in the Draw Tools toolbar and select
the desired field type from the pop-up that displays (for example,
Revision).
The Enter Title Block Attribute dialog box displays the code for the
selected field in the Title Block Attribute field. (Since we selected
Revision in this example, #REV appears).

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Refer to the Field Codes section for a list of all field codes.
2.

Change the formatting of the text as desired:
•

Font field—Select desired font from the list or type in.

•

Font Style field—Select desired style from the list.

•

Size field—Select desired size from the list or type in.

•

Text Orientation box—Select either horizontal or vertical
orientation.

•

Automatic drop-down—Optionally, select a new color from the
pop-up that appears when you click on the down-arrow.

Click OK, move the cursor to the desired location and click the mouse
to place the field. All placed fields appear in green highlighting, shown
in the example below (1). Placed text (2) is not highlighted.

1
2

Code for Placed Revision field

Placed text is not Highlighted

After completing any other edits to the title block, select File»Exit and
save the changes when prompted. You are returned to the main
Multisim screen, where the field code (#REV) has been replaced by
text, as shown in the example below (1). This text is set in the Revision
field of the Title Block dialog box, which is found in the main
Multisim application. Refer to the Entering the Title Block Contents
section of Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics, for more
information.

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Field Code Replaced by Text

Caution The width of a field as displayed in the Title Block Editor is not the same as the
actual text that is placed in that field using the Title Block dialog box (refer to the Entering
the Title Block Contents section of Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics, for more
information). Space used is also dependant on the font size. If after placing the actual text
in the title block using the Title Block dialog box, you find that text overlaps, you must
either adjust the text, or return to the Title Block Editor and adjust the positioning of the
fields.

If text in the Title Block dialog box does not appear in your title block, it is because
the field corresponding to that text was not placed in the title block using the Title Block
Editor.

Note

Field Codes
The following are the available field codes:

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Title—#TITLE

•

Description—#DSCRPT

•

Checked By—#CHECKED

•

Approved By—#APPROVED

•

Document Number—#DOC_N

•

Date—#DATE

•

Current Sheet Number—#SN

•

Total Sheet Numbers—#TSN

•

Revision—#REV

•

Format—#FMT

•

Custom Field 1—#CUSTOM_1

•

Custom Field 2—#CUSTOM_2

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Custom Field 3—#CUSTOM_3

•

Custom Field 4—#CUSTOM_4

•

Custom Field 5—#CUSTOM_5

Schematic Capture—Advanced Functions

Title Block Editor Spreadsheet View
The Spreadsheet View is where you find and edit various title block
parameters. When you select an item on the workspace, it is highlighted in
the spreadsheet, and vice versa. If you make a change to an item in the
spreadsheet, it is reflected on the title block in the workspace.
The following columns are found in the Title Block Editor Spreadsheet
View:
•

Name—The type of graphic element.

•

Pen Type—The appearance of lines for graphics elements, excluding
placed text. Select the desired row and click to display a list of pen
types. Choices are: Solid; Dash; Dot; Dash-Dot; Dash-Dot-Dot;
Invisible; Solid Inside Frame.

•

Pen Width—The width of the lines in graphic elements, excluding
placed text. Select the desired row and click to display a list of pen
types. Choices are: Not Scaleable; One Pixel; Two Pixels; Three
Pixels; Four Pixels; Five Pixels.

•

Pen Color—The color of lines for graphic elements, including placed
text. Select the desired row and click to display a color palette.

•

Brush Type—The style of the fill in elements such as polygons, that
have a fill. Select the desired row and click to display a list of fill types.
Choices are: Solid; Invisible; Horizontal; Vertical; Diagonal
Downward; Diagonal Upward; Cross; Diagonal Cross.

•

Brush Color—The color of the fill in elements such as polygons, that
have a fill. Select the desired row and click to display a color palette.

•

Font—The font name, active for placed text elements only.
Double-click to display a list of fonts.

•

Font Style—The font style, active for placed text elements only. Select
the desired row and click to display a list. Choices are: Regular; Italic;
Bold; Bold Italic.

•

Font Size—The font size, active for placed text elements only. Select
the desired row and click to display a list of sizes.

Note If objects are grouped using Edit»Group, their distinct names and properties no
longer appear in the Name column. The name for any grouped object appears as Group.

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Title Block Editor Menus
The Title Block Editor menus contain the commands necessary to create
and edit title blocks.

File Menu
The following selections are available under the File menu:
•

New—Opens a new untitled document in the Title Block Editor. If
you already have one open, it will close first, after prompting you to
save any changes.

•

Open—Opens an existing document in the Title Block Editor. If you
already have one open, it will close first, after prompting you to save
any changes.

•

Save—Saves changes to the active document.

•

Save As—Opens the standard Windows “Save As” dialog box where
you can save the active document under a new or existing name.

•

Print Setup—Opens the standard Windows “Print Setup” dialog box
where you can enter the desired parameters for your printer.

•

Print Preview—Opens the Print Preview dialog box, which shows
the title block that is in the active document.

•

Print—Opens the standard Windows “Print” dialog box where you
can enter the desired printing properties and print the title block. The
title block is printed with the best fit to the page. There are no other
magnifications available for printing the title block.

•

Exit—Closes the Title Block Editor and returns you to the main
Multisim screen. Before exiting, you are prompted to save any changes
to the active document.

Edit Menu
The following selections are available under the Edit menu:

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Undo—Undoes the previous action.

•

Redo—Undoes the previous “undo” action.

•

Cut—Removes the selected element(s) from the workspace and places
them on the clipboard.

•

Copy—Places a copy of the selected element(s) on the clipboard.

•

Paste—Places a copy of the element(s) on the clipboard on the
workspace at the cursor’s location.

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•

Delete—Removes the selected element(s) from the workspace. They
are not placed on the clipboard.

•

Copy As Picture—Copies the title block on the workspace as a
metafile.

•

Copy As Bitmap—Copies the title block on the workspace as a
bitmap image.

•

Select All—Selects all of the elements on the workspace.

•

Flip Horizontal—Flips the selected element(s) horizontally.

•

Flip Vertical—Flips the selected element(s) vertically.

•

Rotate 90 Clockwise—Rotates the selected element(s) 90 degrees
clockwise.

•

Rotate 90 Counter CW—Rotates the selected element(s) 90 degrees
counter-clockwise.

•

Snap To Grid—Snaps the selected element(s) to the Draw Grid that
is found within the title block’s boundary box.

•

Group—Places selected elements in one group.

•

Ungroup—Returns an element that was made using the Group
command, back to its individual elements.

•

Bring To Front—Brings selected element(s) to the foreground on the
workspace. Other element(s) appear behind them.

•

Send To Back—Sends selected element(s) to the background on the
workspace. Other elements appear in front of them.

•

Resize Boundary Box—Places a cursor at the lower-right side of the
boundary box. Drag it to the desired location to resize the boundary
box. You cannot make the boundary box smaller than the elements that
it contains.

View Menu
The following selections are available under the View menu:
•

Toolbars—Toggles the following toolbars on and off: Standard
Toolbar; Zoom Toolbar; Draw Tools; Drawing Toolbar.

•

Spreadsheet—Toggles the Title Block Editor Spreadsheet View on
and off. Refer to the Title Block Editor Spreadsheet View section for
more information.

•

Status Bar—Toggles the Status Bar at the bottom of the screen on
and off.

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•

Show Draw Grid—Toggles the Draw Grid, which displays inside the
Boundary Box, on and off.

•

Draw Grid Size—Sets the size of the Draw Grid, which displays
inside the Boundary Box. The choices are: No Grid (select if you
wish to draw an element that does not snap to the grid); Smallest Grid;
Small Grid; Regular Grid; Large Grid.

•

Zoom In—Magnifies the elements(s) in the workspace.

•

Zoom Out—Reduces the viewing size of the elements(s) in the
workspace.

•

Zoom 100%—Displays the items in the workspace at their normal
viewing size. This is the size that they will be displayed at in Multisim.
When the Title Block Editor first opens, the magnification is set to
100%.

•

Center By Mouse—When viewing the workspace at high
magnifications, you can use this command to center the image on the
workspace. Select Center By Mouse and then click on the spot that
you would like to be placed at the center of the workspace.

•

Redraw—Redraws all elements in the workspace.

Fields Menu
Fields are placeholders for text that appear in the title block on Multisim’s
main screen. Refer to the Placing Fields section for more information.
The following selections are available under the Fields menu:

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Select—Lets you select specific element(s) on the workspace.

•

Title—Displays the Enter Title Block Attribute dialog box, where
you enter formatting information for the Title field (#TITLE) and click
OK to place the field on the title block.

•

Description—Displays the Enter Title Block Attribute dialog box,
where you enter formatting information for the Description field
(#DSCRPT) and click OK to place the field on the title block.

•

Designed By—Displays the Enter Title Block Attribute dialog box,
where you enter formatting information for the Designed By field
(#DESIGNED) and click OK to place the field on the title block.

•

Checked By—Displays the Enter Title Block Attribute dialog box,
where you enter formatting information for the Checked By field
(#CHECKED) and click OK to place the field on the title block.

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•

Approved By—Displays the Enter Title Block Attribute dialog box,
where you enter formatting information for the Approved By field
(#APPROVED) and click OK to place the field on the title block.

•

Document Number—Displays the Enter Title Block Attribute
dialog box, where you enter formatting information for the Document
Number field (#DOC_N) and click OK to place the field on the title
block.

•

Date—Displays the Enter Title Block Attribute dialog box, where
you enter formatting information for the Date field (#DATE) and click
OK to place the field on the title block.

•

Current Sheet Number—Displays the Enter Title Block Attribute
dialog box, where you enter formatting information for the Current
Sheet Number field (#SN) and click OK to place the field on the title
block.

•

Total Sheet Numbers—Displays the Enter Title Block Attribute
dialog box, where you enter formatting information for the Total
Sheet Numbers field (#TSN) and click OK to place the field on the
title block.

•

Revision—Displays the Enter Title Block Attribute dialog box,
where you enter formatting information for the Revision field (#REV)
and click OK to place the field on the title block.

•

Format—Displays the Enter Title Block Attribute dialog box,
where you enter formatting information for the Format field (#FMT)
and click OK to place the field on the title block.

•

Custom Field 1—Displays the Enter Title Block Attribute dialog
box, where you enter formatting information for Custom Field 1
(#CUSTOM_1) and click OK to place the field on the title block.

•

Custom Field 2—Displays the Enter Title Block Attribute dialog
box, where you enter formatting information for Custom Field 2
(#CUSTOM_2) and click OK to place the field on the title block.

•

Custom Field 3—Displays the Enter Title Block Attribute dialog
box, where you enter formatting information for Custom Field 3
(#CUSTOM_3) and click OK to place the field on the title block.

•

Custom Field 4—Displays the Enter Title Block Attribute dialog
box, where you enter formatting information for Custom Field 4
(#CUSTOM_4) and click OK to place the field on the title block.

•

Custom Field 5—Displays the Enter Title Block Attribute dialog
box, where you enter formatting information for Custom Field 5
(#CUSTOM_5) and click OK to place the field on the title block.

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Graphics Menu
The following selections are available under the Graphics menu:

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•

Text—Displays the Enter Text dialog box where you enter and
format text to be placed on the workspace. Refer to the Enter Text
Dialog Box section for more information.

•

Line—Draws a line on the workspace.

•

Multiline—Draws a multiline on the workspace.

•

Half Ellipse Arc—Places half of an ellipse on the workspace. Click
once at the desired starting point and click again where you wish the
diameter of the ellipse to end. As you move the cursor, a dotted outline
of the ellipse appears. Click again to place the outer point of the arc at
the desired location.

•

Segment Arc—Places an arc on the workspace. Click once to place
the center point of the arc, click again to place the outer diameter point.
As you move the cursor, a dotted outline of the arc appears. Move the
cursor and click to place the arc’s end point.

•

Bezier—Places a bezier curve on the workspace. Click to place the
start of the curve, then move the cursor on the workspace. As you move
the cursor, a dotted outline of the bezier curve appears. Click to place
the end point of the bezier, then move and click the cursor twice more
to form the final shape of the bezier.

•

Rectangle—Places a rectangle on the workspace.

•

Circle—Places a circle on the workspace. Click to place the center of
the circle, then move the cursor on the workspace. As you move the
cursor, a dotted outline of the circle appears. When the circle is the
desired shape and size, click to place it on the workspace.

•

Ellipse—Places an ellipse on the workspace. Click to place the center
of the ellipse, then move the cursor on the workspace. As you move the
cursor, a dotted outline of the ellipse appears. When the ellipse is the
desired shape and size, click to place it on the workspace.

•

Polygon—Places a polygon on the workspace.

•

Bitmap—Places a bitmap image on the workspace. Click to display a
standard Windows “Open” dialog box, where you can select the
desired bitmap.

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Tools Menu
The following selection is available under the Tools menu:
•

Customize—Displays the Customize dialog box. Refer to the
Customizing the Interface section of Chapter 1, User Interface, for
more information.

Help Menu
The following selections are available under the Help menu:
•

Help Topics—Displays the help file.

•

About Title Block Editor—Displays a splash dialog with information
about the Title Block Editor.

Pop-up Menus
Depending on where you right-click in the Title Block Editor, different
context-sensitive pop-up menus appear.
Right-click on the menu/toobar area to display a pop-up which allows you
to toggle the following toolbars on and off: Standard Toolbar; Zoom
Toolbar; Draw Tools; Drawing Toolbar.
Right-click in the workspace to display a pop-up that contains: Cut; Copy;
Paste; Show Draw Grid; Draw Grid Size; Snap To Grid; Flip
Horizontal; Flip Vertical; Rotate 90 Clockwise; Rotate 90 Counter
CW. Refer to the Edit Menu section for more information. If you do not
right-click on a specific item in the workspace, items in the pop-up will be
greyed-out.

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Title Block Editor Toolbars
The toolbars give access to the most commonly-used tools in the Title
Block Editor.

Standard Toolbar—Title Block Editor
The buttons in the Standard toolbar found in the Title Block Editor are
described below:
Button

Description
New button. Opens a new untitled document in the Title
Block Editor. If you already have one open, it will close first,
after prompting you to save any changes.
Open button. Opens an existing document in the Title Block
Editor. If you already have one open, it will close first, after
prompting you to save any changes.
Save button. Saves changes to the active document.

Cut button. Removes the selected element(s) from the
workspace and places them on the clipboard.
Copy button. Places a copy of the selected element(s) on the
clipboard.
Paste button. Places a copy of the element(s) on the clipboard
on the workspace at the cursor’s location.
Copy As Picture button. Copies the title block on the
workspace as a metafile.
Copy As Bitmap button. Copies the title block on the
workspace as a bitmap image.
Undo button. Undoes the previous action.

Redo button. Redoes the previous “undo” action.

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Button

Schematic Capture—Advanced Functions

Description
Print Preview button. Opens the Print Preview dialog box,
which shows the title block in the active document with the
best fit to the page. There are no other sizes available.
Print button. Opens the standard Windows “Print” dialog
box, where you can enter the desired printing properties and
print the title block. The title block is printed with the best fit
to the page. There are no other magnifications available for
printing the title block.
About Title Block Editor button. Displays an “About” box
with information about the Title Block Editor.

Zoom Toolbar—Title Block Editor
The buttons in the Zoom toolbar found in the Title Block Editor are
described below:
Button

Description
Zoom In button. Magnifies the elements on the workspace.

Zoom 100% button. Displays the items in the workspace at
their normal viewing size. This is the size that they will be
displayed at in Multisim. When the Title Block Editor first
opens, the magnification is set to 100%.
Zoom Out button. Reduces the viewing size of the
element(s) on the workspace.

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Draw Tools Toolbar—Title Block Editor
The buttons in the Draw Tools toolbar found in the Title Block Editor are
described below:
Button

Description
Select button. Use to select element(s) on the workspace by
clicking and dragging the mouse.
Rectangle button. Places a rectangle on the workspace.

Line button. Places a line on the workspace.

Circle button. Places a circle on the workspace. Click to
place the center of the circle, then move the cursor on the
workspace. As you move the cursor, a dotted outline of the
circle appears. When the circle is the desired shape and size,
click to place it on the workspace.
Ellipse button. Places an ellipse on the workspace. Click to
place the center of the ellipse, then move the cursor on the
workspace. As you move the cursor, a dotted outline of the
ellipse appears. When the ellipse is the desired shape and
size, click to place it on the workspace.
Multiline button. Places a multiline on the workspace.

Polygon button. Places a polygon on the workspace.

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Description
Bezier button. Places a bezier curve on the workspace.

Text button. Displays the Enter Text dialog box, where you
enter and format text to be placed on the workspace. Refer to
the Enter Text Dialog Box section for more information.
Bitmap button. Places a bitmap image on the workspace.
Click to display a standard Windows “Open” dialog box,
where you can select the desired bitmap.
Text Field button. Select to enter formatting information for
a specific field. Displays a drop-down list with these choices:
Title; Description; Designed By; Checked By; Approved By;
Document Number; Date; Current Sheet Number; Total
Sheet Numbers; Revision; Format; Custom Field 1; Custom
Field 2; Custom Field 3; Custom Field 4; Custom Field 5.
When a choice is made, the Enter Title Block Attribute dialog
box displays. Refer to the Placing Fields section for more
information.

Drawing Toolbar—Title Block Editor
The buttons on the Drawing toolbar in the Title Block Editor are
described below:
Button

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Button

Description
Align Bottom button. Moves the selected objects vertically
so that their bottom sides line up with the bottom side of the
bottom-most object. At least two objects must be selected to
enable this button.
Snap To Grid button. Snaps the selected element(s) to the
Draw Grid that is found within the title block’s boundary
box.
Distribute Horizontal button. Evenly spaces the selected
objects horizontally. At least three objects must be selected to
enable this button.
Distribute Vertical button. Evenly spaces the selected
objects vertically. At least three objects must be selected to
enable this button.
Bring To Front button. Brings selected element(s) to the
foreground on the workspace. Other element(s) appear
behind them.
Send To Back button. Sends selected element(s) to the
background on the workspace. Other elements appear in front
of them.
Rotate 90 Counter CW button. Rotates the selected
element(s) 90 degrees counter-clockwise.
Rotate 90 Clockwise button. Rotates the selected element(s)
90 degrees clockwise.
Flip Horizontal button. Flips the selected element(s)
horizontally on the workspace.
Flip Vertical button. Flips the selected element(s) vertically
on the workspace.
Ungroup button. Returns an element that was made using the
Group command back to its individual elements.

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Description
Group button. Places selected elements in one group.

Resize Boundary Box button. Places a cursor at the
lower-right side of the boundary box. Drag it to the desired
location to resize the boundary box. You cannot make the
boundary box smaller than the elements that it contains or
smaller than is required for the pins that are attached to it.

Electrical Rules Checking
Once you have wired your circuit, you can check the connections for
correctness based on the rules set up in the Electrical Rules Check dialog
box. Electrical Rules Checking creates and displays a report detailing
connection errors (such as an output pin connected to a power pin) and
unconnected pins.
Depending on your circuit, you may wish to have warnings issued if some
types of connections are present, error messages for other connection types,
and no warnings or errors for other connections. You control the type of
connections that are reported when Electrical Rules Checking is done by
setting up the rules in the grid found in the ERC Rules tab of the Electrical
Rules Check dialog box.
When you run an electrical rules check (ERC), any anomalies are reported
into a results pane at the bottom of the screen and the circuit is annotated
with circular error markers. Double-clicking on an error in the results pane
will center and zoom on the error location.
Complete the following steps to run the electrical rules check:
1.

Select Tools»Electrical Rules Check to display the Electrical Rules
Check dialog box.

Set up the reporting options as described in the ERC Options Tab and
ERC Rules Tab sections.

Set up the rules as described in the ERC Rules Tab section.

Click OK. The results display in the format selected in the Output box
in the ERC Options tab.
In the following examples, a power pin has been connected to an
output pin, which was defined as an error in the ERC Rules tab. All
others pins have been left unconnected.

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Note You can select whether or not to include specific pins in a component in the ERC.
Refer to the Component’s Pins Tab section for more information.

Result Pane
If you select Result Pane to display your output, errors and warnings are
detailed in the Results tab of the Spreadsheet View as shown in the
example in the figure below.
Double-click on individual errors or warnings in the ERC list (1). The error
or warning is selected and zoomed and shown in (2) below. Double-click
on the same error or warning to zoom to the other pin associated with the
error or warning (3). This does not apply to unconnected pins.
The red circles are ERC markers, and indicate either errors or warnings.
2

1
3

1. ERC List

2. Selected Error’s First Pin

3. Selected Error’s Second Pin

File
If you select File in the Output box, the results of the ERC are saved to a
text file in the filepath and name that you enter in the File field.

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List View
If you select List View, a report displays as shown in the example below:

Use the buttons detailed below as required:
Button

Description
Save to a Text File button. Click to save the data in the dialog
box to a text file. A standard Windows save dialog box
appears. Choose the desired filepath and click Save.
Print button. Click to display a standard Windows print
dialog box. Choose the desired print options and click OK.
Print Preview button. Click to display the Print Preview
dialog box.
Export to MS Excel button. Click to open a Microsoft®
Excel spreadsheet with the data from the dialog box
displayed. (You must have Excel installed to use this
function).

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ERC Options Tab
This section describes how to set up Electrical Rule Check (ERC) options.
Refer to the Electrical Rules Checking section for information about how
to run an ERC.
Complete the following steps to set up the ERC options:
1.

Select Tools»Electrical Rules Check to display the Electrical Rules
Check dialog box and click on the ERC Options tab.

In the Scope box, select one of:

•

Current Page—Runs the ERC on the page displayed and selected
on your workspace.

•

Whole Design—Runs the ERC on all subcircuits, hierarchical
blocks and multi-pages associated with the current design.

In the Flow Through box, select as many of the following as desired:
•

Off-Page Connectors—Checks connections between pins
connected through off-page connectors. Does not check any other
pins on the associated multi-page unless Check Touched Pages
is also selected.

•

HB/SC Pins—Checks connections between pins connected
through HB/SC (hierarchical block or subcircuit) connectors.
Does not check any other pins on the associated hierarchical block
or subcircuit unless Check Touched Pages is also selected.

•

Bus Off-Page Connectors—Checks connections between pins
connected to buses through bus off-page connectors. Does not
check any other pins on the associated multi-page unless Check
Touched Pages is also selected.

•

Bus HB/SC Pins—Checks connections between pins connected
to buses through Bus HB/SC (hierarchical block or subcircuit)
connectors. Does not check any other pins on the associated
hierarchical block of subcircuit unless Check Touched Pages is
also selected.

•

Check Touched Pages—Is active when one or more of the above
are selected. When selected, ERC checks all connections on the
associated multi-page, hierarchical block or subcircuit.

In the Report Also box, select the following as desired:
•

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Unconnected Pins—Checks for pins that are not connected to
anything.

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Excluded Pins—Checks pins that have been excluded from ERC
in the Pins tab of the component’s properties dialog box. Refer to
the Component’s Pins Tab section for more information.

In the ERC Marker box, select the following as desired:
•

Clear ERC Markers—Clears existing ERC markers (red circles
indicating errors and warnings) from the workspace when you run
the ERC. Refer to the Clearing ERC Markers section for
information about clearing ERC markers without running an ERC.

•

Create ERC Markers—Places red circles indicating errors and
warnings on the workspace.

In the Output box, select one of:
•

Result Pane—Displays ERC results in the Results tab of the
Spreadsheet View. If you select Clear Pane, any previous ERC
results will be cleared from the Results tab when a new ERC is
run. Refer to the Result Pane section for an example.

•

File—The results are saved in the filepath and name that you enter
in the File field. Refer to the File section for an example.

•

List View—The results display in a report format. Refer to the
List View section for more information.

Clearing ERC Markers
Complete the following steps to o clear ERC markers without running a
new Electrical Rules Check:
1.

Select Tools»Clear ERC Markers to display the ERC Marker
Deletion Scope dialog box.

Select one of:

•

Current Page—To clear the ERC markers from the currently
selected page.

•

Whole Design—To clear the ERC markers from all pages
associated with the design.

Click OK to delete the selected markers.

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ERC Rules Tab
This section describes how to set up the electrical rules used when running
an Electrical Rules Check. Refer to the Electrical Rules Checking section
for information about how to run an ERC.
Complete the following steps to set up the electrical rules:
1.

Select Tools»Electrical Rules Check to display the Electrical Rules
Check dialog box and click on the ERC Rules tab.

Set the desired warning or error levels by clicking on the button that
appears at the intersection of the desired pin types in the grid found in
the Definition box. Click until the desired color, based on the Legend
appears.
For clarity, some examples are shown in the figure below.
The ERC symbols are shown in (1).
The green button (3) indicates “OK” for connection of Pas (passive) to
In (input) pin.
The red button (2) indicates an error for connection of Oc (open
collector) to Oe (open emitter) pin.
The warning and error levels are shown in the Legend area (4). Refer
to the Warning and Error Levels section for more information.

ERC Symbols

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Red Button

Green Button

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The table below details the pin types and their associated ERC symbols that are
available on the various components in Multisim.

Note

Pin Type

Pin Type from Multisim Component Editor

ERC Symbol

INPUT

Input, 74LS Input, 74S Input, 74 STD Input, CMOS
Input, Schmitt Trigger, ECL Input.

OUTPUT

Output, Active Driver, 74LS Active Driver, 74S
Active Driver, 74STD Active Driver, CMOS Active
Driver.

Out

OPEN_COLLECTOR

Open Collector, 74S Open Collector, 74STD Open
Collector, CMOS Open Collector, 74LS Open
Collector.

OPEN_EMITTER

ECL Output.

BI_DIRECTIONAL

Bi-directional, 74LS Bi-directional, 74S
Bi-directional, 74STD Bi-directional, CMOS
Bi-directional.

3-STATE

3-state, 74LS 3-state, 74S 3-state, 74STD 3-state,
Bi-directional-3st, CMOS 3-State.

Tri

PASSIVE

Passive

Pas

POWER

Power, Vcc, Vdd, Vee, Vpp

Pwr

GND

Gnd, Vss

Pwr

NC (no connection)

Warning and Error Levels
The following explains the warning and error levels available:
•

Ok—Green button. No message is displayed after an Electrical Rules
Check.

•

Warning—Yellow button. A warning message is displayed after an
Electrical Rules Check.

•

Error—Red button. An error message is displayed after an Electrical
Rules Check.

•

Warning*—Blue button. A warning message is displayed after an
Electrical Rules Check, only if no other pin type is present.

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•

Error*—Purple button. An error message is displayed after an
Electrical Rules Check, only if no other pin type is present.

Component’s Pins Tab
Before running an Electrical Rules Check you can set which pins to
exclude or include for specific components.
Complete the following steps to set up which pins in a component to
include or exclude from an ERC:
1.

Double-click on the desired component to display its properties dialog
box and click on the Pins tab.

Set the cells in the following columns as desired:
•

ERC Status—Select either Include or Exclude for each of the
component’s pins.

•

NC—Select Yes to add NC (no connection) markers to a pin. A
pin marked in this way will not have an unconnected pin error
assigned to it when you run the ERC. Also, you cannot wire to
pins with NC markers. Refer to the Marking Pins for No
Connection section of Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics, for
more information.

You cannot change the NC state of a pin that is already wired to a net. If you try, a
warning appears indicating that this is not permitted.

Note

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Click OK to close the dialog box.

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This chapter describes features that are especially useful when dealing with
larger, more complicated designs.
Some of the features described in this chapter may not be available in your
edition of Multisim. Refer to the release notes for a list of the features in
your edition.

Flat Multi-Sheet Design
In many instances circuit designs are too large to fit all components on a
single sheet or for logical reasons it’s easier to think of a circuit design if it
is divided. In this case, you can use Multisim’s Flat Multi-Sheet Design
feature. This allows you to place off-page connectors between different
sections of your circuit.
Complete the following steps to add another sheet to a circuit:
1.

Select Place»Multi-Page. The Page Name dialog box displays.

Enter the desired name and click OK. A blank circuit appears with the
name that you entered above.

Place components and wire the circuit as desired.

Select Place»Connectors»Off-Page Connector. A “ghost” image of
an off-page connector displays attached to your mouse pointer.

Drag the “ghost” image to the desired location and click to place the
connector. Repeat for any other required off-page connectors.

Wire the off-page connectors into the circuit.

Save the file and return to the main circuit window.

Select Place»Connectors»Off-Page Connector. A “ghost” image of
an off-page connector displays attached to your mouse pointer.

Drag the “ghost” image to the desired location and click to place the
connector. Repeat for any other required off-page connectors.

10. Wire the off-page connectors into the main circuit.

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Caution To achieve a connection between a point in the main circuit and a point in another
page, the name of the off-page connector in the main circuit must be the same as in the
other page. For example, “OffPage1” in the main circuit, will be connected to “OffPage1”
in the other (flat) page.
Note

Refer to the Connecting Buses to HB/SCs section for more information.

Delete Multi-Page Dialog Box
Complete the following steps to delete a page from a multi-page circuit file.
1.

Select Edit»Delete Multi-Page to display the Delete Multi-Page
dialog box.

Highlight the page that you wish to delete and click OK.

Hierarchical Design
Hierarchical blocks and subcircuits are used to organize functionally
related parts of a design into manageable pieces. Multisim’s hierarchical
functionality allows you to build a hierarchy of inter-connected circuits,
increasing the reusability of your circuit designs and ensuring consistency
across a group of designers. For example, you might build a library of
commonly used circuits, stored in a central location. Those circuits could
in turn be contained in other, more complex circuits, which could be used
to create yet another level of circuit design. Since the interconnected
circuits are linked together, and updated automatically, you can ensure that
refinements made to one circuit are carried out in all related circuits as well.
This lets you, for example, divide a complex project into smaller,
interconnected circuits for completion by individual team members.
Hierarchical blocks and subcircuits are similar except that subcircuits are
saved with the original circuit and hierarchical blocks are individual circuit
files that are referenced from a main file. The connection method is the
same for both using the HB/SC Connector. Sub-circuits are easier to
manage, as they cannot accidentally become separated from the circuit that
references them. Hierarchical blocks are useful when re-using nested
circuits across multiple designs, or for dividing the work when multiple
designers are working on the same design.
When using hierarchical blocks, the “block” remains a separate schematic
file which can be edited. The connection between a block and the circuit in
which it is placed is an active link—if you place the contents of circuit A
as a block of circuit B, you can open circuit A separately, make any changes

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necessary, and those changes are reflected in circuit B the next time you
open it and in any other circuits that use circuit A.

Nested Circuits
When a circuit file is opened or created in Multisim, by definition it is the
top-level circuit of the current design. All circuits may reference other,
embedded (subcircuit) or linked-to (hierarchical block) nested circuits,
which act as building blocks to control circuit complexity. In addition, any
circuit (nested or otherwise), may comprise multiple pages for ease of
understanding and printing. The Hierarchy tab in the Design Toolbox
displays a graphical view of the open designs.

If the same nested circuit is used more than once in a design, it will appear
more than once in the hierarchy view, and will have more than one tab in
the main workspace. Each appearance is an instance of use of that nested
circuit. Use instances are identified by a path formed by the names of the
references used to reach them. In the simple example above, there are two
ways to reach “sub”: one via the reference X1 in Circuit1 and one via the
reference X2.
With one notable exception (RefDes assignment), edits made to one
instance of use are reflected in all others (because it is actually the same
circuit that is being modified). Different views are maintained of each use
instance in order that simulation may distinguish them. Thus, if a probe was
dragged over the net IO1 in the X1 instance of sub, it would show a
different voltage than if it were dragged over the same net in the X2
instance.

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Refer to the Measurement Probe section of Chapter 9, Instruments, for
information on probes.

Component Numbering in Nested Circuits
Every part in a design has a unique reference designator (RefDes), such as
R5, U2, and so on. A RefDes is assigned by default when a component is
placed by taking a single letter typical of the type of part being placed (R
for resistors, C for capacitors, and so on) followed by the next highest
available number. You may edit these to be anything you like, so long as
they are unique across a design. In the case of multi-section parts, the
RefDes will also include a section identifier.
The assignment of RefDes to part is stored with the top-level circuit, and
not with any of the nested circuits. This is because the same nested circuit
may appear more than once in a design. Were the RefDes to be associated
with a nested circuit, duplicate RefDes would appear. To combat this, it is
the top-level circuit that associates a RefDes with each part's instance of
use. Thus, a hierarchical block opened via top-level circuit 1 will have all
the same components that are in the same hierarchical block opened via
top-level circuit 2, however they will have different RefDes.

In the above example, we see Circuit1 referencing the same sub-circuit,
sub, twice. The components, their placement, the wiring, and the net names
in the sub-circuit are identical in the two instances (because they are, after

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all, the same sub-circuit: sub). However, the RefDes of their components
are different, as the association of RefDes to component instance is stored
with and managed by the containing design, Circuit1.

Net Numbering in Nested Circuits
Net names are unique across all the pages of a multi-page circuit. However,
net names may be repeated in nested circuits. This does not cause any
ambiguity, however, as the “real” names of nets in nested circuits are
formed by pre-pending a dot-separated path of references to reach the
circuit instance. In the figure below, ‘X1.IO1’ is the full name of net
number IO1 in the sub-circuit referenced by the RefDes ‘X1’ from the
top-level circuit.

Global Nets
Certain pre-defined named nets are global across an entire design—any
time a global net at any level in the hierarchy or on any page is re-named to
one of these reserved nets, it joins this net. These reserved global nets are
0, GND, VCC, VDD, VEE, and VSS. Net 0 corresponds to analog ground,
and is the reference for all voltages during simulation. GND is a digital
ground (it is common for the purposes of PCB layout to wish to isolate
these two ground nets).
If you want to keep the analog and digital grounds separate during the PCB layout
process, be sure that the Connect digital ground to analog ground checkbox in the PCB
tab of the Sheet Properties dialog box is de-selected before exporting your schematic to
Ultiboard. Refer to the Sheet Properties—PCB Tab of Chapter 1, User Interface, and the
Transferring from Multisim to Ultiboard for PCB Layout section of Chapter 13,
Transfer/Communication, for more information.
Caution

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Components like VCC and VDD that use the “T” symbol, or the GND
component that uses the triangle symbol, can be renamed as desired. When
a wire is attached to such a component, its net name is automatically
changed to the name of the component. For example, in the figure below,
VCC was placed and then renamed to “power” by double-clicking on the
component and changing the RefDes (1) to “power”. The net name
automatically changed to “power” (2) to match the new component
RefDes.

RefDes

Net Name

Nets created this way become accessible across pages in a multi-page
circuit, without the use of Off-Page Connectors. If the symbol is placed into
a nested circuit (SC or HB), the attached net is renamed to be a top-level
net, and joins any other nets at the top-level with the same name. For
example, having a net named “power” in a sub-circuit referenced by X1
from the top-level circuit would normally re-write the name of the net to
“X1.power”. This makes this net unique to any other net named “power” at
the top-level or in any other nested circuit in the design (even other use
instances of the same sub-circuit). However, placing a “T” component
re-named to “power” and then attaching a wire to it would result in the net
being simply called “power”. This creates a virtual wiring situation
between all such nets named “power”. Hence, this is a mechanism by which
nets may be declared to be of the top-most net namespace, even when
buried deeply into nested circuits, as shown in (1) in the following figure.

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Instances of “power”

Adding a Hierarchical Block
Complete the following steps to place a new hierarchical block:
1.

Select Place»New Hierarchical Block to display the Hierarchical
Block Properties dialog box.

Enter a filename.
Or
Click on Browse, navigate to the folder where you would like to save
the hierarchical block and click Save. You are returned to the
Hierarchical Block Properties dialog box.

Enter the number of pins desired and click OK. A “ghost” image of the
new hierarchical block appears. Click where you want the hierarchical
block to appear.

Double-click on the new hierarchical block and select Edit HB/SC
from the Label tab of the Hierarchical Block/Subcircuit dialog box
that displays. A circuit window that contains only the entered pins
displays.

Place and wire components as desired in the new hierarchical block.

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Wire the hierarchical block into the circuit as in the example in the
figure below.

Save the circuit.

If you re-name or move a hierarchical block relative to the main circuit, Multisim
will not be able to find it. In this case, a dialog box will display asking you to provide the
new location for the hierarchical block.

Note

Placing a HB from an Existing File
Complete the following steps to place a hierarchical block from an existing
file:
1.

Select Place»Hierarchical Block from File, navigate to the desired
file and click Open. The circuit is placed on the workspace.

You may need to add HB/SC connectors to the HB if they are not
already present.
To do this, double-click on the placed HB’s symbol and select Edit
HB/SC.
Select Place»Connectors»HB/SC Connector, and place and wire the
connector as desired.
When you return to the main circuit, the symbol for the HB will
include pins for the number of connectors that you added.

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If you have already placed instances of the hierarchical block, the
following dialog displays:

Select which hierarchical block you wish to use to assign grouping
information in the new hierarchical block and click OK.

Replacing Components with an HB
Complete the following steps to replace a section of a schematic with a
hierarchical block (HB):
1.

In the workspace, select the desired components and nets.

Select Place»Replace by Hierarchical Block. The Hierarchical
Block Properties dialog box appears. Enter the desired filename and
click OK.

The selection is replaced by a HB symbol that is correctly wired into
the circuit.

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Adding a Subcircuit
Complete the following steps to place a new subcircuit:
1.

Select Place»New Subcircuit. The Subcircuit Name dialog box
appears.

Enter the name you wish to use for the subcircuit, for example,
“PowerSupply” and click OK. Your cursor changes to a “ghost” image
of the subcircuit indicating that the subcircuit is ready to be placed.

Click on the location in the circuit where you want the subcircuit
placed (you can move it later, if necessary).
The subcircuit appears in the desired location on the circuit window as
an icon with the subcircuit name inside it.

Double-click on the new subcircuit and select Edit HB/SC from the
Label tab of the Hierarchical Block/Subcircuit dialog box that
displays. An empty circuit window appears.

Place and wire components as desired in the new hierarchical block.

Select Place»Connectors»HB/SC Connector, and place and wire the
connector as desired. Repeat for any other required HB/SC
Connectors.
When you return to the main circuit, the symbol for the subcircuit will
include pins for the number of connectors that you added.

Wire the subcircuit pins into the main circuit in the usual manner.

Complete the following steps to place another instance of the same
subcircuit:

Note

Select the desired subcircuit in the workspace and select Edit»Copy.

Select Edit»Paste to place a copy of the subcircuit on the workspace.

The copy must be pasted in the same file as the original subcircuit.

Replacing Components with an SC
Complete the following steps to replace a section of a schematic with a
subcircuit (SC):

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In the workspace, select the desired components and nets.

Select Place»Replace by Subcircuit. The Subcircuit Name dialog
box appears.

Enter the name you wish to use for the subcircuit and click OK. The
selection is replaced by a SC symbol that is correctly wired into the
circuit.

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Viewing a Parent Sheet
When you are viewing a subcircuit or hierarchical block you can quickly
move to its parent sheet. This is particularly useful when you have many
circuits open at once.
To view an active subcircuit or hierarchical block’s parent, select View»
Parent Sheet.
This command will move you to the next circuit upwards in the hierarchy. If you
have multiple nested circuits and are viewing, for example, a subcircuit within a subcircuit,
you will not move to the top of the hierarchy.

Note

Renaming Component Instances
The Rename Component Reference Designators dialog box is used to
rename/renumber components to, for example, eliminate gaps in
numbering. This should be done just before the circuit is exported to PCB
layout.
The columns in the dialog box contain the following information:
•

RefDes Path—The path for the component. If the component is
located on the main sheet (that is, not in a subcircuit, hierarchical
block, or multi-page, the path will only contain the component’s
reference designator (RefDes), as in the example “V1”. If the
component is not on the main sheet, the sheet on which it is located
also shows, as in the example “X3.R1”. This indicates that R1 is found
on the subcircuit referenced by X3.

•

RefDes—The reference designator of the component as it appears on
the workspace.

•

Section—The section of a multi-section component.

•

Locked—Yes indicates that the component will not be changed by
either a Renumber or a Gate Optimizer command.

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Complete the following steps to renumber the components in a circuit:
1.

Select Tools»Rename/Renumber Components. The example in the
figure below shows the resistors found in subcircuit X1 (1), and the
resistors found in subcircuit X2 (2).

Resistors in Subcircuit X1

Resistors in Subcircuit X2

Click Renumber. The RefDes’s are renumbered in sequence. In the
example below, the RefDes’s in X2 have been renumbered (1).

Renumbered RefDes’s in X2

Click OK to close the dialog box and accept the changes.

Complete the following steps to optimize the circuit so that multi-section
components are used as efficiently as possible:
1.

Select Tools»Rename/Renumber Components.

Click Gate Optimizer.

Reference Designator Prefix Setup Dialog
The Reference Designator Prefix Setup dialog box can be used to assign
a unique numbering system for each subcircuit, hierarchical block or
multi-page. This is useful when trying to identify components in a large
design.This section uses the example of two instances of the same
subcircuit as shown in the figure below, (1) and (2).

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Complete the following steps to set up renaming parameters:
1.

Select Tools»Rename/Renumber Components to display the
Rename Component Reference Designators dialog box.

Click Setup. The Reference Designator Prefix Setup dialog box
appears.

Select the item for which you wish to set up numbering parameters and
enable Use RefDes Prefix.

If desired, enter a prefix for the components in the selection in the
Prefix field, for example “Beta”.

Enter the starting number for each RefDes in the selection in the Offset
field, for example “100”.

Click OK to return to the Rename Component Reference
Designators dialog box.

Click Renumber. The RefDes’s are renumbered to reflect the changes
to the setup that you made in the Reference Designator Prefix Setup

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dialog box. In the example in the figure below, the prefix of “Beta” has
been added to each component in the instance of the subcircuit (1). The
component numbering sequence for components in the instance of the
subcircuit begins at “100” (2).

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Prefix “Beta”

Component Numbering Sequence

Click OK to accept the changes. In the example in the figure below, the
prefix of “Beta” has been added to each component in the instance of
the subcircuit (1). The component numbering sequence for
components in the instance of the subcircuit begins at “100” (2).

Prefix “Beta”

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Buses
In order to simplify wiring, buses can be used to carry multiple nets. Buses
can be used within a page, across pages, and down into nested circuits
(subcircuits and hierarchical blocks).
Buses operate in two modes. In net mode, a bus is simply a collection of
nets. Each time a wire is connected to a bus via a bus entry, you are given
the choice of connecting that new wire to an existing net already in the bus,
or of adding that net to the bus. This is illustrated in the figure below (1).
In busline mode, you can pre-define the number and names of buslines that
are contained in that bus. When connecting a wire to the bus via a bus entry,
you are prompted to specify which of the existing buslines the new wire
should attach to. All wires attached to the same busline are merged into the
same net. This is illustrated in the figure below (2).

Net Mode

Busline Mode

The bus wiring mode is set in the Wiring tab of the Sheet Properties dialog box.
Refer to the Sheet Properties—Wiring Tab section of Chapter 1, User Interface, for more
information.

Note

Net mode is a more traditional way of using buses in schematic capture
programs. Busline mode allows for a more modern, declaration-before-use,
approach to designing buses that minimizes entry errors. Although you can

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switch between the two modes, you are encouraged to use either one style
or the other for any given circuit (switching from busline mode to net mode
loses information).
Buses exist in multiple bus segments. All bus segments with the same name
are parts of the same bus. They need not all be connected physically. To
connect a bus to other pages of the same circuit, a bus off-page connector
is used, as in the example shown in the figure below (1). These work
analogously to regular off-page connectors in that they allow a bus to be
continued onto a second or third page.

Bus Off-Page Connectors

A nested circuit can use a Bus HB/SC Connector to specify that one of the
pins of the hierarchical block or subcircuit should be a bus pin, as shown in
the figure below (1). When using the nested circuit, attaching a bus to such
a bus pin brings up a dialog box asking you to map the buslines (or nets) of
the bus on the parent circuit to those in the nested circuit. This mapping is
necessary as each instance of a nested circuit may in general be connected
to a different bus. If the bus in the parent circuit is empty, no dialog will be
presented and the bus will be wired in the natural manner.

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Bus HB/SC Connector

To facilitate the use of buses, a powerful Bus Vector Connect facility is
provided that allows for multiple pins of a chip to be connected to a bus in
a single operation. This dialog allows you to select pins from multi-pin
components to connect to the buslines.

Placing a Bus
Complete the following steps to place a bus in your circuit:
1.

Select Place»Bus.

Click on the first point for the bus.

Click on the next point for the bus.

Continue to click on points until the bus is complete. Buses can be
placed horizontally, vertically, and at 45 degrees.

Double-click to mark the ending point of the bus.

Placing a Bus across Multi-Pages
Complete the following steps to place the same bus across multi-pages:
1.

Select Place»Connectors»Bus Off-Page Connector to place a Bus
Off-Page Connector on the workspace.

Wire the connector to the desired bus.

Place a bus on the multi-page, and wire another Bus Off-Page
Connector to the bus.

Double-click on the bus and change its name to match the bus name of
the bus on the main page.

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Connecting Buses to HB/SCs
Complete the following steps to connect a bus to a bus on a hierarchical
block (HB) or a subcircuit (SC):
Note

This example uses a hierarchical block.
1.

Place a bus on the workspace as described in the Placing a Bus section.

Attach wires to the bus as described in the Wiring to a Bus section.

Place a hierarchical block or subcircuit on your workspace.

Place a bus in the HB/SC and attach wires to it as desired. The example
in the figure below shows a hierarchical block in a main circuit (1) and
the contents of that hierarchical block (2).

Hierarchical Block in Main Circuit

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Select Place»Connectors»Bus HB/SC Connector and place the
connector in the HB/SC on the end of the bus. The symbol for the
HB/SC in the main circuit will change to reflect the addition of the
Bus HB/SC Connector, as shown in the example below.

In the main circuit, attach the bus to the BusIO pin on the HB/SC by
hovering the cursor over one end of the bus and clicking when the
cursor changes to a crosshair. Move the cursor to the BusIO pin on the
HB/SC symbol and click to place. The Bus HB/SC Mapping
Properties dialog box appears.

In the Bus pin box, select the buslines from the Bus IO pin you wish
to map and click on the activated down-arrow button.

In the Bus box on the right, select the buslines on the main page to
which you wish to map the buslines that you selected above and click
the down-arrow.

Click OK. The connection from the bus in the main circuit is made to
the Bus IO pin as mapped above.

Note If you add more nets to the bus, you must double-click on the Bus IO pin in the
sub-circuit or hierarchical block symbol and map the new nets via the Bus HB/SC
Mapping Properties dialog box.

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Bus Properties
You can add, delete and rename buslines from the Bus Properties dialog
box.

Adding Buslines to a Bus
When you are in the busline mode (refer to the Buses section for
information) you can pre-enter buslines for use when wiring to a bus.
Complete the following steps to add buslines to a bus:
1.

Double-click on a placed bus to display the Bus Properties dialog box.

Click Add to display the Add Buslines dialog box.

If you wish to add a single busline to the selected bus, enable Add a
Busline and enter the Name.
If you wish to add a number of buslines, enable Add Bus Vector and
enter information in the following fields as desired:

•

Prefix—The prefix for the entered buslines, for example “Out”.

•

Start value—The number from which the buslines will start
numbering, for example, “0”.

•

Increment by—The size of the the step between each number, for
example, “1”.

•

Number—The total number of buslines to add, for example, “4”.

Click OK. The Add Buslines dialog box disappears, and the Bus
Properties dialog box appears with the added buslines appearing in
the Buslines (Net) list.

Deleting Buslines from a Bus
Complete the following steps to delete buslines from a bus:
1.

Double-click on a placed bus to display the Bus Properties dialog box.

Select the desired bus(es) in the Buslines (Net) list and click Delete.

Renaming Buslines in a Bus
Complete the following steps to rename buslines in a bus:

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Double-click on a placed bus to display the Bus Properties dialog box.

Select the desired bus(es) in the Buslines (Net) list and click Rename.
The Rename Busline dialog box appears.

Enter the desired name in the New Name field and click OK.

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Merging Buses
Complete the following steps to merge two buses together so that they have
the same bus name:
1.

Highlight the two buses and select Place»Merge Bus to display the
Bus Merge dialog box. Note the example of a busline (1) and the net
to which the busline is connected (2) in the figure below.

Busline

Net to Which Busline is Connected

If you want to rename busline(s) before merging the buses, select the desired
busline(s) and click Rename. Buslines with the same name in each of the merged buses
will be electrically connected after the merge.

Tip

In the Merged Bus area, select the bus to use for the merged bus from
the Name drop-down.

Click Merge. Note that the two buses on the workspace now share the
selected name, as shown in the example in the figure below.

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You can also access the Bus Merge dialog box by double-clicking on a bus, and
clicking the Merge button in the Bus Properties dialog box. In this case, you must select
the second bus from its Name drop-down list before clicking Merge. As well, you can
merge buses by wiring them together or renaming one bus with the name of another
existing bus.
Note

Wiring to a Bus
In Busline Bus Wiring Mode
1.

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Wire the bus into your circuit by drawing a wire to any location on the
bus. The Bus Entry Connection dialog box appears as in the example
in the figure below.

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You can use the default Busline name or type a new name into the Busline
field. Or, you can select one of the Available Buslines.
2.

Select the desired busline and click OK.

Make the 45 degree connection, as shown at Sig0 in the figure above, point in either
direction by adjusting the mouse position as you connect the wire to the bus.

Tip

After wiring, you can re-name the net, by double-clicking on it and editing the name
in the Net dialog box that appears.

Note

You can select a bus entry to move it with the Arrow keys, or rotate it with Shift-R.

You can double-click on a bus entry to edit its properties via the Bus Entry
Connection dialog box.

Note

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In Net Bus Wiring Mode
1.

Wire the bus into your circuit by drawing a wire to any location on the
bus. The Bus Entry Connection dialog box appears:

Select the either the default net that appears in the Nets field, or select
one of the existing nets from the Nets in bus list, and click OK.

After wiring, you can re-name the net as usual, by double-clicking on it and editing
the name in the Net dialog box that appears.

Note

You can select a bus entry to move it with the Arrow keys, or rotate it with Shift-R.

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You can double-click on a bus entry to edit its properties via the Bus Entry
Connection dialog box.

Note

Bus Resizing
To resize a bus, click on the bus and drag one of the handles that appear on
the bus.
Complete the following steps to add to the bus:
1.

Place the cursor over the end of the bus, and when it turns to a
crosshair, click the mouse.

Move the cursor to the desired location and double-click to complete
the bus.

Bus Vector Connect
Along with the method described in the Wiring to a Bus section, you can
also use the Bus Vector Connect command. This is the preferred method
for placing numerous connections from a multi-pinned device, such as an
IC, to a bus.
The following example details the connection of an IC to a bus. However,
the Bus Vector Connect functionality can be used to connect any multi-pin
device to a bus.

In Busline Bus Wiring Mode
Complete the following steps to connect a device to a bus in Busline bus
wiring mode:
1.

Place the component that you wish to connect to the bus on the
workspace.

Place a bus on the workspace as described in the Placing a Bus section.

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For best results, position the bus so that it is at right-angles to the pins
to be connected. The bus should be long enough to comfortably
accomodate the number of connections, as in the example in the above
figure.

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Click once on the component to select it and select Place»Bus Vector
Connect to display the Bus Vector Connect dialog box.

In the Component box, select the side of the component from which
terminals should be connected from the Pins drop-down list. The list
below the Pins field is populated based on your selection.

Highlight the pins that you wish to attach to the bus, as in the example
below.

Click on the activated down-arrow button to move the selected pins to
the bottom left field.

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If you move an incorrect item, highlight it and click on the up-arrow button to return
it to the Pins list.

Note

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In the Bus box, select the bus you wish to connect to from the Name
drop-down list.

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In the Buslines field, select the buslines you wish to use and click on
the enabled down-arrow button to move the selection to the lower-right
field.

(If the Buslines field is empty, you can click on the Auto-assign button
to automatically create and assign busline names that correspond to the
pin names).
9.

Click OK. The connections to the bus are made as in the example in
the figure below.

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In Net Bus Wiring Mode
Complete the following steps to connect a device to a bus in Net bus wiring
mode:
1.

Place the component that you wish to connect to the bus on the
workspace.

Place a bus on the workspace as described in the Placing a Bus section.

For best results, position the bus so that it is at right-angles to the pins
to be connected. Also, the bus should be long enough to comfortably
accomodate the number of connections.

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Click once on the component to select it and select Place»Bus Vector
Connect to display the Bus Vector Connect dialog box.

In the Component box, select the side of the component from which
terminals should be connected from the Pins drop-down list. The list
below the Pins field is populated based on your selection.

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Highlight the pins that you wish to attach to the bus, as in the example
below.

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Click on the activated down-arrow button to move the selected pins to
the bottom left field.

If you move an incorrect item, highlight it and click on the up-arrow button to return
it to the Pins list.

Note

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In the Bus box, select the bus you wish to connect to from the Name
drop-down list.

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Note

In the Nets in Bus field select:
•

existing nets—For example, “1” and/or “2” in the above, and click
the down-arrow button to move them to the bottom-right field.

•

—To map new nets to the selected component pins. Each
time you click the down-arrow button when is highlighted,
an instance of appears in the bottom-right field.

You can also click Auto-assign to automatically assign new nets to the mapped pins.

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Click OK. The connections to the bus are made as in the example in
the following figure, which shows the connections made using Bus
Vector Connect (1), and the previously existing nets (2).

Connections Made Using Bus Vector Connect

Existing Nets

Variants
A variant is a specific version of a circuit. As PCBs are manufactured for
distribution on a global scale, some designs may require modifications
depending on their target markets. For example, power supply
requirements for the European market differ from those of North America.
The variations in the power supply requirements may call for the use of
different components in a design. The designer would want to produce a
single PCB which would meet requirements for both the North American
and the European versions. The board itself must contain the traces as well
as land patterns/footprints for both variations of the design. The PCB would
then be populated with components according to the target market of the
device.

Setting Up Variants
Variants are defined in the Variant Manager dialog box.
In the following example variants are entered for North American (NA) and
European (EU) versions (that is, variants) of a design.
Complete the following steps to define circuit variants:
1.

Open a circuit in Multisim. In this example, the circuit name is
“VariantTest”.

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Select Tools»Variant Manager. The Variant Manager dialog box
appears.

Highlight the circuit in the hierarchy that is displayed in the left pane.
“Default1” is the default name for the initial variant.

Highlight “Default1” in the right pane. The Rename Variant button
becomes active.

Note The Remove Variant button remains disabled, as there must be at least one variable
assigned to each circuit. This button becomes active when there are two or more variants
assigned to a circuit.

Click Rename Variant. The Rename Variant dialog box appears.

Enter a new name for the variant (in this example, “NA”, for North
America) and click OK. The name of the variant changes to the entered
name in the right pane of the Variant Manager dialog box.
The name of the European variant must now be entered.

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Click on Add Variant in the Variant Manager dialog box. The Add
Variant Name dialog box appears.

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Enter the name for the new variant (in this example, “EU” for Europe)
and click OK. The Variant Manager dialog box now appears as
shown in the figure below.

Click Close to return to the workspace.

Complete the following steps to delete variants from your circuit:
1.

Select Tools»Variant Manager to display the Variant Manager
dialog box.

Select the desired circuit in the left pane, and the variant you wish to
delete in the right pane.

Click Remove Variant. The highlighted variant is removed.

Click Close to return to the workspace.

Complete the following steps to rename variants in your circuit:
1.

Select Tools»Variant Manager to display the Variant Manager
dialog box.

Select the desired circuit in the left pane, and the variant you wish to
rename in the right pane.

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Click Rename Variant. The Rename Variant dialog box appears.

Enter the new variant name and click OK to return to the Variant
Manager dialog box.

Click Close to return to the workspace.

Complete the following steps to remove components that are not in any of
the variants:
1.

Click on Remove Components in the Variant Manager dialog box.
The Components for Delete dialog box appears.

If you do not wish to remove a component, de-select its checkbox.
2.

Click OK to remove the components from the workspace.

Placing Parts in Variants
This section continues the example of the variants for the North American
(NA) and European (EU) markets used in the Setting Up Variants section.
Complete the following steps to place a part in a circuit containing variants:
1.

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Place the parts in the usual manner, as documented in the Using the
Place Component Browser section of Chapter 2, Schematic
Capture—Basics.

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After wiring the parts in this example, the circuit appears as follows.
Note that at this point, each component is included in both the NA and
EU variants of the circuit.

Note To display the variant status for the components, for example, “In Variant (NA,
EU)”, you must enable the Variant Data checkbox in the Circuit tab of the Sheet
Properties dialog box.

Add a 220 V, 50 Hz power supply to the circuit. (This is for the EU
variant).

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Add a 220 V lamp to the circuit (also for the EU variant).

Assign variant status (in this case NA or EU) to each component as
described in the Assigning Variant Status to Components section.

Assigning Variant Status to Components
This section continues the example of the variants for the North American
(NA) and European (EU) markets used in the Setting Up Variants section.
After you have set up these variants, you must set which component
belongs to which variant.
Complete the following steps to assign components to variants:
1.

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Open the desired circuit as in the following example:

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Double-click on a component (for example V2) to display the
component’s properties dialog box, and click on the Variant tab.

In the above example, Included in the Status column indicates that the
selected component is included in both the EU and NA variants of the
circuit.
This is a 220V 50Hz power supply, so we want to include it in the EU
(European) variant, but exclude it from the NA (North American)
variant.
3.

Highlight the line that contains “NA” in the Variant Name column
and then select Excluded from the Status column.

Click OK to close the component’s properties dialog box.

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In the above figure, V2 is dimmed, indicating that it is not present in
the active variant. Refer to the Setting the Active Variant for Simulation
section for information on how to set which variant is active on your
workspace.
The label in V2 indicates that the component is only in the EU variant
(In EU Variant (EU)).
5.

Continuing with this example, double-click on V1 and select the
Variant tab.
This is a 120V 60Hz power supply, so we want to include it in the NA
(North American) variant, but exclude it from the EU (European)
variant.

Highlight the line that contains EU in the Variant Name column and
then select Excluded from the Status column.

Click OK to close the component’s properties dialog box.

In the above figure, V1 is not dimmed, indicating that it is present in
the active variant. Refer to the Setting the Active Variant for Simulation
section for information on how to set which variant is active on your
workspace.

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The label in V1 indicates that the component is only in the NA variant
(In Variant (NA)).
8.

Set the variant status for the lamps X1 and X2, using the Variant tab
as described in the preceding steps. X1 is rated at 120 V, so it is for the
North American variant, and X2 is rated at 220V, so it is for the
European variant.
When you are done, the circuit will appear as shown below:

Complete the following steps to exclude a component from future variants
of a circuit:
1.

Double-click on the desired component to display its properties dialog
box, and click on the Variant tab.

Selected Excluded from the For New Variants drop-down list. This
component will not be included in variants of this circuit that you may
create in the future.

If you create a new variant after setting the status to Excluded, and then place an
identical component from the database, it will still be included, as that is the default setting
for new components.

Note

If you copy a component with variants from one circuit and paste it into a circuit with
other variants, the pasted component will include the variants from the copied circuit. In
this case, you may end up with a circuit that has variants (say USA and North America)
that you may wish to combine. You can do this using the Rename button in the Variant
Manager dialog box; just rename one of them to match the other. For example, rename
USA to North America and the two variants will be merged into one variant called North
America.
Tip

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Assigning Variant Status to Nested Circuits
The active variant for a nested circuit (HB or SC) is whichever variant is
mapped to its parent circuit’s active variant. See below for details.
Complete the following steps to assign variant status to a subcircuit or
hierarchical block:
1.

Right-click on the desired variant, and select Include in Active
Variant from the pop-up. The active variant is shown by a blue square,
as in NA in the example in the figure below. Variants that are included
in the active variant are shown by blue triangles, as in 120V as shown
in the figure below.

You can also assign the variant status in the Variant tab of the HB/SC’s properties
dialog box.

Note

Setting the Active Variant for Simulation
This section continues the example of the variants for the North American
(NA) and European (EU) markets used in the Setting Up Variants section.
Only one variant of a design can be simulated at a time. Consequently, you
must select the variant for simulation from the available circuit variants as
described below.

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Setting the Active Variant from the Design Toolbox
Complete the following steps to set the active variant from the
Design Toolbox:
1.

Click on the Hierarchy tab in the Design Toolbox. In the example in
the figure below, the hierarchy tree for VariantTest is shown.

Click on the “+” beside the Variants folder to open the folder. Active
variants are indicated by the blue square, as shown in the example in
the figure below (NA); active variants have white squares as in the
example below (EU).

When NA is set as the active variant, the circuit appears as shown in
the example below.

Only the active components will be included when the above circuit is
simulated. The dimmed components are inactive, and will not be
simulated.
© National Instruments Corporation

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Right-click on the EU variant and select Set Variant Active from the
pop-up that appears, as shown below.

When EU is the active variant, the circuit appears as shown below:

Only the active components will be included when the above circuit is
simulated. The dimmed components are inactive, and will not be
simulated.

Setting the Active Variant from the Menu
Complete the following steps to set the active variant from the menu:

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Select Tools»Set Active Variant. The Active variant dialog box
displays.

Highlight the variant you wish to make active and click OK.

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Project Management and Version Control
In order to help manage the various files associated with a design, Multisim
Projects may be used. A project is a collection of files. For example, all the
circuit files making up a design may be grouped together in a project, as
well as external design documentation (written in Microsoft Word, for
example), simulation output, reports, and PCB layouts generated with
Ultiboard. Any file type may be grouped into a project.

Facilities are provided to manage the files in a project as a whole: to version
them, back them up, restore them, move them, and lock files within them
so that no two designers accidentally work on the same file at the same
time.
Note Even if a project contains a top-level circuit that references a hierarchical block, it is
not necessarily the case that the hierarchical block is in that same project. This is a choice
left entirely up to you. It may not be desirable to backup and version that hierarchical block
with the circuit that references it if, for example, the hierarchical block is accessed from
many different projects.

Setting up Projects
Complete the following steps to Complete the following steps to create a
project for circuit files:
1.

Choose File»New Project. The New Project dialog box appears.

Specify the name for your project, the folder where the project files are
to be stored, and the folder where backups of the project file are to be
placed. If the folders do not already exist, they will be created. Click
the button next to the location fields to browse for the desired location.

Click OK. The Project View tab of the Design Toolbox appears.

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Complete the following steps to add circuit files to the project:
1.

Right-click on the Schematic folder in the Project View tab. Choose
Add file from the pop-up menu that appears. A standard file selector
window appears.

Navigate to the location of the circuit file you want included in the
project, select it and click Open. The file is added to the project and its
name appears in the project browser.

Hover the cursor over the filename to view its complete filepath.

The following folders appear in the Project View tab:
•

Schematic folder—For circuits drawn as schematics in Multisim.
There can be mutiple circuit files in one project, and a circuit file
can be part of more than one project.

•

PCB folder—For circuits laid out in Ultiboard; are logically the
PCBs matching the schematic of the project.

•

Documents folder—For documents you wish to collect for the
project. For example, MS Word description of project, Excel
spreadsheet of costs

•

Reports folder—For reports generated by Multisim, for example,
Bill of Materials, Netlist Report.

Complete the following steps to add PCB, document or report files to a
project:
1.

Right-click on the folder for the desired type of file, for example, PCB
and select Add file.

In the file browser that appears, navigate to the desired file and click
Open.

To remove a file from a project, right-click on the file and choose Remove.
To save a project, choose File»Save Project.
To close the project, choose File»Close Project.

Working with Projects
Complete the following steps to open a file within a project:

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Right-click on the circuit file name in the Project View tab of the
Design Toolbox.

From the pop-up menu that appears, choose either Open File or
Open as Read-Only. If the file is already open by another user, the

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Open File command will not be available. If you open the file as
read-only, you will not be able to save your changes to that file.
Or
1.

Double-click on a circuit file in the project browser. If the file is not in
use by another user, it opens. If it is in use, you are prompted to open
it as read-only.

Files in use by another user are displayed with a different color in the project browser
than files that are not in use.

Note

Complete the following steps to open a project:
1.

Choose File»Open Project. A standard Windows file browser
appears.

If necessary, navigate to the correct folder and open the project file.
Or

Choose File»Recent Projects and select the project from the list that
appears.

Once the project is open, the project browser shows a list of all the files
within that project.

Working with Files Contained in Projects
You can lock, unlock, and see summary information about any file in a
project.
Complete the following steps to lock the file, preventing anyone else from
opening it:
1.

Right-click on the file name in the project browser.

Choose Lock File from the pop-up menu that appears.

Complete the following steps to unlock a file:
1.

Right-click on the file name in the project browser.

Choose Unlock File from the pop-up menu that appears.

Complete the following steps to see information on a file in a project:
1.

Right-click on the file name in the project browser.

Choose Properties from the pop-up menu that appears. The File
Properties dialog box appears.

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Version Control
You can back up the contents of a project folder. You can then restore the
folder as of that day and time.
Complete the following steps to back up a project folder:
1.

Choose File»Version Control. The Version Control dialog box
appears.

Enable Back up current version.

The system generates a name for the backup, based on the system date.
If you wish, you can change this by typing a new name in the field.

Click OK. The project file is backed up to the filepath shown in the
Location field.

Complete the following steps to restore a backed up project folder:
1.

Close all circuits associated with the project.

Choose File»Version Control. The Version Control dialog box
appears.

Select Restore project. A list of the available backed-up project
folders appears at the bottom of the dialog box. (The Location field
shows where the backup versions of the listed projects are located).

Select the file you want to restore and click OK.

You are prompted to confirm that you want to over-write the existing
project folder contents with the backed up version.

Restoring a backed up project folder replaces the current folder. If you want to keep
the current folder as well as the backed up version, save the folder to a new location or with
a new name before proceeding.

Note

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Components

This chapter introduces you to the underlying structure and organization of
the Multisim component database. It also explains how to access the
database for parts and how to search the database for information. Some of
the features described in this chapter may not be available in your edition
of Multisim. Refer to the release notes for a list of the features in your
edition.

Structure of the Component Database
The Multisim component database is designed to hold the information
necessary to describe any component. It contains everything needed for
schematic capture (symbols), simulation (models) and PCB layout
(footprints), as well as other electrical information.
There are three levels of database provided by Multisim. The Master
Database is read only, and contains components supplied by National
Instruments. The User Database is private to an individual user. It is used
for components built by an individual that are not intended to be shared.
The Corporate Database is used to store custom components that are
intended to be shared across an organization. Various database
management tools are supplied in order to move components between
databases, merge databases, and edit them.
All the databases are divided into groups and then into families within those
groups.
When a designer chooses a component from the database and drops it onto
the circuit, it is a copy of the component that is placed onto the circuit. Any
edits made to the component in the circuit do not affect the original
database copy, or any similar components previously placed on the circuit.
Likewise, any edits made to the component in the database after a copy has
been dropped do not affect the previously placed components, but will
affect all subsequently placed ones.
When a circuit is saved, the component information is saved with it. On
load, the user has the option to keep the loaded parts as is, to make copies

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to place into their user or corporate database, or to update similarly-named
components with the latest values from the database.

Database Levels
Components are stored in three different database levels:
•

the Master Database stores the components as originally shipped with
Multisim; to ensure integrity of information, these cannot be edited.

•

the Corporate Database stores components selected and possibly
modified or created by an individual user or company/institution; these
remain available to any other selected users.

•

the User Database stores components modified, imported or created
by you; these are available only to you.

The User Database and the Corporate Database are empty when you first
use Multisim. You can use the User Database to store frequently used
components or components you create using component editing (which is
described in the following chapter).
The Corporate Database is primarily intended for companies/institutions
(or individuals) who work on projects where components with specific
attributes are shared within a group or project.
If you modify a component, thereby creating your own version, you must
store it in either the User Database or Corporate Database. You cannot
modify the Master Database.
You can build a circuit that contains components from any or all of the
available databases.

Classification of Components in the Database
Multisim divides components into logical groups. Each group contains
families of related components. The groups are listed below:

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•

Sources

•

Basic

•

Diodes

•

Transistors

•

Analog

•

TTL

•

CMOS

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•

MCU

•

Misc Digital

•

Mixed

•

Indicators

•

Power

•

Misc

•

Electro-mechanical

•

Ladder Diagrams.

Components

Locating Components in the Database
You can locate components in a specific component family within a
specific database by either browsing through the available data, which is
the more common method, or by searching for a component that meets
specific criteria. These functions are described in this section.

Browsing for Components
When you are placing a component, the browser dialog box that appears
lets you browse for components anywhere in the Multisim database. Refer
to the Using the Place Component Browser section of Chapter 2, Schematic
Capture—Basics, for more information.

Searching for Components
Multisim comes with a powerful search engine to help you quickly locate
components if you know some information about the type of component
you need. Multisim searches its database for components that meet your
criteria and presents them to you, enabling you to choose the component
that most suits the needs of your application from the list of candidates.
Complete the following steps to perform a standard search of the database:
1.

Select Place»Component to display the Select a Component
browser.

Click Search. The Search Component dialog box appears.

Optionally, click Advanced to display additional search options.

Enter your search criteria (you must enter at least one item) in the
appropriate fields. Enter alphanumeric characters, that is, text and/or
numbers. Case is not considered.

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Click Search.

The more specific your search criteria, the smaller the number of matching
components.

Tip

When the search is complete, the Refine Search Component Result
dialog box appears, displaying information about the first component
that matched your criteria. The Component list contains a list of all the
components that matched your criteria.
6.

From the Component list, select the desired component. To view
information about any component found by the search, simply choose
it from the list and the displayed fields change accordingly.

To place the selected component, click OK. You return to the Select a
Component dialog box, where you can place the component by
clicking OK.

You can refine your search if your initial attempt yielded a large number of
items.
Complete the following steps to refine your search:
1.

Click Refine Search. The Refine Search Component dialog box
appears.

The original search parameters remain in the Refine Search Component dialog
until a component is placed.

Note

Enter desired parameters and click Search.

Types of Information Stored for Components
The Multisim databases store information about components in pre-defined
fields (that is, fields that are pre-filled in Multisim) and user fields (that is,
fields you can use to capture information that you want to record about a
component).
Multisim also offers a detailed report of information about components,
their models, and their packages. Refer to the Component Detail Report
section of Chapter 12, Reports, for more information.

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Pre-Defined Fields
The following pre-defined fields appear in the Select a Component
browser:
Field

Description

Example

Database

Name of Multisim database in which the
component is stored.

User

Group

Name of the group to which the component
belongs.

TTL

Family

Name of family to which the component
belongs.

74S

Component

Name of the individual component.

74S00D

Symbol

Symbol used (either ANSI or DIN) to represent
the component during schematic capture.

Function

Describes the component. Not available for
resistors, inductors or capacitors.

QUAD 2-INPUT NAND

Component type

Describes the construction of resistors,
inductors or capacitors only. Contents vary
depending on component selection.

Carbon film (for a
resistor).

Tolerance

Percent tolerance for the resistor, inductor or
capacitor selected in the component list.

0.5

Model Manuf./ID

Name of the company that manufactures the
component and the component’s ID.

Texas Instruments/74S00

Footprint Manuf./
Type

Footprint for the component (real components
only) and the package type. Used in Ultiboard
or other vendors’ PCB layout products.

DO14

Hyperlink

A link to a desired document.

www.analog.com

User Fields
In addition to the fields of data that are pre-defined and filled with
information before Multisim is shipped, you can also create your own fields
of data to be stored about components. Refer to the Editing User Fields
section of Chapter 6, Component Editing, for information about setting up
and entering data into user fields.

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Managing the Database
Multisim’s database is managed through the Database Manager dialog
box, which lets you:
•

add and remove component families from the User Database or
Corporate Database. You cannot add or remove families in the
Master Database.

•

set up or modify user field titles for any database.

•

add or change component toolbar button symbols for component
families in the User Database or Corporate Database.

Complete the following steps to invoke the Database Manager dialog box:
1.

Click the Database Manager button on the Main toolbar.
Or
Choose Tools»Database»Database Manager.

Filtering Displayed Components
Complete the following steps to filter the components that are displayed in
the Components tab of the Database Manager dialog box:
1.

Select the desired database from the Database Name drop-down list.

Click Filter to display the Filters dialog box.

Make selections as described below:

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•

Family list—Select the desired family. Use the Ctrl and Shift keys
with the left mouse button to select multiple items in the list.

•

Component field—Type the component name. You can also use
wildcards.

•

Show User Data Columns list—Select the User fields to display.

•

Select All—Click to display all User fields.

•

Clear All—Click to clear all checkboxes.

Click OK. The Filters dialog box closes and your selections are
reflected in the Components tab of the Database Manager dialog
box.

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Deleting Components
Complete the following steps to delete an existing component from the
Corporate or User database:
1.

Click the Database Manager button on the Main toolbar.
Or
Select Tools»Database»Database Manager.

Note

Select the Components tab.

From the Database Name drop-down list, choose the database
containing the component you want to remove (from the Corporate
Database or User Database only).

You cannot delete a component from the Master Database.
4.

Select the components that you wish to delete. You can use the Shift
and Ctrl keys with the left mouse button to select multiple items in the
list.

Click Delete. You are prompted to confirm the action.

Click Yes. The components are removed from the database.

Copying Components
Complete the following steps to copy an existing component to the
Corporate Database or the User Database:
1.

Click the Database Manager button on the Main toolbar.
Or
Choose Tools»Database»Database Manager.

Select the Components tab in the Database Manager dialog box.

From the Database Name drop-down list, choose the database
containing the components you want to copy.

Select the components that you wish to copy. You can use the Shift and
Ctrl keys with the left mouse button to select multiple items in the list.

Click Copy. The Select Destination Family Name dialog box
appears.

In the Family Tree, navigate to the database, group and family that
you want to copy the component(s) to and click OK. You are returned
to the Components tab in the Database Manager dialog box.

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If there is not a component family in the group that you select, click the Add Family
button to create one.

Note

When you are finished copying components, click Close.

Exporting Components
Complete the following steps to export a selected component:
1.

Select the desired component in the Components tab of the Database
Manager.

Click Export. A standard Windows save dialog appears.

Navigate to the desired location, and enter the desired File name.

In the Save as type field, select one of:

•

Component packed file (*.prz)—Select to export all fields in
the database for the selected part. (You must import this file into
Multisim to read it).

•

User fields only (Comma delimited) (*.csv)—Select to export
the selected component’s user fields into a .csv file.

•

User fields only (Tab delimited) (*.txt)—Select to export the
selected component’s user fields into a .txt file.

Click Close.

Saving Placed Components
If you have made changes to a placed component (for example, changed the
footprint) you can save the placed component to either the User Database
or Corporate Database.
Complete the following steps to save a placed component to the database:

NI Multisim User Manual

Select the component on the workspace and select
Tools»Database»Save Component to DB. The Select Destination
Family Name dialog box appears.

Navigate to the desired component group and family in either the
User Database or the Corporate Database. If necessary, click
Add Family to create a family in the desired group.

Click OK. The Save Components to the Database dialog box
displays with information about the component.

Click OK.

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Moving Components Between Databases
Complete the following steps to move components from the
Corporate Database to the User Database, or vice versa:
1.

Choose Tools»Database»Database Manager.

Select the Components tab in the Database Manager dialog box.

Select the components that you wish to move. You can use the Shift
and Ctrl keys with the left mouse button to select multiple items in the
list.

Click Move. The Select Destination Family Name dialog box
appears.

Navigate to the desired component group and family in either the
User Database or the Corporate Database. If necessary, click
Add Family to create a family in the desired group.

Click OK to move the component.

Resetting Master dB User Fields
Complete the following steps to restore the contents of user fields for
components in the Master Database to their original “factory” settings:
1.

Choose Tools»Database»Database Manager.

Select the Components tab in the Database Manager dialog box.

Select Master Database in the Database Name drop-down list.

Select the desired components and click Reset User Fields.

Managing Families
Complete the following steps to add a component family to the
User Database or Corporate Database database:
1.

Select the Family tab in the Database Manager dialog box.

In the Database Family Tree area, choose either the Corporate or
User Database.

Click Add Family. The New Family Name dialog box displays.

Select the desired group from the Select Family Group drop-down,
type the desired name for the new family in the Enter Family Name
field, and click OK. You are returned to the Database Manager dialog
box.

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A default icon is automatically assigned to the new family. To change
it, follow the procedure below.

The newly-created family appears in the associated component group.

Complete the following steps to load a component toolbar button:
1.

With the desired component family selected, click Load. You are
prompted to navigate to the desired toolbar button file.

Select the desired toolbar button file and click Open.

The new toolbar button will be displayed in the Database Manager
dialog box in the Family area and in the Family Tree area under the
group where the family was added.

Complete the following steps to edit the default family name button:
1.

With the desired component family selected, click Edit.

Your paint program is launched and the bitmap file of the button is
opened.

Edit the bitmap file to your requirements and then save and close the
paint program.

The revised button will appear as the family name button.

You can edit both the ANSI and DIN buttons by selecting the ANSI or
DIN selector in the Family area of the Database Manager.

Complete the following steps to delete a component family from the
User Database or Corporate Database:
1.

Navigate to the component family you wish to delete.

Click Delete Family. You are prompted to confirm your deletion.

The component family is automatically removed.

Complete the following steps to delete empty families from the
User Database or Corporate Database:

NI Multisim User Manual

Click Delete Empty Families. You are prompted to confirm your
command to delete all empty family folders.

To proceed click Yes. All empty family folders will be deleted from the
Family list for the selected database.

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Modifying User Field Titles and Content
There are twenty user fields that you can edit to provide user-specific
information about the component. Modifying user field titles changes the
titles for all databases, not only the selected database.
Complete the following steps to modify user field titles:
1.

Click the User Field Titles tab in the Database Manager.

Enter the desired names in the Title fields.

Click Save.

Do not change the title of the Hyperlink user field, or the links may not function
when clicked.

Caution

For the majority of non- R, L, or C components in the database, the contents
of the user fields are entered and edited from the Components tab of the
Database Manager. Refer to the Modifying User Field Content for RLC
Components section for information about resistors, inductors, or
capacitors.
Complete the following steps to modify user field contents for non-RLC
components:
1.

Click the Components tab in the Database Manager.

Select the desired Database Name and component.

Right-scroll to the desired user field for the selected component.

Enter the desired information in the user field.

Caution User field content for Master dB components is stored in the Corporate
database. Consequently, if the Corporate dB is deleted, the contents of their user fields no
longer appear in the Master database.

Modifying User Field Content for RLC Components
Complete the following steps to modify user field contents for RLC
components:
1.

Click the RLC Components tab in the Database Manager.

Select the desired component.

Right-scroll to the desired user field for the selected component.

Enter the desired information in the user field.

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Caution R, L, and C components found in the Master database are in fact a combination
of the component’s value, component type, tolerance, and footprint manufacturer/type.
Whenever a unique combination of these values is selected in the Select a Component
dialog box, and the Save unique component on placement checkbox is enabled, the
combination of these values is saved in the Corporate database. Consequently, if the
Corporate dB is deleted, these components no longer appear in the Master database. Any
user field information is also lost.

Displaying Database Information
Complete the following steps to review database information:
1.

Click the About button in the Database Manager dialog box. The
Database Information dialog box displays.

To view version and other information, scroll down as desired.

Editing Components
Refer to Chapter 6, Component Editing, for detailed information about
editing components.

Converting Databases
If you are a user of an earlier version of Multisim, your User Database and
Corporate Database must be converted to Multisim 10 format if you wish
to use their components in Multisim 10.
Note The option to convert the Master Database is not available, as a new
Master Database is loaded when you install Multisim.

Complete the following steps to update your databases:
1.

Select Tools»Database»Convert Database. The Convert Database
dialog box appears.

In the Type drop-down list select one of:
•

Convert DB V8/V9 ==> V10—Converts V8 or V9 components
to V10 format.

•

Convert DB V7 ==> V10—Converts V7 components to V10
format.

•

Convert DB V6 ==> V10—Converts V6 (Multisim 2001)
components to V10 format.

The title bar of the dialog box changes to reflect your selection.

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Click Select Source Database Names. The Select a Component
Database Name dialog box displays.

Select the type of database that you wish to convert from the Files of
type drop-down list:
•

User—User database.

•

Corporate—Corporate database.

Highlight the desired database file (the one you wish to convert) and
click Open. You are returned to the Convert Database dialog box.

Click Start. The Duplicate Component Name dialog box displays.

Select the desired option and click OK. The database is converted.

•

Auto-Rename—Import and automatically rename the duplicate
components.

•

Overwrite—Replace the Multisim components with the older
components.

•

Ignore—Do not import components with duplicate names.

Click Close to close the Convert Database dialog box.

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Updating Components from Databases
If you open a circuit that was created in an older version of Multisim, you
should update its components to match the current database by following
the procedure below.
Complete the following steps to update components:
1.

Select Tools»Update Circuit Components. A dialog box similar to
the following displays.

If there are any differences, they will be indicated by a Diff button in
the appropriate column and a red arrow in a box to its right. For
information about similar components, refer to the Updating Similar
Component Symbols section.
2.

Optionally:
•

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If a Diff button appears in the Symbol column, click on it to show
the difference in symbols between the component on the
workspace and the component in the current database.

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•

If a Diff button appears in the Model column, click on it to show
the difference in models between the component on the workspace
and the component in the current database.

•

If a Diff button appears in the Footprint column, click on it show
the difference in footprints between the component on the
workspace and the component in the current database.

Select the items to update as follows:
•

Symbol column—Be sure that all components with a Diff button
in this column have their corresponding “red arrow” box enabled.
For example, U4 in the figure in step 1.

•

Model column—Be sure that all components with a Diff button in
this column have their corresponding “red arrow” box enabled.

•

Footprint column—Be sure that all components with a Diff
button in this column have their corresponding “red arrow” box
enabled.

Note To update all items in a Symbol, Model, or Footprint column, enable the Update
checkbox to the right of the colum title.

Click Update to update the selected components.

Updating Similar Component Symbols
Components with a Similar button in the Symbol column do not need to
be updated for the circuit to simulate correctly, or for the circuit to be
exported to PCB layout software without error.
Consequently, you may wish to select the Hide components that do not
need to be updated checkbox. If you choose not to enable this checkbox,
you can click any Similar button that appears, and determine whether or
not to update it based on the information that appears. If you wish to update
a similar Symbol, be sure to enable its corresponding “red arrow” box
before you click the Update button in the dialog box.

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Merging Databases
Complete the following steps to merge the contents of another database
into your User or Corporate Database:

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Select Tools»Database»Merge Database. The Database Merge
dialog box appears.

Click Select a Component Database Name and navigate to the
database that you wish to merge into your database and click Open.
You are returned to the Database Merge dialog box.

Select the desired Target Database.

Click Start. The selected database is merged into your Corporate or
User Database.

Click Close.

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Component Editing

This chapter explains how to create, edit, copy, or delete a component. It
also explains how to load any models into the Multisim database that you
may have developed, obtained or purchased, and how to create simulation
models using Multisim’s Model Makers or code modeling.
Some of the features described in this chapter may not be available in your
edition of Multisim. Refer to the release notes for a list of the features in
your edition.

Introduction to Component Editing
You can edit components in Multisim using the following methods:
•

Component Wizard—Use to create and edit new components. Refer
to the Creating Components with the Component Wizard section for
more information.

•

Component Properties dialog box—Use to edit existing components
and is accessed from the Database Manager dialog box. Refer to the
Editing Components section for more information.

You can modify any component stored in the Multisim component
database. For example, an existing component might now be available in a
new package (originally pin-through hole, now surface mount). You can
easily copy the component information and change only the package details
to create this new component. You can also create your own component and
place it into the database or load a component from another source.
You cannot edit the Master Database. However, you can copy components
to the Corporate or User database and then modify them as desired.
Where possible, we recommend that you modify an existing, similar component,
rather than create one.

Tip

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Each component in the component database is identified by the following
types of information, each of which is in a specific tab in the Component
Properties dialog box:
•

General information (such as name, manufacturer, date and
author)—refer to the Editing a Component’s General Properties
section for more information.

•

Symbol (pictorial representation of the component for schematic
capture)—Refer to the Editing a Component’s Symbol section for
more information.

•

Model (information used to represent the actual operation/behavior of
the component during simulation)—Necessary only for a component
that will be simulated. Refer to the Editing a Component’s Model
section for more information.

•

Pin model (information used to represent the behavior of the pin during
simulation). Refer to the Editing a Component Pin Model section for
more information.

•

Footprint (the package that Multisim uses when exporting a schematic
containing this component to a PCB Layout package such as
Ultiboard). Refer to the Editing a Component’s Footprint section for
more information.

•

Electronic parameters of the component. Refer to the Editing a
Component’s Electronic Parameters section for more information.

•

User fields (if used to further define the components). Refer to the
Editing User Fields section for more information.

Components can be organized in the Database Manager, where you can:
•

add and remove component families from the User or Corporate
databases.

•

modify user field titles for any database.

•

add and change family icons.

If you modify any information about a component in the Master Database, you
must store the modified information in the User Database or Corporate Database
database.

Note

If you modify information about any component in the Corporate Database or
User Database, you are prompted for a new name for the component. If you do not give a
new name, Multisim saves the changes to the original location, so the original User
Database or Corporate Database component information is overwritten.

Caution

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You can also edit components that you have already placed on the workspace. This
can be done using the component’s properties dialog box (double-click on the component
to display) and changing parameters in the various tabs. Changes made to placed
components in this manner will not be reflected in the database. If you place the same
component from the database, it will contain the parameters that it had before it was edited.
Edits to individual components can also be made via the Spreadsheet View.

Tip

Creating Components with the Component Wizard
Multisim includes a Component Wizard that quickly steps you through
the process of creating a component for use in schematic capture, as well
as simulation or layout, or both.

Creating an Analog Component
Analog parts such as diodes and transistors can be created following the
procedure in this section.
You can also create resistors, inductors and capacitors. However, resistors,
inductors and capacitors created using this procedure will only contain
basic simulation model information. Those that are placed from the master
database have additional temperature-related SPICE simulation
parameters. Refer to the Placing Resistors, Inductors or Capacitors section
of Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics, for more information.
Complete the following steps to create an analog component:
1.

Click the Create Component button in the Main toolbar.
Or
Choose Tools»Component Wizard. Step 1 of the Component
Wizard appears.

Complete the following:
•

Component Name—The value of the component. Examples
include 10 ohms, 2N2221, 2uF. This field can only contain letters,
numbers, and the following characters: -+!@#$%^&()[]{}:

•

Author Name—Completed by system; change if desired.

•

Function—A brief description of the component. This is useful
because you can search the function field when looking for a
specific type of component to place.

Select Analog from the Component Type drop-down list.

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Select one of:
•

I will use this component for both simulation and layout
(model and footprint)—To use the component for both
simulation and PCB layout.

•

Simulation only (model)—To use the component for simulation
only.

•

Layout only (footprint)—To use the component for PCB layout
only.

The number of steps you must complete depends on the selections you make in step
1. If you choose to use the component for both simulation and layout, the wizard includes
eight steps. If you choose to use the component for simulation only, the wizard includes
seven steps; for layout only it includes six steps.

Note

Click Next. The next step of the wizard appears, where you enter the
component’s footprint information (if applicable).

Click Select a Footprint. The Select a Footprint dialog box appears,
where you select a footprint from one of the databases.
•

Select the desired Database Name, scroll down the list at the
bottom of the dialog box and click the desired Footprint, for
example, TO-39.

Refer to the Select a Footprint Dialog Box section for more
information on this dialog box.
Note If you do not wish to assign a footprint at this time, select the database where the
component will be stored and click on the Add button. The Add a Footprint dialog box
appears. Type in a name in the Footprint field, for example, placeholder. Enter “Generic”
in the manufacturer field and click OK. Refer to the Add a Footprint Dialog Box section
for more information. After you have named the footprint here, you can create it later in
Ultiboard. Be sure to place the name in the correct field.

Click Select. You are returned to the Component Wizard. The
Footprint Manufacturer and Footprint Type fields have been
populated based on the selected footprint.

You can also enter values directly into the Footprint Manufacturer and Footprint
Type fields instead of using the Select a Footprint dialog box. If you enter a value in either
of these fields that does not exist in the Master or User Database, you will be prompted
to confirm that you wish to add the information to a new footprint. If you select Yes, you
will be presented with the Add a Footprint dialog box. Refer to the Add a Footprint
Dialog Box section for more information.

Note

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Specify the Number of Pins for the component (three, in this
example).

Select Single Section Component or Multi-Section Component as
required. If you select Multi-Section Component, the Number of
Sections and Section Details elements are added to the dialog.
Complete these as required. You can create a multi-section component
with up to 96 sections.

10. Click Next to display the next step of the wizard. This is where you
enter symbol information for the component. The symbol you assign
to this component appears when it is placed on the workspace.
•

In the Symbol Set area, select ANSI or DIN.

•

Click the Copy from DB button to browse the component
databases if you wish to use an existing component symbol. Refer
to the Copying a Component’s Symbol section for more
information.

•

Optionally, to modify the symbol, click Edit to launch the
Symbol Editor. Refer to the Creating and Editing a Component’s
Symbol with the Symbol Editor section for more information.

•

Click Copy To, to use the same symbol for both the DIN and
ANSI Symbol Set. You can also use this button to copy the
symbol of a multi-section component to another section in that
component. Refer to the Copying a Multi-Section Component’s
Symbol section for more information.

11. Click Next to display the next step of the Component Wizard. Enter
the component’s pin parameters as described below:

•

Add Hidden Pin button—Click to add hidden pins: Power;
Ground; Common. A hidden pin is part of the model and/or
footprint that does not show in the schematic.

•

Section column—Click in a field in this column and select the
desired section for this pin. This is for multi-section components.

•

Type column—Click a field in this column and select the pin type
from the drop-down list that appears. Choices are: Passive, GND
(ground), Bidirectional, Input, NC (no connection), Output and
PWR (power). These pin types affect the ERC report and the pin
drivers/receivers for digital components.

•

ERC Status column—Click in a field in this column and select
whether to include or exclude the pin from Electrical Rules
Checking. Refer to the Electrical Rules Checking section of
Chapter 3, Schematic Capture—Advanced Functions, for more
information.

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12. To accept the symbol information displayed, click Next. This step is
where you map symbol and footprint pin information. This mapping is
needed for exporting to a layout package. A symbol pin is the name of
the pin in the symbol, for example, VCC. The footprint pin is the
number or name of that pin on the footprint in PCB layout. The symbol
and footprint pins must accurately map in order to transfer correctly to
PCB layout—refer to the Pins section for a more detailed explanation
of symbol and footprint pins.
•

For each symbol pin, enter a corresponding footprint pin. The
mapping information you enter here will be displayed in the
Footprint tab of the Component Properties dialog box.

•

For advanced pin mapping options, click Map Pins. The
Advanced Pin Mapping dialog box displays. Refer to the
Advanced Pin Mapping Dialog section for more information.

13. Click Next to display the Select Simulation Model step. (If the
component does not require simulation, this step does not appear). The
buttons in this step work as described below.
Note

If you are creating a basic resistor, inductor or capacitor, skip this step.

NI Multisim User Manual

•

Select from DB—Displays the Select Model Data dialog box,
where you copy model data from an existing component. Refer to
the Copying the Model of One Component to Another section for
more information.

•

Model Maker—Displays the Select Model Maker dialog box,
where you can select model makers that automatically generate
simulation models based on datasheet values. Refer to the
Creating a Component Model Using the Model Makers section for
more information.

•

Load from File—Displays a standard file browser where you
navigate to, and select, the desired model file. Refer to the
Loading an Existing Model section for more information.

•

Copy to—Displays the Select Target dialog box. Use to copy
model information from a selected section of a multi-section
component to the target sections that you select in the
Select Target dialog box. Refer to the Copying a Multi-Section
Component’s Symbol section for more information. This would
typically be used after using the Select from DB button to copy
model data from another component. This model data will have
only been copied to the selected section of the component. By

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using Copy to, you can copy the information into the remaining
sections of the component.
14. Click Next to display the next step, where you set mapping
information between the symbol and the simulation model. (This is for
parts with simulation models only).
•

For each symbol pin enter a corresponding number to connect to
its respective nodes in the model. The mapping information you
enter here will be displayed in the Model tab of the
Component Properties dialog box.

If you are creating a basic resistor, inductor or capacitor, this dialog
includes the following:
•

SPICE Model Type drop-down list—Select one of: Resistor(r);
Capacitor(c); Inductor(l). The Value fields changes to reflect your
selection.

•

Value fields—Enter the desired value, for example 100 uF.

A basic resistor, inductor or capacitor, created using the Component Wizard will
only contain basic simulation model information. Those that are placed from the master
database have additional temperature-related SPICE simulation parameters. Refer to the
Placing Resistors, Inductors or Capacitors section of Chapter 2, Schematic
Capture—Basics, for more information.

Note

15. Click Next. The dialog box that appears lets you indicate where you
would like the component to be saved. If there is no family in the group
that you want to save the component, you can add a new family by
clicking on the Add Family button. Refer to the Managing Families
section of Chapter 5, Components, for more information.
16. Navigate to the family where you want to save the component and click
Finish. The component is saved in the selected family.

Creating a Digital Component
Complete the following steps to create a digital component:
1.

Click the Create Component button in the Main toolbar.
Or
Choose Tools»Component Wizard. Step 1 of the Component
Wizard appears.

Complete the following as desired:
•

Component Name—The value of the component, for example,
74ALS00M. This field can only contain letters, numbers, and the
following characters: -+!@#$%^&()[]{}:
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•

Author Name—Completed by system; change if desired.

•

Function—A brief description of the component.

Select digital from the Component Type drop-down list. The
Component Technology drop-down list appears—Select the desired
techology, for example, 74ALS.

Select one of:
•

I will use this component for both simulation and layout
(model and footprint)—To use the component for both
simulation and PCB layout.

•

Simulation only (model)—To use the component for simulation
only.

•

Layout only (footprint)—To use the component for PCB layout
only.

The number of steps you must complete depends on the selections you make in
step 1. If you choose to use the component for both simulation and layout, the wizard
includes eight steps. If you choose to use the component for simulation only, the wizard
includes seven steps; for layout only it includes six steps.

Note

Click Next. The next step of the wizard appears, where you enter the
component’s footprint information.

Click Select a Footprint. The Select a Footprint dialog box appears,
where you select a footprint from one of the databases.
•

Select the desired Database Name, scroll down the list at the
bottom of the dialog box and click the desired Footprint, for
example, M14A.

Refer to the Select a Footprint Dialog Box section for more
information about this dialog box.
Note If you do not wish to assign a footprint at this time, select the database where the
component will be stored and click on the Add button. The Add a Footprint dialog box
appears. Type in a name in the Footprint field, for example, placeholder. Enter “Generic”
in the manufacturer field and click OK. Refer to the Add a Footprint Dialog Box section
for more information.

NI Multisim User Manual

Click Select. You are returned to the Component Wizard. The
Footprint Manufacturer and Footprint Type fields have been
populated based on the selected footprint.

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You can also enter values directly into the Footprint Manufacturer and Footprint
Type fields instead of using the Select a Footprint dialog box. If you enter a value in either
of these fields that do not exist in the Master or User Database, you will be prompted to
confirm that you wish to add the information to a new footprint. If you select Yes, you will
be presented with the Add a Footprint dialog box. Refer to the Add a Footprint Dialog
Box section for more information.
Note

Select Single Section Component or Multi-Section Component as
desired. If you select Multi-Section Component, the Number of
Sections and Section Details elements are added to the dialog.
Complete these as desired.

Click Next to display the next step of the wizard. This is where you
enter symbol information for the component. The symbol you assign
to this component appears when it is placed on the workspace.
•

In the Symbol Set area, select ANSI or DIN.

•

Optionally, to modify the symbol, click Edit to launch the
Symbol Editor. Refer to the Creating and Editing a Component’s
Symbol with the Symbol Editor section for more information.

•

Click the Copy from DB button to browse the component
databases if you wish to use an existing component symbol. Refer
to the Copying a Component’s Symbol section for more
information.

•

Hidden Ground Pins—Depending on the Component
Technology selected in step 1, this section will have different
options available (for example, GND). Select the desired radio
button.

•

Hidden Power Pins—Depending on the Component
Technology selected in step 1, this section will have different
options available (for example, VCC). Select the desired
checkboxes.

10. Click Next to display the next step of the Component Wizard. Enter
the component’s pin parameters as described below:
•

Add Hidden Pin button—click to add hidden pins: Power;
Ground; Common, Unconnected.

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•

Section column—Click in a field in this column and select the
desired section for this pin. This is for multi-section components.

•

Type column—Click a field in this column and select the pin type
from the drop-down list that appears. Choices are: Open
Collector, 3-State, GND (ground), Bi-Directional, Active
Drive, Schmitt Trigger, Input, NC (no connection), and VCC.

•

ERC Status column—Click in a field in this column and select
whether to Include or Exclude the pin from Electrical Rules
Checking. Refer to the Electrical Rules Checking section for
more information.

11. To accept the symbol information displayed, click Next. This is where
you map symbol and footprint pin information. This mapping is
needed for exporting to a layout package. A symbol pin is the name of
the pin in the symbol, for example, VCC. The footprint pin is the
number or name of that pin on the footprint in PCB layout. The symbol
and footprint pins must accurately map in order to transfer correctly to
PCB layout—refer to the Pins section for a more detailed explanation
of symbol and footprint pins.
•

For each symbol pin, enter a corresponding footprint pin. The mapping
information you enter here will be displayed in the Footprint tab of the
Component Properties dialog box.

•

For advanced pin mapping options, click Map Pins. The Advanced
Pin Mapping dialog box displays. Refer to the Advanced Pin Mapping
Dialog section for more information.

12. Click Next to display the Select Simulation Model step. (If the
component does not require simulation, this step does not appear). The
buttons in this step work as described below.

NI Multisim User Manual

•

Load from File—Displays a standard file browser where you
navigate to, and select, the desired model file. Refer to the
Loading an Existing Model section for more information.

•

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only been copied to the selected section of the component. By
using Copy to, you can copy the information into the remaining
sections of the component.
13. Click Next to display the next step, where you set mapping
information between the symbol and the simulation model.
•

14. Click Next. The dialog box that appears lets you indicate where you
would like the component to be saved. If there is no family in the group
that you want to save the component, you can add a new family by
clicking on the Add Family button. Refer to the Managing Families
section of Chapter 5, Components, for more information.
15. Navigate to the family where you want to save the component and click
Finish. The component is saved in the selected family.

Creating a VHDL Component
The Component Wizard creates VHDL parts in a similar manner to
analog and digital components. For simplification, this section details
making a VHDL component for simulation only.
Complete the following steps to create a VHDL component:
1.

Click the Create Component button in the Main toolbar.
Or
Choose Tools»Component Wizard. Step 1 of the Component
Wizard appears.

Complete the following:
•

Component Name—The value of the component. This field can
only contain letters, numbers, and the following characters:
-+!@#$%^&()[]{}:

•

Author Name—Completed by system; change if desired.

•

Function—A brief description of the component.

Select VHDL from the Component Type drop-down list. The
Component Technology drop-down list appears with VHDL
selected.

For this example, select Simulation only (model) and click Next.

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Set the number of pins to be equal to the number of ports you have in
the VHDL component. Don't count power or ground, only count the
ports in the entity declaration.

When you are creating your entity declaration in the VHDL source code, you must
list inputs first, then bi-directional ports, and finally outputs. If you are using vectors than
assign one pin to each bit in the vector. This section uses the following six-port example:

Note

entity QUIZSHOW is
port (
clock: in std_ulogic;
reset: in std_ulogic;
contestantA: in std_ulogic;
contestantB: in std_ulogic;
contestantC: in std_ulogic;
time_up: out std_ulogic
);
end QUIZSHOW;

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Click Next and change the symbol using the Edit or Copy from DB
button. Refer to the Creating and Editing a Component’s Symbol with
the Symbol Editor section and the Copying a Component’s Symbol
section for more information. Be sure to select the desired Hidden
Ground Pins and Hidden Power Pins.

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Click Next and select the pin drivers to use with the component. This
is done in the Type column as shown below. Be sure use the Add
Hidden Pin button to add the power and ground pins, using the same
names that you selected in the previous step under Hidden Ground
Pins and Hidden Power Pins.

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Click Next to display the next dialog where you will load the part’s
model. Enter the desired Model Name, click Load from File, and
navigate to the VHDL file you wish to use. This will have a .vx
extension. Make sure that you load the source file from MultiVHDL.
See below.

Be sure that the Model Name matches the model name in the
Model Data area.
9.

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Click Next. In this step you will relate the symbol pins to the model
nodes. For VHDL, the order of the model pins is the order that they are
listed in the port declarations of the entity. Earlier in this procedure,
you see that the order of the model pins used in this example is:
1 - clock; 2 - reset; 3 - contestantA; 4 - contestantB; 5 - contestantC;
6 - time_up. The symbol names do not need to be identical, but the
order here is critical. Don’t forget to change the VCC and GND
Symbol Pin’s Model Nodes to VCC and GND.

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10. Click Next and save the component to the database in the same manner
used for analog devices.
11. When using the component, be sure to place the appropriate power and
ground components in the schematic.
Verilog HDL parts can be created in a manner similar to that of VHDL parts. You
will need to have the MultiHDL Verilog application that generates the Verilog source code
referenced in the simulation model selection step.

Note

Using a Symbol File Created in the Symbol Editor
This section demonstrates how to use a symbol that you create in the
Symbol Editor when creating a new component using the Component
Wizard.
Complete the following steps to create a symbol file:
1.

Select Tools»Symbol Editor.

In the symbol editor, create the desired symbol. Refer to the Creating
and Editing a Component’s Symbol with the Symbol Editor section for
more information.

Select File»Save As and save the symbol into an easily accessible
location such as your Desktop.

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Complete the following steps to create a new component with the symbol
saved in the above step:
1.

Select Tools»Component Wizard.

Complete step 1 of the Component Wizard and click Next.

In step 2 of the Component Wizard, enter the desired footprint and
number of pins.

In step 3 of the component wizard, click the Edit button. The Symbol
Editor appears.

Select File»Open and open the symbol file saved earlier.

Select File»Exit. You are prompted to save the symbol. Click Yes to
save the new symbol for the new component.

Note If you make any changes to the symbol , and select File»Save, the original symbol
will be overwritten with the changes. If you only wish to make changes for the specific
component you are creating, be sure to select File»Exit.

Continue with the remaining steps in the component wizard. Refer to
the Creating Components with the Component Wizard section for
more information.

Editing Components
Complete the following steps to edit an existing component:
1.

Click the Database Manager button on the Main toolbar.
Or
Choose Tools»Database»Database Manager.
The Database Manager dialog box appears.

NI Multisim User Manual

Select the Components.

In the Component List, select the component you want to edit.

Click Edit. The Component Properties dialog box appears,
consisting of multiple tabs.

Edit component information in the various tabs as described in the
sections referenced below:
•

Editing a Component’s General Properties.

•

Editing a Component’s Symbol.

•

Editing a Component’s Model.

•

Editing a Component Pin Model.

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•

Editing a Component’s Footprint.

•

Editing a Component’s Electronic Parameters.

•

Editing User Fields.

Component Editing

Click OK from any of the tabs to save the edited component. The
Select Destination Family Name dialog box appears.

In the Family Tree area:
•

Choose the database where you want to store the edited
component. Remember, you cannot change information in, or add
to, the Master Database, so you must make your changes in
either the Corporate Database or User Database.

•

Choose the Group in which you want the edited component
stored and then click the Family name. The OK button becomes
active.

Note If you wish to add a family to the selected database, click the Add Family button.
The New Family Name dialog box appears where you enter the desired Family
information. Refer to the Managing Families section of Chapter 5, Components, for more
information.

Click OK to close the Select Destination Family Name dialog box.

Editing a Component’s General Properties
The General tab of the Component Properties dialog box allows you to
modify the component’s name and change the functional description. The
date and author are drawn from system information and cannot be changed.

Editing a Component’s Symbol
The Symbol tab of the Component Properties dialog box allows you to:
•

edit a component’s symbol

•

give a component the same symbol as another component

•

create a symbol for a component.

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Set the following as desired:

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•

Number of Pins—The number of pins in the component.

•

Number of Sec.—The number of sections in the component.

•

Section Name—This is optional.

•

Symbol Pin Table—This is where you map the Symbol Pins to the
desired Section. Pins like VCC and GND are common to all gates in
the IC.

•

Edit button—Use to edit the component’s symbol.

•

Copy from DB button—Use to copy a symbol from another
component.

•

Copy to button—Use to copy a symbol to another section of the
component.

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Copying a Component’s Symbol
Complete the following steps to copy a symbol from another component:
1.

From the Symbol tab of the Component Properties dialog box, click
Copy from DB. The Select a Symbol dialog box appears.

Navigate through the Database, Group, Family and Component lists
to identify the component whose symbol you want to copy and click
OK. (Click Close to cancel.) Multisim returns to the Component
Properties dialog box, where the symbol associated with the selected
component appears.

If you want to change the symbol set to be associated with this
component, select ANSI or DIN from the Symbol Set box. The
appropriate symbol appears in the upper part of the dialog box.

To confirm the association of this symbol with your component,
click OK.

Copying a Multi-Section Component’s Symbol
Complete the following steps to copy the symbol of a multi-section
component to another section in that component:
1.

Click Copy to in the Symbol tab of the Component Properties dialog
box.
Or
Click Copy to in the Create Component Wizard - Step 3 of 7 dialog
box.
The Select Target dialog box displays.

Select the sections to where you would like to copy the symbol and
click OK.

Note The Select Target dialog box is also accessed from the Select Simulation Model
dialog box of the Create Component Wizard. In this case you are copying model
information from a selected section of a multi-section component to the target sections that
you select in the Select Target dialog box.

Creating and Editing a Component’s Symbol with the Symbol Editor
The Symbol Editor is a specialized graphics editor that allows you to
create or modify a component’s symbol. The Symbol Editor functions in
the “normal” mode when editing component symbols in the database, or
creating a new symbol. To edit the symbol for a single component in your
active circuit, use the In-Place Edit Mode. Refer to the In-Place Edit Mode
section for more information.
© National Instruments Corporation

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Complete the following steps to edit a component symbol:
1.

Double-click on the desired component and click Edit Component in
DB to display the Component Properties dialog box.

In the Symbol tab of the Component Properties dialog box, in the
Symbol Set box, be sure you have selected the desired symbol set
(ANSI or DIN).

Click Edit. The Symbol Editor appears, displaying the selected
symbol for you to edit.

The Symbol Editor looks like this:

1
2

Menu Bar
Toolbars

3
4

Workspace
Draw Grid

5
6

Pin Grid
Boundary Box

7
8

Spreadsheet View
Status Bar

The Symbol Editor dialog box consists of:

NI Multisim User Manual

•

the Menu Bar (1), which contains the menus with their associated
commands.

•

the Toolbars (2), which give quick access to the most commonly-used
tools.

•

the Workspace (3), which is where you build or modify your symbols.
The Pin Grid (5) aids in the placement of pins. Its size cannot be
adjusted. The Draw Grid (4) aids in the placement of graphic
elements inside the Boundary Box (6).

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•

the Spreadsheet View (7), which is where you find and edit various
graphical primitives and pin parameters.

•

the Status Bar (8), which gives information on the commands and
actions associated with the position of the cursor.

The next sections describe the menus, toolbars and Symbol Editor
functionality in more detail.

Symbol Editor Spreadsheet View
The Spreadsheet View is where you find and edit various symbol
parameters. When you select an item on the workspace, it is highlighted in
the spreadsheet, and vice versa. If you make a change to an item in the
spreadsheet, it is reflected on the symbol in the workspace.

Pins Tab
The Pins tab of the Symbol Editor Spreadsheet View contains the
following columns:
•

Name—The pin’s name. You can perform full or partial negation on
pin names by typing the ^ symbol on either side of any character that
you wish to display a negation bar on the symbol.

•

Shape—Select a row and click in this field to display a list of pin types.
Choices are: Line Pin; Dot Pin; Clock Pin; Dot-Clock Pin; Input
Wedge Pin; Output Wedge Pin; Zero-Length Pin. Select the desired
pin type. The symbol changes to reflect your selection. Refer to the
Pins section for more information about pins.

•

Length—Select a row and click in this field to display a list of pin
lengths. Choices are: Short (1 grid); Regular (2 grids); Long
(3 grids); Extra Long (4 grids). If Zero-Length Pin is selected in the
Shape field, the list of pin lengths is not available in the Length field.

•

Symbol Pins—Select a row and click in this field and select either
Hidden or Visible to hide or show the pin name on the symbol.

•

Name Orientation—Select a row and click in this field to set the
orientation of the pin’s name on the symbol. Choices are: Auto;
Vertical; Horizontal.

•

Name Font—The font used for the pin’s name.

•

Name Font Style—The style of font used for the pin’s name (for
example, Bold).

•

Name Font Size—The size of the font used for the pin’s name.

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•

Footprint Pins—Select a row and click in this field and select either
Hidden or Visible to hide or show the footprint pin on the symbol.

•

Number Orientation—Select a row and click in this field to set the
orientation of the pin number on the symbol. Choices are: Auto;
Vertical; Horizontal.

•

Number Font—The font used for the pin’s number.

•

Number Font Style—The style of font used for the pin’s number.

•

Number Font Size—The size of the font used for the pin’s number.

Draw Layer Tab
The Draw Layer tab of the Symbol Editor Spreadsheet View contains
the following columns:
•

Name—The type of graphic element, for example, arc.

•

Pen Type—The appearance of lines for graphics elements, excluding
placed text. Select a row and click in this field to display a list of pen
types. Choices are: Solid; Dash; Dot; Dash-Dot; Dash-Dot-Dot;
Invisible; Solid Inside Frame.

•

Pen Width—The width of the lines in graphic elements, excluding
placed text. Select a row and click in this field to display a list of pen
types. Choices are: Not Scalable; One Pixel; Two Pixels;
Three Pixels; Four Pixels; Five Pixels.

•

Pen Color—The color of lines for graphic elements, including placed
text. Select a row and click in this field to display a color palette.

•

Brush Type—The style of the fill in elements such as polygons, that
have a fill. Select a row and click in this field to display a list of fill
types. Choices are: Solid; Invisible; Horizontal; Vertical; Diagonal
Downward; Diagonal Upward; Cross; Diagonal Cross.

•

Brush Color—The color of the fill in elements such as polygons, that
have a fill. Select a row and click in this field to display a color palette.

•

Font—The font name, active for placed text elements only. Select a
row and click in this field to display a list of fonts.

•

Font Style—The font style, active for placed text elements only. Select
a row and click in this field to display a list. Choices are: Regular;
Italic; Bold; Bold Italic.

•

Font Size—The font size, active for placed text elements only. Select
a row and click in this field to display a list of sizes.

Note If objects are grouped using Edit»Group, their distinct names and properties will
no longer appear. The name for any grouped object will appear as “Group”.

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Working with the Symbol Editor
To use the Symbol Editor to create working symbols you need to be
familiar with the elements required to make up a symbol in Multisim. The
key elements needed for a symbol are:
•

shape

•

pins

These are described in more detail below.

Shape
A symbol requires a shape to allow users to recognize its general function.
Use the drawing capabilities of Multisim’s Symbol Editor to construct a
shape that makes logical sense for the component you are creating or
modifying. The simplest way to do this is to edit the shape of an existing
component. Once this is done, you must add pins.

Pins
There are three main parts to a pin. These are the:
•

Name—This is the name of the pin and is usually the same as that
given in the data sheet. For example, most digital parts have pins
named “VCC” and “GND”. These names are used to identify the
actual name of the pin in the symbol and must be unique. It is
recommended that you use concise names as they display best on the
workspace and on printed output.
There are two methods to handle components that have more than one
pin with the same name:
–

Have one pin on the symbol that represents the duplicated pin (for
example, “GND”) and match the footprint pins later to the one on
the symbol pin.

–

Add multiple pins that have the same basic name but append a
digit to represent each occurence. For example, you could
represent multiple ground connections as GND1, GND2, GND3,
etc.

•

Footprint Pin Name—This is the pin name on the footprint for the
device. This naming will match the naming used in PCB layout. Within
the Symbol Editor you only choose whether to display the footprint
pin names by default, or not, and their orientation on the workspace.

•

Shape—The shape of the pin denotes the type of pin. Multisim
provides seven pin shapes that you can use: Line Pin; Dot Pin;

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Clock Pin; Dot-Clock Pin; Input Wedge Pin; Output Wedge Pin;
Zero-Length Pin. Refer to the Place Pin Toolbar section for more
information. The shapes are used for identification purposes and do not
have any impact on the operation of the component.
The symbol and footprint pins must accurately map in order to transfer correctly to
PCB layout.

Note

The figure below shows a 555 timer’s symbol, as seen in the Symbol
Editor. Both the footprint pins (1) and the symbol pins (2) appear.

Footprint Pin

Symbol Pin

The figure shows the same 555 timer’s symbol, as seen in the Multisim
workspace. The footprint pins (1) and the symbol pins (2) appear slightly
differently.

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Footprint Pin

Component Editing

Symbol Pin

The relationship of the Footprint Pin to the Symbol Pin is mapped in the
Footprint tab of the Component Properties dialog box. Refer to the
Editing a Component’s Footprint section for more information.
Complete the following steps to add a pin to a symbol:
1.

Click on the desired pin type in the Place Pin Toolbar.

Click on the workspace where you want the pin to appear.

Pins cannot be placed on top of each other or on corners of the boundary box. If you
attempt to do so, the cursor switches to a circle with a line through it, indicating that the
action is prohibited.

Note

Note You can edit a pin’s properties in the Pins tab of the Spreadsheet View. Refer to the
Pins Tab section for more information.

Default Pin Options Dialog Box
Refer to the Pin Array Options Dialog Box section for information about the Pin
Array Options dialog box.

Note

Complete the following steps to set up the default options for pins:
1.

Choose Pins»Default Pin Options to display the Default Pin Options
dialog box.

Set the options in the Pin Name box:

•

Prefix field—Appears before the pin name. A preview of the
prefix appears in the Name Preview field.

•

Suffix field—Appears after the pin name. A preview of the suffix
appears in the Name Preview field.

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•

Index checkbox—Enables the Start from and Increment by
fields.

•

Start from field—The starting number for the pins.

•

Increment by field—The size of the steps between pin numbers.

Set the options in the Pin Properties box.
•

Shape drop-down list—The shape of the pin.

•

Length drop-down list—The length of the pin.

•

Name Orientation drop-down list—The orientation of the pin
name. If you do not wish to show the pin name, turn off the
Name Visible checkbox.

•

Number Orientation drop-down list—The orientation of the pin
number. If you do not wish to show the pin number, turn off the
Number Visible checkbox.

Optionally, enable the Continuous Pin Placement checkbox. This
allows you to place pins one after the other, based on the parameters
entered in the above steps, until the Esc button on your keyboard is
pressed.

Pin Array Options Dialog Box
Complete the following steps to place a pin array on a symbol:

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Choose Pins»Place Pin Array to display the Pin Array Options
dialog box.

Set the options in the Pin Name box:
•

Prefix field—Appears before the pin names. A preview of the
prefix appears in the Name Preview field.

•

Index checkbox—Enables the Start from and Increment by
fields.

•

Start from field—The starting number for the pins in the array.

•

Increment by field—The size of the steps between pin numbers
in the array.

•

Suffix field—Appears after the pin names. A preview of the suffix
appears in the Name Preview field.

Enter the quantity of the pins desired in the Number of Pins in Array
field.

Enter the spacing of the pins (in grids) in the Distance between Pins
in Array field.

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Set the options in the Pins Order box:
•

Clockwise button—Pins are placed in ascending order clockwise.

•

Counterclockwise button—Pins are placed in ascending order
counter-clockwise.

Set the options in the Pin Properties box:
•

Shape drop-down list—The shape of the pin.

•

Length drop-down list—The length of the pin.

•

Name Orientation drop-down list—The orientation of the pin
name. If you do not wish to show the pin name, turn off the
Name Visible checkbox.

•

Number Orientation drop-down list—The orientation of the pin
number. If you do not wish to show the pin number, turn off the
Number Visible checkbox.

Click OK and place the array in the desired location. You are not
permitted to place the array if there is insufficient space.

Enter Text Dialog Box
This dialog box is accessed from either the Symbol Editor, or Title Block
Editor. Refer to the Title Block Editor section of Chapter 3, Schematic
Capture—Advanced Functions, for information on the Title Block Editor.
Complete the following steps to enter text on a symbol or title block:
1.

Select Graphics»Text to display the Enter Text dialog box.

Type the desired text in the Enter Text field.

Change the formatting of the text as desired:

•

Font field—Select desired font from the list or type in.

•

Font Style field—Select desired style from the list.

•

Size field—Select desired size from the list or type in.

•

Text Orientation box—Select either horizontal or vertical
orientation.

•

Automatic drop-down—Optionally, select a new color from the
pop-up that appears when you click on the down-arrow.

Click OK and place the text in the desired location.

If the boundary does not contain sufficient space to place the text, it will be lost
when you click the mouse.

Caution

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In-Place Edit Mode
To edit the symbol for a component placed on the workspace, right-click
on the component and select Edit Symbol from the pop-up that appears.
The Symbol Editor launches in the In-Place Edit Mode.
You can edit the symbol via the menus, toolbars and spreadsheet.
In the In-Place Edit Mode, you can change the graphical elements of a
symbol (for example, the shape and placed text). You cannot add or remove
pins as this would affect the footprint and model mapping.
Note The In-Place Edit Mode only changes the symbol for the selected component. It
does not change the symbol for other components of the same value within the active
circuit, or in the database.

Symbol Editor Menus
The Symbol Editor menus contain all the commands necessary to create
and edit component symbols.

File Menu
The following selections are available under the File menu:

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•

New—Opens a new untitled document in the Symbol Editor. If you
already have one open, it will close first, after prompting you to save
any changes.

•

Open—Opens an existing document in the Symbol Editor. If you
already have one open, it will close first, after prompting you to save
any changes.

•

Save—Saves changes to the active document.

•

Save As—Opens the standard Windows “Save As” dialog box where
you can save the active document under a new or existing name.

•

Print Setup—Opens the standard Windows “Print Setup” dialog box
where you can enter the desired parameters for your printer.

•

Print Preview—Opens the Print Preview dialog box, which shows
the symbol in the active document with the best fit to the page. There
are no other sizes available.

•

Print—Opens the standard Windows “Print” dialog box where you
can enter the desired printing properties and print the symbol. The
symbol is printed with the best fit to the page. There are no other sizes
available for printing the symbol.

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•

Component Editing

Exit—Closes the Symbol Editor and returns you to the main
Multisim screen. Before exiting, you are prompted to save changes, if
any, to the active document.

Edit Menu
The following selections are available under the Edit menu:
•

Undo—Undoes the previous action.

•

Redo—Redoes the previous “undo” action.

•

Cut—Removes the selected element(s) from the workspace and places
them on the clipboard.

•

Copy—Places a copy of the selected element(s) on the clipboard. Note
that pin names cannot be copied separately.

•

Paste—Places a copy of the element(s) on the clipboard on the
workspace at the cursor’s location. If the clipboard contains pins and
graphical elements, only the graphical elements will be pasted.

•

Delete—Removes the selected element(s) from the workspace. They
are not placed on the clipboard.

•

Copy As Picture—Copies the symbol on the workspace to the
clipboard as a metafile. For use with Winword.

•

Copy As Bitmap—Copies the symbol on the workspace to the
clipboard as a bitmap image. For use with MS PaintBrush.

•

Select All—Selects all of the elements on the workspace.

•

Flip Horizontal—Flips the selected element(s) horizontally. Does not
apply to pins.

•

Flip Vertical—Flips the selected element(s) vertically. Does not apply
to pins.

•

Rotate 90 Clockwise—Rotates the selected element(s) 90 degrees
clockwise. Does not apply to pins.

•

Rotate 90 Counter CW—Rotates the selected element(s) 90 degrees
counter-clockwise. Does not apply to pins.

•

Snap To Grid—Snaps the selected element(s) to the Draw Grid that
is found within the symbol’s boundary box. Does not apply to pins.

•

Group—Places selected elements in one group. Does not apply to
pins.

•

Ungroup—Returns an element that was made using the Group
command, back to its individual elements. Does not apply to pins.

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•

Bring To Front—Brings selected element(s) to the foreground on the
workspace. Other element(s) appear behind them. Does not apply to
pins.

•

Send To Back—Sends selected element(s) to the background on the
workspace. Other elements appear in front of them. Does not apply to
pins.

•

View Menu
The following selections are available under the View menu:

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•

Toolbars—Toggles the following toolbars on and off: Standard
Toolbar; Zoom Toolbar; Draw Tools; Pin Place Toolbar; Drawing
Toolbar.

•

Spreadsheet—Toggles the spreadsheet view on and off. Refer to the
Symbol Editor Spreadsheet View section for more information.

•

Status Bar—Toggles the Status bar at the bottom of the screen on and
off.

•

Show Pin Grid—Toggles the Pin Grid, which displays outside of the
Boundary Box on the workspace, on and off. For consistency
throughout Multisim, the Pin Grid size cannot be changed.

•

Show Draw Grid—Toggles the Draw Grid, which displays inside the
Boundary Box, on and off.

•

Draw Grid Size—Sets the size of the Draw Grid, which displays
inside the Boundary Box. The choices are: No Grid; Smallest Grid;
Small Grid; Regular Grid; Large Grid.

•

Zoom In—Magnifies the element(s) in the workspace.

•

Zoom Out—Reduces the viewing size of the element(s) in the
workspace.

•

Zoom 100%—Displays the items in the workspace at their normal
viewing size. This is the size that they will be displayed at in Multisim.
When the Symbol Editor first opens, the magnification is set to 200%.

•

Redraw—Redraws all elements in the workspace.

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Pins Menu
The following selections are available under the Pins menu:

Note

•

Select—Use to select element(s) on the workspace by clicking and
dragging the mouse.

•

Line Pin—Places a line pin on the workspace.

•

Dot Pin—Places a dot pin on the workspace.

•

Clock Pin—Places a clock pin on the workspace.

•

Dot-Clock Pin—Places a dot-clock pin on the workspace.

•

Input Wedge Pin—Places an input wedge pin on the workspace.

•

Output Wedge Pin—Places an output wedge pin on the workspace.

•

Zero-Length Pin—Places a zero-length pin on the workspace.

•

Place Pin Array—Displays the Pin Array Options dialog box where
you enter parameters to place a pin array on the workspace. Refer to
the Pin Array Options Dialog Box section for more information.

•

Default Pin Options—Displays the Default Pin Options dialog box
where you enter the default settings for the various pin types. Refer to
the Default Pin Options Dialog Box section for more information.

Refer to the Pins section for information about pin types.

Graphics Menu
The following selections are available under the Graphics menu:
•

Text—Displays the Enter Text dialog box where you enter and
format text to be placed on the workspace. Refer to the Enter Text
Dialog Box section for more information.

•

Line—Draws a line on the workspace.

•

Multiline—Draws a multiline on the workspace.

•

Segment Arc—Places an arc on the workspace. Click once to place
the center point of the arc, click again to place the outer diameter point.
As you move the cursor, a dotted outline of the arc appears. Now move
the cursor and click to place the arc’s end point.

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•

Rectangle—Places a rectangle on the workspace.

•

Polygon—Places a polygon on the workspace. Click to place the
polygon’s corners and right-click to finish.

•

Bitmap—Places a bitmap image on the workspace. Click to display a
standard Windows “Open” dialog box, where you can select the
desired bitmap.

Graphical primitives such as lines and rectangles can only be placed inside the
boundary box. If you attempt to place them outside of the boundary box, the cursor will
change to a circle with a line through it, indicating that the action is prohibited.

Note

Layout Menu
To align two or more graphic elements, use one of the following selections
from under the Layout»Align menu:

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•

Left—Left aligns the selected elements.

•

Horiz. Center—Horizontally centers the selected elements.

•

Right—Right aligns the selected elements.

•

Top—Aligns the selected elements along their top edges.

•

Vert. Center—Vertically centers the selected items.

•

Bottom—Aligns the selected elements along their bottom edges.

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Tools Menu
The following selection is available under the Tool menu:
•

Check Symbol—Confirms that the symbol has no errors, such as
duplicate pin names.

•

Customize—Displays the Customize dialog box. Refer to the
Customizing the Interface section of Chapter 1, User Interface, for
more information.

Help Menu
The following selections are available under the Help menu:
•

Help Topics—Displays the help file.

•

About Symbol Editor—Displays a splash window with information
about the Symbol Editor.

Pop-up Menus
Depending on where you right-click in the Symbol Editor, different
pop-up menus appear.
Right-click from a menu to display a pop-up which allows you to toggle the
following toolbars on and off: Standard Toolbar; Zoom Toolbar;
Draw Tools; Pin Place Toolbar; Drawing Toolbar.
Right-click in the workspace to display a pop-up that contains: Cut; Copy;
Paste; Show Draw Grid; Draw Grid Size; Snap To Grid; Flip
Horizontal; Flip Vertical; Rotate 90 Clockwise; Rotate 90 Counter
CW. Refer to the Edit Menu section for information about these commands.

Symbol Editor Toolbars
The toolbars give access to the most commonly-used tools.

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Standard Toolbar
The buttons in the Standard toolbar found in the Symbol Editor are
described below:
Button

Description
New button. Opens a new untitled document in the Symbol
Editor. If you already have one open, it will close first, after
prompting you to save any changes.
Open button. Opens an existing document in the Symbol
Editor. If you already have one open, it will close first, after
prompting you to save any changes.
Save button. Saves changes to the active document.

Cut button. Removes the selected element(s) from the
workspace and places them on the clipboard.
Copy button. Places a copy of the selected element(s) on the
clipboard.
Paste button. Places a copy of the element(s) on the clipboard
on the workspace at the cursor’s location.
Copy As Picture button. Copies the symbol on the
workspace as a metafile.
Copy As Bitmap button. Copies the symbol on the
workspace as a bitmap image.
Undo button. Undoes the previous action.

Redo button. Redoes the previous “undo” action.

Print Preview button. Opens the Print Preview screen,
which shows the symbol in the active document with the best
fit to the page. There are no other magnifications available.

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Button

Component Editing

Description
Print button. Opens the standard Windows “Print” dialog
box, where you can enter the desired printing properties and
print the symbol. The symbol is printed with the best fit to the
page. There are no other magnifications available for printing
the symbol.
About Symbol Editor button. Displays a splash screen with
information about the Symbol Editor.

Zoom Toolbar
The buttons in the Zoom toolbar found in the Symbol Editor are described
below.
Button

Description
Zoom In button. Magnifies the elements on the workspace.

Zoom 100% button. Displays the items in the workspace at
their normal viewing size. This is the size that they will be
displayed at in Multisim. When the Symbol Editor first
opens, the magnification is set to 200%.
Zoom Out button. Reduces the viewing size of the
element(s) on the workspace.

Draw Tools Toolbar
The buttons in the Draw Tools toolbar found in the Symbol Editor are
described below:
Button

Description
Select button. Use to select element(s) on the workspace by
clicking and dragging the mouse.
Rectangle button. Places a rectangle on the workspace.

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Button

Description
Line button. Places a line on the workspace.

Polygon button. Places a polygon on the workspace.

Half Ellipse Arc button. Places a half ellipse arc on the
workspace.
Segment Arc button. Places an arc on the workspace. Click
once to place the center point of the arc, click again to place
the out diameter point. As you move the cursor, a dotted
outline of the arc appears. Now move the cursor and click to
place the arc’s end point.
Places a bezier curve on the workspace. Click to place the
start of the curve, then move the cursor on the workspace. As
you move the cursor, a dotted outline of the bezier curve
appears. Click to place the end point of the bezier, then move
and click the cursor twice more to form the final shape of the
bezier.
Text button. Displays the Enter Text dialog box, where you
enter and format text to be placed on the workspace. Refer to
the Enter Text Dialog Box section for more information.

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Button

Component Editing

Description
Bitmap button. Places a bitmap image on the workspace.
Click to display a standard Windows “Open” dialog box,
where you can select the desired bitmap.
Check Symbol button. Confirms that the symbol has no
errors, such as duplicate pin names.

Place Pin Toolbar
The buttons on the Place Pin toolbar found in the Symbol Editor are
described below.
Button

Description
Place Pin Array button. Use to place a pin array on the
workspace.
Line Pin button. Places a line pin on the workspace.

Dot Pin button. Places a dot pin on the workspace.

Clock Pin button. Places a clock pin on the workspace.

Dot-Clock Pin button. Places a dot-clock pin on the
workspace.
Input Wedge Pin button. Places an input wedge pin on the
workspace.
Output Wedge Pin button. Places an output wedge pin on
the workspace.
Zero-Length Pin button. Places a zero-length pin on the
workspace.

Note

Refer to the Pins section for information about pin types.

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Drawing Toolbar
The buttons in the Drawing toolbar found in the Symbol Editor are
described below:
Button

Description
Align Left button. Moves selected objects horizontally so
that their left sides line up with the left side of the left-most
object. At least two objects must be selected to enable this
button. Does not work for pins.
Align Right button. Moves selected objects horizontally so
that their right sides line up with the right side of the
right-most object. At least two objects must be selected to
enable this button. Does not work for pins.
Align Top button. Moves selected objects vertically so that
their top sides line up with the top side of the top-most object.
At least two objects must be selected to enable this button.
Does not work for pins.
Align Bottom button. Moves the selected objects vertically
so that their bottom sides line up with the bottom side of the
bottom-most object. At least two objects must be selected to
enable this button. Does not work for pins.
Snap To Grid button. Snaps the selected element(s) to the
Draw Grid that is found within the symbol’s boundary box.
Does not work for pins.
Distribute Horizontal button. Evenly spaces the selected
objects horizontally. At least three objects must be selected to
enable this button. Does not work for pins.
Distribute Vertical button. Evenly spaces the selected
objects vertically. At least three objects must be selected to
enable this button. Does not work for pins.
Bring To Front button. Brings selected element(s) to the
foreground on the workspace. Other element(s) appear
behind them. Does not work for pins.
Send To Back button. Sends selected element(s) to the
background on the workspace. Other elements appear in front
of them. Does not work for pins.

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Button

Component Editing

Description
Rotate 90 Counter CW button. Rotates the selected
element(s) 90 degrees counter-clockwise. Does not work for
pins.
Rotate 90 Clockwise button. Rotates the selected element(s)
90 degrees clockwise. Does not work for pins.
Flip Horizontal button. Flips the selected element(s)
horizontally on the workspace. Does not work for pins.
Flip Vertical button. Flips the selected element(s) vertically
on the workspace. Does not work for pins.
Ungroup button. Returns an element that was made using the
Group command back to its individual elements. Does not
work for pins.
Group button. Places selected elements in one group. Does
not work for pins.
Resize Boundary Box button. Places a cursor at the
lower-right side of the boundary box. Drag it to the desired
location to resize the boundary box. You cannot make the
boundary box smaller than the elements that it contains or
smaller than is required for the pins that are attached to it.

Editing a Component’s Model
If you wish to simulate a component, it must have a model.
The following are found in the Model tab of the Component Properties
dialog box:
•

Model Name area—Displays the list of models associated with the
component.

•

Model Data area—Displays the SPICE model data of the selected
component.

•

Symbol Pins column—Found in the Pin Mapping Table. Displays
the names of the pins associated with the symbol.

•

Model Nodes column—Found in the Pin Mapping Table. Displays
the order in which the Symbol Pins are represented in the model data.

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•

Add from Comp button—Use to select a component, whose model
you wish to use, from the existing Multisim database.

•

Add/Edit button—Use to add or edit a new or existing model in the
Multisim database.

•

Delete a Model button—Use to delete a model or number of models
from the model list in the Model Name area.

•

Copy to button—Use to copy model information to other sections of a
multisection component.

•

Show Template button—Use to display template of pins connected to
their respective nodes in the model.

The Model Data and Pin Mapping Table areas contain the information
that make up the model itself (and are thus the most important parts for
simulation purposes).
If you modify a model, the model changes for all other components within the same
database, whose models are based on that template. If you want to modify a model for a
specific component, save the modified model with a name similar to that of the component.
Alternatively, you can copy a model whose model template matches what you want.

Note

Note If you select a component from the Master Database, you will not be able to modify
its model information.

You can import or load an existing model. Refer to the Loading an Existing
Model section for information.
Depending on your edition of Multisim, you can create your own model
using the Model Makers. Refer to the Creating a Component Model Using
the Model Makers section for more information.
Caution If you choose to edit a model’s data or template directly, be very careful when
entering information. Making a typing error or removing a character by mistake could
cause the model to function improperly. Unless you are experienced at creating/editing
models, it is recommended that you copy a model that has the same template information
you require.

Adding a Model to a Component
Multisim allows you to create models and place them in either the
Corporate Database or User Database. These models can then be used
when creating components or editing a component’s model.

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Complete the following steps to create a model and save it to the
User Database or Corporate Database:
First add a new model ID to the Database.
1.

Click the Add/Edit button on the Model tab of the Component
Properties dialog box. The Select a Model dialog box appears:
•

Add button—Adds a new model name to the selected database. Is
only active for the Corporate or User Database.

•

Delete button—Deletes any of the models listed in the Model ID
List. Is only active for the Corporate or User Database.

•

Link Info button—Displays a list of components with the selected
model through the Component List dialog box.

•

Copy to button—Copies the selected model to either the
Corporate or User Database.

•

Rename button—displays a dialog where you rename the selected
model.

•

Filter button—Displays the Filter dialog box, where you select
the manufacturer and model ID to display.

•

Start Model Maker button—Accesses Multisim’s Model
Makers to create a SPICE model for the selected model.

•

Load Model from File button—Use to select a model from a file
in SPICE, Verilog, VHDL, or Code Model format.

Select the database in the Database Name field where you want the
new model to be stored.

Click the Add button. The Set Parameters dialog box appears. Enter
the name that you would like to call the new model and click OK.

The name of the model appears in the Model ID List of the database
you selected.

Highlight the model you just created in the Model ID List. Notice
there is no model data provided.

Next, enter information into the model; you can create a model by writing
a SPICE model or using the available Model Makers, load a model from a
file, or copy existing model data information directly into the Model Data
field.

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Component List Dialog Box
Complete the following steps to display a list of components with a selected
model:
1.

Select a model in the Model ID list in the Select a Model dialog box.

Click Link Info in the Select a Model dialog box. The Component
List dialog box displays.

Click OK to close the dialog.

Creating a SPICE Model for a Component
Multisim is based on industry standard SPICE 3F5. It supports models
created using standard SPICE syntax. You can create a model using the
Model Makers, by assigning values to the parameters of a primitive
model, or by creating a subcircuit model.

Creating a Model Using a Model Maker
Complete the following steps to use a model created by the Model Makers:
1.

Select the Model ID in the Select a Model dialog box.

Click the Start Model Maker button. The Select Model Maker
dialog box appears.

Select the Model Maker you wish to use to make a model.

Click Accept to continue to start the process of making a model. Click
Cancel to return to the Model tab of the Component Properties
dialog box.

For analog Model Makers, refer to the Creating a Component Model
Using the Model Makers section for information about using specific
Model Makers. For RF model makers, refer to the RF Model Makers
section of Chapter 14, RF.

When you have entered all the required information in the Model
Maker dialog box, click OK. The data for the model you have just
created will appear in the Model Data field.

Creating a Primitive Model
Certain devices have primitive SPICE models. Some of these devices are
listed below. A primitive model is a model that is defined by a collection
of parameters. They are used as basic building blocks in circuits and in
subcircuits:
•

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R—Semiconductor resistor model.

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•

C—Semiconductor capacitor model.

•

SW—Voltage controlled switch.

•

CSW—Current controlled switch.

•

URC—Uniform distributed RC model.

•

LTRA—Lossy transmission line model.

•

D—Diode model.

•

NPN—NPN BJT model.

•

PNP—PNP BJT model.

•

NJF—N-channel JFET model.

•

PJF—P-channel JFET model.

•

NMOS—N-channel MOSFET model.

•

PMOS—P-channel MOSFET model.

•

NMF—N-channel MESFET model.

•

PMF—P-channel MESFET model.

Component Editing

Refer to Chapter 7, Multisim SPICE Reference, for more information.
An example of a primitive model for a 2n2222a NPN BJT Transistor
follows. The first line of a primitive model begins with the statement,
.MODEL, followed by the model name and then the primitive type. In the
example below the model name is “2N2222A” and the primitive type is
“NPN”. The rest of the lines of the model define the parameters of the NPN
BJT. Note that they begin with a “+”. Details regarding the parameters are
found in the Component Reference help file. You do not need to define all
of the parameters; any that are omitted are assigned default values.
.MODEL 2N2222A NPN
+IS=2.04566e-13 BF=296.463 NF=1.09697 VAF=10
+IKF=0.0772534 ISE=1.45081e-13 NE=1.39296 BR=0.481975
+NR=1.16782 VAR=100 IKR=0.100004 ISC=1.00231e-13
+NC=1.98587 RB=3.99688 IRB=0.2 RBM=3.99688
+RE=0.0857267 RC=0.428633 XTB=0.1 XTI=1
+EG=1.05 CJE=1.09913e-11 VJE=0.99 MJE=0.23
+TF=2.96787e-10 XTF=9.22776 VTF=25.2257 ITF=0.0793144
+CJC=3.1941e-11 VJC=0.4 MJC=0.85 XCJC=0.901093
+FC=0.1 CJS=0 VJS=0.75 MJS=0.5
+TR=3.83883e-07 PTF=0 KF=0 AF=1

For further information regarding primitive models, please consult the
component Component Reference help file or the SPICE 3F5 user manual
(http://bwrc.eecs.berkeley.edu/Classes/IcBook/SPICE/).

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Creating a SPICE Subcircuit
Many electronics devices are not represented by primitives, but are still
well suited as SPICE models. SPICE subcircuit are used to capture the
characteristics of these models. A SPICE subcircuit is built from a
collection of devices that contain primitive models, voltage and/or current
sources, and/or other SPICE subcircuits.
You can either create a SPICE subcircuit from scratch by typing it into the
model data window or you can first draw the circuit in Multisim and export
the SPICE netlist and then modify it for use as a SPICE subcircuit.
All SPICE subcircuits must begin with a line that begins with .SUBCKT
followed by the SPICE subcircuit name and the external nodes of the
SPICE subcircuit that will be connected to other components. The SPICE
subcircuit must end with the statement .ENDS.
.SUBCKT
…
.ENDS SubcircuitName

A SPICE subcircuit is defined by naming and connecting the internal
devices that make up the subcircuit. For example, to define that a 100 kΩ
resistor with the reference designator R1 is connected between nodes 4 and
5 you would write:
R1 4 5 100k

An example of a SPICE subcircuit follows:
.SUBCKT SampleSubcircuit 4 2
R1
C1
R2
D1

1
2
1
0

2
0
0
2

1.000e+003
1.0E-6
3.0k
D1N3909

.MODEL D1N3909 D (
+
IS = 6.233e-10
+
RS = 0.003866
+
CJO = 1.132e-10
+
VJ = 0.75
+
TT = 3.699e-07
+
M = 0.2711
+
BV = 100
+
N = 1.505
+
EG = 1.11

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+
XTI = 3
+
KF = 0
+
AF = 1
+
FC = 0.5
+
IBV = 0.0001
+
TNOM = 27
+ )
.ENDS

This is the subcircuit for the following circuit drawn in Multisim:

Note that nodes 1 and 2 are the two nodes that will be connected outside of
the subcircuit model. They are defined as external nodes by including them
in the first line of the subcircuit model.
The resistors, capacitor, and diode are all primitives. The only parameters
defined for the resistors and capacitor are their values, but the diode has
additional parameters defined using the .model statement.
Refer to Chapter 7, Multisim SPICE Reference, for more information.

Loading an Existing Model
Complete the following steps to load or import an existing VHDL, Verilog,
Ccode model, or SPICE model for your component:
1.

Click Load Model From File in the Select a Model dialog box. A
standard file browser appears, allowing you to choose the file type,
name and location of the files to be loaded. Before loading a netlist,
make sure you know what folder it is in. Most Bspice, Xspice and
Cadence® PSpice® netlists end in extensions .cir or .net.

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Select the file to load and click OK. The model data appears in the
Model tab fields of the Component Properties dialog box.

Cadence® PSpice® is not an industry standard, but is proprietary to the Orcad SPICE
simulation tool. Since some component vendors make models for their components
available in Cadence® PSpice® format, Multisim has been designed to support Cadence®
PSpice® models as extensively as possible. However, you will not be able to share models
or circuits with other SPICE users or tools. Refer to the Compatibility Modes section of
Chapter 7, Multisim SPICE Reference, for more information.
Note

Modify a Model’s Data
Models can only be modified if they are in the Corporate or User database.
Multisim does not allow information stored in the Master Database to be
edited.
Complete the following steps to modify a model in the Corporate or User
database:
1.

Select the model you wish to edit by clicking on it in the Model ID List
in the Select a Model dialog box.

The model data can be modified by making changes directly in the
Model Data area of the Select a Model dialog box.

Select the Save button to save any changes that were made to the
model.

If the model that has been modified is being used by a component in the database
where it is located (Corporate or User) a message window will appear indicating that the
model has been linked to a component in the component database. Multisim will not allow
you to save the modifications to this named model. You will have to change the name of
the model.

Note

Copying the Model of One Component to Another
Complete the following steps to copy the model information from an
existing component:

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Click Add From Comp in the Model tab of the Component
Properties dialog box. The Select Model Data dialog box appears.

Select the database you want to choose the model from in the
Database drop-down list.

Select the Group and Family of the component you want to choose the
model from.

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In the Component list, choose the component whose model template
most closely matches what you want. The model’s manufacturer and
footprint type appear in the Model manuf./ID and Footprint
manuf./Type fields.

To view the model of the component you selected, click the Model
button.

Click OK to return to the Component Properties dialog box.

The model name is added to the list of models associated with the
component.

Analog Behavioral Modeling and Controlled Source
Syntax
Analog Behavioral Modeling (ABM) is an extremely powerful feature
which provides an efficient way to macro model signal processes through
non-linear mathematical and conditional expressions. For instance, if you
require a comparator for a PWM based circuit, instead of modeling the
inner working of the comparator, the simple "if(Vin1 > Vin2, 10,
0)" expression can be used. ABM-based voltage and current sources are
based on mathematical expressions of circuit voltages and currents. The
supported functions, operators, constants, and syntax are described in this
section.

Accessing Net Voltages and Branch Currents in ABM Expressions
Expressions may contain net voltages relative to ground using the syntax
V(), where is the name of a net. Alternatively,
expressions may contain differential net voltages using the syntax
V(, ), where the expression evaluates to the
difference between nets and .
For example:
B1 net1 net2 v={V(3)+V(7,2)}

Expressions may contain branch currents through voltage source elements
using the syntax I(), where is the reference
designator of the voltage source. If a branch current is required that does
not contain an appropriate voltage source, simply break the branch and
insert a 0-volt voltage source. Positive current polarity is taken from the
positive net to the negative net of the voltage source.

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Multisim supports referencing current through five types of SPICE
primitive voltage sources: Independent source (“V” source), Voltage
Controlled Voltage Source (“E” source), Current Controlled Voltage
Source (“H” source), the ABM source (“B” source), and Inductors.
For example:
B1 net1 0

v={ 5+ I(V2)+3*I(E5)-2.2*I(B2)}

Editing a Component Pin Model
The Pin Parameters tab of the Component Properties dialog box is
where you assign the pin type for each of the symbol pins in a component.
Symbol Pin is the name of the pin. For example, most digital parts have pins named
“Vcc” and “GND”.

Note

Complete the following steps to enter pin parameters:
1.

Select the desired Symbol Pin.

Select the type of component in the Component Type drop-down list.

Select the technology in the Component Technology drop-down list.

For each symbol pin, click in the corresponding field in the Type
column and select the pin type from the drop-down list that appears.

You can assign the same pin type to multiple symbol pins at once. Use the Ctrl and
Shift keys to select the desired pins and then select the desired type from one of the selected
Type fields. The type for all of the selected symbol pins changes to reflect your selection.

Tip

Select whether or not you wish to include each symbol pin in the
Electrical Rules Check by clicking in the corresponding field in the
ERC Status column and selecting either Include or Exclude. (The
default is Include).

The Section column displays the section of a multi-section component. This column
is read-only.

Note

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Editing a Component’s Footprint
The Footprint tab of the Component Properties dialog box allows you to
specify/modify package information for a component and map footprint
and symbol pins of a component:
•

Footprint Manufacturer\Type area—Shows the manufacturer and
footprint name associated with the component.

•

Symbol Pin to Footprint Pin Mapping Table—Shows the symbol
pin names of the component and the footprint pins they are associated
with in the package.

•

Add From Database button—Use to add a footprint package to the
component from a list of footprints in the selected database.

•

Delete button—Use to delete any of the footprint packages assigned to
the component in the Footprint Manufacturer\Type area.

•

Change button—Displays the Change Footprint dialog box. Refer to
the Edit Footprint Dialog Box section of Chapter 3, Schematic
Capture—Advanced Functions, for information.

•

Map Pins button—Displays the Advanced Pin Mapping dialog box.

A footprint in the Master Database cannot be modified. To modify a footprint a
copy must be added to the Corporate Database or User Database.

Note

Select a Footprint Dialog Box
Complete the following steps to modify or enter package information:
1.

Click the Add From Database button in the Footprint tab of the
Component Properties dialog box. The Select a Footprint dialog
box appears:
•

Database Name list—The database the footprints are in.

•

Data List—Shows the footprints in the selected database.

•

Filter button—Use to filter the contents of the Data List. Refer to
the Filter Dialog Box section for more information.

•

Add button—Use to add a footprint to the User or Corporate
Database. Refer to the Add a Footprint Dialog Box section for
more information.

•

Delete button—Use to delete a footprint from the Corporate or
User Database.

•

Copy to button—Use to copy a footprint from one database to
another.

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•

Link Info button—Displays a list of components with the selected
footprint through the Component List dialog box.

Select the Database Name where the footprint is that you want to edit.

If the footprint is in the Master Database, select the footprint in the
Data List and click the Copy To button. The Set Parameters dialog
box appears prompting you to place it in the Corporate Database or
User Database.

Click OK. The footprint is copied to the database you indicated and
you are returned to the Select a Footprint dialog box.

Click the field of the footprint you want to modify.

Enter the appropriate information.

Once a footprint is modified, you will be prompted to save the footprint with the
modifications. If you choose not to save, the modifications will be lost.

Note

Click the Save button. The modifications are saved.

Complete the following steps to map symbol and footprint pins:
1.

Navigate to the Footprint tab of the Component Properties dialog
box.

Select the footprint you wish to make modifications to in the
Footprint Manufacturer\Type box.

In the Symbol Pin to Footprint Pin Mapping Table, for each
Symbol Pin:
•

Select its corresponding footprint pin from the drop-down list in
the Footprint Pins column, using information from the
component’s datasheet.

Note Refer to the Pins section for information about the differences between symbol pins
and footprint pins.

•

Select its swap group from the drop-down list in the Swap Group
column. Pins in the same swap group can be interchanged during
the PCB layout process.

Filter Dialog Box
You can filter what is displayed in the Data List of the Select a Footprint
dialog box by using the Filter dialog box. For example, you may wish to
view a specific footprint from a specific device manufacturer only.

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Complete the following steps to filter contents of the Data List:
1.

Click Filter in the Select a Footprint dialog box to display the Filter
dialog box.

Click Add Row.

Enter desired parameters as shown below:
•

Column—Corresponds to the columns in the Select a Footprint
dialog box. Click in the field and select the desired value from the
drop-down list that appears (“Footprint”, for example).

•

Operator—Select one of: =, NOT =, Contains, Starts with.

•

Value—A value you would expect to see in the selected Column
( “16”, for example).

The dialog box will resemble the following:

Note

Click OK. The Filter dialog box closes and the Select a Footprint
dialog box displays with the Data List populated according to the
parameters you entered in the Filter dialog box.

Filter On remains visible until Clear Filter is clicked in the Filter dialog box.
5.

Optionally, click Filter to display the Filter dialog box and enter more
parameters.

Click Add Row and enter parameters as shown above.

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Click OK to return to the Select a Footprint dialog box. The contents
of the dialog now reflect the two filters that you entered in the
Filter List.

Tip Add as many filters as necessary to reduce the items in the Data List to an easily
scrollable quantity.

To display all available footprints in the Select a Footprint dialog box,
click Clear Filter and OK from the Filter dialog box.
To clear an individual filter from the Filter dialog box, select the filter and
click Delete Row.

Add a Footprint Dialog Box
Complete the following steps to add a footprint to the User Database or
Corporate Database:

NI Multisim User Manual

Select either Corporate Database or User Database in the
Database Name field of the Select a Footprint dialog box. Refer to
the Select a Footprint Dialog Box section for more information.

Click on Add in the Select a Footprint dialog box. The Add a
Footprint dialog box displays.

Enter the required information in the Database Name, Manufacturer,
Footprint, Ultiboard Footprint, and Number of Pins fields.

Select either SMT (surface mount) or TH (through-hole) in the
SMT/TH field.

For BGAs (Ball Grid Arrays):
•

Enable the Enable alpha-numeric BGA functionality checkbox.

•

Alpha (Depth)—Enter the number of rows of footprint pins in the
BGA.

•

Numeric (Width)—Enter the number of columns of footprint
pins in the BGA.

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As you change the values in the above two fields, the Footprint Pins
values are updated as in the example shown below.

BGA pins in Ultiboard (Circuit Design Suite’s PCB layout software), are named in
a matrix array starting with A1, A2…Ax; the next row would be B1, B2...Bx, etc. When
creating this symbol in Multisim, the footprint pins are initially named 1, 2, 3, etc… . The
functionality described in this step allows the footprint pins to be renamed to match the
alpha-numeric pin naming method used in Ultiboard. This feature is especially useful for
BGAs with large numbers of pins that would otherwise have to be manually renamed.

Note

Click OK.

Advanced Pin Mapping Dialog
The Advanced Pin Mapping dialog box is used to map symbol pins to
footprint pins and is especially useful for more complex components.
Complete the following steps to display the Advanced Pin Mapping
dialog box:
1.

Click the Map Pins button in either the Footprint tab of the
Component Properties dialog box, step 5 of the Component
Wizard, or the Edit Footprint dialog box.
This example shows the pin mapping for an LM3301N, Quad High
Gain Norton Op-amp.
The all tab shows all pins in the component. Tabs A, B, C & D show
pins from individual sections. The COM tab shows pins common to all
sections. The footprint pins display in the preview pane on the right
side of the dialog box.

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To reverse the display so that the symbol pins appear in the right pane, click
Switch.
To remove all pin mapping, click Clean Map.

Mapping Pins
The following example uses the Advanced Pin Mapping dialog box with
the footprint pins displayed in the right pane. If you wish to display the
symbol pins in the right pane, click Switch. The same mapping techniques
will apply.
Complete the following steps to map footprint to symbol pins:
1.

Display the Advanced Pin Mapping dialog as described earlier in this
section.
In the preview pane, a black footprint pin number indicates that the
footprint pin has been mapped to a symbol pin; a blue footprint pin
number indicates an unmapped footprint pin; a red footprint pin
number indictes a mapping duplication; a grey footprint pin number
indicates that that pin has been selected in the table on the left, as with
footprint pin 1 in the example below.

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Hover the cursor over a pin in the right pane to display a tooltip that shows the pin’s
mapping.

Tip

Select a symbol pin in the left column and click on a blue (unmapped)
footprint pin in the right pane. The footprint pin’s color turns black to
indicate that it is mapped.

You can also click-and-drag a symbol pin to footprint pin in the right
pane to create a mapping (or vice versa).

Complete the following steps to use the Copy Up and Copy Down buttons:
1.

Use the Shift and/or Ctrl keys to select a number of pins symbol pins
in the left column.

Click Copy Up to copy the selected pin assignments upwards.
Or
Click Copy Down to copy the selected pin assignments downward.

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Editing a Component’s Electronic Parameters
The Electronic Param tab consists of two sets of fields. The Device
Specific Parameters vary depending on the type of component.
The Common Parameters are common to all components. These are:
•

Thermal Resistance Junction—Enter or modify the thermal
characteristics within the component (from the junction to the case), in
watts or degrees centigrade.

•

Thermal Resistance Case—Enter or modify the thermal
characteristics of the whole package (component) in watts or degrees
centigrade.

•

Power Dissipation—Enter or modify the power dissipation of the
component, in watts.

•

Derating Knee Point—Enter or modify the temperature (degrees
centigrade) at which the power of the component/package begins to be
de-rated, in order to operate the device in its safe operating range.

•

Min. Operating Temperature—Enter or modify the lowest ambient
temperature at which the component can operate reliably in degrees
centigrade.

•

Max. Operating Temperature—Enter or modify the highest ambient
temperature at which the component can operate reliably in degrees
centigrade.

•

ESD Rating—Enter or modify the electro-static discharge rating for
the component.

Editing User Fields
User fields can be used for any purpose you wish. For example, you might
use these fields to record the cost of a component (the price you pay to the
supplier or vendor), lead time for ordering, preferred supplier, stock
number, and so on. The information is particularly useful in reports and in
searching the database for the most appropriate component.
User fields consist of two elements: the field title and the field value. Field
titles are shared across databases (that is, all components in all the
databases have the same user field titles), and field values are unique to an
individual component. Typically, a manager or project leader would
populate this level of the database.

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User fields must be given titles before they can be used to record values.
Complete the following steps to set up or modify user field titles:
1.

Click the Database Manager button from the Standard toolbar.
Or
Choose Tools»Database»Database Manager.

Click the User Field Titles tab.

Click the appropriate Title until a frame appears around it.

Enter or change the name for the Title. This name will appear in the
Component Properties dialog box for all components in all
databases.

Creating a Component Model Using the Model Makers
Multisim offers advanced Model Makers which automatically generate
simulation models for you when you give them databook values as input.
Model Makers will save you time and effort but do require experience for
you to become proficient with them.
For each Model Maker, preset values are provided for a specific model.
However, these are not default values, and you can select numerical values
based on the component you are interested in, using data from a databook.
When working with databooks, note that different databooks provide
parameters for a component model in different styles. While some
information is given numerically in tables or lists for a specific operating
point, other information is given in the form of a chart or graph. Both types
of information are required by Multisim’s Model Makers. In the case of
tables or lists, you will need to enter the operating point and the value that
you want. In the case of charts or graphs, the way you select the points from
the appropriate curves will have an impact on the accuracy of the
parameters of the final model. This guide gives suggestions on methods for
selecting points in the procedures for the Model Makers. Also, note that
the information provided by databooks is usually the same from one
manufacturer to another, even though the names or labels and descriptions
of parameters are different.

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AC Motor
1.

From the Model tab of the Component Properties dialog box, click
Add/Edit. The Select a Model dialog box appears.

Click Start Model Maker. The Select Model Maker dialog box
appears.

From the Model Maker List, select AC Motor and click Accept.
(Click Cancel to return to the Model tab.) The 3 Phase AC Motor
dialog box appears.

Enter desired values in the 3 Phase AC Motor dialog box.

When all values are entered, click OK to complete the model.

From the Model tab of the Component Properties dialog box, click
Add/Edit. The Select a Model dialog box appears.

Click Start Model Maker. The Select Model Maker dialog box
appears.

From the Model Maker List, select BJT and click Accept. (Click
Cancel to return to the Model tab.) The BJT Model dialog box
appears.

Enter values in the BJT Model dialog box as described in the sections
below.

When all values are entered, click OK to complete the model, or click
Cancel to cancel.

BJT Model Maker

Note

The BJT Model dialog box shows preset values for the MPS2222 model.

Entering General and Table Data
1.

In the BJT Model dialog box, click the General tab.

Locate data information for the BJT model from a databook.

Complete the following steps to enter General data:

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Enter NPN or PNP in the Type of BJT field. This is usually found on
the first page of the data book.

In the Type of Semiconductor field, enter the type of semiconductor.
This is usually found written next to the component type.

If desired, change the default value set by Multisim for Nominal
Temperature.

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If desired, change the default value for Base Temperature for Input.
This is typically found in the top left corner of the “Electrical
Characteristics” table in the databook.

Complete the following steps to enter Maximum Ratings data:
1.

In the databook for the BJT, locate the “Maximum Ratings” table—for
example:

Find the value for Emitter-Base Voltage and enter the value in the
Emitter-Base Maximum Voltage (VEBO) field.

Complete the following steps to enter Output Admittance data:
1.

In the databook, locate the “Small Signal Characteristics” table, and
find the values for Output Admittance—for example:

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If data are not available, enable Check if data not available.
2.

Based on the table data, enter:
•

Output Admittance (hoe)

•

Collector Current (Ic1)

•

Collector-Emitter Voltage (Vce)

Databooks provide maximum and minimum values for the Output Admittance
parameter. Select a typical value of output admittance.

Note

Complete the following steps to enter Switching Characteristics data:

NI Multisim User Manual

In the databook, find the “Switching Characteristics” table—for
example:

Based on the table data, enter:
•

Storage Time (ts)

•

Collector Current (lc2)

•

Base Current (Ib1)

•

Base Current (Ib2)

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Entering Capacitances Data
1.

Click the Capacitances tab.

In the databook, locate the “Ceb and Ccb vs. Reverse Voltages (RV)”
graph—for example:

Complete the following steps to enter Emitter-Base Capacitance (Input
Capacitance) data:
1.

On the Ceb curve, locate the point corresponding to the lowest voltage,
or the beginning point, of the Ceb curve. Use the coordinates of this
point to enter values for:
•

Capacitance (Ceb1)

•

Low-Value of Reverse Voltage

On the same curve, locate the point corresponding to the maximum
voltage, or the end point. Use the coordinates of this point to enter
values for:
•

Capacitance (Ceb4)

•

Hi-Value of Reverse Voltage

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To enter Intermediate Values, select two intermediate points close to
the left side in the low voltage region. Ensure that they are not too
close, to avoid excessive error in the model. Use the coordinates of the
first and second points to enter values for:
•

Capacitance (Ceb2) at Reverse Voltage

•

Capacitance (Ceb3) at Reverse Voltage

Complete the following steps to enter Collector-Base Capacitance Chart
(Output Capacitance) data:
1.

Using the Ccb curve from the same “Ceb and Ccb vs. Reverse Voltages
(RV)” graph, repeat steps 1 through 3 above to enter values for:
•

Capacitance (Ccb1)

•

Low-Value of Reverse Voltage

•

Capacitance (Ccb2) at Reverse Voltage

•

Capacitance (Ccb3) at Reverse Voltage

•

Capacitance (Ccb4)

•

Hi-Value of Reverse Voltage

Entering DC Current Gain Chart data

NI Multisim User Manual

Click the DC Current Gain Chart (hFE vs. Ic) tab.

In the databook for the BJT, locate the hFE vs. Ic graph.

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Complete the following steps to enter DC Current Gain (hFE) at base
Temperature data:
1.

Among the hFE vs. Ic curves at the base temperature for the BJT, select
the one whose Vce is most likely the operating point for the transistor.
For example:

You must select a curve with the same voltage as the Ic-Vbe curve you will use to
enter data on the last tab of this dialog box. Refer to the Entering “On” Voltages and
Current-Gain Bandwidth Data section for more information.

Note

Find the point on the curve corresponding to the minimal collector
current, or the beginning point of the curve. Use the coordinates of this
value to enter:
•

DC Current Gain (hFE1)

•

Minimal Collector Current

Select a point from the low Ic region of the same curve. Use the
coordinates of this point to enter:
•

DC Current Gain (hFE2)

•

Intermediate Collector Current (low values range)

Find the highest point on the curve, and enter its DC Current Gain
value in the Max Value of DC Current Gain (hFE_Max) field.

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You must note the Ic value of this point to plot points on the Ic-Vbe curve you will
use to enter data on the last tab of this dialog box. Refer to the Entering “On” Voltages and
Current-Gain Bandwidth Data section for more information.

Note

Find the two points corresponding to 0.5 of the maximum DC current
gain value, one in the low Ic region and one in the high Ic region. Use
these points to enter:
•

Collector Current (IL) at 0.5 Max DC Current Gain (low
values range)

•

Collector Current (Ikf) at 0.5 Max DC Current Gain (high
values range)

You must note the Ic value of the point in the low Ic region to plot points on the
Ic-Vbe curve you will use to enter data on the last tab of this dialog box. Refer to the
Entering “On” Voltages and Current-Gain Bandwidth Data section for more information.

Note

Complete the following steps to enter DC Current Gain (hFE) at another
Temperature data:

NI Multisim User Manual

Using the hFE vs. Ic graph, find a curve at a different temperature from
the base temperature. (This can be any other temperature.) For
example:

Enter the temperature of the selected curve in the Another
temperature on the Chart (t2) field.

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Find the point on the curve corresponding to the minimal collector
current, or the beginning point of the curve. Use the coordinates of this
value to enter:
•

DC Current Gain (hFE1_t2)

•

Minimal Collector Current

Select a point from the low Ic region of the same curve. Use the
coordinates of this point to enter:
•

DC Current Gain (hFE2_t2)

•

Intermediate Collector Current (low values range)

Find the highest point on the curve, and enter its DC Current Gain
value in the Max Value of DC Current Gain (hFE_Maxt2) field.

Find a point corresponding to 0.5 of the maximum DC current gain
value in the low Ic region and enter its value in the Collector Current
(IL_t2) at 0.5 Max DC Current Gain (low values range) field.

Entering “On” Voltages and Current-Gain Bandwidth Data
1.

Click the “On” Voltages, Current-Gain Bandw tab.

In the databook, locate the Ic vs. Vbe graph.

Complete the following steps to enter DC Current Gain (hFE) at Base
Temperature data:
1.

On the graph, locate the curve with the same Vce as the one used in the
hFE data. Enter its Vce value in the Collector-Emitter Voltage for
Vbe vs. Ic (same as hFE curve) field. For example:

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Find the point on this curve corresponding to the minimal Ic value, or
the beginning point of the curve. Use the coordinates of this point to
enter:
•

“On” Base-Emitter Voltage (Vbe1)

•

Low-Value of Collector Current

Using the Ic vs. hFE graph from the previous section, locate the Ic-hFE
curve at the base temperature that was used to enter data on the third
tab of this dialog box. At the point of the maximum DC Current Gain
(hFE), note the coordinate for the collector current (Ic).

On the Ic-Vbe graph, find the point corresponding to this coordinate
for Ic on the curve used in steps 1 to 3. Enter the voltage for this point
in the “On” Base-Emitter Voltage (Vbe_hFEMax) at Max Gain
field.

Using the Ic vs. hFE graph from the previous section, locate the Ic-hFE
curve at the base temperature that was used to enter data on the third
tab of this dialog box. At the point corresponding to 0.5 of the
maximum DC Current Gain (hFE), note the coordinate for the
collector current (Ic).

On the Ic-Vbe graph, find the point corresponding to this coordinate
for Ic on the curve used in steps 1 to 4. Enter the voltage for this point
in the “On” Base-Emitter Voltage (Vbe_iL) at 0.5 Max Gain
Collector Current (low values range) field.

Complete the following steps to enter Vbe(sat)-Ic data:
1.

NI Multisim User Manual

Using the Ic vs. Vbe graph, locate the curve whose
Vbe(Sat)@Ic/Ib=10. For example:

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Find the highest point on the curve. Use the coordinates of this point to
enter:
•

Saturation Base-Emitter Voltage (Vbe2_sat)

•

Hi-Value of Collector Current

Select a point on the curve in the high values range of the collector
current. Use the coordinates of this point to enter:
•

Saturation Base-Emitter Voltage (Vbe1_sat)

•

Collector Current in the high values range

Complete the following steps to enter Vce(sat)-Ic data:
1.

Using the Ic vs. Vbe graph, locate the curve whose
Vbe(Sat)@Ic/Ib=10. For example:

Find the highest point on the curve. Use the coordinates of this point to
enter:
•

Saturation Collector-Emitter Voltage (Vce2_sat)

•

Highest Value of Collector Current

Select a point on the curve in the high values range of the collector
current. Use the coordinates of this point to enter:

•

Saturation Collector-Emitter Voltage (Vce1_sat)

•

Collector Current in the high values range

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Complete the steps below to enter Current-Gain Bandwidth Product
Chart (fT) data:
1.

In the databook, locate the “Current-Gain Bandwidth Product versus
Frequency” graph—for example:

Locate the maximum fT value, or the highest point, of the curve. Enter
this value in the Maximum Value of Current-Gain Bandwidth
Product field.

Complete the following steps to enter Temperature Coefficients Chart
data:
1.

NI Multisim User Manual

In the databook, locate the “Temperature Coefficients” chart—for
example:

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On the base-emitter temperature coefficient curve, find the minimum
value, or the lowest point, and enter this value in the Lowest Value of
Base-Emitter Voltage Temperature Coefficient field.

Converters
Buck Converter
A buck converter is a step-down converter that can be represented by the
equivalent circuit shown in the figure below.

Refer to the Buck Converter section for information about this Model
Maker.

Boost Converter
A boost converter is a step-up converter that can be represented by the
equivalent circuit shown in the figure below.

Refer to the Boost Converter section for information about this Model
Maker.

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Buck-Boost Converter
A buck-boost converter is a step-down—step-up converter that can be
represented by the equivalent circuit shown in the figure below.

Refer to the Buck Boost Converter section for information about this
Model Maker.

Cuk Converter
The cuk converter can be represented by the equivalent circuit shown in the
figure below.

Refer to the Cuk Converter section for information about this Model
Maker.

Boost Converter

NI Multisim User Manual

From the Model tab of the Component Properties dialog box, click
Add/Edit. The Select a Model dialog box appears.

Click Start Model Maker. The Select Model Maker dialog box
appears.

From the Model Maker List, select Boost Converter and click
Accept. (Click Cancel to return to the Model tab.) The Boost
Converter Model dialog box appears.

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Enter desired values in the Boost Converter Model dialog box.

When all values are entered, click OK to complete the model.

Buck Boost Converter
1.

From the Model tab of the Component Properties dialog box, click
Add/Edit. The Select a Model dialog box appears.

Click Start Model Maker. The Select Model Maker dialog box
appears.

From the Model Maker List, select Buck Boost Converter and click
Accept. (Click Cancel to return to the Model tab.) The Buck Boost
Converter Model dialog box appears.

Enter desired values in the Buck Boost Converter Model dialog box.

When all values are entered, click OK to complete the model.

Buck Converter
1.

From the Model tab of the Component Properties dialog box, click
Add/Edit. The Select a Model dialog box appears.

Click Start Model Maker. The Select Model Maker dialog box
appears.

From the Model Maker List, select Buck Converter and click
Accept. (Click Cancel to return to the Model tab.) The Buck
Converter Model dialog box appears.

Enter desired values in the Buck Converter Model dialog box.

When all values are entered, click OK to complete the model.

Cuk Converter
1.

From the Model tab of the Component Properties dialog box, click
Add/Edit. The Select a Model dialog box appears.

Click Start Model Maker. The Select Model Maker dialog box
appears.

From the Model Maker List, select Cuk Converter and click Accept.
(Click Cancel to return to the Model tab.) The Cuk Converter Model
dialog box appears.

Enter desired values in the Cuk Converter Model dialog box.

When all values are entered, click OK to complete the model.

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Diode Model Maker

Note

From the Model tab of the Component Properties dialog box, click
Add/Edit. The Select a Model dialog box appears.

Click Start Model Maker. The Select Model Maker dialog box
appears.

From the Model Maker List, select Diode and click Accept. (Click
Cancel to return to the Model tab.) The Diode Model dialog box
appears.

Enter values in the Diode Model dialog box as described in the
following sections.

When all values are entered, click OK to complete the model.

The Diode Model dialog box shows preset values for the IN4001 model.

Entering General Data
1.

Click the General tab.

Look up data information for the diode in a databook.

Complete the following steps to enter Reverse Characteristics data:
1.

In the databook, find the “Maximum Ratings and Electrical
Characteristics” table.

Based on information in this table, enter the following values:
•

Maximum repetitive peak reverse voltage (VRRM)

•

Maximum DC reverse current at VRRM (IR)

•

Typical reverse recovery time (trr)

Complete the following steps to enter Reverse Breakdown data:
1.

In the databook, find the “Reverse Voltage vs. Reverse Current” chart.
If no data are available, enable Check if data not available.

NI Multisim User Manual

On the chart, locate the graph that indicates the ambient temperature of
25° C.

Select a point on the graph that represents the mid-point of the
horizontal direction, as indicated in the chart.

Use the coordinates of this point to enter values for:
•

Reverse Breakdown Voltage (BV)

•

Reverse Breakdown Current (IBV)

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Complete the following steps to enter Instantaneous Forward
Characteristics data:
1.

In the databook, locate the “Typical Instantaneous Forward
Characteristics” graph—for example:

Find the point of lowest forward voltage, at beginning point of the
curve. Use the coordinates of this point to enter values for:

•

Lowest forward current (IF1)

•

Lowest forward voltage (VF1)

Find the point of highest forward voltage, or the end point on the curve.
Use the coordinates of this point to enter values for:
•

Highest forward current (IFM)

•

Highest forward voltage (VFM)

Using your eye or a ruler, find the second or intermediate point on the
curve which you think best identifies the transition point in the curve.

Guidelines for selecting the intermediate point vary from one databook to another.
If the graph is provided in logarithmic format, which is usually the case, a good way to find
this point is to place a ruler along the beginning of the curve in the lower voltage area,
which will look like a straight line. Where the curve begins to diverge from your ruler, use
this point as your intermediate point. If the graph is provided in linear format, plot the data
in logarithmic fashion and follow the ruler procedure.

Note

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Use the coordinates of this point to enter the values for:
•

Forward current (IF2)

•

Intermediate forward voltage (VF2)

Entering Capacitance data
Complete the following steps to enter Junction Capacitances data:
1.

Click the Junction Capacitance Chart tab.

In the databook, find the “Typical Junction Capacitance” chart—for
example:

Find the junction capacitance at zero reverse voltage and enter it in the
Junction capacitance at zero reverse voltage (CJO) field.
If this information is not given in the databook, enable Check if data
not available.

NI Multisim User Manual

Find the point of lowest reverse voltage, or the beginning point of the
curve. Use the coordinates of this point to enter the values for:
•

Junction capacitance (CJ1)

•

Lowest Reverse Voltage (Vr1)

Find the point of highest reverse voltage, or the end point on the curve)
and enter the coordinate values in the Junction capacitance (CJ4) and
Highest Reverse Voltage (Vr4) fields.

Select two additional intermediate points on the graph, greater than the
lowest reverse voltage but in the lower range of the reverse voltage.

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Use the coordinate values of the second point to enter:
•

Junction capacitance (CJ2)

•

Second to Lowest Reverse Voltage (Vr2)

Use the coordinate values of the third point to enter:
•

Junction Capacitance (CJ3)

•

Second to Highest Reverse Voltage (Vr3)

Transformers
The following transformer models are available in Multisim:
•

Ideal Transformer (Multiple Winding)

•

Linear Transformer (Multiple Winding)

•

Linear Transformer with Neutral Terminal

•

Two Winding Linear Transformer

•

Non-linear Transformer (Multiple Winding)

Ideal Transformer (Multiple Winding)
1.

From the Model tab of the Component Properties dialog box, click
Add/Edit. The Select a Model dialog box appears.

Click Start Model Maker. The Select Model Maker dialog box
appears.

From the Model Maker List, select Ideal Transformer (Multiple
Winding) and click Accept. (Click Cancel to return to the Model tab.)
The Ideal Transformer Model dialog box appears.

In the Primary box, click Option 1 or Option 2 to quickly select
which Primary Input Voltage to use.
Or
Enter a value directly into the Primary Input Voltage fields.

Optionally, increase the number of secondary outputs in the
Secondary Output Number field. The number of Output Voltage
fields increase to match the entered number.

Click OK to complete the model.

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Linear Transformer (Multiple Winding)
1.

From the Model tab of the Component Properties dialog box, click
Add/Edit. The Select a Model dialog box appears.

Click Start Model Maker. The Select Model Maker dialog box
appears.

From the Model Maker List, select Linear Transformer (Multiple
Winding) and click Accept. (Click Cancel to return to the Model tab.)
The Linear Transformer Model dialog box appears.

In the Primary box, click Option 1 or Option 2 to quickly select
which primary properties to use.
Or
Enter values directly into the Primary Input Voltage, Magnetizing
Impedance, Leakage Inductance, and Winding Resistance fields.

Optionally, increase the number of secondary outputs in the
Secondary Output Number field. The number of Output Voltage,
Leakage Inductance, and Winding Resistance fields increase to
match the entered number.

Click OK to complete the model.

Linear Transformer with Neutral Terminal
1.

From the Model tab of the Component Properties dialog box, click
Add/Edit. The Select a Model dialog box appears.

Click Start Model Maker. The Select Model Maker dialog box
appears.

From the Model Maker List, select Linear Transformer with
Neutral Terminal and click Accept. (Click Cancel to return to the
Model tab.) The Linear Transformer with Central Terminal in
Secondary Side dialog box appears.

Enter the desired values in the dialog box.

Click OK to complete the model.

Two Winding Linear Transformer

NI Multisim User Manual

From the Model tab of the Component Properties dialog box, click
Add/Edit. The Select a Model dialog box appears.

Click Start Model Maker. The Select Model Maker dialog box
appears.

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From the Model Maker List, select Two Winding Linear
Transformer and click Accept. (Click Cancel to return to the Model
tab.) The Two Winding Linear Transformer Model dialog box
appears.

Enter desired values in the dialog box.

Click OK to complete the model.

Non-linear Transformer (Multiple Winding)
1.

From the Model tab of the Component Properties dialog box, click
Add/Edit. The Select a Model dialog box appears.

Click Start Model Maker. The Select Model Maker dialog box
appears.

From the Model Maker List, select Non-Linear Transformer
(Multiple Winding) and click Accept. (Click Cancel to return to the
Model tab.) The Non-Linear Transformer Model dialog box
appears.

Enter desired values in the Non-Linear Transformer Model dialog
box as described in the following sections.

Click OK to complete the model.

Entering General Data
1.

Click on the General tab.

In the Primary box, click Option 1 or Option 2 to quickly select
which primary properties to use.
Or
Enter values directly into the Primary Input Voltage, Leakage
Inductance, and Winding Resistance fields.

Enter the desired parameters for each of the secondary outputs in the
Output Voltage, Leakage Inductance and Winding Resistance
fields.

Click OK to complete the model.

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Entering Advanced Data
1.

Click on the Advanced tab.

Enter the Primary Turns, Core Length and Core Area parameters as
required.

Use one of the pre-set sample B-H curves (Sample 1, Sample 2 or
Sample 3), or enter your own B-H Curve parameters.

Click OK.

MOSFET (Field Effect Transistor) Model Maker

Note

From the Model tab of the Component Properties dialog box, click
Add/Edit. The Select a Model dialog box appears.

Click Start Model Maker. The Select Model Maker dialog box
appears.

From the Model Maker list, select MOSFET and, to continue, click
Accept. (Click Cancel to return to the Model tab.) The MOSFET
Model dialog box appears.

Enter values in the MOSFET Model dialog box as described in the
following sections.

Click OK to complete the model.

The MOSFET Model dialog box shows preset values for the BSS83 model.

Entering General and Output Characteristics Data
1.

Click the General tab.

Look up data information for the MOSFET in a databook.

Complete the following steps to enter General data:

NI Multisim User Manual

Enter the Channel Type of MOSFET. This is the title of the datasheet
and is found at the top of the datasheet.

Find the “Ratings” table for the MOSFET.

From the data given in the table, enter the Max Drain Current.

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Complete the following steps to enter Output Characteristics in Ohmic
Region data:
1.

From the MOSFET data information, find the Id vs. Vds graph—for
example:

Locate the curve with the highest Vgs. Enter this Vgs value in the Vgs
for the curve (Vgs_ohmic).

Locate a point in the ohmic region of the same curve.

Enter the Id value of this point in the Drain Current (Ids_Ohmic)
field.

Enter the Vds value of this point in the Vds when drain current is
Ids_Ohmic (Vds_Ohmic) field.

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Complete the following steps to enter other output characteristics:
1.

Using the same graph as above, locate the saturation region of the
curves. The saturation region is the steady state situation of the curves
where points along the curve fit on a straight line. (The curve
corresponding to the highest VGS does not have a saturation region.)
For example:

To enter data for the Ids_Vds curve 1 (for lowest Vgs) fields, find the
curve with the lowest Vgs value.

Enter the Vgs value of this curve in the Vgs for this curve (Vgs_f0)
field.

Using your eye or a ruler, locate the beginning and end points of the
saturation region, or the area where the points fit along a straight line,
for this curve.

Use the coordinates of the beginning point to enter:

NI Multisim User Manual

•

Drain Current (Ids_f00)

•

Vds_f00 (lower Vds)

Use the coordinates of the end point to enter:
•

Drain Current (Ids_f01)

•

Vds_f01 (higher Vds)

To enter data for the Ids_Vds curve 3 (for highest Vgs) fields, find the
curve with the highest Vgs value, but which still has a saturation
region. (This excludes the topmost curve of the Id-Vds graph.)

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Repeat steps 3 through 7 to enter values for:
•

Vgs for this curve (Vgs_f2)

•

Drain Current

•

Vds_f20 (lower Vds)

•

Drain Current (Ids_f21)

•

Vds_f21 (higher Vds)

To enter data for the Ids_Vds curve 2 (for intermediate Vgs) fields,
find the curve in the middle point between the curves corresponding to
the lowest Vgs and the highest VGS with a saturation region.

10. Repeat steps 3 through 7 to enter values for:
•

Vgs for this curve (Vgs_f1)

•

Drain Current (Ids_f10)

•

Vds_f01 (lower Vds)

•

Drain Current (Ids_f11)

•

Vds_f11 (higher Vds)

Entering Transfer Characteristics data
Complete the following steps to select Transfer Characteristics options:
1.

Click the Transfer Characteristics - Option A, B tab.

In the databook, locate the Id vs. Vgs graph. Depending on the
available data, under Vds for Id-Vgs curve and Multi Id-Vgs curve,
enable the appropriate options.

Note If the graph contains more than one Vsb curve, it implies that source and bulk
(substrate) are not connected together.

If the latter option is not enabled, you will be prompted to enter data in
the Option A or Option B fields on the same dialog box.
If the latter option is enabled (as it is in our example), the dialog box
will prompt you to Go to Option C (Next Page).
3.

To go to Option C, click the Transfer Characteristics - Option C tab.

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Complete the following steps to enter Transfer Characteristics (Drain
Current vs. Gate-to-Source Voltage) data for all three options (Option A,
B, or C):
1.

Look at the data in the Ids vs. Vgs graph—for example:

If you are using Option A, proceed to step 4.
If you are using Option B, proceed to step 3.
If you are using Option C, to enter data in the Ids-Vgs Curve for
lowest Vsb fields, locate the curve with the lowest Vsb.

If you are using Option B, enter the Vds value in the Vds for Ids-Vgs
curve field.
If you are using Option C, enter the Vsb value in the Vsb for this
curve (Vsb_C1) field.

Find the maximum Id, or the highest point of the curve. Use the
coordinates for this point to enter:
for Option A:
•

Drain Current (Ids_A1)

•

Vgs_A1 (lower Vgs)

for Option B:

NI Multisim User Manual

•

Drain Current Ids_B1

•

Vgs_B1 (lower Vgs)

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for Option C:

•

Drain Current (Ids_C11)

•

Vgs-C11 (lower Vgs)

Find the point on the curve which corresponds to 10% of the maximum
Id on the same curve. Use the coordinates of this point to enter:
for Option A:
•

Drain Current (Ids_A2)

•

Vgs_A2 (higher Vgs)

for Option B:
•

Drain Current (Ids_B2)

•

Vgs_B2 (higher Vgs)

for Option C:

•

Drain Current (Ids_C12)

•

Vgs_C12 (higher Vgs)

To complete the Option C dialog box, to enter data in the Ids-Vgs
Curve for highest Vsb, find the curve with the highest Vsb value, and
repeat steps 3 through 5 above to enter data for:
•

Vbs for this curve (Vsb_C3)

•

Drain Current (Ids_C31)

•

Vgs_C21 (lower Vgs)

•

Drain Current (Ids_C32)

•

Vgs_C22 (highest Vgs)

To enter data in the Ids-Vgs Curve for Intermediate Vsb fields,
select the curve corresponding to a Vsb value in between the highest
and lowest Vsb. Repeat steps 3 through 5 above to enter data for:
•

Vsb for this curve (Vsb_C2)

•

Drain Current (Ids_C21)

•

Vgs_C21 (lower Vgs)

•

Drain Current (Ids_C22)

•

Vgs_C22 (highest Vgs)

Entering Capacitances Data
Complete the following steps to enter Conditions:
1.

Click the Junction Capacitance Chart tab.

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Determine whether the bulk and source of the model are connected,
and select the appropriate answer beside Bulk and Source connected.
The substrate condition can be determined by two means. The first is
to check the schematic of the device where the internal connections of
the MOS transistor are shown.

The second is to check the Id-Vgs graph. If the graph contains more than one Vsb
curve, it suggests that source-bulk (substrate) are not connected together.

Note

In the databook, locate the “Capacitances vs. Drain-to-Source
Voltage” chart. If it is available, you may enter data in the
Capacitances vs. Drain-to-Source Voltage fields. If it is not
available, enable Coss-Vds and Crss-Vds curve NOT available, and
use the datasheet to enter capacitances.

Complete the following steps to enter Capacitance values from
datasheet:
1.

In the databook, find the “Characteristics” table.

From the table, enter data for:
•

Feedback capacitance

•

Input capacitance

•

Output capacitance

•

Drain-Substrate Voltage

Operational Amplifier Model Maker
1.

From the Model tab of the Component Properties dialog box, click
Add/Edit. The Select a Model dialog box appears.

Click Start Model Maker. The Select Model Maker dialog box
appears.

From the Model Maker list, select Operational Amplifier and, to
continue, click Accept. (Click Cancel to return to the Model tab.) The
Operational Amplifier Model dialog box appears.

Enter values on the Operational Amplifier Model dialog box as
described in the following sections.

When all values are entered, click OK to complete the model.

The Operational Amplifier Model dialog box shows preset values for the uA741
model.

Note

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Entering General and Input Data
1.

Click the General, Input tab.

Look up data information for the operational amplifier in a databook.

Complete the following steps to enter General data:
1.

In the Transistor Type field, select the type of transistor used in the
input stage. This can be determined by looking at the schematic of the
internal structure of the op-amp.

This information is optional, as the op-amp model can be based on any type of input
transistor. If the type of the input transistor is not important, select Don’t Care.

Note

Complete the following steps to enter input data:
1.

In the databook, find the two tables labeled “Electrical Characteristics
at specified free-air temperature”.

Use the data from these tables to enter:
•

Input Capacitance (Ci)

•

Input Offset Current (I1o)

•

Input Bias Current ((I1b)

•

Input Offset Voltage (V1o)

•

Common-mode Input Resistance (Rcm)

•

Differential-mode Input Resistance (R1)

•

Common-mode Rejection Ratio (CMRR)

•

Voltage Gain Avd

The Common-Mode input resistance is usually very high. If its value is not available,
choose 2 Gohm as the default.

Note

Note While the typical value for the Common-Mode Rejection Ratio (CMRR) is provided
in the “Electrical Characteristics” table, its variations with frequency are also provided in
a chart called “Common-Mode Rejection Rate Vs. Frequency”. If you use this chart, use
the CMRR value for the lowest frequency possible.

While the typical value for Large Signal Differential Voltage Amplification (Avd) is
provided in the “Electrical Characteristics” table, you can also find it in a chart called
“Open-Loop Large Signal Differential Voltage”. If you use this chart, use the Avd value at
the lowest frequency.

Note

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Databooks provide Avd gain in either dB or V/mV. If the value is provided in V/mV,
you can still enter the data in dB. However, you should convert the numerical values: value
in dB = 20 * log[1000 * (value in V/mv)].

Note

Entering Poles and Zero Data
Complete the following steps to enter Gain-frequency curve poles and
Zero data:
1.

Click the Gain frequency curve poles and Zero tab.

In the databook, locate the “Avd-Open-Loop Single Differential
Voltage Amplification vs. Frequency” chart—for example:

Find the first pole on the curve, or the point on the curve where the first
horizontal line transitions into a slope. Enter the frequency value for
this point in the Pole 1 frequency (fr1) field.

Find the second pole on the curve, or the point where the slope
transitions into a sharper slope. Enter the frequency value for this point
in the Pole 2 frequency (fr2) field.

To enter High frequency pole and zero data, find higher frequency poles
using the curve mentioned above, web sites or books. If these pieces of
information are not available, enable Not Available.

Entering Output Data

NI Multisim User Manual

Click the Output tab.

In the databook, locate the “Operating Characteristics” table.

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Use the data from this table to enter:
•

Slew Rate (SR+) (non-inverting mode)

•

Slew Rate (SR-) (inverting mode)

Databooks may provide only one value for both inverted and non-inverted slew

rates.
4.

Refer to the “Electrical Characteristics” tables mentioned in the
previous section. Use the data from these tables to enter:
•

Output Resistance (Ro)

•

Maximum Source Current (Isr)

•

Maximum Sink Current (Isn)

Databooks normally provide the short circuit output current. This is the maximum
value of the output current which the output node can provide if it is connected to the
negative power supply, or can accept if it is shorted to the positive power supply. You
should enter its value regardless of its sign.

Note

Silicon Controlled Rectifier Model Maker

Note

From the Model tab of the Component Properties dialog box, click
Add/Edit. The Select a Model dialog box appears.

Click Start Model Maker. The Select Model Maker dialog box
appears.

From the Model Maker list, select SCR and, to continue, click
Accept. (Click Cancel to return to the Model tab.) The SCR Model
dialog box appears.

Enter values on the SCR Model dialog box as described in the
following sections.

When all values are entered, click OK to complete the model.

The SCR Model dialog box shows preset values for the 2N6504 SCR.

Entering Electrical and Maximum Forward Voltage Data
1.

Click the Electrical Characteristics, Max Forward Voltage tab.

Look up data information for the SCR in a databook.

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Complete the following steps to enter Electrical Characteristics data:

NI Multisim User Manual

Locate the “Electrical Characteristics” table—for example:

Based on the data provided in this table, enter:
•

Holding Current

•

Gate Trigger Current

•

Gate Trigger Voltage

•

Peak Forward Blocking Current

•

Critical Rate of Rise of Off-State Voltage

In the databook, locate the “Maximum Ratings” table.

Based on the data in the table, enter the value of the Peak Forward
Blocking Voltage field.

Multiply this value by 1.05 and enter the value in the 1.05 Peak
Reverse Blocking Voltage field.

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Complete the following steps to enter Maximum Forward Voltage Chart
data:
1.

In the databook, locate the “Instantaneous Forward Current vs.
Instantaneous Voltage” graph, and find the If-Vf curve at 25°. For
example:

On the curve, find the point at the minimum If, or the beginning point
of the curve. Use the coordinates of this point to enter:

•

Instantaneous Forward Current

•

Minimum value of instantaneous voltage

Find the point at the maximum If, or the end point of the curve. use the
coordinates of this point to enter:
•

Instantaneous Forward Current

•

Maximum value of instantaneous voltage

Locate an intermediate point on the curve corresponding to the
transition point. Since the graph is provided in logarithmic format, you
can do this by using a ruler to draw a line starting at the beginning point

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and following the straight line of the curve in the lower voltage area.
Where the curve begins to diverge from your ruler, use this point as
your intermediate point. Use the coordinates of this point to enter:
•

Instantaneous Forward Current

•

Intermediate value of instantaneous voltage

Entering Time Data and Maximum Ratings Data
1.

Click the Time Data, Max Ratings tab.

To enter Electrical Characteristics data, refer to the “Electrical
Characteristics” table mentioned in the previous section, and enter data in
the Turn-On Time and Turn-Off Time fields.
Complete the following steps to enter Maximum Ratings Chart data:
1.

Refer to the “Maximum Ratings” table mentioned in the previous
section.

Find the Forward Current and enter this value in the Forward Current
field.

For the Reverse Current field, find the reverse current (IRC) when the
device is in off-state and enter this value, or, if this value is not
provided, enter 0.

For the Reverse Voltage field, find the reverse voltage (VRC) when
the device is in off-state or, if this value is not provided, enter 0.

For the Identifier field, enter 1 if Reverse Current and Reverse Voltage
values are available, or 0 if they are unavailable.

For the first Parameter related to “off-state” field, enter 0 if the Reverse
Current and Reverse Voltage values are available, or, if they are not
provided, enter the Forward Current value.

For the second Parameter related to “off-state” field, enter 0 if the
Reverse Current and Reverse Voltage values are available, or, if they
are not provided, enter the Peak Reverse Blocking Voltage value.

Zener Model Maker

NI Multisim User Manual

From the Model tab of the Component Properties dialog box, click
Add/Edit. The Select a Model dialog box appears.

Click Start Model Maker. The Select Model Maker dialog box
appears.

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From the Model Maker list, select Zener and, to continue, click
Accept. (Click Cancel to return to the Model tab.) The Zener Model
dialog box appears.

Enter values on the Zener Model dialog box as described in the
following sections.

When all values are entered, click OK to complete the model.

The Zener Model dialog box shows preset values for the IN4728A model.

Entering Electrical Characteristics Data
1.

Click the Electrical Characteristics tab.

Look up data information for the Zener diode in a databook.

From the databook, locate the “Electrical Characteristics” table—for
example:

To enter Reverse Characteristics data, use the information from the table
for the following fields:

•

Nominal Zener Voltage (Vzt)

•

Zener Test Current (Izt)

•

Nominal Zener Impedance at Zzt and Izt (Zzt)

•

Leakage Current (Ir)

•

Reverse Test Voltage (Vr)

•

Zener Impedance near Breakdown Knee (Zzk)

•

Zener Current near Breakdown Knee (Izk)

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In the example, the databook only provides the maximum Zener impedance. To find
a typical value for Zzk, use 0.75 times the maximum value of Zzk. To find the typical value
of Zzt, you can use the Zz-Iz graph. Find or estimate a curve at the nominal zener voltage
given in the table, and choose the point which corresponds to the test current given in the
table. Use the Zz coordinate of this point to enter as the typical value.

Note

Complete the following steps to enter Forward Characteristics data:
1.

In the databook, locate the If-Vf graph, and find the maximum curve
at 25°—for example:

Find the point on the curve with the lowest forward voltage, or the
beginning point. Use the coordinates of this point to enter:

NI Multisim User Manual

•

Forward Current (If1)

•

Lowest Forward Voltage (Vf1)

Find the knee point on the curve, or the point where the slope changes
drastically. Use the coordinates of this point to enter:
•

Forward Current (If2)

•

Intermediate Forward Voltage (Vf2)

Find the point of maximum forward voltage, or the highest point on the
curve. Use the coordinates of this point to enter:
•

Highest Forward Current (Ifm)

•

Highest Forward Voltage (Vfm)

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Entering Temperature Coefficient and Capacitance Data
Complete the following steps to enter Temperature Coefficient data:
1.

Click the Temperature Coefficient, Capacitance tab.

From the databook, find the Temperature Coefficient versus Zener
Voltage graph—for example:

Locate the curve corresponding to the model’s test current as given in
the “Electrical Characteristics” table. (If it is not on the graph, estimate
its placement.)

Find the point corresponding to the model’s Vz, as provided in the
“Electrical Characteristics” table. Enter the Temperature Coefficient
for this point in the Temperature Coefficient at Zener Nominal
Voltage (THETA_vz) field.

Complete the following steps to enter Capacitance vs. Bias Voltage data:
1.

In the databook, locate the “Capacitance versus Nominal Vz”
graph—for example:

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On each of the three curves in the graph, locate the point corresponding
to the Vzt provided in the “Electrical Characteristics” table.

For the curve at zero bias voltage, use this point to enter the
capacitance value in the Capacitance at 0 Bias Voltage (CJ1) field.

For the intermediate curve, enter its bias voltage in the Intermediate
Bias Voltage field and enter the capacitance value for the point you
have marked in the Capacitance (CJ2) field.

For the curve with the highest voltage, enter its bias voltage in the
Highest Voltage field. (In our example, this value is 50% of the
nominal Zener voltage (Vzt) of the model, as provided in the
“Electrical Characteristics” table.) Enter the capacitance value for the
point you have marked in the Capacitance (CJM) field.

Creating a Model Using Code Modeling
This section explains how to model a component using a high-level,
industry-standard programming language: C. The component can then be
added to the Multisim database. To use code modeling you must have a C
compiler such as Microsoft Visual C++, Version 4.1 or greater, and be
familiar with programming and compiling C code. This section is not
designed for Multisim users without programming exposure.
Multisim has built-in models for most types of devices, but it is impossible
to provide models for every possible device. The behavior of some devices
may be extremely difficult to model as groups of SPICE components, but
may be easier to describe in terms of high-level, behavioral equations. As a
result, the behavior of these devices can be modeled using code modeling.
Note

Refer to the Editing a Component’s Model section for other useful information.

What is Code Modeling?
Code modeling is the behavioral modeling of devices whose governing
equations are known.
This section serves as a basic guide to code modeling and includes helpful examples.
However, code modeling is a complex process, so be aware that you need time and practice
to gain proficiency.

Note

A code model consists of a set of interface definitions and a C function
implementation describing the device’s behavior. The naming and location
of these files is important. The model is created by combining two files

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(Ifspec.ifs and Cfunc.mod). The resulting file, which is given the same
name as the folder containing its source files, is placed in the codemodl
folder.

Creating a Code Model
Refer to the GAINTEST Example section for a specific example of
compiling and using a code mode.
For best results, do all of the following steps from a DOS command
window.
Complete the following steps to create a code model:
1.

Set up your environment variables for Microsoft Visual C++ by
running VcVars32.bat (installed, by default, in the C:/Program
Files/Microsoft Visual Studio/Vc98/Bin folder).

Navigate to C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\
Documents\National Instruments\Circuit Design Suite
10.1\codemodl. Within this directory is a single subdirectory called
USER. You should create new subdirectories inside of USER, one for
each of your code models. The name of the subdirectory will end up
being the name of the code model executable.

Create a new interface file inside your model’s subdirectory called
Ifspec.ifs to set up your model’s basic definitions and interface (i/o

ports and parameters).
4.

Create a new implementation file inside your model’s subdirectory
called Cfunc.mod. This file contains the actual code model.
It is critical that the Cfunc.mod file include a list of all models in the
file in the following format:
SPICEdev * FAR DynDEVices[] = {
&_info
};

Where is the “C_Function_Name” defined in
your Ifspec.ifs file. This is a special Multisim requirement, so this
line may need to be added to code models used from other sources. It
is recommended that you use a function name beginning with “cm_”.
5.

To compile the files into a form that can be used by Multisim, go to the
codemodl\USER folder and execute the following command:
MAKE_DLL

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Where is the directory where you have
put your code model files.

If the compilation is successful, you will find a new .dll file inside
the subdirectory, which is the executable code model. You must copy
or move this .dll file into the main codemodl directory in order for
Multisim to find it.

Important: If Multisim is running, you must exit and restart it in order
to access new code models. Multisim only loads user code models on
startup.

In order to use your code model in Multisim, choose a model in the
normal way in the component wizard, and select “Load from File”. Set
the file type in the dialog to “Code Model DLL(*.dll)”, and browse
to the codemodl directory if necessary. Select the .dll file you just
created.

If you have not altered the codemodl directory structure, the model
name and spice model name will be automatically populated from the
ifspec.ifs file. The format should look as follows:
.MODEL ()

Where is the .dll name of your model (without the .dll
extension), is the “Spice_Model_Name” from your
Ifspec.ifs, and is an optional list of the type
“ = ” separated by spaces (not
commas), and serves to override any default parameter values defined
in Ifspec.ifs. Delete the string “_INSERT_PARAMS” and type in
your desired parameters, or leave the parentheses empty if you wish to
use all defaults.

GAINTEST Example
The GAINTEST example is included in the Multisim install. This example
assumes familiarity with the Component Wizard.
1.

Set up your environment variables for Microsoft Visual C++ by
running VcVars32.bat (installed, by default, in the C:/Program
Files/Microsoft Visual Studio/Vc98/Bin folder).
In your Multisim executable directory, go to the subdirectory called
codemodl\USER\GAINTEST. Notice that it contains only two files:
Ifspec.ifs and Cfunc.mod.

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If you wish, you may examine the Ifspec.ifs file for the GAINTEST
model. This defines many of the important characteristics of the
GAINTEST model:
•

The C_Function_Name (cm_gaintest)

•

The Spice_Model_Name (gaintest)

•

One input port (analog: voltage, differential voltage, current, or
differential current).

•

One output port (same options as the input).

Three model parameters (in_offset, gain, and out_offset).
Note that each parameter is given a plaintext description, a data type,
and a default value. All three of them have Null_Allowed defined as
“yes”, so they are all optional parameters. If any of these parameters
are omitted when calling the model, the default value will be used.

If you wish, you may examine the Cfunc.mod file for the GAINTEST
model. This file contains the actual code model – a simple C language
function with the same name defined as C_Function_Name in the
Ifspec.ifs file. Note use of XSpice keywords such as INPUT,
OUTPUT, PARAM, PARTIAL, and AC_GAIN. Note also the use of the
model parameters defined in the Ifspec.ifs file.

Note that the GAINTEST Cfunc.mod file includes the following:
SPICEdev * FAR DynDEVices[] = {
&cm_gaintest_info
};

as required by Multisim.
7.

To compile the GAINTEST model, go to the codemodl\USER folder
and execute the following command:
MAKE_DLL GAINTEST

After successful completion, note that two new files have been created
in the GAINTEST directory: Gaintest.c and Gaintest.dll:
•

The Gaintest.c file contains all the information from the
Ifspec.ifs and Cfunc.mod files, expanded into a format
understood by the Microsoft Visual C compiler and the Multisim
implementation of XSpice. If you examine this file, you’ll notice
that all of the XSpice keywords have been replaced with fairly
complex structure and array references.

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•

The Gaintest.dll file contains the compiled code model, ready
for execution.

Move this Gaintest.dll file into the main codemodl directory so
that Multisim may find it.

If Multisim is running, you must exit and restart it so that it may load
the new GAINTEST model. Multisim only recognizes new code models
on startup.

10. In Multisim, run the component wizard as follows:
•

Create an analog component, simulation only.

•

Give the part two pins, one input and one output.

•

On the “Select Simulation Model” step, click on the “Load from
File” button.

•

In the file-selection dialog that appears, change the filter to “Code
Model DLL(*.dll)” and browse to the codemodl directory if
necessary.

•

Select the Gaintest.dll file and click “Open”.

•

The model name should change to “GAINTEST” and the model
data to “.MODEL GAINTEST gaintest(_INSERT_PARAMS)”

•

In the “Model Data” section, change _INSERT_PARAMS to
gain=2.0 (this creates a part that multiplies the input voltage by
two).

•

Finally, put this model in some logical place in your
User Database.

11. Create a new circuit and place your new part in series. You may verify
that any voltage applied to the part (DC or AC) will be doubled on
output. If you wish, you may edit the part’s model on the circuit to
adjust the gain parameter, or add in values for the in_offset or
out_offset parameters as well.

The Interface File (Ifspec.ifs)
The interface file sets out, in tables, the names used by the model, the
electrical connections to the devices (ports), and the user-defined variables
(parameters) that provide finer control over the behavior of the model.
These tables are explained in the following sections, with examples given
for each.
Refer to the Example Interface File section for an example of an interface
file. The interface file, along with the implementation file, must be
compiled into a DLL to complete the code model.

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Name Table
The model name, description text, and C implementation function name are
defined in the name table. The model name must be the same as the
subdirectory containing the code model files. It is recommended that the
model name be eight characters.
The name table has the following syntax:
NAME_TABLE:
C_Function_Name:function_name
Spice_ModelName:model_name
Description:
“text”

where:
function_name

is a valid C identifier which is the name of the main entry point
(function) for the code model. It may or may not be the same as the
SPICE model name. To reduce the chance of name conflicts, we
recommend you use the prefix “UCM_” for user code model, or use a
prefix based on your own initials. The following prefixes are used by
the XSPICE simulator core and should not be used for user code
models:

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POLY
EW_RES
D_OPEN_C
POT
EW_SCR
D_OPEN_E
PPT
EW_SWTCH
D_OR
PWL
EW_VLT
D_OSC
R_2_V
FTE
D_PULLDN
RDELAY
GAIN
D_PULLUP
RES
HLP
D_RAM
RGAIN
YST
D_ROM
S_XFER
ICM
D_SERIALP
SCR
IDN
RT
SINE
ILIMIT
D_SOURCE
SLEW
IND
D_SRFF
SMP
INDUCTOR
D_SRLATC
SQUARE
INP
D_STATE
SRC_LVM
INT
D_TFF
SRC_LVM_
IPC
D_TRISTA
UR
ISRC
D_VERI
SRC_TDM
JFET
D_VERILOG
SRC_TDM_
LCOUPLE
D_VHDL
UR
LIMIT
D_WGEN
SUMMER
LMETER
D_XNOR
SW
MES
D_XOR
TRA
MFB
DAC_BRDG
TRIANGLE
MIF
DAC_HIZ
URC
MOS1
DEV
VCCS
MOS2
DIO
VCVS
MOS3
DIVIDE
VERIZA
MULT
ENH
VHDL2A
N1
EVT
VHDL2HIZ
NCO
EW_CAP
VSRC
NOISE
EW_IND
XCAP
ONESHOT
EW_NLA2D
ZENER
EW_NOISE
is a valid SPICE identifier which will be used on SPICE deck .model
records to refer to this code model. It may or may not be the same as
the C function name.
is a string describing the purpose and function of the code model.
A2VERI
A2VHDL
A_555
ADC_BRDG
ASRC
ASWITCH
BJT
BSIM
CAP
CCCS
CCVS
CKT
CLIMIT
CM
CMETER
CORE
CP
CSW
D_2_R
D_AND
D_BUFFER
D_CHIP
D_CPU
D_CPUPIC
D_DFF
D_DLATCH
D_DT
D_FDIV
D_INV
D_JKFF
D_NAND
D_NOR

model_name

text

For example:
NAME_TABLE:
Spice_Model_Name: capacitor
C_Function_Name: cm_capacitor

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condition”

Component Editing

“Capacitor with voltage initial

Port Table
The device ports are defined in the port tables. The port table has the
following syntax:
PORT_TABLE:
Port_Name:
name
Description: text
Default_Type:
default
Allowed_Type:
[type type type]
Vector:
vector
Vector_Bounds:
size
Direction:
dataflow
Null_Allowed:
null

where:
name
text
default
type

is a valid SPICE identifier giving the name of the port.
is a string describing the purpose and function of the port.
specifies the type used for the port when no type is explicitly
specified. Must be one of the items listed in “type”.
lists the allowed types to which the port can be connected,
with names separated by commas or spaces (for example, [d,
g, h].
Type Name
Valid Directions
Description
d
in, out
digital
g
in, out
resistance (current
input, voltage
output)
in, out
differential
conductance
(voltage input,
current output)
conductance
(voltage input,
current output)
gd
in, out
h

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vector

size

dataflow

null

in, out

differential
resistance (current
input, voltage
output)
i
in, out
current
id
in, out
differential current
v
in, out
voltage
vd
in, out
differential voltage
specifies whether or not port is a vector and can be
considered a bus. Choose from:
- yes - this port is a vector
- no - this port is not a vector
for port that are vectors only, specifies upper and lower
bounds on vector size. Lower bound specifies minimum
number of elements, upper bound specifies maximum
number of elements. For unconstrained range, or ports that
are not a vector, use a hyphen (“-”)
specifies the dataflow direction through the port. Choose
from:
- in
- out
- inout
specifies whether or not it is an error to leave the port
unconnected. Choose from:
- yes - this port may be left unconnected
- no - this port must be connected

For example:
PORT_TABLE:
Port_Name:
Description:
Direction:
Default_Type:
Allowed_Types:
Vector:
Vector_Bounds:
Null_Allowed:

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cap
“capacitor terminals”
inout
hd
[hd]
no
no

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Parameter Table
The device parameters are defined in the parameter tables. The parameter
table has the following syntax:
PARAMETER_TABLE:
Parameter_Name:
Description:
Data_Type:
Vector:
Vector_Bounds:
Default_Value:
Limits:
Null_Allowed:

name
text
type
vector
size
default
range
null

where:
name
text
type

vector

size

is a valid SPICE identifier which will be used on SPICE
deck .model cards to refer to this parameter
is a string describing the purpose and function of the
parameter
is the parameter data type. Corresponds to the underlying
C data type (e.g. “double”), not the conceptual type of the
parameter (e.g. “voltage”). Choose from:
- boolean (if C data type is “Boolean_t” with valid values
MIF_TRUE and MIF_FALSE)
- complex (if C data type is “Complex_t” with double
members real and imag)
- int (if C data type is “int”)
- real (if C data type is “double”)
- string (if C data type is “char*”)
- pointer (if C data type is “void*”)
specifies whether parameter is vector or scalar. Choose
from:
- yes - parameter is vector
- no - parameter is scalar
for parameters that are vectors only, specifies upper and
lower bounds on vector size. Lower bound specifies
minimum number of elements, upper bound specifies
maximum number of elements. For unconstrained range,
or parameters that are not a vector, use a hyphen (“-”).
Alternatively, specifies the name of the port whose vector
size is to be used for this parameter.

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default

range
null

if Null_Allowed is “yes”, a default value to be used if the
SPICE deck .model line does not supply a value for the
parameter. Value must correspond to Data_Type (numeric,
boolean, complex or string literal).
is a limited range of values (for “int” and “real” type
parameters only).
specify whether or not parameter is allowed to be null.
Choose from:
- yes - yes - the corresponding SPICE deck .model card
may omit a value for this parameter, and the default value
will be used or, if no default value, an undefined value will
be passed to the code model
- no - no - this parameter must have a value. XSPICE will
flag an error if the corresponding SPICE deck .model card
omits a value for this parameter.

For example:
PARAMETER_TABLE:
Parameter_Name:
Description:
condition”
Data_Type:
Default_Value:
Limits:
Vector:
Vector_Bounds:
Null_Allowed:

c
“capacitance”
real
no
no

ic
“voltage initial
real
0.0
no
no

Example Interface File
Here is an example interface file:
/* ====================================================
FILE
ifspec.ifs
MEMBER OF process XSPICE
Copyright 1991
Georgia Tech Research Corporation
Atlanta, Georgia 30332
All Rights Reserved
PROJECT A-8503
AUTHORS
9/12/91

Bill Kuhn

MODIFICATIONS

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SUMMARY
This file contains the definition of a capacitor code
model with voltage type initial conditions.
INTERFACES
None.
REFERENCED FILES
None.
NON-STANDARD FEATURES
None.
==================================================== */
NAME_TABLE:
Spice_Model_Name:
C_Function_Name:
Description:
condition”

capacitor
cm_capacitor
“Capacitor with voltage initial

PORT_TABLE:
Port_Name:
Description:
Direction:
Default_Type:
Allowed_Types:
Vector:
Vector_Bounds:
Null_Allowed:

cap
“capacitor terminals”
inout
hd
[hd]
no
no

PARAMETER_TABLE:
Parameter_Name:
Description:
condition”
Data_Type:
Default_Value:
Limits:
Vector:
Vector_Bounds:
Null_Allowed:

c
“capacitance”
real
no
no

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The Implementation File (Cfunc.mod)
At each simulation iteration for a circuit using the code model, Multisim’s
XSpice simulation engine calls the implementation file. An example of an
implementation file is shown in the Example Implementation File section.
The implementation file, along with the interface file, needs to be coupled
into a DLL to complete the code model.
The code model function then generates the code-modeled device’s output.
This output is based on the following:
•

The input that XSpice presents to the code model function.

•

The state of the model, which is stored and returned by XSpice.

The implementation file includes one or more of the macros, shown in the
Implementation File C Macros section, that provide the API (Application
Programming Interface) between XSpice and the code model.
This section lists the macros from which you can select. The example file
shown in the Example Implementation File section gives an example of
how to implement a macro. The implementation file, along with the
interface file, needs to be compiled into a DLL to complete the code model.

Implementation File C Macros
AC_GAIN(outputname, inputname)
Type
Args
Applies to
Description

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Complex_t
y[i], x[i]
Analog code models only (event-driven or digital code
models should do nothing during AC analysis).
Assigns a value to this macro to specify the gain from
outputname to inputname at the current frequency. The
code model function is called once for each frequency
point simulated.

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ANALYSIS
Type
Args
Applies to

Description

enum
none
All code models, since their behavior typically changes
depending on the type of analysis being performed, and
this macro can be used to specify appropriate output
macros.
Returns the type of analysis being performed:
MIF_AC for AC
MIF_DC for DC operating point
MID_TRAN for transient

ARGS
Type
Args
Applies to
Description

Mif_Private_t
none
All code models.
The code model function’s parameter list. Must be
present and should not be modified.

CALL_TYPE
Type
Args
Applies to
Description

enum
none
Only code models that are mixed-mode (analog and
event-driven or digital).
If the analog portion of the simulator requested the code
model call, set to MIF_ANALOG. If the digital portion
of the simulator requested the code model call, set to
MIF_EVENT. Needed if a code model’s computation
effort can be reduced based on the type of call made.

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INIT
Type
Args
Applies to
Description

Boolean_t
none
All code models.
If this is the first call to the code model function during
the current analysis or batch of analyses, set to
MIF_TRUE. Otherwise, set to MIF_FALSE. Needed to
let the code model perform startup activities (for
example, allocated memory) at the start of simulation
only.

INPUT(inputname)
Type
Args
Applies to
Description

double or void *
name [i]
Analog/mixed-mode code models.
Only analog inputs are allowed (for event-driven, use
INPUT_STATE and INPUT_STRENGTH). Returns
the value on the node or branch connected to
inputname. Type/units of input value is specified when
input type is specified in the Ifspec.Ifs file.

INPUT_STATE(inputname)
Type
Args
Applies to
Description

NI Multisim User Manual

enum
name [i]
Digital/mixed-mode code models.
Only event-driven/digital inputs are allowed (for
analog, use INPUT). Returns the digital value (ZERO,
ONE or UNKNOWN) at node at inputname. When a
single output is connected to that node, this will equal
the value of the last output event. When multiple
outputs are connected, conflict resolution is performed.

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INPUT_STRENGTH(inputname)
Type
Args
Applies to
Description

enum
name [i]
Digital/mixed-mode code models.
Only event-driven/digital inputs are allowed (for
analog, use INPUT). Returns the digital strength
(STRONG, RESISTIVE, HI_IMPEDANCE or
UNDETERMINED) of node at inputname. When a
single output is connected to that node, this will equal
the strength of the last output event. When multiple
outputs are connected, conflict resolution is performed.

INPUT_TYPE(inputname)
Type
Args
Applies to
Description

char *
name [i]
All code models.
Any inputs allowed. Returns the type string (i.e.: “v” for
voltage, “i” for digital, “hd” for differential
conductance, etc.) which describes the current usage of
inputname. Needed to distinguish between “simulation
time” usage of an input or output with more than one
allowed type. For example, used for an input which has
allowed types [v, i] and behaves differently when the
input is voltage vs. current.

LOAD(inputname)
Type
Args
Applies to
Description

double
name [i]
Digital/mixed-mode code models.
Only event-driven/digital inputs are allowed. Assign a
value to LOAD to set the input load due to inputname
on the connected node. The load is given as a
capacitance (normalized to 1ohm resistance) which is
summed with all the other loads on the event-driven
node to yield the total delay of the node.

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MESSAGE(outputname)
Type
Args
Applies to
Description

char *
name [i]
Digital/mixed-mode code models.
Only event-driven/digital outputs are allowed. A
message string to be placed on an event-driven node can
be assigned to MESSAGE. Allows a code model to
issue a message associated with a node.

OUTPUT(outputname)
Type
Args
Applies to
Description

double or void *
name [i]
Analog/mixed-mode code models.
Only analog outputs are allowed (for event-driven, use
OUTPUT_STATE and OUTPUT_STRENGTH and
OUTPUT_DELAY). Assigns a value to the node or
branch connected to outputname. Type/units of output
value specified when output type is specified in the
Ifspec.Ifs file.

OUTPUT_CHANGED(outputname)
Type
Args
Applies to
Description

NI Multisim User Manual

Boolean_t
name [i]
Digital/mixed-mode code models.
Only event-driven/digital inputs are allowed. Set to
MIF_TRUE by default. Assign MIF_FALSE to indicate
no change on that output. Allows the code model to
specify that the event-driven output did not change and
thereby speed up simulation.

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OUTPUT_DELAY(outputname)
Type
Args
Applies to
Description

none
double
Digital/mixed-mode code models.
Only event-driven/digital inputs are allowed (for
analog, use OUTPUT).
Sets the delay after which the transition event specified
by OUTPUT_STATE occurs.

OUTPUT_STATE(outputname)
Type
Args
Applies to
Description

none
Digital_State_t
Digital/mixed-mode code models.
Only event-driven/digital outputs are allowed (for
analog, use OUTPUT). Assigns the digital value
(ZERO, ONE or UNKNOWN) to node at outputname
by creating an event which is a transition to that value.
When a single output is connected to that node, this will
equal the value of the last output event. When multiple
outputs are connected, conflict resolution is performed.

OUTPUT_STRENGTH(outputname)
Type
Args
Applies to
Description

none
Digital_State_t
Digital/mixed-mode code models.
Only event-driven/digital outputs are allowed (for
analog, use OUTPUT). Assigns the digital strength
(STRONG, RESISTIVE, HI_IMPEDANCE or
UNDETERMINED) at node at outputname. When a
single output is connected to that node, this will equal
the strength of the last output event. When multiple
outputs are connected, conflict resolution is performed.

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OUTPUT_TYPE(inputname)
Type
Args
Applies to
Description

char *
name [i]
Digital/mixed-mode code models.
Any output allowed. Returns the type string (i.e.: “v”
for voltage, “i” for digital, “hd” for differential
conductance, etc.) which describes the current usage of
outputname. Needed to distinguish between
“simulation time” usage of an input or output with more
than one allowed type. For example, used for an input
which has allowed types [v, i] and behaves differently
when the input is voltage vs. current.

PARAM(paramname)
Type
Args
Applies to
Description

CD
name [i]
Any code model.
Applies to all parameters. Returns the value
paramname. Needed to access model parameters
specified in the netlist.

PARAM_NULL(paramname)
Type
Args
Applies to
Description

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Boolean_t
name [i]
Only parameters allowed to be unspecified (Null
allowed in the param table of the Ifspec.Ifs file is yes).
Returns MIF_TRUE if paramname was not specified in
the netlist and MIF_FALSE if it was specified. Allows
the code model to tell if a parameter value equals its
default because the default value was actually specified.

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PARAM_SIZE(paramname)
Type
Args
Applies to
Description

int
name
Vector type parameters only.
Returns the number of elements in a vector type
parameter. Needed to iterate over the vector parameter
if the number of vector elements is not fixed.

PARTIAL
Type
Args
Applies to
Description

double
y[i], x[i]
Analog/mixed-mode code models.
Partial derivative of output y with respect to input x.

PORT_NULL
Type
Args
Applies to
Description

Boolean_t
name[i]
Any code model.
Has this port been specified as unconnected?

PORT_SIZE
Type
Args
Applies to
Description

int
name
Any code model.
Size of port vector.

RAD_FREQ
Type
Args
Applies to
Description

double

Analog/mixed-mode code models.
Current analysis frequency in radians per second.

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T ()
Type
Args
Applies to
Description

double

All code models.
History of the previous nth analysis time (TIME =
T[0]). Maximum of 8.

TEMPERATURE
Type
Args
Applies to
Description

double

All code models.
Current analysis temperature.

TIME
Type
Args
Applies to
Description

double

All code models.
Current analysis time (same as T[0]).

Example Implementation File
Here is an example implementation file:
/* ====================================================
FILE
cfunc.mod
MEMBER OF process XSPICE
Copyright 1991
Georgia Tech Research Corporation
Atlanta, Georgia 30332
All Rights Reserved
PROJECT A-8503
AUTHORS
9/12/91

Bill Kuhn

MODIFICATIONS

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SUMMARY
This file contains the definition of a capacitor code
model
with voltage type initial conditions.
INTERFACES
cm_capacitor()
REFERENCED FILES
None.
NON-STANDARD FEATURES
None.
==================================================== */
#define VC

void cm_capacitor (ARGS)
{
Complex_t
ac_gain;
double
partial;
double
ramp_factor;
double
*vc;

/* Get the ramp factor from the .option ramptime */
ramp_factor = cm_analog_ramp_factor(MIF_INSTANCE);
/* Initialize/access instance specific storage for
capacitor volt age */
if(INIT) {
cm_analog_alloc(MIF_INSTANCE,VC, sizeof(double));
vc = cm_analog_get_ptr(MIF_INSTANCE,VC, 0);
*vc = PARAM(ic) *
cm_analog_ramp_factor(MIF_INSTANCE);
}
else {
vc = cm_analog_get_ptr(MIF_INSTANCE,VC, 0);
}
/* Compute the output */
if(ANALYSIS == DC) {
OUTPUT(cap) = PARAM(ic) * ramp_factor;
PARTIAL(cap, cap) = 0.0;
}

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else if(ANALYSIS == AC) {
ac_gain.real = 0.0;
ac_gain.imag = -1.0 / RAD_FREQ / PARAM(c);
AC_GAIN(cap, cap) = ac_gain;
}
else if(ANALYSIS == TRANSIENT) {
if(ramp_factor < 1.0) {
*vc = PARAM(ic) * ramp_factor;
OUTPUT(cap) = *vc;
PARTIAL(cap, cap) = 0.0;
}
else {
cm_analog_integrate(MIF_INSTANCE,INPUT(cap)
/ PARAM(c),
vc, &partial);
partial /= PARAM(c);
OUTPUT(cap) = *vc;
PARTIAL(cap, cap) = partial;
}
}
}

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The following sections document SPICE-based circuit syntax that is
supported by Multisim's simulation engine. The sections describe general
purpose syntax used for such operations as device declaration, and
device-specific syntax used to parametrize primitive devices such as
MOSFETs.
The scope of this section is to serve as a reference guide. For more
information about SPICE, you may wish to consult The SPICE Book,
Andrei Vladimirescu, John Wiley & Sons Inc., 1994, ISBN-13:
978-0-471-60926-1, or Semiconductor Device Modeling with SPICE,
Second Edition, Giuseppe Massobrio and Paolo Antognetti, McGraw-Hill,
1993, ISBN-13: 978-0070024694.
Since the simulation engine is case insensitive, the use of both upper and lower case
characters in this document is done strictly for clarity.

Note

Documentation Conventions
This specification uses the following conventions:
•

Text enclosed in <> is optional.

•

Red text is a variable, a function, or an instance name.

•

Orange text is a mathematical expression or numeric constant.

•

Blue text is a node identifier.

•

Green text is a model identifier, device name, or subckt name.

•

Blue italic text is an example.

•

Brown text is an XSPICE terminal type specifier.

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General Purpose Syntax
This section describes the overall syntax and building blocks of SPICE
models.
Primitive Device Declarations
SPICE Subcircuits
Circuit Parameters
Number Format
Comments and Line Continuation

Primitive Device Declarations
A primitive device is the lowest level model that can be used in a circuit
and is a building block for macromodels and entire circuits. Multisim
supports many such devices. Refer to the Analog Devices section for more
information.
This section looks at how a primitive device is declared and used in a
circuit.
Primitive devices are comprised of either just an instance declaration or an
instance declaration with an associated model definition.

Instance Declaration
The instance declaration places a primitive device between circuit nodes,
specifies device parameters, and links the instance to a model definition
(where needed). The instance declaration has the following general format:
PREFIX_anyname node1 > my_ModelNAME
Instance_line_parameters

Identifier

Description

PREFIX

Device specific character.

_anyname

Arbitrary instance name suffix.

nodeN
where N=1,2,3…

The name of the Nth node that the device is
connected to. Node names may contain any
characters except for white space and the
following: \ {} () [] : # " ' ; , % <
> ` & = *

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Identifier

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Description

my_ModelNAME

Arbitrary name that links the instance
declaration to a model definition. It is optional
for some devices is and mandatory for others.

Instance_line_
parameters

A list of device specific instance parameters,
some of which are mandatory and some
optional.

Model Definition
Required for some primitive devices and optional for others, the model line
allows users to specify additional parameters for a device. The model line
has the following format:
.model my_ModelNAME
devicename()

Identifier

Description

my_ModelNAME

Arbitrary model identifier that links the model
definition to one or more instance
declarations.

akomodelname

Model identifier from which specified model
parameters will be inherited.

devicename

Device-specific identifier.

Model_Parameters

List of device-specific model parameter
assignments. Note that every model parameter
of every device has a default value.
Assignments made in the
Model_Parameters block overwrite these
defaults.

All device-specific information regarding prefix characters, number of
circuit nodes, model definition requirements, and device parameters is
contained in the Analog Devices section.

Examples
*Resistor device without its optional model line
R88 1 0 10k tc1=0.1 tc2=5

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*Resistor device with its optional model line
R15 in8 out myResmodel 10k
.model myResmodel res(rmult=5)
*A BJT with area factor of 8
*and BJT with an area factor 4
Q54 99 b 0 BJTer area=8
Q55 e b 0 BJTer area=4
.model BJTer npn(is=1e-12 bf=140 rc=3 tf=3n)
*MOSFET M1 will inherit
*kp=1e-3 phi=0.76 mj=0.44 ld=0.1u
M1 1 4 9 9 myMOS1
.model myMOS1 AKO:myMOS2 nmos(vto=1.4)
.model myMOS2 nmos(kp=1e-3 phi=0.76 mj=0.44 ld=0.1u)

SPICE Subcircuits
A SPICE subcircuit wraps around a block of circuit text and allows external
connections to this circuitry only through the subcircuit's port. The benefit
of this is that the internal circuitry is isolated from external circuitry, thus
internal devices and node names with the same names as those external to
the subcircuit are neither conflicting nor shorted. In addition, subcircuits
can accept circuit parameters which can be used to assign values to internal
devices or nested subcircuits.
A subcircuit is an extremely useful concept, forming the basis of any
modular or hierarchical design.

Subcircuit Definition
.SUBCKT mysubcktname node1 > >>
.ENDS

Identifier

NI Multisim User Manual

Description

mysubcktname

Arbitrary subcircuit identifier that links the
subcircuit to an instance declaration.

nodeN
where N=1,2,3…

The name of the Nth node for the subcircuit
port. These are the nodes that Multisim's
component symbol pins would be mapped to.
Refer to the Advanced Pin Mapping Dialog
section of Chapter 6, Component Editing, for
more information.

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Identifier

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Description

paramN
where N=1,2,3…

The name of the Nth input circuit parameter
for the subcircuit.

paramN
where N=1,2,3…

A default value for the Nth input parameter if
PARAMN is not specified on the subcircuit
instance declaration.

A subcircuit is only useful if it is placed inside a circuit. This can be done
as a top level model of a component on a schematic or by declaring an
instance of the subcircuit within a model.

Instance Declaration
Xanyname node1 > mysubcktName >>

Identifier

Description

nodeN
where N=1,2,3…

The Nth node for the subckt. The number of
nodes must match the number of nodes in the
subcircuit definition.

mysubcktName

An arbitrary subcircuit identifier linking the
instance declaration to a subcircuit.

paramN
where N=1,2,3…

The name of the input parameter for the
subckt. The nodes do not have to be in the
same order as the subcircuit definition and do
not all need to be present. If any particular
PARAMN is omitted then the subcircuit will use
defaultN.

expressionN
where N=1,2,3…

The expression for the Nth input parameter.
See the expression section for details
regarding expressions.

Additional Notes
•

This SPICE-based subcircuit should not be confused with a Multisim
schematic capture Subcircuit which is used to created hierarchy with
schematic symbols.

•

If the “PARAMS:” keyword is omitted within the circuit parameters
portion of the declaration, the entire circuit parameters portion must be
enclosed by round “( )” or curly “{ }” parenthesis.

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•

Node “0” is a global node—regardless of circuit or subcircuit
hierarchy, all nodes with the name "0" are connected together.

Examples
*A resistive voltage divider circuit that uses a resistor
subcircuit model. The upper resistor is 10k and the lower
is 47k
V1 in 0 10
X1 in mid res_block params: res_val=10k
X2 mid 0 res_block
.subckt res_block 1 2 params: res_val=47k
R1 1 2 {res_val}
.ends
*expression usage
.param gain=100
V1 5 0 3.3
X1 5 8 AMP PARAMS: ampgain={limit(gain, 200, 80)}
.subckt AMP in out PARAMS: ampgain=90
E1 out 0 in 0 {ampgain}
.ends

Circuit Parameters
Circuit parameters allows flexibility in assigning device parameters. The
general format for defining a circuit parameter is as follows:
.PARAM my_parameter_name = expression

Identifier

NI Multisim User Manual

Description

my_parameter_
name

Arbitrary parameter name. It may contain
numbers, letters, and underscores but not any
other symbols. In addition, it must not start
with a number.

expression

Arbitrary expression operating on numerical
constants or other circuit parameters. Refer to
the Mathematical Expressions section for
more details regarding expressions. Circuit
variables (node voltage and device current) are
not permitted.

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Additional Notes
•

Circuit parameters are constants, and thus may not contain any circuit
variables such as node voltages or branch currents.

•

Circuit parameters take precedence over predefined constants. If you
define a variable called pi it will be used in place of the normal built-in
constant.

•

Parameter variables exist at the level of the circuit they are defined at,
so if a parameter is defined in the main circuit it can also be used in the
SPICE subckts. However, if it is defined in a SPICE subckt, then that
parameter will be meaningless in the circuit levels above. Expressions
always use the most locally defined value. In the example below, the
resistor R1's value is 3.14, R2’s value is 2, R3’s value is 3, and R4’s
value is 4.

R1 51 0 {pi}
X1 1 2 mysub
.SUBCKT mysub node1 node2
.PARAM pi = 2
R2 node1 node2 { pi }
X2 node3 node2 mysub2
.SUBCKT mysub2 node1 node2
.PARAM pi = 3
R3 node1 node2 { pi }
R4 node1 node2 {varb}
.ENDS
.PARAM varb = 4
.ENDS

Examples
.PARAM a = 6
.PARAM n = {0.5}
.PARAM maxV = a+10
V1 in 0 {maxV}
D1 in 3 mydiode
.model mydiode d(n={n+0.01})

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Number Format
Numbers are standard floating point or integer numbers with optional
suffixes. Any characters that follow directly, unless they are mathematical
operators, are ignored.
Number suffixes:
Suffix

Meaning

Multiplier

f, F

fento

1e-15

p, P

pico

1e-12

n, N

nano

1e-9

u, U

micro

1e-6

m, M

milli

1e-3

k, K

Kilo

1e3

meg, MEG

Mega

1e6

g, G

Giga

1e9

t, T

Tera

1e12

Examples
R1 1 2 10mohm
*the following voltage source has a DC value of
0.00000521
V1 4 0 {0.21e-6+5uV}

Comments and Line Continuation
The asterisk (*) and the semicolon (;) characters can be used to comment
out individual line of circuit text.
The semicolon (;) can be used within a line of text to comment out
everything to the right.
A plus (+) is used to continue a SPICE statement from the previous line.
The comment works on a per line basis—a single asterisk does not
comment out an entire SPICE statement spread over multiple lines.

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Examples
*This example shows how comments work
V1 1 0 10 ;V1 is in the circuit, but this is just a
comment
R1 1 2 10k
*Below, Resistor R2 is taken out of the circuit
*R2 1 2 10k
*In the following, we only eliminate the 'n' parameter
from the multiline SPICE statement
D1 2 0 myDiode
.model myDiode d(Is=1e-12
*+n=1.2
+rs=3.7)

Mathematical Expressions
Introduction
Supported Mathematical Functions, Operators and Constants
User-Defined Functions

Introduction
Mathematical expressions allow the user to create arbitrary mathematical
expressions consisting of various functions and operators and apply the
results to device parameters. Expressions are very useful modeling tools
when used within the Arbitrary Source devices. Refer to the Arbitrary
Source section for more information.
The functions and operators in the expression can operate on numerical
constants, on circuit parameters, and, when used within the Arbitrary
Source device, on live circuit variables. Refer to the Supported
Mathematical Functions, Operators and Constants section for a list of
supported mathematical functions, operators and pre-defined constants.
Within the Arbitrary Source device, special functions V(nodeabs),
V(node+,node-), and I(deviceX) can be used to reference the circuit
voltages and currents.
•

V(nodeabs) references the voltage at node nodeabs relative to

ground.
•

V(node+,node-) references the difference between node+ and

node–.

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•

I(deviceX) references the current through the device with the
instance name deviceX. Currently only the Independent Voltage

source, dependent voltage sources, and inductor devices are supported.

Additional Notes
•

We recommend that expressions be enclosed in {} to avoid ambiguous
syntax. However, this is not required for simulation.

•

Portions of expressions that are not enclosed in {} or () should not
contain any spaces.

Examples
*High-level filter specification
.param pole=1k
.param res_val=1k
R1 in out {res_val}
C1 out 0 {1/(2*pi*res_val*pole)}
*A very simple diode modeled using an expression in an
Arbitrary source
G1 A C value={1e-12*(e^(V(A,C)/0.025)-1 ) }

Supported Mathematical Functions, Operators and Constants
Mathematical functions:
Function
Name

Alternate
Name

Parameters

Description

—

(test,a,b)

If-else function. If the
test returns true, the
result is a, elso it
returns b.

Notes
Example:
B1 out 0
V={if(v(1)>5,
v(1)**2, 0)}

sin

sine

( x )

Sine function.

—

asin

arcsin

( x )

Arc-sine function.

—

( x )

Hyperbolic sine
function.

—

( x )

Arc-hyperbolic sine
function.

—

( x )

Cosine function.

—

sinh
asinh

—
arcsinh

cos

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Function
Name
acos

Alternate
Name
arccos

Parameters

Description

Multisim SPICE Reference

Notes

( x )

Arc-cosine function.

—

( x )

Hyperbolic cosine
function.

—

arccosh

( x )

Arc-hyperbolic cosine
function.

—

tan

—

( x )

Tangent function.

—

tanh

—

( x )

Hyperbolic tangent
function.

—

cosh
acosh

atan

arctan

( x )

Arc-tangent function.

—

atanh

arctanh

( x )

Arc-hyperbolic
tangent function.

—

atan2

—

( x, y )

Atan 2 function.

exp

—

( x )

Calculates the
exponential ex.

exp1

—

( x, y )

Calculates the
exponential with a
maximum value.

—

( x )

The natural logarithm
function.

—

( x )

The base-10 logarithm
function.

This can be interpreted
differently in other
simulators. Refer to
the Compatibility
Modes section for
more information.

log

log10

Same as:
atan (x/y)
—
Same as:
min (exp (x), y)

sqrt

—

( x )

Square root function.

—

abs

—

( x )

Absolute value
function.

—

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Function
Name
sgn

Alternate
Name
sign

Parameters

Description
Sign or signum
function.

( x )

Notes
if (x < 0)
sgn(x) == -1
if (x > 0)
sgn(x) == 1
if (x == 0)
sgn(x) == 0

max

—

( x, y )

Returns the maximum
of x and y.

—

min

—

( x, y )

Returns the minimum
of x and y.

—

uramp

—

( x )

Ramp function, clips
the value against a
minimum of 0.

if (x < 0)
uramp(x) == 0

Step function.

if (x < 0)
u(x) == 0

stp, step

( x )

if (x >= 0)
uramp = x

if (x > 0)
u(x) == 1
if (x == 0)
u(x) == 0.5
table

—

(expr,
x1,y1,
>)

Table function. This is
the function version of
the TABLE based
Arbitrary source
device.

Refer to the Arbitrary
Source section for
more information.

limit

—

( x, a, b )

Clips the input value x
to the range (A,B).

—

pwr

—

( x, y )

The pwr function.

Same as:
abs(x)^y

pwrs

—

( x, y )

The pwrs function.

if (x < 0)
pwrs(x) ==–(x**y)
if (x >= 0)
pwrs(x) == (x**y)

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Function
Name

Alternate
Name

Parameters

Description

Multisim SPICE Reference

Notes

—

(node)

Voltage of a node.

Can only be used in
non-linear controlled
source expressions.

—

(node1,
node2)

Voltage difference of
two nodes.

Can only be used in
non-linear controlled
source expressions.
Same as:
V(node1)–V(node2)
Example:
E1 out 0
value={V(1,2)*15}

—

(voltage
source) or
(inductor)

Current through a
voltage source or an
inductor.

Can only be used in
non-linear controlled
source expressions.
Example:
E1 out 0
value={I(Vsense)**2
+ I(E99)}

positive

—

( x )

Ensure positive
function.

if (x < d)
positive(x) = d
else
positive(x) = x
where d is 1.0p

negative

—

( x )

Ensure negative
function.

if (x > -d)
negative(x) = –d
else
negative(x) = x
where d is 1.0p

nonpos

—

( x )

Ensure not-positive
function.

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if (x > 0)
nonpos(x) = 0
else
nonpos(x) = x

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Function
Name

Alternate
Name

Parameters

Description

Notes

nonneg

—

( x )

Ensure not-negative
function.

if (x < 0)
nonneg(x) = 0
else
nonneg(x) = x

nonzero

—

( x )

Ensure non-zero
function.

if (x < d) & (x >= 0)
nonzero(x) = d
if (x > –d) & (x <= 0)
nonzero(x) = –d
else
nonzero(x) = x
where d is 1.0p

zero

—

( x )

Evaluates x but always
returns a value of 0.0.

—

one

—

( x )

Evaluates x but always
returns a value of 1.0.

—

schedule

—

(expr,
x1,y1,
>)

Schedule function.
Gives a value of yN
for when time between
xN and xN+1.

Time is simulation
time.

Mathematical operators:
Alternate
Symbol

Symbol

Description

Usage

Addition.

A+B

Subtraction.

A–B

Division.

A/B

Multiplication.

A*B

Exponentiation (power).

A ** B or A ^ B

This can be interpreted
differently in other
simulators. Refer to the
Compatibility Modes section
for more information.

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Symbol

Alternate
Symbol

Multisim SPICE Reference

Description

Usage

Less than.

Greater than.

A>B

Greater than or equal to.

A >= B

Equal to.

A == B

Not equal to.

A != B

Logical AND.

A&B

Logical OR.

A|B

xor

Logical XOR.

A XOR B

Ternary if. This operator has
two symbols and three
operands.

A?B:C
This is the same as
IF(A,B,C).

Built-in constants:
Symbol

Description

Value

true

Boolean true value.

1.0

false

Boolean false value.

0.0

yes

Alternate form of boolean true value.

1.0

Alternate form of boolean false
value.

0.0

The constant pi.

3.14159265358979323846

The constant e.

2.71828182844590452353

Speed of light.

2.99792458e8

kelvin

Constant to convert between degrees
Kelvin and Celsius, and vice versa.

–273.0

echarge

Electron charge.

1.602176487e-19

boltz

Boltzmann's constant.

1.3806503e-23

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Symbol

Description

Value

planck

Planck's constant.

6.62606896e-34

temp

Current temperature of the
simulation in degrees Celsius.

The default is 27, but it can be
changed from the simulation
options.

time

Current time of the simulation in
seconds.

Current time of the simulation in
seconds (it is constant with respect to
circuit variables).

Additional Notes
•

IMPORTANT! Unlike most mathematical languages, Multisim
considers the exponentiation (power) operators ** and ^ to be of higher
precedence than unary minus. This means that {-5**2} is +25 while
{0-5**2} is –25. Although this is unintuitive, it is standard among
SPICE simulators. Use brackets to ensure logical, readable expressions
in this case.

User-Defined Functions
Similar to the way subcircuits provide modularity to connecting together
blocks of circuits, user-defined functions provide modularity for using
mathematical expressions.

Declaration
.FUNC my_function_name( Arg1 <,Arg2 <…> > ) =
valueexpression

Identifier

NI Multisim User Manual

Description

my_function_name

Arbitrary function name.

ArgN
where N=1,2,3

List of arguments used by the function.

valueexpression

Mathematical Expression operating on the
arguments

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Additional Notes
•

User-defined functions can be called from any field where a
mathematical expression is used. However, only the Arbitrary Source
device can call a function with circuit variables (node voltages and
device currents) in the arguments.

•

Function names may contain numbers, letters and underscores but
must not start with a number and may not contain any other symbols.

•

The value expression may be enclosed in {} for clarity, but this is not
mandatory.

•

User-defined functions take precedence over predefined functions; if
you define a function called sin it will take the place of the standard
sin function within that context.

Examples
.FUNC sinplusn ( angle, n ) = {sin(angle) + n}
.FUNC myfunc(a,b,c)=a+sinplusn(b**c,0.1)
.param foo=myfunc(1,2,3)
E1 60 59 value={5+myfunc(v(2),3*v(3),9)}
G1 0 88 value={myfunc(I(Vref), 1, 2}

Analog Devices
Resistor
Capacitor
Inductor
Coupled (Mutual) Inductor
Diode
Lossless Transmission Line
Lossy Transmission Line
Uniform R.C. Line (Lumped-approximation R.C. line)
JFET
MESFET
Voltage-Controlled Switch
Current-Controlled Switch
BJT
MOSFET
Independent Voltage Source
Independent Current Source
Arbitrary Source
Voltage Controlled Voltage Source

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Current Controlled Voltage Source
Voltage Controlled Current Source
Current Controlled Current Source

Resistor
Resistor instance declaration syntax:
Rxxxx node1 node2 resistance >

Rxxxx node1 node2 resistance

Rxxxx node1 node2

Resistor instance declaration parameters:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

resistance

Device resistance.

TEMP

Instance operating temperature.

Device length.

Device width.

TC1

Instance 1st order temperature coefficient.

TC2

Instance 2nd order temperature coefficient.

The following only applies if a model has been specified in the instance
declaration as it is not mandatory for resistors.
Resistor model definition syntax:
.MODEL mymodelname R ( >
)
.MODEL mymodelname RES ( >
)

Parameter Name

Parameter Description

Units

Default

DEFW

Default device width.

1 × 10–6

NARROW

Narrowing due to side etching.

0.0

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Parameter Name

Parameter Description

Multisim SPICE Reference

Units

Default

Resistance multiplier (same as RMULT).

—

1.0

RMULT

Resistance multiplier.

—

1.0

RSH

Sheet resistance.

Ω/sq.

0.0

TC1

Instance 1st-order temperature coefficient.

1/ºC

0.0

TC2

Instance 2nd-order temperature coefficient.

1/(ºC2)

0.0

TCE

Exponential temperature coefficient.

%/(ºC2)

0.0

TNOM

Parameter measurement temperature.

ºC

—

Examples
R1 1 0 4.7k
R2 1 0 10k myRes
.model myRes r(tc1=1e-4)

Capacitor
Capacitor instance declaration syntax:
Cxxxx node1 node2 capacitance
Cxxxx node1 node2 capacitance

Capacitance instance declaration parameters:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

capacitance

Device capacitance.

Initial capacitor voltage.

Device length.

Device width.

The following only applies if a model has been specified in the instance
declaration as it is not mandatory for capacitors.

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Capacitor model definition syntax:
.MODEL mymodelname C ( > > + )

Capacitor model definition parameters:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

Units

Default

Junction bottom capacitance per area.

F/(m2)

0.0

CJSW

Junction sidewall capacitance per meter.

F/m

0.0

CMULT

Capacitance multiplier.

DEFW

Default width.

1× 10–6

NARROW

Narrowing due to side etching.

0.0

TC1

Instance 1st-order temperature coefficient.

1/ºC

0.0

TC2

Instance 2nd-order temperature coefficient.

1/(ºC2)

0.0

VC1

Instance 1st-order voltage coefficient.

1/V

0.0

VC2

Instance 2nd-order voltage coefficient.

1/(V2)

0.0

—

1.0

Examples
c1 1 0 1u
C2 1 0 1e-12 myCap
.model myCap C(tc1=1e-4)

Inductor
Inductor instance declaration syntax:
Lxxxx node1 node2 inductance

Inductor instance declaration parameters:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

inductance

Device inductance.

Initial current through inductor.

The following only applies if a model has been specified in the instance
declaration as it is not mandatory for inductor.

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Inductor model definition syntax:
.MODEL mymodelname L ( )
.MODEL mymodelname IND ( )

Inductor model definition parameters:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

Units

Default

IL1

Instance 1st-order current coefficient.

1/A

0.0

IL2

Instance 2nd-order current coefficient.

1/(A2)

0.0

LMULT

Inductance multiplier.

—

1.0

TC1

Instance 1st-order temperature coefficient.

1/ºC

0.0

TC2

Instance 2nd-order temperature coefficient.

1/(ºC2)

0.0

Examples
L1 1 0 1m
l2 1 0 1e-12 myCap
.model myCap C(tc1=1e-4)

Coupled (Mutual) Inductor
Coupled inductor instance declaration syntax:
Kxxxx Lname1 Lname2 k

Coupled inductor instance declaration parameters:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

Mutual inductance coefficient (0.0 to 1.0).

Lname1

Name of first coupled inductor.

Lname2

Name of second coupled inductor.

Examples
L1
L2
L3
K1

1 0 1m
77 0 1m
88 0 1m
L1 L2 0.99

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K2 L1 L3 0.99
K3 L2 L3 0.99

Diode
Diode instance declaration syntax:
Dxxx nodeN+ nodeN- Model

Diode instance declaration parameters:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

area

Area factor.

OFF

Initially off.

Initial device voltage.

TEMP

Instance temperature.

Diode model definition syntax:
.MODEL mymodelname D ( )

Diode model definition parameters:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

Units

Default

Flicker noise exponent.

—

1.0

Reverse breakdown voltage.

infinite

CJO

Junction capacitance.

0.0

Bandgap voltage.

1.11

Forward bias junction fit parameter.

—

0.5

IBV

Current at reverse breakdown voltage.

1 × 10–10

IBVL

Low-level reverse breakdown knee current.

0.0

IKF

High-injection knee current.

infinite

Saturation current.

1 × 10–14

ISR

Recombination currrent parameter.

0.0

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Parameter Name

Parameter Description

Multisim SPICE Reference

Units

Default

Flicker noise coefficient.

—

0.0

Grading coefficient.

—

0.5

Emission coefficient.

—

1.0

NBV

Reverse breakdown ideality factor.

—

1.0

NBVL

Low-level reverse breakdown ideality factor.

—

1.0

Emission coefficient for ISR.

—

2.0

Ohmic resistance.

0.0

TBV1

Linear BV temperature coefficient.

1/ºC

0.0

TBV2

Quadratic BV temperature coefficient.

1/(ºC2)

0.0

TIKF

Linear IKF temperature coefficient.

1/ºC

0.0

TNOM

Parameter measurement temperature.

ºC

TRS1

Linear RS temperature coefficient.

1/ºC

0.0

TRS2

Quadratic RS temperature coefficient.

1/(ºC2)

0.0

Transit time.

0.0

Junction potential.

1.0

XTI

Saturation current temperature exponent.

—

3.0

Examples
*diode with area scale of 2
d1 1 0 myDiode 2
.model myDiode d(is=1.1p)

Lossless Transmission Line
Lossless transmission line instance declaration syntax:
Txxx nodeP1+ nodeP1- nodeP2+ nodeP2- Z0=z0
>>>

Txxx nodeP1+ nodeP1- nodeP2+ nodeP2- Z0=z0

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Lossless Transmission Line instance declaration parameters:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

Characteristic impedance.

Transmission delay.

Frequency.

Normalized length a frequency given.

Initial voltage v1.

Initial current i1.

Initial voltage v2.

Initial current i2.

REL

Relative rate of change of derivative for
breakpoint.

ABS

Absolute rate of change of derivative for
breakpoint.

This device does not have an associated model definition.

Example
T1 1 0 2 0 Z0=75

Lossy Transmission Line
Lossy Transmission Line instance declaration syntax:
Oxxx node1 node2 node3 node4 Model >>>
Oxxx node1 node2 node3 node4 Model

Lossy Transmission Line instance declaration parameters:
Parameter Name

NI Multisim User Manual

Parameter Description

Initial voltage at terminal 1.

Initial voltage at terminal 2.

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Parameter Name

Multisim SPICE Reference

Parameter Description

Initial current at terminal 1.

Initial current at terminal 2.

Lossy Transmission Line model definition syntax:
.MODEL mymodelname LTRA (

+
)

Lossy Transmission Line model definition parameters:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

Units

Default

Capacitance per meter.

F/m

0.0

Conductance per meter.

S/m

0.0

Inductance per meter.

H/m

0.0

Resistance per meter.

Ω/m

0.0

LEN

Length of line.

—

required

REL

Relative rate of change of derivative for
breakpoint.

—

1.0

ABS

Absolute rate of change of derivative for
breakpoint.

—

1.0

NOCONTROL

[FLAG] No timestep control.

—

STEPLIMIT

[FLAG] Always limit timestep to 0.8*(delay
of line).

—

NOSTEPLIMIT

[FLAG] Don't always limit timestep to
0.8*(delay of line).

—

LININTERP

[FLAG] Use linear interpolation.

—

QUADINTERP

[FLAG] Use quadratic interpolation.

—

MIXEDINTERP

[FLAG] Use linear interpolation if quadratic
results look unacceptable.

—

TRUNCNR

Use N-R iterations for step calculation in
LTRAtrunc.

—

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Parameter Name

Parameter Description

Units

Default

TRUNCDONTCUT

Don't limit timestep to keep impulse
response calculation errors low.

—

COMPACTREL

Special reltol for straight line checking.

—

COMPACTABS

Special abstol for straight line checking.

—

Example
O1 1 0 2 0 myLossyLine
.model myLossyLine LTRA(r=3.5 L=3m g=1e-6 c=3.2e-6)

Uniform R.C. Line (Lumped-approximation R.C. line)
Uniform R.C. line instance declaration syntax:
Uxxx node1 node2 nodeRef Model L=len

Uniform R.C. line instance declaration parameters:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

Length of transmission line.

Number of lumps.

Uniform R.C. line model definition syntax:
.MODEL mymodelname URC ( )

Uniform R.C. line model definition parameters:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

Units

Default

CPERL

Capacitance per unit length.

F/m

1 × 10–12

FMAX

Maximum frequency of interest.

1 × 109

ISPERL

Saturation current per length.

A/m

Propagation constant.

RPERL

Resistance per unit length.

Ω/m

RSPERL

Diode resistance per length.

Ω/m

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Example
U1 1 2 0 myURC
.model myURC URC(isperl=1e-9)

JFET
JFET instance declaration syntax:
Jxxx nodeDrain nodeGate nodeSource Model

JFET instance declaration parameters:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

area

Area factor.

TEMP

Instance temperature.

vds0

Initial drain-to-source voltage.

vgs0

Initial gate-to-source voltage.

OFF

Device initially off.

IC-VDS

Alternate way of specifying the initial
drain-to-source voltage.

IC-VGS

Alternate way of specifying the initial
gate-to-source voltage.

N-channel JFET model definition syntax:
.MODEL mymodelname NJF ( )

P-channel JFET model definition syntax:
.MODEL mymodelname PJF ( )

JFET model definition parameters:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

Units

Default

Flicker noise exponent.

—

1.0

Doping tail parameter.

—

1.0

BETA

Transconductance parameter.

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Parameter Name

Parameter Description

Units

Default

CGD

Zero-bias gate-to-drain junction
capacitance.

0.0

CGS

Zero-bias gate-to-source junction
capacitance.

0.0

Forward bias junction fit parameter.

Gate junction saturation current.

Flicker noise coefficient.

LAMBDA

Channel length modulation parameter.

1/V

0.0

Gate junction potential.

1.0

Drain ohmic resistance.

0.0

Source ohmic resistance.

0.0

TNOM

Parameter measurement temperature

ºC

VT0

Threshold voltage.

—

0.0
1 × 10–14

A
—

0.0

—
-2.0

Example
J1 d g s myJFET
.model myJFET NJF(vto=1.3)

MESFET
MESFET instance declaration syntax:
Zxxx nodeDrain nodeGate nodeSource Model

MESFET instance declaration parameters:
Parameter Name

NI Multisim User Manual

Parameter Description

area

Area factor.

VDS0

Initial drain-to-source voltage.

VGS0

Initial gate-to-source voltage.

OFF

[FLAG] Device initially off.

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Parameter Name

Multisim SPICE Reference

Parameter Description

IC-VDS

Alternate way of specifying the initial
drain-to-source voltage.

IC-VGS

Alternate way of specifying the initial
gate-to-source voltage.

N-channel MESFET model definition syntax:
.MODEL mymodelname NMF ( )

P-channel MESFET model definition syntax:
.MODEL mymodelname PMF ( )

MESFET model definition parameters:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

Units

Flicker noise exponent.

ALPHA

Saturation voltage parameter.

1/V

2.0

Doping tail parameter.

—

0.3

BETA

Transconductance parameter.

A/(V2)

2.5 × 10–3

CGD

Gate-to-drain junction capacitance.

0.0

CGS

Gate-to-source junction capacitance.

0.0

Forward bias depletion capacitance
coefficient.

Junction saturation current.

Flicker noise coefficient.

LAMBDA

Channel length modulation parameter.

1/V

0.0

Gate junction potential.

1.0

Drain ohmic resistance.

0.0

Source ohmic resistance.

0.0

VT0

Pinch-off voltage.

–2.0

7-29

—

Default

—

1.0

0.5
1 × 10–14

A
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Example
Z1 d g s myGaSFET
.model myGaSFET NMF(vto=1.3)

Voltage-Controlled Switch
Voltage-Controlled switch instance declaration syntax:
Sxxx node_n+ node_n- nodeNC+ nodeNC- Model

Voltage-Controlled Switch instance declaration parameters:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

[FLAG] Switch initially closed.

OFF

[FLAG] Switch initially open.

Voltage-Controlled Switch model definition syntax:
.MODEL mymodelname SW ( )

Voltage-Controlled Switch model definition parameters:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

Units

Default

ROFF

Resistance when open.

1/GMIN

RON

Resistance when closed.

1.0

Hysteresis voltage.

0.0

Threshold voltage.

0.0

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Description
As illustrated below the voltage controlled switch changes abruptly
between the ON and OFF states. Due to the hysteresis of the switch model
the ON->OFF and OFF->ON transitions occur at VT+VH and VT–VH,
respectively.

Example
S1 1 0 2 0 mySwitch
.model mySwitch SW(Ron=1 Roff=1meg Vt=2.5 vh=0.5)

Smooth Transition Voltage-Controlled Switch
Smooth transition Voltage-Controlled switch instance declaration syntax:
Sxxx node_n+ node_n- nodeNC+ nodeNC- Model
Sxxx node_n+ node_n- (nodeNC+, nodeNC-) Model

Smooth transition Voltage-Controlled Switch model definition syntax:
.MODEL mymodelname VSWITCH ( )

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Smooth transition Voltage-Controlled Switch model definition parameters:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

Units

Default

ROFF

Resistance when open.

1 × 1012

RON

Resistance when closed.

1.0

VOFF

Control OFF value.

0.0

VON

Control ON value.

1.0

Description
The switching characteristic of the smooth transition voltage-controlled
switch are illustrated below. Since this device does not exhibit hysteresis
the transition between the ON and OFF states follows the same
characteristic curve.

Example
S1 1 0 2 0 mySwitch
.model mySwitch vswitch(Ron=1 Roff=1meg von=1.5
voff=3.5)

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Current-Controlled Switch
Current-Controlled Switch instance declaration syntax:
Wxxx node_n+ node_n- Vname Model

Current-Controlled Switch instance declaration parameters:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

Vname

Name of controlling voltage source.

Switch initially closed.

OFF

Switch initially open.

Current-Controlled switch model definition syntax:
.MODEL mymodelname CSW ( )

Current-Controlled Switch model (CSW) line parameters:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

Units

Default

Hysteresis current.

0.0

Threshold current.

0.0

ROFF

Resistance when open.

1/GMIN

RON

Resistance when closed.

1.0

Description
The Current-Controlled switch follows a similar hysteresis curve as the
Voltage-Controlled switch. Refer to the Voltage-Controlled Switch section
for more information.

Example
S1 1 0 Vcontrol mySwitch
.model mySwitch CSW(Ron=0.1 Roff=1meg it=2 ih=0.1)

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BJT
BJT device instance declaration syntax:
Qxxx nodeCollector nodeBase nodeEmmiter Model

BJT instance declaration parameters:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

AREA

Area factor.

TEMP

Instance temperature.

OFF

[FLAG] Device initially off.

ICVBE

Initial base-emitter voltage.

ICVCE

Initial collector-emitter voltage.

SENS_AREA

[FLAG] Flag to request sensitivity with
respect to area.

VBE0

Initial base-emitter voltage.

VCE0

Initial collector-emitter voltage.

BJT device NPN model definition syntax:
.MODEL mymodelname NPN ( )

BJT device PNP model definition syntax:
.MODEL mymodelname PNP ( )

BJT model definition parameters:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

Units

Default

Flicker noise exponent.

—

1.0

Ideal maximum forward beta.

—

100.0

Ideal maximum reverse beta.

—

1.0

CJC

Base-collector zero bias depletion
capacitance.

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Parameter Name

Parameter Description

Multisim SPICE Reference

Units

Default

CJE

Base-emitter zero bias depletion
capacitance.

0.0

CJS or CCS

Collector-substrate zero bias depletion
capacitance.

0.0

Bandgap voltage.

1.11

Forward bias depletion capacitance
coefficient.

IKF or IK

Corner for forward beta high current roll-off.

infinite

IKR

Corner for reverse beta high current roll-off.

infinite

IRB

Current at which base resistance is
(RB+RBM)/2.

infinite

Transport saturation current.

1× 10–16

ISC

Base-collector leakage saturation current.

0.0

ISE

Base-emitter leakage saturation current.

0.0

ITF

High current dependence of TF.

0.0

Flicker noise coefficient.

—

0.0

MJC or MC

Base-collector junction grading coefficient.

—

0.33

MJE or ME

Base-emitter junction grading coefficient.

—

0.33

MJS or MS

Substrate junction grading coefficient.

—

0.0

Base-collector leakage emission coefficient.

—

2.0

Base-emitter leakage emission coefficient.

—

1.5

Forward current emission coefficient.

—

1.0

High-current roll-off coefficient.

—

0.5

Reverse current emission coefficient.

—

1.0

PTF

Excess phase at 1/(2πTF) Hz.

0.0

Zero bias base resistance.

0.0

RBM

Minimum base resistance.

Collector resistance.

0.0

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Parameter Name

Parameter Description

Units

Default

Emitter resistance.

0.0

Ideal forward transient time.

0.0

TNOM

Parameter measurement temperature.

ºC

Ideal reverse transit time.

0.0

VAF or VA

Forward Early voltage.

infinite

VAR or VB

Reverse Early voltage.

infinite

VJC or PC

Base-collector built in potential.

0.75

VJE or PE

Base-emitter built in potential.

0.75

VJS or PS

Substrate junction built in potential.

0.75

VTF

Voltage giving VBC dependence of TF.

infinite

XCJC

Fraction of base-collector capacitance
connected to internal base.

—

1.0

XTB

Forward and reverse beta temperature
exponent.

—

0.0

XTF

Coefficient for bias dependence of TF.

—

0.0

XTI

IS temperature effect exponent.

—

3.0

—

Additional Notes
Multisim uses the Gummel-Poon BJT model.

Example
Q1 e b c 0 myBJT
.model myBJT NPN(vto=1.3)

MOSFET
MOSFET device instance declaration syntax:
Mxxx nodeDrain nodeGate nodeSource nodeBulk Model
<l> <w>
+ >>

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Mxxx nodeDrain nodeGate nodeSource nodeBulk Model
<l> <w>
+

Basic MOSFET instance declaration parameters:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

Length.

Width.

Drain area.

Source area.

Drain perimeter.

Source perimeter.

NRD

Number of squares in drain.

NRS

Number of squares in source.

Device multiplicity factor.

OFF

[FLAG] Device is initially off.

ICVDS

Initial drain-to-source voltage.

ICVGS

Initial gate-to-source voltage.

ICVBS

Initial bulk-to-source voltage.

Initial voltages. This is a three element vector
alternate way of specifying ICVDS, ICVGS,
ICVBS.

TEMP

Instance temperature.

MOSFET device NMOS simulation model definition syntax:
.MODEL mymodelname NMOS (
)

MOSFET device PMOS simulation model definition syntax:
.MODEL mymodelname PMOS (
)

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The LEVEL parameter is used to select the appropriate MOSFET
simulation model. Multisim provides eight different MOSFET models,
which are described below:
Level Value

Description

1 or MOS1

Shichman-Hodges model (DEFAULT model).

2 or MOS2

More complex model than LEVEL 1 based on
actual device physics.

3 or MOS3

Semi-empirical model good for simulating
short channel effects.

4 or BSIM1

BSIM1.

5 or BSIM2

BSIM2.

6 or MOS6

N-th power law MOSFET model.

8 or BSIM3

BSIM3 (version 3v3).

14 or BSIM

BSIM4 (version 4v5).

Depending on the Level value, different parameters for both instance
declarations and model definitions are available.
MOSFET model definition parameters for MOS1 and MOS2:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

Units

Flicker noise exponent.

CBD

Bulk-to-drain junction capacitance.

0.0

CBS

Bulk-to-source junction capacitance.

0.0

CGBO

Gate-to-bulk overlap capacitance.

F/m

0.0

CGDO

Gate-to-drain overlap capacitance.

F/m

0.0

CGSO

Gate-to-source overlap capacitance.

F/m

0.0

Zero-bias bulk junction bottom capacitance
per area.

F/(m2)

0.0

CJSW

Zero-bias bulk junction sidewall capacitance
per length.

F/m

0.0

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Parameter Name

Parameter Description

Multisim SPICE Reference

Units

Forward bias depletion capacitance
coefficient.

GAMMA

Bulk threshold parameter.

V1/2

0.0

Bulk junction saturation current.

1 × 10–14

Bulk junction saturation current density.

A/(m2)

0.0

Flicker noise coefficient.

—

0.0

Transconductance parameter.

A/(V2)

2 × 10–5

Length.

DEFW

LAMBDA

Channel length modulation.

1/V

0.0

Lateral diffusion.

0.0

Bulk junction bottom grading coefficient.

—

0.5

MJSW

Bulk junction sidewall grading coefficient.

—

0.33

NSS

Surface state density.

1/(cm2)

0.0

NSUB

Substrate doping.

1/(cm2)

0.0

Bulk junction potential.

0.8

PHI

Surface potential.

0.6

Bulk ohmic resistance.

0.0

Drain ohmic resistance.

0.0

RDS

Drain-to-source shunt resistance.

infinite

Gate ohmic resistance.

0.0

Source ohmic resistance.

0.0

RSH

Drain and source diffusion sheet resistance.

Ω/sq.

0.0

TNOM

Parameter measurement temperature.

ºC

—

TOX

Oxide thickness.

Refer to
Additional
Notes

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Parameter Name
TPG

Parameter Description

Units

Type of gate material:

—

Default
1

+1 = opposite to substrate
-1 = same as substrate
0 = aluminum.
U0

Surface mobility.

cm2/Vs

600

VTO

Threshold voltage.

0.0

Width.

DEFL

Additional MOSFET model definition parameters for MOS3:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

Units

Default

Flicker noise exponent.

—

1.0

ALPHA

Alpha.

—

0.0

DELTA

Width effect on threshold.

—

0.0

ETA

Static feedback.

—

0.0

KAPPA

Saturation field factor.

—

0.2

Flicker noise coefficient.

—

0.0

Length.

DEFW

NFS

Fast surface state density.

1/(cm2)

0.0

Bulk ohmic resistance.

0.0

Gate ohmic resistance.

0.0

THETA

Mobility modulation.

1/V

0.0

VMAX

Maximum carrier drift velocity.

m/s

0.0

Width.

DEFL

Depletion layer width.

Metallurgical junction depth.

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Additional MOSFET instance declaration parameters for MOS1, MOS2,
MOS3 and MOS6:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

Multiplicity.

SENS_L

[FLAG] flag to request sensitivity with respect
to length.

SENS_W

[FLAG] flag to request sensitivity with respect
to width.

Additional MOSFET model definition parameters for MOS6:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

Units
V1/2

Default

GAMMA1

Bulk threshold parameter 1.

0.0

Saturation current factor.

—

5 × 10–5

Saturation voltage factor.

—

2.0

LAMBDA0

Channel length modulation parameter 0.

—

0.0

LAMBDA1

Channel length modulation parameter 1.

Saturation current coefficient.

—

1.0

Saturation voltage coefficient.

—

0.5

NVTH

Threshold voltage coefficient.

—

0.5

Saturation current modification parameter.

—

0.0

SIGMA

Static feedback effect parameter.

—

0.0

1/V

0.0

Additional Notes
•

The level parameter (level) must be a numerical constant - it may not
contain parameters or expressions.

•

The oxide thickness parameter (TOX) has default value of 1× 10-7 for
LEVEL 2 and LEVEL 3 models. For the LEVEL 1 the default value is
unspecified, and if TOX is not provided the model does not use the
process parameters, for example, TOX, NSUB, COX, UO).

•

Please consult external documentation at
http://www-device.eecs.berkeley.edu/~bsim/ for

additional details on BSIM models.
© National Instruments Corporation

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Example
M1 d g s s myMOS w=200u l=100u m=3
.model myMOS NMOS(vto=1.3)

Independent Voltage Source
Independent Voltage Source instance declaration syntax:
Vxxx node1 node2 < dc_mag> >

Independent Voltage Source instance declaration parameters:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

DC voltage identifier.

AC analysis input voltage identifier.

dc_mag

DC magnitude voltage value.

ac_mag

AC signal magnitude value.

ac_phase

AC signal phase value.

source_type

Type of source waveform (see table below).

source_params

Parameters for source waveform.

The types of voltage source waveforms allowed by Multisim are:
source_type

Description

PULSE

Pulse source. Refer to the Pulse Source section for information.

SIN

Sinusoidal source. Refer to the Sinusoidal Source section for
information.

SFFM

Single frequency FM source. Refer to the Single Frequency FM
Source section for information.

EXP

Exponential source. Refer to the Exponential Source section for
information.

PWL

Piecewise linear source. Refer to the Piecewise Linear Source
section for information.

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source_type

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Description

PWLREPEAT

Repeating piecewise linear source. Refer to the Piecewise Linear
Source section for information.

PWLFILE

PWL source generated using data stored in a file. Refer to the
Piecewise Linear File Source section for information.

PWLFILEREPEAT

Repeating PWL source generated using data stored in a file.
Refer to the Piecewise Linear File Source section for
information.

Agilent 33120A Arbitrary Waveform Generator modulation.
Refer to the Modulation Source section for information.

XAM

Agilent 33120A Arbitrary Waveform Generator AM
modulation. Refer to the AM Modulation Source section for
information.

XFM

Agilent 33120A Arbitrary Waveform Generator FM modulation.
Refer to the FM Modulation Source section for information.

XFSK

Agilent 33120A Arbitrary Waveform Generator FSK
modulation. Refer to the FSK Modulation Source section for
information.

XBST

Agilent 33120A Arbitrary Waveform Generator Burst
modulation. Refer to the BST Modulation Source section for
information.

XSWP

Agilent 33120A Arbitrary Waveform Generator Sweep
modulation. Refer to the SWP Modulation Source section for
information.

XNOISE

Agilent 33120A Arbitrary Waveform Generator Noise
modulation. Refer to the Noise Source section for information.

XARB

Agilent 33120A Arbitrary Waveform Generator ARB
modulation. Refer to the XARB Source for information.

Description
An independent voltage source is an ideal voltage source, fully driving the
voltage between its nodes. Every voltage source statement has three
optional portions describing its output behavior: DC portion which
describes its behavior in DC analysis, AC portion which describes its
behavior in AC analysis, and source_type which describes its behavior in
Transient Analysis.

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Additional Notes
•

In DC analysis, if the DC portion is not specified, but the source_type
portion is specified, the output voltage is that of the source_type at
time=0.0

•

In transient analysis, if the source_type portion is not specified, but the
DC portion is specified, the output voltage for the duration of the
analysis is the DC value

•

If neither the DC portion or the source_type portion are specified, the
output is zero volts

•

Sources have special parameters that are enclosed in brackets; these
brackets are optional.

•

Due to the ambiguity of some source parameter names (SIN, for
example) expressions used in source statements should always have
curly brackets, {}, around them.

•

The files used in PWLFILE and PWLFILEREPEAT should be plain
text, with one comma-separated pair of numbers on every line of the
file. For more details on the file format, refer to the Piecewise Linear
Source section.

Examples
V1 in 0 10
*1khz, 10V, 50% duty cycle voltage signal
V1 in ref pulse (10 0 0 1n 1n 0.5m 1m)
*5V DC source with a 1V voltage for AC analysis
V1 1 0 ac 1 dc 5

Pulse Source
Pulse source instance declaration syntax:
PULSE( vi vp >>>> )

PULSE instance declaration parameters:
Parameter Name

NI Multisim User Manual

Parameter Description

Initial value (voltage/current).

Pulsed value voltage/current).

Time delay.

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Parameter Name

Multisim SPICE Reference

Parameter Description

Rise time.

Fall time.

Pulse width.

per

Period.

Sinusoidal Source
Sinusoidal source instance declaration syntax:
SIN( vo va >> )

SIN instance declaration parameters:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

Offset value.

Peak value.

freq

Frequency.

Delay.

theta

Phase.

Single Frequency FM Source
Single frequency FM source instance declaration syntax:
SFFM( vo va >> )

SFFM instance declaration parameters:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

Offset value.

Peak value.

Carrier frequency.

mdi

Modulation index.

Signal frequency.

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Exponential Source
Exponential source instance declaration syntax:
EXP( vi vp > )

EXP instance declaration parameters:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

Initial value.

Peak value.

td1

Rise/fall delay time.

tau1

Rise/fall time constant.

td2

Fall/rise delay time.

tau2

Fall/rise time constant.

Piecewise Linear Source
Piecewise linear source instance declaration syntax:
PWL( t1 v1 >> )
PWL( t1, v1 ) <( t2, v2 ) <( t3, v3 ) <...>>> )

Repeating piecewise linear source instance declaration syntax:
PWLREPEAT( t1 v1 >> )
PWLREPEAT( t1, v1 ) <( t2, v2 ) <( t3, v3 ) <...>>> )

PWL and PWLREPEAT instance declaration parameters:
Parameter Name

NI Multisim User Manual

Parameter Description

tn where n=0,1,2…

Time component of data point n.

vn where n=0,1,2…

Voltage component of data point n.

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Piecewise Linear File Source
File-based piecewise linear source instance declaration syntax:
PWLFILE( filename_string )

Repeating File-based piecewise linear source instance declaration syntax:
PWLFILEREPEAT( filename_string )

PWLFILE and PWLFILEREPEAT instance declaration parameters:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description
A fully qualified filename in quotes (for
example, "c:\mypath\myfile.ext").

filename_string

Modulation Source
This source models the modulation available on the Agilent 33120A
Arbitrary Waveform Generator.
XM instrument voltage source instance declaration syntax:
XM( vo va fc td dt cwid )

Parameter Name

Parameter Description

Offset value.

Amplitude value.

Carrier frequency.

Time delay.

Duty value for square wave.

cwid

Carrier wave ID: 0=sine, 1=square, 2=triangle,
3=ramp.

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AM Modulation Source
This source models the AM modulation available on the Agilent 33120A
Arbitrary Waveform Generator.
AM modulation voltage source instance declaration syntax:
XAM( vo va fc td dt depth fs cwid wsid )

Parameter Name

Parameter Description

Offset value.

Amplitude value.

Carrier frequency.

Time delay.

Duty value for square wave.

depth

Modulation depth.

Signal frequency.

cwid

Carrier wave ID: 0=sine, 1=square, 2=triangle,
3=ramp.

wsid

Signal wave ID: 0=sine, 1=square, 2=triangle,
3=ramp.

FM Modulation Source
This source models the FM modulation available on the Agilent 33120A
Arbitrary Waveform Generator.
FM modulation voltage source instance declaration syntax:
XFM( vo va fc mdi fs cwid wsid )

Parameter Name

NI Multisim User Manual

Parameter Description

Offset value.

Amplitude value.

Carrier frequency.

mdi

Modulation index.

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Parameter Name

Multisim SPICE Reference

Parameter Description

Signal frequency.

cwid

Carrier wave ID: 0=sine, 1=square, 2=triangle,
3=ramp.

wsid

Signal wave ID: 0=sine, 1=square, 2=triangle,
3=ramp.

FSK Modulation Source
This source models the FSK modulation available on the Agilent 33120A
Arbitrary Waveform Generator.
FSK modulation voltage source instance declaration syntax:
XFSK( vo va fc td dt fh fskr )

Parameter Name

Parameter Description

Offset value.

Amplitude value.

Carrier frequency.

Time delay.

Duty value for square wave.

Hop frequency.

fskr

FSK rate.

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BST Modulation Source
This source models the Burst modulation available on the Agilent 33120A
Arbitrary Waveform Generator.
BST modulation voltage source instance declaration syntax:
XBST( vo va fc td dt bstr nc ph cwid tm te )

Parameter Name

Parameter Description

Offset value.

Amplitude value.

Carrier frequency.

Time delay.

Duty value for square wave.

bstr

BST rate.

BST counter.

Phase (in degrees).

cwid

Carrier wave ID: 0=sine, 1=square, 2=triangle,
3=ramp.

Trigger mode: 0=auto, 1=single.

Trigger enable: 0=disabled, 1=enabled.

SWP Modulation Source
This source models the Sweep modulation available on the Agilent 33120A
Arbitrary Waveform Generator.
SWP modulation voltage source instance declaration syntax:
XSWP( vo va td dt fb fe ts sm cwid tm te)

Parameter Name

NI Multisim User Manual

Parameter Description

Offset value.

Amplitude value.

Time delay.

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Parameter Name

Multisim SPICE Reference

Parameter Description

Duty value for square wave.

Start frequency.

End frequency.

Sweep time.

Sweep mode: 1=linear, 0=log.

cwid

Signal wave ID: 0=sine, 1=square, 2=triangle,
3=ramp.

Trigger mode: 0=auto, 1=single.

Trigger enable: 0=disabled, 1=enabled.

Noise Source
This source models the Noise modulation available on the Agilent 33120A
Arbitrary Waveform Generator.
NOISE modulation voltage source instance declaration syntax:
XNOISE( vo va fc bf)

Parameter Name

Parameter Description

Offset value.

Amplitude value.

Carrier frequency.

Bandwidth frequency.

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XARB Source
This source models the ARB modulation available on the Agilent 33120A
Arbitrary Waveform Generator.
XARB voltage source instance declaration syntax:
XARB( tt td t0 v0 t1 v1 >)

Parameter Name

Parameter Description

Period time (1/F).

Time delay.

tn where n=0,1,2…

Time component of data point n.

vn where n=0,1,2…

Voltage component of data point n.

Independent Current Source
Independent Current Source instance declaration syntax:
Ixxx node1 node2 < dc_mag> >

Independent Current Source instance declaration parameters:
Parameter Name

NI Multisim User Manual

Parameter Description

DC current identifier.

AC analysis input current identifier.

dc_mag

DC magnitude current value.

ac_mag

AC signal magnitude value.

ac_phase

AC signal phase value.

source_type

Type of source waveform (see table below).

source_params

Parameters for source waveform.

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The types of current source waveforms allowed by Multisim are:
source_type

Description

PULSE

Pulse source. Refer to the Pulse Source section
for information.

SIN

Sinusoidal source. Refer to the Sinusoidal
Source section for information.

SFFM

Single frequency FM source. Refer to the
Single Frequency FM Source section for
information.

EXP

Exponential source. Refer to the Exponential
Source section for information.

PWL

Piecewise linear source. Refer to the Piecewise
Linear Source section for information.

PWLREPEAT

Repeating piecewise linear source. Refer to the
Piecewise Linear Source section for
information.

PWLFILE

PWL source generated using data stored in a
file. Refer to the Piecewise Linear File Source
section for information.

PWLFILEREPEAT

Repeating PWL source generated using data
stored in a file. Refer to the Piecewise Linear
File Source section for information.

Description
An independent current source is an ideal current source, fully driving the
current in its branch. Every current source statement has three optional
portions describing its output behavior: DC portion which describes its
behavior in DC analysis, AC portion which describes its behavior in AC
analysis, and source_type which describes its behavior in Transient
Analysis.

Additional Notes
•

In DC analysis, if the DC portion is not specified, but the source_type
portion is specified, the output voltage is that of the source_type at
time=0.0.

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•

In transient analysis, if the source_type portion is not specified, but
the DC portion is specified, the output voltage for the duration of the
analysis is the DC value.

•

If neither the DC portion or the source_type portion are specified,
the output is zero volts.

•

Sources have special parameters that are enclosed in brackets; these
brackets are optional.

•

Due to the ambiguity of some source parameter names (SIN, for
example) expressions used in source statements should always have
curly brackets, {}, around them.

•

The files used in PWLFILE and PWLFILEREPEAT should be plain
text, with one comma-separated pair of numbers on every line of the
file.

Examples
I1 0 in 10
*1khz, 5Apk current source
I1 0 in sin (0 5 1k)
*5A DC source with a 1A for AC analysis
I1 0 1 ac 1 dc 5

Arbitrary Source
Arbitrary Source instance declaration syntax:
Bxxx o_node_p o_node_n V = expression
Bxxx o_node_p o_node_n I = expression
Exxx o_node_p o_node_n VALUE = expression
Exxx o_node_p o_node_n TABLE(expression) < = > (x1,y1)
(x2,y2) < (x3,y3) <...>>
Gxxx o_node_p o_node_n VALUE = expression
Gxxx o_node_p o_node_n TABLE(expression) < = > (x1,y1)
(x2,y2) < (x3,y3) <...>>

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Arbitrary Source instance declaration terminals:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

o_node_p

Output node +

o_node_n

Output node –

Arbitrary Source instance declaration parameters:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

expression

A mathematical expression for the output
variable.

xN where N=0,1,2…

Nth x value for a TABLE interpolation.

yN where N=0,1,2…

Nth y value for a TABLE interpolation.

Description
The arbitrary source generates an output voltage or current that is equal to
the result of an arbitrary mathematical expression operating on any number
of circuit variables. This ability makes it much more powerful than the
linear and polynomial controlled sources.
The B-source with the declaration "Bxxx o_node_p o_node_n V =
expression" is a controlled voltage source and is functionality equivalent
to the E-source with the declaration "Exxx o_node_p o_node_n VALUE
= expression".
The B-source with the declaration "Bxxx o_node_p o_node_n I =
expression" is a controlled current source and is functionality equivalent
to the G-source with the declaration "Gxxx o_node_p o_node_n VALUE
= expression".
The E and G sources based on TABLE perform an additional step of
mapping the result of expression to the piece-wise-linear function
described by co-ordinates (x1,y1) (x2,y2)… (xn,yn).

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Example
E1 5 0 TABLE(V(1)**2) (-5,-5)(5,5)
B99 5 0 v={limit(log(v(5)),-100,10)}
G1 5 0 TABLE(V(1)**2) (-5,-5)(5,5)
B99 5 0 I={max(v(5),v(4))}

Voltage Controlled Voltage Source
Linear Voltage Controlled Voltage Source instance declaration syntax:
Exxx o_node_p o_node_n c_node0_p c_node0_n gain
Exxx o_node_p o_node_n < POLY(ndim) > c_node0_p
c_node0_n < c_node1_p c_node1_n <...>> vo p0 + >>

Voltage Controlled Voltage Source instance declaration terminals:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

o_node_p

Output node +.

o_node_n

Output node –.

c_nodeN_p where

Nth controlling node +.

N=0,1,2…
c_nodeN_n where

Nth controlling node –.

N=0,1,2…

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Voltage Controlled Voltage Source instance declaration parameters:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

gain

Voltage gain (same as p0)

ndim

The number of pairs of controlling nodes. This
must be a simple integer, not an expression.
Refer to the Polynomial Specifications section
for more information.

Voltage offset

pN where N=0,1,2…

Nth polynomial term. Refer to the Polynomial
Specifications section for more information.

Polynomial Specifications
In polynomial controlled sources the ndim value provided is the number of
controlling inputs, which are either pairs of nodes or names of current
sources. The number of inputs must match the ndim value, however the
number of polynomial terms is independent.
There can be any number of polynomial terms which are used to generate
an expression of the following form:
For POLY(1):
p0*a + p1*a*a + p2*a*a*a + p3*a*a*a*a + ...

where a is the value of V(c_node0_p, c_node0_n) or I(c_isrc0)
For POLY(2):
p0*a + p1*b + p2*a*a + p3*a*b + p4*b*b + p5*a*a*a +
p6*a*a*b + p7*a*b*b + p8*b*b*b + p9*a*a*a*a +
p10*a*a*a*b +...

where a is the value of V(c_node0_p, c_node0_n) or I(c_isrc0)
and b is the value of V(c_node1_p, c_node1_n) or I(c_isrc1)
For POLY(3):
p0*a + p1*b + p2*c + p3*a*a + p4*a*b + p5*a*c + p6*b*b
+ p7*b*c + p8*c*c + p9*a*a*a + p10*a*a*b + p11*a*a*c
+ p12*a*b*b + p13*a*b*c + p14*a*c*c + p15*b*b*b +
p16*b*b*c + p17*b*c*c + p18*c*c*c + p19*a*a*a*a +
....

where a is the value of V(c_node0_p, c_node0_n) or I(c_isrc0)

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and b is the value of V(c_node1_p, c_node1_n) or I(c_isrc1)
and c is the value of V(c_node2_p, c_node2_n) or I(c_isrc2)
etc…

Additional Notes
•

The dimension parameter of the polynomial source (ndim) must be a
numerical constant—it may not contain parameters or expressions.

Example
E1 ampout 0 ampin 0 1e6
E1 out ref poly(2) node1 0 input+ input- 0.5 1 1

Current Controlled Voltage Source
Current Controlled Voltage Source instance declaration sybtax:
Hxxx o_node_p o_node_n Vname1 gain
Hxxx o_node_p o_node_n < POLY(ndim) > Vname1 < Vname2
<...>> vo p0 >>

Current Controlled Voltage Source instance declaration terminals:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

o_node_p

Output node +.

o_node_n

Output node –.

c_nodeN_p where

Nth controlling node +.

N=0,1,2…
c_nodeN_n where

Nth controlling node –.

N=0,1,2…
VnameN where

Nth controlling current source name.

N=0,1,2…

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Current Controlled Voltage Source instance declaration parameters:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

gain

Voltage gain (same as p0).

ndim

The number of pairs of controlling nodes. This
must be a simple integer. Refer to the
Polynomial Specifications section for more
information.

Voltage offset.

pN where N=0,1,2…

Nth polynomial term. Refer to the Polynomial
Specifications section for more information.

Additional Notes
•

The dimension parameter of the polynomial source (ndim) must be a
numerical constant— it may not contain parameters or expressions.

Example
H1 out 0 Vsense 1k

Voltage Controlled Current Source
Voltage Controlled Current Source instance declaration syntax:
Gxxx o_node_p o_node_n c_node0_p c_node0_n gain
Gxxx o_node_p o_node_n < POLY(ndim) > c_node0_p
c_node0_n < c_node1_p c_node1_n <...>> vo p0
+ >>

Voltage Controlled Current Source instance declaration terminals:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

o_node_p

Output node +.

o_node_n

Output node –.

c_nodeN_p where

Nth controlling node +.

N=0,1,2…
c_nodeN_n where

Nth controlling node –.

N=0,1,2…

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Voltage Controlled Voltage Source instance declaration parameters:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

gain

Voltage gain (same as p0).

ndim

The number of pairs of controlling nodes. This
must be a simple integer, not an expression.
Refer to the Polynomial Specifications section
for more information.

Voltage offset.

pN where N=0,1,2…

Nth polynomial term. Refer to the Polynomial
Specifications section for more information.

Additional Notes
•

The dimension parameter of the polynomial source (ndim) must be a
numerical constant—it may not contain parameters or expressions.

Example
G1 0 out 1 2 100k
G1 out ref poly(2) node_a 0 node_b 0 0.5 1 1 2 2

Current Controlled Current Source
Current Controlled Current Source instance declaration syntax:
Fxxx o_node_p o_node_n Vname1 gain
Fxxx o_node_p o_node_n < POLY(ndim) > Vname1 < Vname2
<...>> vo p0 >>

Current Controlled Current Source instance declaration terminals:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

o_node_p

Output node +.

o_node_n

Output node –.

c_nodeN_p where

Nth controlling node +.

N=0,1,2…

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Multisim SPICE Reference

Parameter Description

c_nodeN_n where

Nth controlling node –.

N=0,1,2…
VnameN where

Nth controlling current source name.

N=0,1,2…
Current Controlled Voltage Source instance declaration parameters:
Parameter Name

Parameter Description

gain

Voltage gain (same as p0).

ndim

The number of pairs of controlling nodes. This
must be a simple integer, not an expression.
Refer to the Polynomial Specifications section
for more information.

Voltage offset.

pN where N=0,1,2…

Nth polynomial term. Refer to the Polynomial
Specifications section for more information.

Additional Notes
•

The dimension parameter of the polynomial source (ndim) must be a
numerical constant—it may not contain parameters or expressions.

Example
F1 0 out V1 10

XSPICE Syntax Reference
XSPICE Code Model

XSPICE Code Model
XSPICE syntax for a terminal:
<%TerminalType> <(> nodename <, referencenodename> <)>
<%TerminalType> [ arraynodename1 <, arraynodename2 <,
...>> ]

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XSPICE Terminal types:
Symbol

Description

Digital terminal.

Voltage terminal.

Current terminal.

Voltage in/current out terminal.

Current in/voltage out terminal.

%VD

Differential voltage terminal.

%ID

Differential current terminal.

%GD

Differential voltage in/current out terminal.

%HD

Differential current in/voltage out terminal.

%VNAM

Named vsource “terminal”.

XSPICE code model instance line syntax:
Axxx xspiceterminal1 < xspiceterminal2 <...>> Model

XSPICE code-model model definition syntax:
.MODEL mymodelname CODEMODELNAME ( )

Please refer to XSPICE documentation at
http://users.ece.gatech.edu/~mrichard/Xspice/ for further

details.

Unusual Forms of Device Syntax
The syntax of the various devices listed above are given with the most
common forms. However, there are several other variations which are also
acceptable for compatibility reasons. In general, the following rules can be
used:

NI Multisim User Manual

•

Brackets that are not part of a mathematical expression are optional.

•

Commas between parameters are optional (except in mathematical
functions)

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•

Equal signs on certain parameters are optional; they can be left out of
places where they would normally go and added in after parameters
names that don't normally need them. The parameters that are optional
are V, I, DC, AC, PWL, SIN, TABLE, and so on, in sources.

•

Parameter names that are implied can also be stated explicitly (for
example, “Resistance” on a resistor.)

•

The order of explicitly stated parameters doesn't matter.

•

Except in mathematical expressions, whitespace doesn't matter.

•

Putting curly brackets, {}, around expressions is recommended but is
not required in most cases. Inside expressions curly brackets, {}, can
be used like parenthesis, ().
In sources of the form similar to SIN and PWL, the brackets don't
matter—these can be set with a line like SIN = 1 2 3 … in the same
way that any other parameter, or the brackets, can be used to make
logical pairs for PWL = (1,2),(3,4),(5,6).

Examples
Thus the following statements are acceptable input to the Multisim SPICE
simulator:
R1 1 0 RESISTANCE=1k
V1 1 0 AC 2, 1 DC = 10
H1 1 2 POLY 1 V2 3.40k
I2 1 0 PWL =

0 0 1.3

2.0, 5.0,

5.0

E2 5 8 TABLE V(4)**2 0.0, 0.0, 0.5,0.5, 1.0,

0.0

Compatibility Modes
Some other forms of SPICE have slight differences which cannot be
automatically detected by Multisim. In order for Multisim to correctly
handle these cases it is necessary to add the following special command:
.SYNTAX mode
where mode can be PS for Cadence® PSpice®, XS for XSPICE, and MS for
Multisim.
When this command is used, all other elements of the netlist that occur
below it (including nested subckt definitions) will be interpreted with

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special compatibility mode until the end of the current subckt. The default
compatibility mode is MULTISIM unless otherwise specified.
Currently the XS mode is the same as MS mode, however PS mode has a
few differences. In Cadence® PSpice® compatibility mode:
•

The mathematical function log is the natural logarithm, whereas it is
the base 10 logarithm in Multisim mode.

•

The mathematical operator ** is the same as the function PWR, which
is equivalent to abs(x)**y in Multisim compatibility mode.

•

The mathematical operator ^ is xor whereas in Multisim compatibility
mode it is another way of writing x**y.

•

The step function STEP(x) or STP(x) or U(x) is defined as
if(x>=0,1,0).

•

Mathematical expressions other than numbers must be surrounded by
{}.

•

Equal signs are optional between all parameters and their values.

•

When the character * is not inside {} it marks the start of a comment,
even if it is in the middle of a line. Therefore in following example R1
will have a value of 1 k in Cadence® PSpice® compatibility mode, but
2 k in all other modes.
R1 1 2 1k*2

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Simulation

This chapter explains the various types of simulation available in Multisim,
the application for which each type is appropriate, how the types of
simulation are used separately and together, and finally some of the
underlying logic of Multisim simulation. It also details the circuit wizards
that are available, and tools available for trouble-shooting simulation
errors.
Some of the features described in this chapter may not be available in your
edition of Multisim. Refer to the release notes for a list of the features in
your edition.

Introduction to Simulation
Simulation is a mathematical way of emulating the behavior of a circuit.
With simulation, you can determine much of a circuit’s performance
without physically constructing the circuit or using actual test instruments.
Although Multisim makes simulation intuitively easy-to-use, the
technology underlying the speed and accuracy of the simulation, as well as
its ease-of-use, is complex.
Multisim incorporates SPICE3F5 and XSPICE at the core of its simulation
engine, with customized enhancements designed by National Instruments
specifically for optimizing simulation performance with digital and
mixed-mode simulation. Both SPICE3F5 and XSPICE are
industry-accepted, public-domain standards. SPICE3F5 is the most recent
edition of the SPICE (Simulation Program with Integrated Circuit
Emphasis) core designed by the University of California at Berkeley.
XSPICE is a set of unique enhancements made to SPICE, under contract to
the US Air Force, which include event-driven mixed mode simulation, and
an end-user extensible modelling subsystem. National Instruments has
further enhanced these cores with certain non-SPICE-standard Cadence®
PSpice® compatibility features to allow for using a wider range of
off-the-shelf SPICE models.
Multisim’s RF Design module simulates RF circuits using an optimized
SPICE engine. There is no need to tell Multisim that your circuit is an RF
circuit. RF simulation uses the SPICE simulation engine, but has been

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optimized to accurately simulate circuits designed to operate at higher
frequencies. This optimization uses parts specifically designed and
modeled to simulate accurately at these higher frequencies.

Using Multisim Simulation
You must use either a virtual instrument or run an analysis to display the
simulation output. This output will include the combined results of all
Multisim simulation engines.
When you use interactive simulation in Multisim (by clicking on the
Run/Resume Simulation button), you see the simulation results instantly
by viewing virtual instruments such as the oscilloscope. You can also view
the effect of simulation on components like LED’s and 7-segment digital
displays.
As well as interactive simulation, you can run numerous analyses on your
circuits. Results of analyses are displayed in the Grapher and can also be
saved for later manipulation in the Postprocessor. Refer to the Viewing the
Analysis Results: Grapher section of Chapter 10, Analyses, and the
Introduction to the Postprocessor section of Chapter 11, Postprocessor, for
more information.
All simulations require a reference net with respect to which all voltages are given.
In SPICE, this is always net 0. Therefore, somewhere in the circuit a net named "0" must
be defined. You may either name a net 0, or this will happen automatically if a ground
component is wired into a circuit. This is illustrated in the figure below.
Note

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Interactive Components
Interactive components’ values can be changed by pressing a specific key
(set up in the component’s Value tab) on your keyboard. You can change
the value of interactive components during simulation and view the effect
immediately. For example, changing a 100 kohm resistor to the next
smaller resistor may alter the results more than desired, but with Multisim,
you can use a variable resistor and reduce its value gradually while
watching the changes to the simulation, until you reach the desired result.
If you press a key, the value of all interactive devices on the schematic that are mapped
to that key in their Value tabs will change. If you wish to change the value of a specific
component only, hover the cursor over that component to display a control element. For
example, if you hover the cursor over a potentiometer, a slider bar appears that you can
slide to raise or lower the potentiometer’s setting.
Tip

Interactive components include such devices as the potentiometer, variable
capacitor, variable inductor, and switches. For details on specific interactive
components, refer to the Component Reference help file.

Component Tolerances in Multisim
Multisim lets you include variances in your simulations that are introduced
as a result of component tolerances. For example, a 1 kohm resistor with a
10% tolerance could vary plus or minus 100 ohms, which would in turn
affect the results of its circuit’s simulation.
Components that have user-settable tolerances are resistors, inductors,
capacitors and some sources. It is not possible to set the tolerance for all
resistors, all capacitors, etc. from one location. Tolerances must be set
individually by following the procedures below.
Worst Case and Monte Carlo analyses will pick up the tolerances associated with
the components. You can override these tolerances when setting up these analyses. Refer
to the Worst Case Analysis and the Monte Carlo Analysis sections of Chapter 10, Analyses,
for more information.

Note

When loading circuits from old versions of Multisim, any tolerances from the old
Global Component Tolerances dialog box are ignored and a message advising you of this
appears in the Results tab of the Spreadsheet View.

Note

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Complete the following steps to set up the tolerance for a placed
component:
1.

Double-click on the component and select the Value tab.

Select or enter the desired value in the Tolerance field and click OK.

To set up tolerances in the Spreadsheet View, select the desired component
in the Components tab of the Spreadsheet View and change the value in
the Tolerance field.
If you want to change the tolerance to the same value for a number of placed
components, select them all in the Spreadsheet View using the Shift and Ctrl keys, and
change the value in any Tolerance field.

Tip

Tolerances for resistors, inductors, or capacitors can also be set during part
placement. Refer to the Placing Resistors, Inductors or Capacitors section
of Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics, for more information.
To use component tolerances during simulation, select Simulate»Use
Tolerances. A checkmark appears beside the menu item.

Start/Stop/Pause Simulation
To simulate a circuit, click the Run/resume simulation button. Multisim
begins to simulate the circuit’s behavior. You can also select Simulate»
Run.
Note When simulating a design that contains hierarchical blocks, subcircuits and/or
multi-pages, the entire design is simulated, not just the current sheet. To simulate a
hierarchical block in isolation, you must open that block as a new design by selecting
File»Open. Subcircuits cannot be simulated by themselves.

During simulation, messages about the simulation results and any problems
with the simulation are written to the simulation error log/audit trail. If you
want to keep an eye on the progress of the simulation, you can display the
error log/audit trail during simulation. Refer to the Simulation Error
Log/Audit Trail section for more information.
To pause the simulation while it is running, select Simulate»Pause. To
resume the simulation from the same point as when you paused, select
Simulate»Run.
To stop a simulation, click the Stop Simulation button or select Simulate»
Stop. If you restart the simulation after stopping it, it will restart from the

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beginning (unlike Pause, which allows you to restart from the point where
you paused).
Before running your simulation, you have the option to perform an electrical rules
check. For details, refer to the Electrical Rules Checking section of Chapter 3, Schematic
Capture—Advanced Functions.

Note

Simulation Running Indicator
To indicate that a simulation is running, the Simulation Running
Indicator appears in the status bar as shown in the figure below. This
indicator flashes until you stop the simulation. This is especially useful
when viewing an instrument that has reached a steady state, such as the
IV Analyzer.

Simulation Speed
There are many parameters that affect simulation speed and convergence.
These are accessible from the Interactive Simulation Settings dialog box.
Some of the most important settings are shown on the first tab. Refer to the
Interactive Simulation Settings section of Chapter 9, Instruments, for more
information.
Convergence is the end-point of any algorithm that uses iteration or recursion to
guide a series of data processing steps. An algorithm is usually said to have reached
convergence when the difference between the computed and observed steps falls below a
pre-defined threshold.

Note

The most important simulation setting governing speed of simulation is
TMax. TMax is the maximum time step that the simulator is allowed to
take. In order to produce results, the simulator may take smaller time steps
at its discretion, however it will never take a larger step than that specified
by TMax. The smaller TMax is, the more accurate the simulation results
will be. However it will take longer to reach any given simulation results.
In general, most simulations will run slower than real-time. However, if a
lot of time resolution is not required, or if the circuit is primarily digital (in
which case time steps will always be inserted where digital events occur
and hence TMax may be set large) then TMax may be set to a higher value.
If this results in the simulation running faster than real-time, it is artificially
slowed down to real-time and your CPU is freed up for other tasks.

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If “generate time steps automatically” is chosen, then TMax will be set in
accordance with the highest frequency AC power source in the schematic,
or to the smallest resolution instrument.

Circuit Consistency Check
When you simulate your circuit or perform an analysis, a circuit
consistency check is performed to determine if the circuit obeys the
simulation rules—for example, if a ground is present. Errors are written to
the error log. This function speeds your simulation process, since it alerts
you to items that may cause simulation errors and allows you to correct
them before simulating.

Simulation from Netlist Without Schematic
You can also run simulations from a command line.
To open the command line interface, choose Simulate»Xspice Command
Line Interface. The XSpice Command Line dialog box appears.
You can enter netlists and commands directly in this dialog box. The most
important commands are: SOURCE, PLOT, OP, SAVE, WRITE, TAN, SET and
ANAC.
This dialog works in the same manner as the User Defined Analysis. Refer
to the User Defined Analyses section of Chapter 10, Analyses, for more
information.

Multisim SPICE Simulation: Technical Detail
The following sections explain the basic technical methodology of circuit
simulation in a SPICE-based simulator, including an outline of the stages
of circuit simulation and an explanation of the methods of formulation and
solution used in the circuit simulation. It is not necessary to fully
understand this information to make use of Multisim’s simulation, but you
may find it interesting.
To fully understand the information in this section, you should be
acquainted with the theory of electronic circuit simulation and the
mathematics involved.

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Circuit Simulation Mechanism
After you create a circuit schematic and begin simulation, the solution of
the circuit and generation of the data you see on instruments such as the
oscilloscope is the role of the simulator. More specifically, the simulator is
the part of Multisim that calculates a numerical solution to a mathematical
representation of the circuit you created.
For this calculation to occur, each component in a circuit is represented by
a mathematical model. Mathematical models link the schematic in the
circuit window with the mathematical representation for simulation. The
accuracy of the component models is one of the key items that determines
the degree to which simulation results match real-world circuit
performance.
The mathematical representation of a circuit is a set of simultaneous,
nonlinear differential equations. The main task of the simulator is to solve
these equations numerically. A SPICE-based simulator transforms the
nonlinear differential equations into a set of linear algebraic equations.
These equations are further linearized using the modified Newton-Raphson
method. The resulting set of linear algebraic equations is efficiently solved
using the sparse matrix processing LU factorization method.

Four Stages of Circuit Simulation
The simulator in Multisim has four main stages:

•

Input Stage—Simulator reads information about your circuit
(after you have built a schematic, assigned values and chosen an
analysis). This is the process of netlist generation.

•

Setup Stage—Simulator constructs and checks a set of data
structures that contain a complete description of your circuit.

•

Analysis Stage—The circuit analysis specified in the input stage
is performed. This stage occupies most of the CPU execution time
and is actually the core of circuit simulation. The analysis stage
formulates and solves circuit equations for the specified analyses
and provides all the data for direct output or postprocessing.

•

Output Stage—You view the simulation results. You can view
results on instruments such as the oscilloscope, on graphs that
appear when you run an analysis, or in the log file/audit trail.

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SPICE-based simulation works by first converting a schematic into a
SPICE netlist.
The text below is a small part of the netlist that Multisim generates for the
Amplitude Modulator circuit shown in the above figure. This netlist is the
actual input to SPICE required to perform the simulation.
rR10 15 16 15000 vresR10
.model vresR10 r( )
rR9 13 14 15000 vresR9
.model vresR9 r( )
cC2 14 0 2.2e-008
xU4 14 15 16 LM741__OPAMP__1

Prior to the existence of schematic entry programs such as Multisim,
designers were required to tediously create such SPICE netlists for
themselves each time they wished to analyze a circuit. A modern schematic
capture tool, in addition to providing a front-end for PCB layout or other
downstream activities such as IC or FPGA design, does this
time-consuming and error-prone task automatically.
From the netlist, SPICE generates matrices that it solves numerically to
come up with voltages (AC and DC) at every node in the circuit. Current
branches also appear in the matrices when required in order to solve the
equations. In particular, current branches appear whenever voltage sources
are used (SPICE trick: if you need to measure a current in SPICE, insert a
0 V voltage source. It will not affect the circuit but will force SPICE to
compute the current running through the 0 V source).

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For a transient analysis (which is also the basis for interactive simulation),
the matrices are solved at every time step in the simulation. Because
non-linear analog parts are present in the simulation, at each time step
successive approximations are used to compute the final node voltage
results. It is possible under certain circumstances that these results will not
converge. When this happens, SPICE backs up to 1/8th the time step used
previously and tries again.

Equation Formulation
In a circuit, each common point created by wires and connectors is called a
node. The simulator calculates the voltage at each node. Each branch
joining two nodes will have a separate current flowing through it.
To calculate a circuit solution, a circuit is represented internally as a system
of equations, in the form:
A*X = B
where:
A = modified nodal admittance matrix with dimension n x n.
X = vector of unknowns with dimension n
B = vector of constants, also with dimension n.
n = number of unknowns.
The system of equations is formulated using a general circuit analysis
method called the Modified Nodal Approach (MNA).
The unknowns (n) include each node voltage (excluding ground), as well
as the voltage source currents. B contains the voltage and current source
constants, and the entries in the admittance matrix (A) are determined by
Ohm’s law and Kirchhoff’s current and voltage laws.
The modified nodal admittance matrix is deemed sparse because it contains
more zeros than non-zeros. Making use of a linked list, the solution of
circuit equations can be performed by employing non-zero terms only. This
method is called Sparse Matrix Technique. Generally, a sparse matrix
approach requires less memory consumption and achieves faster
simulation.

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Equation Solution
Multisim solves circuit equations for linear and nonlinear circuits using a
unified algorithm. The solution of a linear DC circuit is treated as a special
case of general nonlinear DC circuits.
LU factorization is used to solve the system of sparse modified nodal
matrix equations described previously (a set of simultaneous linear
equations). This involves decomposing the matrix A into two triangular
matrices (a lower triangular matrix, L, and an upper triangular matrix, U)
and solving the two matrix equations using a forward substitution and a
backward substitution.
Several efficient algorithms are used to avoid numerical difficulties due to
the modified nodal formulation, to improve numerical calculation accuracy
and to maximize the solution efficiency. These include:
•

A partial pivot algorithm that reduces the round-off error incurred by
the LU factorization method.

•

A preordering algorithm that improves the matrix condition.

•

A reordering algorithm that minimizes nonzero terms for the equation
solution.

A nonlinear circuit is solved by transforming it into a linearized equivalent
circuit at each iteration and iteratively solving the linear circuit using the
above-described method. Nonlinear circuits are transformed into linear
ones by linearizing all nonlinear components in the circuit using the
modified Newton-Raphson method.
A general nonlinear dynamic circuit is solved by transforming the circuit
into a discretized equivalent nonlinear circuit at each time point and solving
it using the method for a nonlinear DC circuit described above. A dynamic
circuit is transformed into a DC circuit by discretizing all dynamic
components in the circuit using an appropriate numerical integration rule.

User Setting: Maximum Integration Order
You can change the maximum order for integration method using the
MAXORD analysis option (refer to the Custom Analysis Options Dialog
Box section of Chapter 10, Analyses, for information). Using a higher order
(3 through 6) Gear method theoretically leads to more accurate results, but
slows down the simulation. Be aware that the maximum order for
integration method is the maximum order that could be used, but that the
simulator selects the most appropriate order based on the circuit.

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Due to the nature of the nonlinear components, each time point may involve
solving the admittance matrix several times before converging to a solution.
The point solution is reached when the difference between consecutive
voltage values is less than the tolerance calculated internally in terms of the
absolute and relative tolerances specified in the analysis options.

Convergence Assistance Algorithms
Multisim uses two modified Newton-Raphson continuation algorithms,
Gmin stepping and Source stepping, to help find the solution during a DC
Operating Point analysis of general nonlinear circuits.

Gmin Stepping
Gmin stepping is a multi-step iterative algorithm. This algorithm simply
adds a conductance, Gmin, to the diagonal elements of the modified nodal
admittance matrix so that a solution will converge more quickly. The basic
concept is to keep the matrix well-conditioned.
Initially, a large Gmin value is applied and an approximate solution is found
quickly. The initial value is set by the Gmin value times 10GminSteps Gmin. The
Gmin value is taken from the GMIN (Gmin Minimum Conductance)
analysis option and the number of steps from GMINSTEPS (refer to the
Custom Analysis Options Dialog Box section of Chapter 10, Analyses, for
more information on both of these options). The conductance is then
reduced by a factor of ten and the circuit is solved again by setting the
previous solution as the initial guess of the next iteration. When Gmin is
reduced to zero, a final solution of the circuit is performed and the correct
answer is obtained. This actually divides one single-step solution of the
simple nonlinear iteration into a multi-step solution, which uses the same
algorithm but has many smaller steps.

Source Stepping
Source stepping is a convergence assistance algorithm. This algorithm
solves a nonlinear circuit problem by setting a fraction of the source vector
as a parameter variable to aid the convergence of the DC solution. Similar
to the Gmin stepping method, source stepping converts a single nonlinear
circuit problem into a multi-step nonlinear circuit problem. Starting from a
zero source vector, the source vector is slowly ramped up to its full DC
value. At each source step, a simple nonlinear iteration solution is
performed. The ramp rate is controlled by the SRCSTEPS (“Steps in source
stepping algorithm”) analysis option. Refer to the Custom Analysis Options
Dialog Box section of Chapter 10, Analyses, for information.

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Digital Simulation
Digital parts are modeled differently than analog parts. Digital parts are
connected to the analog parts of the circuit using special XSPICE code
models for A-to-D and D-to-A bridges. These models transform voltages
into digital events and vice-versa. Thus a net in a schematic may be either
analog or digital, but not both at once. When digital parts are connected to
one another, the digital events propagate from one to the other with the
appropriate simulated time delays. Time steps are automatically inserted
into the simulation whenever digital events make their presence felt on the
analog parts of the circuit. This event-driven simulation approach to digital
simulation allows these types of simulation to run much more quickly than
analog simulations (hint: set the simulation parameter Tmax, the maximum
analog time step, quite high for digital simulations in order to speed things
up dramatically).
When simulating circuits with digital components, you have the option of
simulating for speed or for accuracy. The “Ideal” option simulates your
circuit quickly by not taking into account variances in digital power and
internal tolerances. The time to simulate digital components is faster but the
signal is not as accurate.
The “Real” option simulates your circuit accurately, but slower than the
“Ideal” option, by accounting for all variances. When using “Real”
simulation settings, you are required to add digital power and digital
ground to your circuit.
Complete the following steps to select a digital simulation option for the
active design:
1.

Choose Simulate»Digital Simulation Settings to display the Digital
Simulation Settings dialog box.

Select one of:
•

Ideal—In this mode, if two digital pins are connected to one
another, no additional circuitry is supplied. If a digital pin is
attached to an analog node, a simplified pin driver circuit and
A-to-D or D-to-A bridge is added into the netlist to smooth the
edges of the abrupt digital transitions.

•

Real—In this mode, all digital pins are attached to D-to-A or
A-to-D converters, and more complex pin drivers better
representing actual digital pin drivers are inserted into the netlist.

“Real” mode provides for more accurate voltage results, but “Ideal” mode runs
faster. This switch only affects circuits that contain digital parts.

Note

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Click OK.

You can change the default digital simulation settings from the Preferences dialog
box. Refer to the Preferences—Parts Tab section of Chapter 1, User Interface, for more
information.

Note

RF Simulation
You simulate an RF circuit the same way you simulate a
board/system-level circuit in Multisim. Refer to the Using Multisim
Simulation section for more information. This is because Multisim’s RF
Design module simulates RF circuits using an optimized SPICE engine (as
opposed to VHDL, etc.). There is no need to tell Multisim that your circuit
is an RF circuit. RF simulation uses the SPICE simulation engine, but has
been optimized to accurately simulate circuits designed to operate at higher
frequencies, or at faster clock speeds (which generate RF characteristics).
This optimization uses parts specifically designed and modeled to simulate
accurately at these higher frequencies.
Refer to Chapter 14, RF, for information on RF simulation and RF Design
Module.

MultiVHDL
VHDL (Very High Speed Integrated Circuit (VHSIC) Hardware
Description Language) is designed to describe the behavior of complex
digital devices. For this reason it is referred to as a “behavioral level”
language; it can use behavioral level models (instead of transistor/gate
level, like SPICE) to describe the behavior of these devices. Using VHDL
avoids the unwieldy task of describing such devices at the gate level,
greatly simplifying the design process.
MultiVHDL can be used in two ways:
•

As part of the board/system design process, when components are
modeled in VHDL instead of SPICE. Multisim automatically invokes
the VHDL simulator as needed (this is called co-simulation). In this
method, you do not need extensive VHDL knowledge, but can simply
take advantage of the broader database of simulatable models for
complex digital chips.

•

As a VHDL source code editor/simulator, for writing and debugging
VHDL source code.

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For details, refer to the user documentation included with your legacy copy
of MultiVHDL.

Circuit Wizards
Multisim’s circuit wizards let you generate circuits that contain a schematic
diagram, simulation models and a netlist. You simply enter the design
parameters in a wizard’s dialog box and click a button to build the circuit.
Once you have built the circuit, it can be simulated in the usual manner. The
wizards that are available are:
•

555 Timer Wizard

•

Filter Wizard

•

Common Emitter BJT Amplifier Wizard

•

Op-amp Wizard

555 Timer Wizard
Use the 555 Timer Wizard to build astable and monostable oscillator
circuits that use the 555 timer.
•

Astable Operation—Produces a free-running oscillator that does
not need any input signal.

•

Monostable Operation—Produces a single output pulse in
response to an input trigger pulse. When an input signal is applied,
each input pulse will produce one output pulse.

Complete the following steps to build an astable oscillator:

NI Multisim User Manual

Select Tools»Circuit Wizards»555 Timer Wizard. The 555 Timer
Wizard dialog box appears.

Select Astable Operation from the Type drop-down list. Default
settings are initially displayed.

Enter values based on the following:
•

Vs—Enter desired source voltage.

•

Frequency—Enter the frequency at which you wish the circuit to
oscillate, to a maximum of 1 MHz.

•

Duty—Enter the duty cycle for the circuit. For example, 60%
indicates that the circuit will be “on” for 60% of each cycle. Value
must be greater than or equal to 50% and less than 100%.

•

C—This is the value of capacitor C and is initially set to 10 nF.

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•

Cf—This is the value of capacitor Cf and is normally fixed to be
10 nF.

•

Rl—Enter desired load resistance.

As values are entered, R1 and R2 are calculated automatically and
changed based on the following:
R2 = (1–d)/(0.693*f*C)
If d = 0.5, R1 = R2/80, otherwise, R1 = (2*d–1)*R2/(1–d)
where d is the duty cycle, f is the oscillation frequency and C is the
value of capacitor C.

If (R1+R2)>3.3 Mohm or R1<1 kohm or R2<1 kohm, a warning
message displays in the 555 Timer Wizard dialog box, as shown
below the schematic preview in the example below.

If this happens, change the value of capacitor C and other parameters
until the error message no longer displays.
6.

Check the values of R1 and R2. If they are unavailable or
unsatisfactory, change the value of capacitor C.

Repeat the above two steps until R1 and R2 are satisfactory and there
is no error message in the 555 Timer Wizard dialog box.

Click on the Build Circuit button. The circuit, with the calculated
component values is placed on your workspace.

Complete the following steps to build a monostable (one-shot) oscillator:
1.

Select Tools»Circuit Wizards»555 Timer Wizard. The 555 Timer
Wizard dialog box appears.

Select Monostable Operation from the Type drop-down list.

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Enter values based on the following:
•

Vs—Enter desired source voltage.

•

Vini—Set equal to Vs.

•

Vpulse—Enter desired voltage of input pulse. This should be less
than Vs/3.

•

Frequency—Enter the frequency of the input voltage.

•

Input Pulse Width—Enter desired input pulse width. Must be
less than Output Pulse Width/5. If it is not, the value in the Output
Pulse Width field is changed by the system.

•

Output Pulse Width—Enter desired output pulse width.

•

C—This is the value of capacitor C and is initially set to 1 uF.

•

Cf—This is the value of capacitor Cf and is normally fixed to be
1 nF.

•

Rl—Enter desired load resistance.

As values are entered, R is calculated automatically and changed based
on the following:
R = OW/(1.1*C)
where OW is the output pulse width and C is the value of capacitor C.

Check the value of R. If it is unavailable or unsatisfactory, change the
value of capacitor C or other parameters until a satisfactory value is
reached.

Click the Build Circuit button.

The circuit, with the calculated component values is placed on your
workspace.

Filter Wizard
The Multisim Filter Wizard lets you design numerous types of filters by
entering the desired specifications into its fields. The designed circuit can
then be verified by SPICE simulation.
Complete the following steps to design a filter using the Filter Wizard:

NI Multisim User Manual

Select Tools»Circuit Wizards»Filter Wizard.

Select the desired filter type from the Type drop-down list. Choices are
low pass, high pass, band pass or band reject. The parameters that are
available in the box below the Type drop-down and the diagram on the
right of the dialog box change based on the selected filter type and the
selections made in the following steps.

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Select either Butterworth or Chebyshev in the Type box. If you
select Chebyshev, the Pass Band Ripple box displays. If you select
Butterworth, it does not.

Select either Passive or Active in the Topology box. If you select
Passive, the Source Impedance box displays. If you select Active, it
is does not.

Select the desired source impedance in the Source Impedance box
(for Passive filters only).

Select the desired ripple in the Pass Band Ripple box (for Chebyshev
type filters only).

Note The Pass Band Ripple box does not appear if Equal to Load is selected in the
Source Impedance box.

Note

Enter desired filter parameters in the box below the Type drop-down
list.

The available parameters change depending on the selections made in the above

steps.

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Click Verify. If there are any problems with your design, a message
displays below the diagram in the Filter Wizard dialog box. Adjust
your parameters and click Verify again. When your design is
error-free, a “calculation successful” message displays and the Build
Circuit button becomes active:

Click Build Circuit. The Filter Wizard dialog box closes and a
“ghost” image of the circuit is placed on your cursor.

10. Move the cursor to the desired location and click the mouse to place
the circuit.

Common Emitter BJT Amplifier Wizard
The Multisim Common Emitter BJT Amplifier Wizard lets you design
common emitter amplifier circuits by entering the desired specifications
into its fields. The designed circuit can then be verified by SPICE
simulation directly.
Complete the following steps to design a common emitter amplifier using
the Common Emitter BJT Amplifier Wizard:
1.

NI Multisim User Manual

Select Tools»Circuit Wizards»CE BJT Amplifier Wizard. The
BJT Common Emiter Amplifier Wizard dialog box displays.

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Enter the desired parameters in the BJT Selection, Amplifier
Specification, Quiescent Point Specification, and Load Resistance
and Power Supply boxes.

Click Verify. The values in the Amplifier Characteristics box change
based on the following:
if in type "Ic"
{
ic_temp = Ic;
rb_temp = 0.1 * Hfe * (Vcc / ic_temp - 1.5 * Rl);
}
else if in type "Vce"
{
ic_temp = Vce / (Rl / 2);
rb_temp = 0.1 * Hfe * (Vcc / ic_temp - 1.5 * Rl);
}
else if in type "Vpswing"
{
ic_temp = (Vpswing + 0.2 + Vpin) / (Rl / 2);
rb_temp = 0.1 * Hfe*(Vcc / ic_temp - 1.5 * Rl);
}
rpi_temp = Hfe * 26.0e-3 / ic_temp;
rin_temp = rpi_temp * rb_temp / ( rpi_temp + rb_temp
);
avp_temp = ic_temp * Rl / ( 26e-3 * 2 );
av = (avp_temp * rin_temp / ( rin_temp + Rs);
ai = rb_temp * Rl / ((rb_temp / Hfe + rpi_temp / Hfe)
* ( 2 * Rl ));
avmax = Vcc/26e-3;

If there are any problems with your design, a message displays. Adjust
your parameters and click Verify again.

Click Build Circuit. The BJT Common Emitter Amplifier Wizard
dialog box closes and a “ghost” image of the circuit is placed on your
cursor.

Move the cursor to the desired location and click the mouse to place
the circuit.

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Op-amp Wizard
The Multisim Op-amp Wizard lets you design the following op-amp
circuits by entering the desired specifications into its fields:
•

Inverting Amplifier

•

Non-inverting Amplifier

•

Difference Amplifier

•

Inverted Summing Amplifier

•

Non-inverted Summing Amplifier

•

Scaling Adder.

The designed circuit can then be verified by SPICE simulation directly.
When working in the Op-amp Wizard, you can return to the default settings at any
time by clicking the Default Settings button.

Tip

Complete the following steps to build a circuit with the Op-amp Wizard:
1.

Select Tools»Circuit Wizards»Op-amp Wizard to display the
Op-amp Wizard dialog box.

Select the type of circuit you wish to build from the Type drop-down
list. The contents of the dialog box and the diagram in the preview area
change to reflect the selection.

If you do not wish to include a source in the circuit, de-select the
Add Source checkbox. For inverted summing amplifiers, non-inverted
summing amplifiers, or scaling adders, you must also enter the
Number of Inputs.

In the Input Signal Parameters box, set the desired Input Voltage
and Input Frequency values.

The number of Input Voltage and Input Frequency fields differ depending on the
selection you made in the Type drop-down list, and also on the value you entered in the
Number of Inputs field. These fields are not active if you de-selected Add Source.

Note

Enter the desired values in the Amplifier Parameters box.

The available Amplifier Parameters change according to the selection you make in
the Type drop-down list and the value you entered in the Number of Inputs field.

Note

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Click Verify. If a warning message displays, you may wish to adjust
your parameters and click Verify again.

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Click Build Circuit. The Op-amp Wizard dialog box closes and a
“ghost” image of the circuit is placed on your cursor.

Move the cursor to the desired location and click the mouse to place
the circuit.

Netlist and Simulation Errors
The Simulation tab of the Spreadsheet View is where errors and warnings
from SPICE netlist checks, as well as simulation errors, appear.
Note With the exception of the Simulation tab and the Results tab, the Spreadsheet
View is not available in all editions of Multisim. Refer to the release notes for information
on what features are included with your software. Refer to the Spreadsheet View section
for more information about all tabs.

Netlist Errors and Warnings
When you start a simulation or open an analysis dialog box, Multisim runs
a SPICE netlist check and reports any netlist warnings or errors in the
Simulation tab of the Spreadsheet View. If the Simulation tab is not
already open, it opens at this point. The tab does not open if the netlist
check is error and warning-free.
Netlist Warning Messages
The following is an example of a netlist warning message:
SPICE Netlist Warning in schematic RefDes 'u4', element
'c': Multiple values have been assigned to non-array
parameter 'capacitance'; only the last one will be used
(check for spaces or tabs in your expression)

By default, when a warning displays in the Simulation tab, the Netlist
Warning dialog box also appears, as shown below:

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Complete the following steps when the Netlist Warning dialog appears:
1.

Optionally, enable the Remember my answer to this question for
next time checkbox.

Click Yes to continue the simulation or analysis, or No to cancel.

This is the default behavior for netlist warnings. You can change this to cancel the
simulation or analysis, or to continue with the simulation or analysis without showing the
Netlist Warning dialog box. Refer to the Preferences—General Tab section for more
information.
Note

Netlist Error Messages
The following is an example of a netlist error message:
SPICE Netlist Error in schematic RefDes 'u4', element
'g3': Not enough nodes found

By default, when an error displays in the Simulation tab, the Netlist Error
dialog box also appears, as shown below:

Complete the following steps when the Netlist Error dialog appears:
1.

Optionally, enable the Remember my answer to this question for
next time checkbox.

Click Yes to continue the simulation or analysis, or No to cancel.

This is the default behavior for netlist errors. You can change this to cancel the
simulation or analysis, or to continue with the simulation or analysis without showing the
Netlist Error dialog box. Refer to the Preferences—General Tab section for more
information.

Note

Simulation Errors
The Simulation tab also displays simulation errors, as in the example
below:
Error Message From Simulation: doAnalyses: Timestep too
small

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Open the Simulation Error Log/Audit Trail dialog box to view the error
in more detail. Refer to the Simulation Error Log/Audit Trail section for
more information.
Note Simulation warnings and messages do not appear in the Simulation tab—you must
open the Simulation Error Log/Audit Trail dialog box to view these.

Simulation Error Log/Audit Trail
You can view the results of a simulation in the Simulation Error
Log/Audit Trail dialog box.
If you turn on the analysis option ACCT, the Simulation Error Log/Audit
Trail dialog box also includes errors or warning messages generated during
simulation, and a chart of simulation statistics. Refer to the Custom
Analysis Options Dialog Box section of Chapter 10, Analyses, for more
information about analysis options.
To display the Simulation Error Log/Audit Trail dialog box, select
Simulate»Simulation Error Log/Audit Trail.
The Simulation Error Log/Audit Trail dialog box is useful for
diagnosing errors that occur during analysis or interactive simulation. Each
analysis you perform, either individually or in a batch, during this Multisim
session, as well as each interactive simulation, is stored in the audit trail.
The file is cleared when you exit Multisim. A sample display is shown in
the figure below.

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To expand or contract the contents of the display to show or hide details,
click on the “+” or “–” in the tree that appears in the Simulation Error
Log/Audit Trail dialog box.
Complete the following steps to choose the level of errors to display:
1.

Click one of the following buttons in the Simulation Error Log/Audit
Trail dialog box:
•

Full—Displays all the errors.

•

Simple—Displays only the simple errors.

•

None—Display none of the errors.

To save the results of the audit trail in a separate file, click Save and choose
a file name and location.
To clear the contents of the Simulation Error Log/Audit Trail dialog box,
click New.
To display simulation error help, highlight the desired error in the audit trail
and click Help. Refer to the Simulation Error Help section for more
information.

Simulation Error Help
Simulation error help provides trouble-shooting information for errors that
you may encounter during simulation.
Complete the following steps to show simulation error help for an error:
1.

NI Multisim User Manual

Select the desired error in the Simulation Error Log/Audit Trail
dialog box as in the example shown in the figure below.

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Click Help. A help topic with information for the selected error
displays. Refer to the Multisim help file for details.

Convergence Assistant
Convergence is the end-point of any algorithm that uses iteration or
recursion to guide a series of data processing steps. An algorithm is usually
said to have reached convergence when the difference between the
computed and observed steps falls below a pre-defined threshold.
When a convergence error occurs during interactive simulation in
Multisim, a message appears asking if you would like to run the
Convergence Assistant to try to automatically resolve the problem.
Complete the following steps to run the Convergence Assistant:
1.

Click Yes when the above-mentioned message appears. The
Convergence Assistant dialog box appears, and begins to attempt
solutions to resolve the convergence issue.

Once the simulation error has been fixed, the Convergence Assistant
rolls back the changes one-by-one, until error-free simulation occurs
with the least possible amount of changes to the circuit’s configuration.
A summary report appears in the Convergence Assistant dialog box
detailing the changes that were made.

You are also advised if the Convergence Assistant was unable to fix the
error.

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If you decline to run the Convergence Assistant when a convergence error
occurs, an error message displays in the Simulation tab of the Spreadsheet
View. Refer to the Netlist and Simulation Errors section for more
information.
Complete the following steps to run the assistant from the Simulation
Error Log/Audit Trail dialog box:
1.

Note

Click Convergence Assistant in the Simulation Error Log/Audit
Trail dialog box.

The Convergence Assistant button only appears if a covergence error has occured.
2.

Click Start in the Convergence Assistant dialog box.

If the Convergence Assistant is unable to fix the error:
1.

Select the desired error in the Simulation Error Log/Audit Trail and
click Help. Simulation error help appears, providing trouble-shooting
suggestions for the selected error. Refer to the Simulation Error Help
section for more information.

To save the contents of the Convergence Assistant log, click Save.
To print the contents of the Convergence Assistant log, click Print.
If you do not wish to keep the changes, click Cancel.
To keep the changes, click OK.

Saving/Loading Simulation Profiles
You can save simulation profiles that contain specific settings for the
analyses you have used. These profiles can be used in other circuits instead
of re-entering the settings for the various analyses.
Refer to the Introduction to Multisim Analyses section of Chapter 10, Analyses, for
information about analyses.

Note

Saving a Simulation Profile
Complete the following steps to save the simulation settings from the
current circuit:
1.

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Select Simulate»Save Simulation Settings.

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Navigate to the desired location, enter a filename for the profile, and
click Save. The Save Simulation Profile dialog box displays. The
filename that you just entered appears in the Name field.

Optionally, enter a Description of the profile.

Enable Interactive Simulation Settings if you wish to save custom
settings that you entered in the Interactive Simulation Settings dialog
box. Refer to the Interactive Simulation Settings section of Chapter 9,
Instruments, for more information.

In the Analyses area, select the analyses that you wish to include in this
profile.

Click OK to finish.

Loading a Simulation Profile
Complete the following steps to load an existing simulation profile:
1.

Select Simulate»Load Simulation Settings, navigate to the desired
profile and click Open. The Load Simulation Profile dialog displays.

Enable Interactive Simulation Settings if you wish to load the
custom interactive simulation settings that you saved with the profile.

Select the Analyses whose saved profiles you would like to load and
click OK.

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Instruments

This chapter explains how to use the numerous virtual instruments
provided as part of Multisim. It explains both the general procedures for
attaching and configuring the instruments, and the specific steps for using
each instrument. This chapter also explains how to create your own custom
instruments using the National Instruments LabVIEW graphical
development environment.
Some of the features described in this chapter may not be available in your
edition of Multisim. Refer to the release notes for a list of the features in
your edition.

Introduction to the Multisim Instruments
Multisim provides a number of virtual instruments that you use to measure
the behavior of your circuits. These instruments are set, used and read just
like their real-world equivalents. They look just like the instruments you’ve
seen and used in a lab. Using virtual instruments is the easiest way to
examine your circuit’s behavior and show the results of a simulation. In
addition to the standard instruments that come with Multisim, you can
create your own custom instruments using LabVIEW, a graphical
development environment for creating flexible and scalable test,
measurement, and control applications.
Virtual instruments have two views: the instrument icon you attach to your
circuit, and the instrument face, where you set the instrument’s controls.
You can show or hide the face by double-clicking on the instrument's icon.
The instrument faces are always drawn on top of the main workspace so
that they are not hidden. You can place the instrument faces wherever you
wish on your desktop. When you save your circuit, the instrument face
locations and hide/show status are stored with the circuit. As well, any data
contained in the instruments is saved, up to some maximum size (refer to
the Saving Simulation Data with Instruments section for more
information).
The instrument’s icon indicates how the instrument is connected into the
circuit. Once the instrument is connected to the circuit, a black dot appears
inside the terminal input/output indicators on the instrument face.

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Saving Simulation Data with Instruments
If Save simulation data with instruments in the Save tab of the
Preferences dialog box is checked, the data displayed on the instrument
faces will be saved in the circuit file (in addition to instrument settings and
visibility state that are always saved). Because instruments such as the
oscilloscopes may contain a lot of data, file sizes may become very large
(despite the compression algorithms that are used during save). For this
reason, you may set a maximum size threshold. If upon saving the
maximum threshold is exceeded, you will be asked whether you wish to
save the instrument data, save a subset of the instrument data, or save no
instrument data.
Whether Multisim saves the data for a LabVIEW instrument depends on the
individual instrument.

Note

Adding an Instrument to a Circuit
Instruments are placed on the schematic from the Instruments toolbar.
Refer to the Instruments Toolbar section of Chapter 1, User Interface, for
more information.
This toolbar is displayed on the workspace by default. If it is not displayed,
select View»Toolbars»Instruments. You may also right-click in any of
the blank toolbar areas and select Instruments from the pop-up that
appears.
(LabVIEW instruments appear in a sub-menu at the end of the
Instruments toolbar).
Complete the following steps to place an instrument in a circuit:
1.

From the Instruments toolbar, click the button of the instrument you
want to place.
To add a LabVIEW instrument, click the arrow in the LabVIEW
Instruments button and select the instrument you want to place from
the sub-menu that appears, or use the LabVIEW Instruments toolbar.
Refer to the LabVIEW Instruments section for more information on
these instruments.

Move the cursor to the location on the circuit window where you want
to place the instrument and click. The instrument is placed with the
connections landing on the grid.
The instrument icon and its reference designator (RefDes) appear. The
RefDes identifies the type of instrument and its instance. For example,

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the first multimeter you place on a circuit is called “XMM1”, the
second is “XMM2”, and so on. This numbering is unique within each
circuit—if you create a second circuit, the first multimeter placed in it
is “XMM1”, and so on.
Some editions of Multisim do not support all instruments or multiple instances of a
specific instrument.

Note

To wire the instrument into the circuit, click on a terminal on the
instrument’s icon and drag a wire to the desired location in the circuit
(a pin, wire, or junction). The rules for component wiring also apply to
instruments. Refer to Wiring Components section of Chapter 2,
Schematic Capture—Basics, for more information.

The voltmeter and the ammeter are found in the Indicators component group. They
are not accessed by the method described above. Refer to the Voltmeter and Ammeter
sections for information about these instruments, including how to connect them.

Note

Using the Instrument
Complete the following steps to use the instrument:
1.

To view and modify an instrument’s controls, double-click its icon.
The instrument face appears. Make any necessary changes to the
control settings, just as you would on their real-world equivalents. The
control settings are different for each instrument, so if you are
unfamiliar with them or need instruction, refer to the section on the
specific instrument.
It is critical that the control settings be appropriate for your circuit. If
the settings are incorrect, this may cause the simulation results to
appear incorrect or difficult to read.

Note Not all areas of the open instrument are modifiable. A hand appears when your
cursor is on a control that can be modified.

To simulate the circuit, click the Run/resume simulation button on
the Simulation toolbar. Multisim begins to simulate the circuit’s
behavior and the signals, as measured at the points to which you have
connected the instrument, are displayed.
While the circuit is activated, you can adjust instrument settings.
However, you cannot change the circuit by changing values (except for
variable components), or perform any schematic capture functions

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such as rotate or component replacement as these would invalidate the
netlist.
You can also run, stop, pause, or resume using commands from the
Simulate menu.
To stop the simulation, click the Stop simulation button on the Simulation
toolbar. The simulation ends, with the final results shown on the instrument
face and in the audit trail.

Working with Multiple Instruments
A single circuit can have multiple instruments attached to it, including (for
some editions) multiple instances of the same instrument. In addition, each
circuit window can have its own set of instruments. Setting up many
different instruments or multiple instances of one instrument is done in
exactly the same way as setting up one instrument.
Instruments that sample for a period of time cause a transient analysis to be
run. If you use multiples of such instruments, only one transient analysis is
run. The settings of this analysis are derived from considering all the
concurrent instruments and choosing settings that will satisfy each. For
example, if you have two oscilloscopes with two different time-bases
(resolutions), Multisim uses the time-base of the oscilloscope with the
smallest time-base (highest resolution). As a result, both instruments will
sample at a higher resolution than they would individually.
The results from each instrument are recorded separately in the error
log/audit trail.

Saving Instrument Data
You can set up your circuit so that data displayed on instruments are saved
when the circuit is saved. Refer to the Preferences—Save Tab section of
Chapter 1, User Interface, for more information.
Whether Multisim saves the data for a LabVIEW instrument depends on the
individual instrument.

Note

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Printing Instruments
Multisim lets you print out the faces of selected instruments in your circuit.
Any simulation data for the circuit appears on the printout.
Note

Multisim does not print the faces of LabVIEW instruments.
Complete the following steps to produce a print-out of the instrument faces:
1.

Have the desired circuit open in your workspace.

Select File»PrintOptions»Print Instruments. The Print
Instruments dialog box appears. The instruments in your circuit are
listed in the Select Instruments area.

Click on the checkbox beside any instrument to select/deselect it, then
click Print to print the selected instruments.

A standard print dialog appears. Choose the desired print options and
click OK.

Interactive Simulation Settings
Multisim lets you set default settings for instruments that are based on a
transient analysis (such as the oscilloscope, spectrum analyzer and logic
analyzer).
Complete the following steps to set the default instrument settings:
1.

Choose Simulate»Interactive Simulation Settings. The Interactive
Simulation Settings dialog box appears displaying the most
commonly used functions in the Defaults for Transient Analysis
Instruments tab.

Edit the following as required:

•

Initial Conditions drop-down list—Select one of: Zero,
User-Defined, Calculate DC Operating Point, or
Automatically Determine Initial Conditions (Multisim tries to
start the simulation using the DC operating point as the initial
condition. If the simulation fails, it uses user-defined initial
conditions, which by default are set to 0).

•

Start time (TSTART) field—Start time of transient analysis
must be greater than or equal to 0 and less than end time.

•

End time (TSTOP) field—End time of transient analysis must be
greater than start time.

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•

Set maximum timestep (TMAX) checkbox—Enable to enter the
maximum time step the simulation can handle.

•

Maximum timestep (TMAX) radio button—Enable to manually
set time steps.

•

Generate timesteps automatically radio button—Enable to
generate time steps automatically.

•

Set initial time step checkbox—Enable to set a time interval for
simulation output and graphing.

•

Estimate maximum time step tased on net list (TMAX)
checkbox—This becomes enabled when the Maximum timestep
(TMAX) radio button is selected. Enable as desired.

Optionally, click the Output tab and disable the Show all device
parameters at end of simulation in the audit trail checkbox. Disable
this checkbox if the circuit takes a long time to exit simulation.

Click OK. These settings will be in effect the next time you run a
simulation.

You can control many aspects of the simulation, such as resetting error
tolerances, selecting simulation techniques, and viewing the results. The
options you choose will determine the efficiency of the simulation. You set
these options through the Analysis Options tab. Refer to the Custom
Analysis Options Dialog Box section of Chapter 10, Analyses, for
information about the analysis options and their default values.

Troubleshooting Simulation Errors
The default values in the Interactive Simulation Settings dialog box are
set so the majority of circuits will simulate correctly. However in some
cases, it will be necessary to adjust these values.
When running simulation, Multisim may encounter time-step difficulties
depending on the circuit configuration. This may cause inaccurate
simulation or simulation errors.
Complete the following steps to adjust the Interactive Simulation
Settings values:
1.

Start Multisim and load the circuit file exhibiting the problem.

Select Simulate»Interactive Simulation Settings.

Select the Defaults for Transient Analysis Instruments tab, and set
the following:
•

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Select Set to zero from the Initial conditions pull-down menu.

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Select Maximum time step (TMAX) and change the value to
1e-3 sec.

Click OK and run simulation.

If the problem persists, follow the additional steps below:
1.

Select Simulate»Interactive Simulation Settings.

Select the Analysis Options tab, enable Use Custom Settings and
click Customize to display the Custom Analysis Options dialog box.

In the Global tab, set the following:

•

Enable the reltol parameter and set the value to 0.01 (or for better
accuracy try 0.0001).

•

Enable the rshunt parameter and set the value to 1e+8 (do this
only if you are experiencing simulation error messages).

Click OK twice and run simulation.

If the problem continues to persist, follow the additional steps below:
1.

Select Simulate»Interactive Simulation Settings.

Select the Analysis Options tab, enable Use Custom Settings and
click Customize to display the Custom Analysis Options dialog box.

In the Transient tab, set the following:
•

Enable the METHOD parameter and set it to gear from the
pull-down menu.

Click OK twice and run simulation.

Multimeter
Use the multimeter to measure AC or DC voltage or current, and resistance
or decibel loss between two nodes in a circuit. The multimeter is
auto-ranging, so a measurement range does not need to be specified. Its
internal resistance and current are preset to near-ideal values, which can be
changed. Refer to the Internal Settings—Multimeter Settings Dialog Box
section for more information.
To place the instrument, click on the Multimeter button in the
Instruments toolbar and click to place its icon on the workspace. Use the
icon, shown in the figure below, to wire the Multimeter to the circuit.

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Double-click on the icon to open the instrument face, shown in the figure
below. This is where you enter settings and view measurements.

Note You should read the Adding an Instrument to a Circuit and Using the Instrument
sections before using this instrument.

Multimeter Settings
This section provides details on how to set up your multimeter.

Measurement Options
Complete the following steps to select the type of measurement to be taken:
1.

Click one of the following buttons:
Ammeter—Measures current flowing through the circuit in a branch
between two nodes. Insert the multimeter in series with the load to
measure current flow, as shown below.

To measure current at another node in the circuit, connect another
multimeter in series at that load and activate the circuit again. When

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used as an ammeter, the multimeter’s internal resistance is very low
(1 nohm). To change the resistance, click Set. Refer to the Internal
Settings—Multimeter Settings Dialog Box section for more
information.
Voltmeter—Measures voltage between two nodes. Select V and
attach the voltmeter’s probes in parallel with the load, as shown below.

•

When used as a voltmeter, the multimeter has a high internal
resistance of 1 Gohm, which can be changed by clicking Set.
Refer to the Internal Settings—Multimeter Settings Dialog Box
section for more information.

Ohmmeter—This option measures resistance between two nodes.
The nodes and everything that lies between them are referred to as the
“component network”. To measure the resistance, select this option
and attach the multimeter’s probes in parallel with the component
network, as shown below.

•

To get an accurate measurement, make sure that:
–

there is no source in the component network

–

the component or component network is grounded

–

there is nothing else in parallel with the component or
component network.

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•

The ohmmeter generates a 10 nA current, which can be changed
by clicking Set. Refer to the Internal Settings—Multimeter
Settings Dialog Box section for more information. If you change
the ohmmeter connections, re-activate the circuit to get a reading.

Decibels—Measures decibel voltage loss between two nodes in a
circuit. To measure the decibels, select this option and attach the
multimeter’s probes in parallel with the load, as shown below.

•

The decibel standard for calculating dB is preset to 774.597 mV,
but can be changed by clicking Set. Refer to the Internal
Settings—Multimeter Settings Dialog Box section for more
information. Decibel loss is calculated as follows:

Signal Mode (AC or DC)
The Sine-wave button measures the root-mean-square (RMS) voltage or
current of an AC signal. Any DC component of the signal will be
eliminated, so only the AC component of the signal is measured.
The DC button measures the current or voltage value of a DC signal.
To measure the RMS voltage of a circuit with both AC and DC components, connect
an AC voltmeter as well as a “DC” voltmeter across the appropriate nodes and measure the
AC and DC voltage.

Note

The following formula can be used to calculate RMS voltage when both AC
and DC components are in the circuit. This is not a universal formula and
should be used in conjunction with Multisim only.

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Internal Settings—Multimeter Settings Dialog Box
Ideal meters have no effect on the circuit being measured. An ideal
voltmeter would have infinite resistance, so no current could flow through
it while it is attached to a circuit. An ideal ammeter would present no
resistance to a circuit. Real meters do not achieve this ideal, so their
readings will very closely match theoretical, calculated values for a circuit,
but never with absolute precision.
The multimeter in Multisim uses very small and very large numbers that
approximate zero and infinity to calculate near-ideal values for the circuit.
For special cases, however, the meter’s behavior can be changed by
changing these values used to model its effect on the circuit. (The values
must be higher than 0.)
For example, if testing the voltage of a circuit with very high resistance,
increase the voltmeter’s resistance. If measuring the current of a circuit
with very low resistance, decrease the ammeter’s resistance even further.
Note Very low ammeter resistance in a high-resistance circuit may result in a
mathematical roundoff error.

Complete the following steps to display the default internal settings:
1.

Click Set. The Multimeter Settings dialog box appears.

Change the desired options.

To save your changes, click OK. To cancel them, click Cancel.

Function Generator
The Function Generator is a voltage source that supplies sine, triangular
or square waves. It provides a convenient and realistic way to supply
stimulus signals to a circuit. The waveform can be changed and its
frequency, amplitude, duty cycle and DC offset can be controlled. The
frequency range is great enough to produce conventional AC as well as
audio- and radio-frequency signals.
To place the instrument, click on the Function Generator button in the
Instruments toolbar and click to place its icon on the workspace. The icon
is used to wire the function generator to the circuit.
The function generator has three terminals through which waveforms can
be applied to a circuit. The common (center) terminal provides a reference
level for the signal.

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Double-click on the icon (shown above) to open the instrument face (shown
below), which is used to enter settings and view measurements.

To reference a signal from ground, connect the Common terminal to the
ground component.
The positive terminal (+) provides a waveform in the positive direction
from the neutral common terminal. The negative terminal (–) provides a
waveform in the negative direction.
If you are not familiar with connecting and adjusting the settings of the instruments,
refer to the Adding an Instrument to a Circuit and Using the Instrument sections before
using this instrument.

Note

Function Generator Settings
Waveform Selection
You can select one of three different types of waveforms as the output.
To select the waveform, click the Sine-, Triangular- or Square-wave
button.
Complete the following steps to set the rise/fall time parameters for square
waves:
1.

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Click the Square-wave button. The Set Rise/Fall Time button
becomes active.
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Click the Set Rise/Fall Time button to display the Set Rise/Fall Time
dialog box.

Enter the desired Rise/Fall Time and click Accept.

Signal Options
The available Signal Options depend on the chosen waveform:
•

Frequency (1Hz–999 MHz)—The number of cycles per second of the
generated signal.

•

Duty Cycle (1%–99%)—The ratio of on-period to off-period of a
triangular or square wave. This option is disabled for sine waves.

•

Amplitude (1mV–999 kV)—Controls the signal’s voltage, measured
from its DC level to its peak. If the leads are connected to the common
and either the positive or the negative terminal, the wave’s
peak-to-peak measurement is twice its amplitude. If the output comes
from the positive and negative terminals, the wave’s peak-to-peak
measurement is four times its amplitude.

•

Offset (–999 kV and 999 kV)—Controls the DC level about which the
alternating signal varies. An offset of 0 positions the waveform along
the oscilloscope’s x-axis (provided its Y POS setting is O). A positive
value shifts the DC level upward, while a negative value shifts it
downward. Offset uses the units set for Amplitude.

Wattmeter
The Wattmeter measures power. It is used to measure the magnitude of the
active power, that is, the product of the voltage difference and the current
flowing through the current terminals in a circuit. The results are shown in
Watts. The Wattmeter also displays the power factor, calculated by
measuring the difference between the voltages and the current, and
multiplying them together. The power factor is the cosine of the phase
angle before the voltage and current.
To use the instrument, click on the Wattmeter button in the Instruments
toolbar and click to place its icon on the workspace. The icon, shown below,
is used to wire the wattmeter to the circuit.

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Double-click on the icon to open the instrument face. This is where you
enter settings and view measurements.
The field at the top of the instrument face (shown below) displays the
average power. The Power Factor field displays the power factor between
0 and 1.

Connecting the Wattmeter
Connect the V terminals in series with the load, and the I terminals in
parallel with the load.
An example of a connected wattmeter is shown below.

If you are not familiar with connecting and adjusting the settings of the instruments,
refer to the Adding an Instrument to a Circuit and Using the Instrument sections before
using this instrument.

Note

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Oscilloscope
To place the instrument, click on the Oscilloscope button in the
Instruments toolbar and click to place its icon (shown below) on the
workspace. The icon is used to wire the oscilloscope to the circuit.

Double-click on the icon to open the instrument face (shown below), which
is used to enter settings and view measurements.

The dual-channel oscilloscope displays the magnitude and frequency
variations of electronic signals. It can provide a graph of the strength of one
or two signals over time, or allow comparison of one waveform to another.
If you choose to save the results as either .lvm or .tdm files, the Data resampling
settings dialog box displays. Refer to the Saving Files section of Chapter 10, Analyses, for
more information on this dialog. Along with the oscilloscope’s Save button, you can also

Note

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save simulation results in the Grapher window. Refer to the Saving Files section of
Chapter 10, Analyses, for more information.
If you are not familiar with connecting and adjusting the settings of the instruments,
refer to the Adding an Instrument to a Circuit and Using the Instrument sections before
using this instrument.

Note

Oscilloscope Settings
Timebase
The time base setting controls the scale of the oscilloscope’s horizontal or
x-axis when comparing magnitude against time (Y/T). Scale is the value of
the divisions on the x-axis. To get a readable display, adjust the Scale in
inverse proportion to the frequency setting on the function generator or AC
source—the higher the frequency, the lower (or more magnified) the time
base. For example, if you want to see one cycle of a 1 kHz signal, the time
base should be around 1 millisecond.
X position
This setting controls the signal’s starting point on the x-axis. When
X position is 0, the signal starts at the left edge of the display. A positive
value (for example, 2.00) shifts the starting point to the right. A negative
value (for example, –3.00) shifts the starting point to the left.
Axes (Y/T, B/A, and A/B)
The axes of the oscilloscope display can be switched from showing
waveform magnitude against time (Y/T) to showing one input channel
against the other (A/B or B/A). The latter settings display frequency and
phase shifts, known as Lissajous patterns, or they can display a hysteresis
loop. When comparing channel A’s input against channel B’s (A/B), the
scale of the x-axis is determined by the volts-per-division setting for
channel B (and vice versa).
Add
The Add button adds traces A and B.

Grounding
It is not necessary to ground the oscilloscope, as long as the circuit to which
it is attached is grounded.

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Channel A and Channel B Settings
Scale
This setting determines the Scale of the y-axis. It also controls the x-axis
scale when A/B or B/A is selected.
To get a readable display, adjust the scale in relation to the channel’s
expected voltage. For example, an input AC signal of 3 volts fills the
oscilloscope’s display vertically when the y-axis is set to 1 V/Div. If the
Scale setting is increased, the waveform becomes smaller. If the Scale
setting is decreased, the waveform’s top is cut off (clipped).
Y position
This setting controls the point of origin for the y-axis. When Y position is
set to 0.00, the point of origin is the intersection with the x-axis. Increasing
Y position to 1.00, for example, moves 0 (the point of origin) up to the first
division above the x-axis. Decreasing Y position to –1.00 moves 0 down
to the first division below the x-axis.
Changing the Y position setting for channels A and B may help distinguish
their waveforms for comparison.
Input Coupling (AC, 0, DC, and –)
With AC coupling, only the AC component of a signal is displayed.
AC coupling has the effect of placing a capacitor in series with the
oscilloscope’s probe. As on a real oscilloscope using AC coupling, the first
cycle displayed is inaccurate. Once the signal’s DC component has been
calculated and eliminated during the first cycle, the waveforms will be
accurate.
With DC coupling, the sum of the AC and DC components of the signal is
displayed. 0 displays a reference flat line at the point of origin set by
Y position.
“–” inverts the trace 180 degrees. When used in conjunction with the
timebase Add button, it subtracts Trace B from Trace A.
Caution Do not place a coupling capacitor in series with an oscilloscope probe. The
oscilloscope will not provide a path for current, and the analysis will consider the capacitor
improperly connected. Instead, choose AC coupling.

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Trigger
These settings determine the conditions under which a waveform is first
displayed on the oscilloscope.
Trigger Edge
To start displaying the waveform on its positive slope or rising signal, click
the Ascending Edge button.
To start with the negative slope or falling signal, select the Descending
Edge button.
Trigger Level
The trigger Level is the point on the oscilloscope’s y-axis that must be
crossed by the waveform before it is displayed.
A flat waveform will not cross the trigger level. To see a flat signal, make sure the
triggering signal is set to Auto.

Tip

Trigger Type
Triggering can be internal, with reference to the input signal for channel A
or B, or external, with reference to a signal through the external trigger
terminal. If a flat signal is expected, or if signals are to be displayed as soon
as possible, select Auto. The oscilloscope will wait for two pages (that is,
full-width displays of the oscilloscope) for a trigger before forcing a
trigger.
Select the Sing. button to make the oscilloscope trigger a single pass when
the trigger level is met. Once the trace gets to the end of the scope face, the
trace will not change until you click Sing. again.
Select the Nor. button to make the oscilloscope refresh every time the
trigger level is met.
Select the None button if you do not wish to set triggering.

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Viewing Oscilloscope Results
Using Cursors and Readouts
To display the exact values of the wave, drag the vertical cursor until the
desired value appears. You can also move a cursor to a precise location by
right-clicking on it and using the pop-up menu that appears. Refer to the
Cursor Pop-up Menu section of Chapter 10, Analyses, for more
information.
The box below the display shows the time and the voltage at the probe
connections, where the vertical cursor intersects the sine wave, and the
difference between the two positions.
Once a circuit has been activated and its behavior simulated, you may move
the oscilloscope’s probes to other nodes without re-activating the circuit.
Moving the probes automatically redraws the waveforms for the new
nodes. If you fine-tune the oscilloscope’s settings either during or after
simulation, the display redraws automatically.
If the oscilloscope settings or analysis options are changed to provide more detail,
the waveforms may appear choppy or uneven. If so, activate the circuit again to get more
detail. You can also increase the precision of a waveform by increasing the simulation time
step. Refer to the Interactive Simulation Settings section for more information.

Note

Bode Plotter
To place the instrument, click the Bode Plotter button in the Instruments
toolbar and click to place its icon on the workspace. The icon (shown
below) is used to wire the Bode plotter to the circuit.

The Bode plotter produces a graph of a circuit’s frequency response and is
most useful for analyzing filter circuits. The Bode plotter is used to measure
a signal’s voltage gain or phase shift. When the Bode plotter is attached to
a circuit, a spectrum analysis is performed.

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Double-click on the icon to open the instrument face (shown below), which
is used to enter settings and view measurements.

Note Along with the Bode plotter’s Save button, you can also save simulation results in
the Grapher window. Refer to the Opening Files section of Chapter 10, Analyses, for more
information.

The initial and final values of the vertical and horizontal scales are preset
to their maximum value. These values can be changed to see the plot on a
different scale. If the scale is expanded or the base changed after simulation
is complete, you may need to activate the circuit again to get more detail in
the plot. Unlike most test instruments, if the Bode plotter’s probes are
moved to different nodes, it is necessary to re-activate the circuit to ensure
accurate results.
The Bode plotter does not work in conjunction with the Function Generator
with a differential setting (that is, when using the + and – terminals). You can only use the
Bode plotter with the Function Generator if it is wired as an absolute generator. If you
wish to use the Bode plotter with differential settings, you must use an AC source.

Caution

If you are not familiar with connecting and adjusting the settings of the instruments,
refer to the Adding an Instrument to a Circuit and Using the Instrument sections before
using this instrument.

Note

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Bode Plotter Settings
Resolution Points—Settings Dialog dialog box
Complete the following steps to set the resolution of your Bode plot:
1.

Click Set to display the Settings Dialog.

Enter the desired number of Resolution Points and click Accept.

Magnitude or Phase
Magnitude measures the ratio of magnitudes (voltage gain, in decibels)
between two nodes, V+ and V–. Phase measures the phase shift (in
degrees) between two nodes. Both are plotted against frequency (in Hz).
Complete the following steps to V+ and V– are single points in a circuit:
1.

Attach the positive IN terminal and the positive OUT terminal to
connectors at V+ and V–.

Attach the negative IN and OUT terminals to a ground component.

If V+ (or V–) is the magnitude or phase across a component, attach
both IN terminals (or both OUT terminals) on either side of the
component.

Vertical and Horizontal Axis Settings

Base Settings
A logarithmic base is used when the values being compared have a large
range, as is generally the case when analyzing frequency response. For
example, if measuring a signal’s voltage gain, the decibel value is
calculated as follows:

The base scale can be changed from logarithmic (Log) to linear (Lin)
without the circuit being activated again. (Only when using a logarithmic
scale is the resulting graph referred to as a Bode plot.)

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Horizontal Axis Scale
The horizontal or x-axis always shows frequency. Its scale is determined by
the initial (I) and final (F) settings for the horizontal axis. Since a frequency
response analysis requires a large frequency range, a logarithmic scale is
often used.
When setting the horizontal axis scale, the initial (I) frequency must be less than the
final (F) frequency.

Note

Vertical Axis Scale
The units and scale for the vertical axis depend on what is being measured
and the base being used, as shown in the table below.

When Measuring...

Minimum Initial
Value is...

Using the Base...

Maximum Final
Value is...

Magnitude (gain)

Logarithmic

–200 dB

200 dB

Magnitude (gain)

Linear

10e+09

Phase

Linear

–720°

When measuring voltage gain, the vertical axis shows the ratio of the
circuit’s output voltage to its input voltage. For a logarithmic base, the units
are decibels. When measuring phase, the vertical axis always shows the
phase angle in degrees. Regardless of the units, you can set initial (I) and
final (F) values for the axis using the Bode plotter’s controls.

Viewing Bode Plotter Results
Move the Bode plotter’s vertical cursor to get a readout of the frequency
and magnitude or phase at any point on the plot. The vertical cursor is
stored at the left edge of the Bode plotter display.
Complete the following steps to move the vertical cursor:
1.

Click the arrows near the bottom of the Bode plotter.
Or
Drag the vertical cursor from the left edge of the Bode plotter display
to the point on the plot you want to measure.

You can also move the cursor by right-clicking on it and using the pop-up menu that
appears. Refer to the Cursor Pop-up Menu section of Chapter 10, Analyses, for more
information. This feature is useful when locating the –3 dB point on a Bode plot.

Note

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The magnitude (or phase) and frequency at the intersection of the vertical
cursor and the trace are shown in the boxes below the display, as in the
example below.

Word Generator
To place the instrument, click on the Word Generator button in the
Instruments toolbar and click to place its icon on the workspace. The icon
is used to wire the word generator to the circuit.

Use the word generator to send digital words or patterns of bits into circuits
to provide stimulus to digital circuits.
Double-click on the icon to open the instrument face, which is used to enter
settings and view measurements.

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If you are not familiar with connecting and adjusting the settings of the instruments,
refer to the Adding an Instrument to a Circuit and Using the Instrument sections before
using this instrument.

Note

Word Generator Settings
Entering Words
The right side of the word generator instrument face displays rows of
numbers, ranging from 00000000 to FFFFFFFF in hexadecimal (0 to
4,294,967,295 in decimal). The type of number that displays can be Hex,
Dec, Binary or ASCII, depending on the button selected in the Display
box. Each horizontal row represents one word. When the word generator is
activated, a row of bits is sent in parallel to the corresponding terminals at
the bottom of the instrument.
To change a bit value in the word generator, select the number you want to
modify and type the new value in its field using the appropriate number
format.
As the words are transmitted by the word generator, the value of each bit
appears in the circles representing the output terminals at the bottom of the
instrument.

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Controls
To inject the 32-bit words into a circuit, click Step, Burst or Cycle.
To transmit one word at a time into the circuit, click Step.
To send all words in sequence, click Burst. Click Cycle to send a
continuous stream of words that can be stopped by clicking the Stop
simulation button on the Simulation toolbar.
Use a breakpoint when you want to pause the stream of words at a specified
word.
To insert a breakpoint, select the word in the buffer scroll list where you
want the input to stop, right-click and select Set Breakpoint from the
pop-up that appears. A “stop sign” marks a breakpoint in the scroll list.
To remove a breakpoint, right-click on an existing breakpoint in the buffer
scroll list and select Delete Breakpoint from the pop-up that appears.
More than one breakpoint can be used. Breakpoints affect both Cycle and
Burst.

Settings Dialog Box
Click Set to display a set of options that allow you to save word patterns
entered in the word generator to a file and load previously saved word
patterns. This function can also be used to generate useful patterns or to
clear the display.

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Triggering

To use the word generator clock to trigger input from the word generator’s
input field to the circuit, click Internal. To use input through the external
terminal instead, with each input cycle causing one word to be transmitted,
click External.
Use the “ascending/descending edge” buttons to control whether the input
signal triggers the word generator on its ascending or descending edge.

Frequency and Data Ready
Set the clock Frequency of the word generator in Hz, kHz or MHz. Each
word is placed on the output terminals for the duration of one clock cycle.
Ready—Lets the circuit know that data from the word generator is ready.

Logic Analyzer
To place the instrument, click on the Logic Analyzer button in the
Instruments toolbar and click to place its icon on the workspace. The icon
is used to wire the logic analyzer to the circuit.

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The logic analyzer displays the levels of up to 16 digital signals in a circuit.
It is used for fast data acquisition of logic states and advanced timing
analysis to help design large systems and carry out troubleshooting.
Double-click on the icon to open the instrument face, which is used to enter
settings and view measurements.

The 16 circles on the left side of the icon correspond to the terminals and
horizontal rows across the instrument face. When the terminal is connected
with a node, its circle is displayed with a black dot and the node’s name and
color are displayed. Otherwise the terminal circle is displayed without a
black dot.
When a circuit is activated, the logic analyzer records the input values on
its terminals. When the triggering signal is seen, the logic analyzer displays
the pre- and post-trigger data. Data is displayed as square waves over time.
The top row displays values for channel 1, the next row displays values for
channel 2, and so on. The binary value of each bit in the current word is
displayed in the terminals on the left side of the instrument face. The time

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axis is displayed as the top axis of the signal display dialog box. The dialog
box also displays the internal clock signal, external clock signal, external
clock qualify signal and trigger qualify signal.
To specify the number of samples stored before and after triggering, click
Set in the Clock box or use the default instrument settings. Refer to the
Interactive Simulation Settings section for more information.
The logic analyzer stores data until it reaches the pre-trigger number of
samples. Then, it begins discarding samples as new samples appear until it
sees the trigger signal. After the trigger signal, samples are stored up to the
value of the post-trigger samples.
The time position automatically displays the time position values of the two
crosshair cursors, T1 and T2, when sampling is stopped. It also
automatically moves the first crosshair cursor T1 to the position of time
zero, when sampling is stopped.
To change the threshold voltage, use the default instrument settings. Refer
to the Interactive Simulation Settings section for more information.
If you are not familiar with connecting and adjusting the settings of the instruments,
refer to the Adding an Instrument to a Circuit and Using the Instrument sections before
using this instrument.

Note

Logic Analyzer Settings
Stop & Reset
Selecting Simulate»Pause while the circuit is simulating, pauses both the
circuit and the logic analyzer. By using the scroll bar at the bottom of the
instrument face, you can view the results of the logic analyzer at any period
from the first instance the trigger condition was met as long as the logic
analyzer was not reset. If you did reset the logic analyzer, you would be
able to view the results from the time the instrument was reset and the
trigger condition is met.
To restart the instrument, click Reset. This action will clear all information
in the instrument and start storing new information from the instance the
trigger condition is met after you clicked Reset.
To discard stored data when the logic analyzer is not triggered, click Stop.
If the logic analyzer is already triggered and displaying data, clicking Stop
will stop the instrument and allow the simulation to continue. After you

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have stopped the instrument, you must reset the logic analyzer to begin
storing data again.
To clear the logic analyzer’s display, click Stop, then Reset. Clearing the
display does not disrupt the simulation. The instrument will start storing
data from the instance the trigger condition is met after you click Reset.

Clock Setup
The clock informs the logic analyzer when to read an input sample. The
clock can be internal or external.
Complete the following steps to adjust the clock settings:
1.

Click Set in the Clock area of the logic analyzer. The Clock Setup
dialog box appears.

Select external or internal clock mode.

Set the internal clock rate. The clock qualifier is an input signal that
filters the clock signal. If it is set to “x”, then the qualifier is disabled
and the clock signal determines when samples are read. If it is set to
“1” or “0”, the samples are read only when the clock signal matches
the selected qualifier signal.

Set how much data to show before (Pre-trigger samples) and after
(Post-trigger samples) the sample.

Click Accept.

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Trigger Settings
The logic analyzer can be made to trigger upon reading a specified word or
combination of words or when meeting the increase edge or decrease edge
of the clock signal.

Complete the following steps to specify up to three trigger words or word
combinations:

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Click Set in the Trigger box of the logic analyzer.

Select Positive, Negative or Both positive and negative clock edge.

Click in the box labeled Pattern A, Pattern B, or Pattern C and enter
a binary word. An “x” means either 1 or 0.

From the Trigger Combinations drop-down list, select the desired
combination. (See below for a list of combinations.)

From the Trigger Qualifier drop-down list, select the desired trigger
qualifier. The trigger qualifier is an input signal that filters the
triggering signal. If it is set to “x”, then the qualifier is disabled and the
trigger signal determines when the logic analyzer is triggered. If it is
set to “1” or “0”, the logic analyzer is triggered only when the
triggering signal matches the selected trigger qualifier.

Click Accept.

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The possible trigger combinations are:
A

A or B

A or C

B or C

A OR B OR C

A AND B

A AND C

B AND C

A AND B AND C

A NOT B

A NOT C

B NOT C

A THEN B

A THEN C

B THEN C

(A OR B) THEN C

A THEN (B OR C)

A THEN B THEN C

A THEN
(B WITHOUT C)

Logic Converter
To place the instrument, click on the Logic Converter button in the
Instruments toolbar and click to place its icon on the workspace. The icon
is used to wire the logic converter to the circuit.
The logic converter is able to perform several transformations of a circuit
representation or digital signal. This is a useful tool for digital circuit
analysis, but has no real-world counterpart. It can be attached to a circuit to
derive the truth table or Boolean expression the circuit embodies, or to
produce a circuit from a truth table or Boolean expression.

Double-click on the icon to open the instrument face, which is used to enter
settings and view measurements.

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Click the circles or the labels below them to display the inputs for that
terminal.
If you are not familiar with connecting and adjusting the settings of the instruments,
refer to the Adding an Instrument to a Circuit and Using the Instrument sections before
using this instrument.

Note

Logic Converter Settings
The following table describes the buttons found in the Logic Converter:
Button

Description
Circuit to Truth Table button. Click to derive
a truth table from a circuit.
Truth Table to Boolean Expression button.
Click on this button to convert a truth table to a
boolean expression.
Simplify button. Click to convert a truth table to
a simplified boolean expression, or to simplify
an existing boolean expression.

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Instruments

Description
Boolean Expression to Truth Table button.
Click to convert a boolean expression to a truth
table.
Boolean Expression to Circuit button. Click
to convert a boolean expression to a circuit.
Boolean Expression to NAND button. Click to
convert a boolean expression to a circuit built
using only NAND gates.

Deriving a Truth Table from a Circuit
Complete the following steps to derive a truth table from a circuit
schematic:
1.

Attach the input terminals of the logic converter to up to eight nodes in
the circuit.

Connect the single output of the circuit to the output terminal in the
logic converter icon.

Click the Circuit to Truth Table button. The truth table for the circuit
appears in the logic converter’s display.

Entering and Converting a Truth Table
Complete the following steps to construct a truth table:
1.

Click the input channels you want, from A to H, across the top of the
logic converter. The display area below the terminals fills up with the
necessary combinations of ones and zeros to fulfill the input
conditions. The values in the output column on the right are initially
set to “?”.

Edit the output column to specify the desired output for each input
condition. To change an output value, click on it to switch among the
three possible settings: “0”, “1” and “X” (an “X” indicates that either
1 or 0 is acceptable).

To convert a truth table to a Boolean expression, click the Truth Table to
Boolean Expression button. The Boolean expression is displayed at the
bottom of the logic converter.
To convert a truth table to a simplified Boolean expression, or to simplify
an existing Boolean expression, click the Simplify button.

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The simplification is performed by the Quine-McCluskey method, rather
than the more familiar Karnaugh mapping technique. Karnaugh mapping
works for only small numbers of variables and requires human intuition,
while Quine-McCluskey has proved to be exhaustive for any number of
variables but is too cumbersome for manual solutions.
Simplifying a Boolean expression requires substantial memory. If sufficient
memory is not available, Multisim may not be able to complete this operation.

Note

Entering and Converting a Boolean Expression
A Boolean expression can be entered in the box at the bottom of the logic
converter using either sum-of-products or product-of-sums notation.
To convert a Boolean expression to a truth table, click the Boolean
Expression to Truth Table button.
To convert a Boolean expression to a circuit, click the Boolean Expression
to Circuit button.
The logic gates that fulfill the Boolean expression appear on the circuit
window.
To see a circuit that fulfills the conditions of the Boolean expression using
only NAND gates, click the Boolean Expression to NAND button.
Note The width of the wire in the resulting circuit is determined by the Wire Width
setting in the Wiring tab of the Sheet Properties dialog box.

Distortion Analyzer
To place the instrument, click on the Distortion Analyzer button in the
Instruments toolbar and click to place its icon on the workspace. The icon
is used to wire the distortion analyzer to the circuit.

A typical distortion analyzer provides distortion measurements for signals
in the range of 20 Hz to 100 kHz, including audio signals.
Double-click on the icon to open the instrument face, which is used to enter
settings and view measurements.
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The types of measurements performed are either Total Harmonic Distortion
(THD) or Signal Plus Noise and Distortion (SINAD).
To set the way results are to be displayed for either type of measurement,
click Set to display the Settings dialog box.
Note The THD Definition box is where you set the definition used to calculate THD
(IEEE defines this slightly differently from ANSI/IEC).

If you are not familiar with connecting and adjusting the settings of the instruments,
refer to the Adding an Instrument to a Circuit and Using the Instrument sections before
using this instrument.

Note

Distortion Analyzer Settings
Harmonic Distortion
Harmonic distortion produces signals at harmonics of the test frequency.
For example, for a 1 kHz signal, the harmonics may be at 2 kHz, 3 kHz, and
4 kHz.
A very sharp tunable notch is required to measure harmonic distortion. This
is tuned to the test frequency such as 1 kHz, which will remove the 1 kHz
signal, leaving only the harmonics or the distortion. The distortion
harmonics are measured and the resulting value is compared to the
amplitude of the test signal.

SINAD
This type of measurement measures the ratio of (signal plus noise and
distortion)/(noise and distortion).

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Spectrum Analyzer
The Spectrum Analyzer is used to measure amplitude versus frequency. It
performs a similar function in the frequency domain as an oscilloscope
performs in the time domain. It operates by sweeping through a range of
frequencies. The amplitude of the signal at the input of the receiver is
plotted against the frequency of the signal. This instrument is capable of
measuring a signal's power at various frequencies, and helps determine the
existence of the frequency components’ signal.
The Spectrum Analyzer is part of the RF Design module. Refer to the RF
Instruments section of Chapter 14, RF, for more information.
If you are not familiar with connecting and adjusting the settings of the instruments,
refer to the Adding an Instrument to a Circuit and Using the Instrument sections before
using this instrument.

Note

Network Analyzer
The Network Analyzer is used to measure the scattering parameters (or
S-parameters) of a circuit, commonly used to characterize a circuit
intended to operate at higher frequencies. These S-parameters are used to
derive matching cells using other Multisim analyses. The Network
Analyzer also calculates H, Y, Z parameters.
The circuit is idealized as a two-port network. To properly use the network
analyzer, the circuit must be left open at its input and output ports. During
simulation the network analyzer completes the circuit being analyzed by
inserting its subcircuits. You need to remove these subcircuits from the
circuit before performing other analysis and simulation.
The Network Analyzer is part of the RF Design module. Refer to the RF
Instruments section of Chapter 14, RF, for more information.
If you are not familiar with connecting and adjusting the settings of the instruments,
refer to the Adding an Instrument to a Circuit and Using the Instrument sections before
using this instrument.

Note

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Measurement Probe
Using the Measurement Probe is a fast and easy way to check voltage,
current and frequency readings at different points in the circuit.
The Measurement Probe can be used as a:
•

Dynamic Probe—During simulation, drag the probe to point to any
wire to obtain an “on-the-fly” reading.
The probe displays the following:

•

–

V—Instantaneous voltage

–

V(p-p)—Peak-to-peak voltage

–

V(rms)—RMS voltage

–

V(dc)—DC voltage

–

Freq—Frequency

Static Probe—Multiple probes can be connected to points in the
circuit before or during simulation. These probes remain stationary,
and will contain the data from the simulation until another simulation
is run, or the data is cleared. In addition to the various voltage readings
and the frequency reading found in dynamic probes, static probes can
also include current readings. Static probes are listed in analyses’
Output tabs in the Variables in circuit list. Refer to the Output Tab
section of Chapter 10, Analyses, for more information.

Dynamic probes cannot measure current; static probes placed after simulation has
run also cannot measure current. This is because the SPICE netlist must be modified in
order to measure current; this is done when the simulation is restarted.

Note

Measurement Probe Settings
This section contains instructions on how to set the properties for both
dynamic and static probes.

Dynamic Probe Settings
Complete the following steps to set up the dynamic probe properties:
1.

Select Simulate»Dynamic Probe Properties to display the Probe
Properties dialog box.

Click the Display tab and set the following in the Color box as desired:
•

Background—The currently selected color for the probe’s text
window background displays here. Select either System (Tooltip)

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or Custom. For Custom, click Select Color and choose the
desired background color from the Colors dialog that appears.
•

Text—The currently selected color for the text that appears in the
probe’s text window displays here. Select either System (Tooltip)
or Custom. For Custom, click Select Color and choose the
desired text color from the Colors dialog that appears.

A “tooltip” is the text that appears attached to the cursor if you hover it above a tool
button.

Note

In the Size box, enter the Width and Height, or enable Auto-Resize
to have the information box automatically resize to show all content.

Optionally, click on the Font tab to change the font used in the probe’s
text window.

Click on the Parameters tab.

Optionally, enable the Use reference probe checkbox and select the
desired reference probe from the drop-down list (this is populated by a
list of the static probes already in the circuit). Dynamic measurements
will be done with reference to the selected reference probe (instead of
ground). Using this method, you can for example, display a voltage
gain or a phase shift.

To hide a parameter (for example, V(p-p)), click beside the desired
parameter in the Show column to toggle to No.

Use the Minimum and Maximum columns to set a parameter’s range.

Optionally, change the number of significant digits for a displayed
parameter in the Precision column.

Static Probe Settings
Complete the following steps to set up a static (placed) probe’s properties:

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Double-click on the desired probe to display the Probe Properties
dialog box.

Click on the Display tab and set the following in the Color box as
desired:
•

Background—The currently selected color for the probe’s text
window background displays here. Select either System (Tooltip)
or Custom. For Custom, click Select Color and choose the
desired background color from the Colors dialog that appears.

•

Text—The currently selected color for the text that appears in the
probe’s text window displays here. Select either System (Tooltip)

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or Custom. For Custom, click Select Color and choose the
desired text color from the Colors dialog that appears.
A “tooltip” is the text that appears attached to the cursor if you hover it above a tool
button.

Note

In the Size box, enter the Width and Height, or enable Auto-Resize
to have the information box automatically resize to show all content.

Set the following in the RefDes box as desired:

•

RefDes field—Enter the reference designator for the selected
probe. (The default is Probe1, Probe2, etc.)

•

Hide RefDes—Hides the reference designator for the selected
probe.

•

Show RefDes—Shows the reference designator for the selected
probe.

•

Use Global Settings—Shows or hides the reference designator
for the selected probe based on the setting in the Circuit tab of the
Sheet Properties dialog box. Refer to the Sheet
Properties—Circuit Tab section of Chapter 1, User Interface, for
more information.

Optionally, disable the Show popup window checkbox to hide the
contents of the selected probe.

Note The Drawing Layer list shows the layer on which the probe appears. The default
layer is Static Probe, but you may select a different layer if desired. Refer to the Sheet
Properties—Visibility Tab section of Chapter 1, User Interface, for more information
about layers.

Optionally, click on the Font tab to change the font used in the probe’s
text window.

Click on the Parameters tab.

Optionally, enable the Use reference probe checkbox and select the
desired reference probe from the drop-down list (this is populated by a
list of the probes in the circuit, with the exception of the one that is
currently selected). Measurements taken at the currently selected
probe will be done with reference to the selected reference probe
(instead of ground). Using this method, you can, for example, display
a voltage gain or a phase shift. If you select this option, a triangle
appears beside the probe’s reference designator, as shown in the
example below, beside Probe1.

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Reference probes are only for use in interactive simulation. Refer to the Filtering the
Variable Lists section of Chapter 10, Analyses, for information about their use in analyses.

Note

To hide a parameter (for example, V(p-p)), click beside the desired
parameter in the Show column to toggle to No.

10. Use the Minimum and Maximum columns to set a parameter’s range.
11. Optionally, change the number of significant digits for a displayed
parameter in the Precision column.

Using the Dynamic Measurement Probe
Complete the following steps to use the Measurement Probe dynamically
(that is, not placed at one point):

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Select Simulate»Run or click the Run/Resume Simulation button to
activate the circuit.

Click on the Measurement Probe button found in the Instruments
toolbar. The probe is now attached to the mouse cursor.

Hover the probe on the point where you wish to take the measurement.
The readings appear on the Measurement Probe, based on the
dynamic probe settings as in the example shown below. Refer to the
Dynamic Probe Settings section for more information.

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When the circuit is simulating, and the probe is not placed on a wire or terminal,
there are no readings on the probe.

Note

Note
Tip

To de-activate the probe, click on the Measurement Probe button or
press ESC.

For accuracy of measurement, your circuit must have a ground attached.
You can click to place the probe on any wire during simulation.

Using the Static Measurement Probe
Complete the following steps to connect a static (placed) Measurement
Probe and take a reading:
1.

Click on the arrow in the Measurement Probe button found in the
Instruments toolbar and select one of the following probe types from
the list that appears:
•

From dynamic probe settings—The placed probe will use the
settings entered using the Simulate/Dynamic Probe Properties
command. Refer to the Dynamic Probe Settings section for more
information.

•

AC voltage—The placed probe will measure V(p-p), V(rms),
V(dc), and frequency.

•

AC current—The placed probe will measure I(p-p), I(rms), I(dc),
and frequency.

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•

Instantaneous voltage and current—The placed probe will
measure V and I.

•

Voltage with reference to probe—Displays the Reference
Probe dialog. Select the desired reference probe from the
drop-down list (this is populated by a list of the probes already in
the circuit). The placed probe will measure Vgain(dc), Vgain(ac),
and Phase. If you select this probe type, a triangle appears beside
the probe’s RefDes.

Click to place the probe at the desired point on the circuit.

Select Simulate»Run or click on the Run/Resume Simulation button
to activate the circuit.

The probe’s window is populated with data.

Complete the following steps to hide the contents of the probe:
1.

Right-click on the probe and de-select Show Comment/Probe. The
placed probe now appears as an arrow, as shown in the example below.

To show the contents of probe, right-click on it and select Show
Comment/Probe.

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Four-Channel Oscilloscope
The four-channel oscilloscope allows the simultaneous monitoring of up to
four different inputs.

To use the instrument, click on the Four Channel Oscilloscope button in
the Instruments toolbar and click to place its icon on the workspace. The
icon is used to wire the four channel oscilloscope to the circuit.
Double-click on the icon to open the instrument face, which is used to enter
settings and view measurements.
If you are not familiar with connecting and adjusting the settings of the instruments,
refer to the Adding an Instrument to a Circuit and Using the Instrument sections before
using this instrument.

Note

Four-Channel Oscilloscope Settings
Either before, after or during a simulation, you can change the settings that
are found at the bottom of the scope. In some cases, you may need to re-run
the simulation to achieve accurate results.

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Complete the following steps to change the settings:
1.

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Adjust the settings in the Timebase box as follows:
•

Scale field—Click in this field to change the scale of the scope’s
horizontal (x-axis) when comparing magnitude against time (Y/T)
or adding signals, for example, A+B > (see Axes buttons below).

•

X position field—Click in this field to change the signal’s starting
point on the x-axis. When set to 0, the signal starts at the left edge
of the display. A positive value (for example, 2.00) shifts the
starting point to the right, in this case two divisions. A negative
value (for example, –3.00) shifts the starting point to the left, in
this case three divisions.

•

Axes buttons:
Y/T—Click to display waveform magnitude (y-axis) against time
(x-axis).
A/B >—Click to show input channel A against input channel B.
(A is on the y-axis and B is on the x-axis). These settings display
frequency and phase shifts, known as Lissajous patterns, or they
can display a hysteresis loop. When this button is selected, the
Scale and X position fields are disabled (greyed out).
You can change the channels that are represented on the y-axis and
x-axis by right-clicking on the A/B > button to display a pop-up
menu. Remember that the first letter is the channel that is
represented on the y-axis and the second letter is the channel that
is represented on the x-axis. Once you have selected an item from
the menu, the A/B > button’s label changes to reflect your
selection. For example, if you select D/A >, the button will read
D/A.

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A+B >—Click to add trace A to trace B.
You can change the channels that are added together by
right-clicking on the A+B > button and making a selection from
the pop-up menu that appears.

Adjust the settings in the Channel_A box as follows:
•

Channel dial—Click and drag on the dial to select the input
channel that is being set in the Scale and Y position fields and
input coupling buttons. Note that the name of the box changes as
you move the dial.

Scale field—Click here to change the number of volts per division.
This setting determines the scale of the y-axis. It also controls the
x-axis scale when the A/B > button is selected in the Timebase box.

When running a simulation, the Scale selected in the displayed channel is the scale
that is used on the graph. For example, if you have selected Channel B with the channel
dial, and its Scale is set to 5 V/Div, all channels in the graph will be shown at 5 V/Div, even
if channels A, C & D are set to 2 V/Div.
Note

•

Y position field—Click in this field to change the signal’s starting
point on the y-axis. When set to 0, the signal starts at the
intersection with the x-axis. A positive value (for example, 2.00)
shifts the starting point above the x-axis, in this case two divisions.
A negative value (for example, –3.00) shifts the starting point

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below the x-axis, in this case three divisions. Using a different
Y position setting for each trace (channel) helps distinguish
individual waveforms.
•

Input coupling buttons:
AC button—Click to display only the AC component of a signal.
This has the effect of placing a capacitor in series with the
oscilloscope’s probe. As on a real oscilloscope using AC coupling,
the first cycle displayed is inaccurate. Once the signal’s DC
component has been calculated and eliminated in the first cycle,
the waveforms are accurate.
0 button—Click to display a flat reference line at the point of
origin set in Y position.
DC button—Click to display the sum of the AC and DC
components of the signal.
– button—Click to invert the selected channel’s trace 180 degrees.

Do not place a coupling capacitor in series with an oscilloscope probe. The
oscilloscope will not provide a path for current and the analysis will consider the capacitor
improperly connected. Instead, choose AC.

Note

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Adjust the settings in the Trigger box as follows:
•

Edge buttons—Click the Ascending Edge button to start
displaying the signal on its positive slope or rising signal. Click
the Descending Edge button to start with the negative slope or
falling signal.

•

Level fields—Enter the trigger level in the left field and the unit
of measure in the right field. The trigger level is the point on the
y-axis that must be crossed by the waveform before it is displayed.
A flat waveform will not cross the trigger level. To see a flat
signal, make sure the triggering signal is set to Auto.

•

Trigger buttons:
Sing (single) button—Click to make the scope trigger one pass
when the trigger level is met. Once the trace gets to the end of the
scope face, it will not change until you click Sing again.
Nor (normal) button—Click to make the scope refresh every time
the trigger level is met.
Auto (automatic) button—Click to display a flat signal, or if you
wish to display signals as soon as possible. If Auto is selected, the
A > and Ext buttons are disabled (greyed out).
A > button—If selected, triggering is internal with reference to
channel A. If you wish to change the internal reference channel,
right-click on A > to display a pop-up menu and select the desired

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channel (A, B, C, or D). The label on the button changes to reflect
your selection.
None button—Click to have no trigger setting.
Ext (external) button—Click if you wish to trigger the scope from
an external source.
5.

Optionally, click Save to save the results in one of the following file
formats:
•

Scope data (*.scp)—Multisim oscilloscope format file.

•

LabVIEW measurement files (*.lvm)—Files created in National
Instruments LabVIEW.

•

DIAdem files (*.tdm)—Files created in National Instruments
DIAdem. Note that when you save data as a DIAdem file, two files
are created; a header file (.tdm) and a binary file (.tdx).

If you choose either .lvm or .tdm files, the Data resampling settings dialog box
displays. Along with the Save button found in the oscilloscope, you can also save
simulation results from the Grapher window. Refer to the Saving Files section of
Chapter 10, Analyses, for more information.
Note

Viewing Four-Channel Oscilloscope Results
This section uses the following circuit to demonstrate the use of the
four-channel oscilloscope. This circuit is a sawtooth waveform generator
with the scope attached to four different points.

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Taking Readings
Complete the following steps to take readings with the four-channel
oscilloscope:

Note

Select Simulate»Run or click on the Run/resume Simulation button
to activate the circuit.

Double-click on the four-channel oscilloscope’s icon to open the
instrument face.

You may open the instrument at any time before, during or after the simulation is

run.
3.

NI Multisim User Manual

After a few seconds, either stop or pause the simulation. Optionally,
click Reverse to show the display with a white background. The four
traces on the oscilloscope’s display represent the four input channels A

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through D. The traces have the same colors that were selected for their
wires in the Connecting the Four-channel Oscilloscope section.
It is not necessary to stop or pause the simulation to view data or change the scope’s
settings.

Note

Viewing Data
Either before, after or during a simulation, you can change the data viewing
settings.
Complete the following steps to view data on the four-channel oscilloscope
screen:
1.

Place the mouse cursor over the left graph cursor (labeled “1”) and
drag the graph cursor to a point on the curves. Note that the data in the
T1 section of the scope change to reflect the points where the cursor
crosses the curves. You may also drag the right graph cursor (labeled
“2”) to a desired point on the curves. When you do this the data in the
T2 row of the scope change.

You may also use the left and right arrows beside T1 and T2 to move
the graph cursor.

You can also move either graph cursor to a specific x or y value on the
selected curve by right-clicking on it to display a pop-up menu. Refer

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to the Cursor Pop-up Menu section of Chapter 10, Analyses, for more
information.

Connecting the Four-channel Oscilloscope
Complete the following steps to connect the four-channel oscilloscope:
1.

Click on the 4 Channel Oscilloscope tool button and place the
instrument icon in the desired location in your circuit.

Wire the icon to the desired points in your circuit using the following
terminals as needed:

•

A, B, C, D—Input channels

•

G—Ground

•

T—External trigger

Select different colors for the wires leading to the four input channels
to the oscilloscope. The traces of the four channels that appear on the
oscilloscope will be represented by the colors chosen in this step.
•

Right-click on the wire leading to input channel A and select
Color Segment from the pop-up that appears. The Color dialog
box appears.

•

Click on the desired color for the wire and click OK.

•

Repeat for channels B–D.

Frequency Counter
The Frequency Counter is used to measure signal frequency.
To place the instrument, click on the Frequency Counter button in the
Instrument toolbar and click to place its icon on the workspace. The icon
is used to wire the Frequency Counter to the circuit.
Double-click on the icon to open the instrument face, which is used to enter
settings and view measurements.

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If you are not familiar with connecting and adjusting the settings of the instruments,
refer to the Adding an Instrument to a Circuit and Using the Instrument sections before
using this instrument.

Note

Using the Frequency Counter
Complete the following steps to measure a circuit using the frequency
counter:
1.

Click on the Frequency Counter tool button and place the icon in the
desired location in your circuit. Wire the frequency counter to the point
in the circuit that you wish to measure.

Note This example uses a simple AC source to provide a signal to the Frequency
Counter.

Double-click on the icon to open the instrument face.

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Note

Set the instrument to read as desired, using the following controls:
•

Measurement box:
Freq (frequency) button—Click to measure the frequency.
Pulse button—click to measure the duration of a positive and
negative pulse.
Period button—Click to measure the duration of a single cycle.
Rise/Fall button—Click to measure the rise and fall times of a
single cycle.

•

Coupling box:
AC button—Click to display only the AC component of a signal.
DC button—Click to display the sum of the AC and DC
components of the signal.

•

Sensitivity (RMS) box—Enter the sensitivity in the left field and
the unit of measure in the right field.

•

Trigger Level box—Enter the trigger level in the left field and the
unit of measure in the right field. The trigger level is the point that
must be reached by the waveform before a reading is displayed.

•

Slow Change Signal checkbox—Enable when measuring
frequencies below 20 Hz and change the Compression Rate as
required to produce a flicker-free display.

The above settings may be changed before, during or after a simulation.

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Select Simulate»Run. Since the Freq button is selected, the frequency
at the point where the frequency counter is connected displays, as in
the example shown below.

Other readings may be observed as follows:
•

Pulse—The duration of the positive and negative pulses display as
shown below.

•

Period—The duration of a single cycle displays as shown below.

•

Rise/Fall—The rise and fall times of a single cycle display as
shown below.

IV Analyzer
The IV Analyzer is used to measure the current-voltage curves of the
following devices:
•

Diode

•

PNP BJT

•

NPN BJT

•

PMOS

•

NMOS.

Note The IV Analyzer measures single components that are not connected in a circuit.
You may measure devices that are already in circuits by disconnecting them first.

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Using the IV Analyzer
Complete the following steps to use the IV Analyzer to measure a device’s
characteristics:

Note

Click on the IV Analysis tool button, place its icon on the workspace
and double-click on the icon to open the instrument.

Select the type of device that you are analyzing from the Components
drop-down list, for example PMOS.

A PMOS FET is analyzed in this example.
3.

Place the desired device on the workspace and wire it to the
IV Analyzer following the symbol map that is shown on the
instrument face.

Note The symbol changes depending on the device selected in the Components
drop-down list.

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Note If checking a device that is already in a circuit, disconnect it from the circuit and
attach it to the IV Analyzer as shown above.

Click Simulate Param. to display the Simulate Parameters dialog
box.

The contents of this dialog box change depending on the device selected in the
Components drop-down list. Refer to the Simulate Parameters Dialog Box section for
information about how this dialog box appears for other devices.

Note

Optionally, change the default settings for Vds (drain-source voltage)
that appear in the following fields in the Source Name: V_ds box:
•

Start—Enter the desired start Vds for the sweep in the left section
and the unit of measure in the right section

•

Stop—Enter the desired stop Vds for the sweep in the left section
and the unit of measure in the right section

•

Increment—Enter the desired size of the steps of Vds for the
sweep in the left section and the unit of measure in the right
section. The points formed by these steps will be the points at
which measurements will be calculated to form the curve(s) on the
graph.

Optionally, change the default settings for Vgs (gate-source voltage)
that appear in the following fields in the Source Name: V_gs box:
•

Start—Enter the desired start Vgs for the sweep in the left section
and the unit of measure in the right section

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•

Stop—Enter the desired stop Vgs for the sweep in the left section
and the unit of measure in the right section

•

Num steps—Enter the desired number of steps of Vgs for the
sweep. There will be one curve for each value of Vgs.

Normalize Data checkbox—Displays the Vdsvalues in the curves
(x-axis) with positive values.
Click OK to save the settings and return to the main IV Analyzer
dialog box.
5.

Optionally, change the default scale buttons in the Current Range(A)
and Voltage Range(V) boxes from Lin (linear) to Log (logarithmic).
In this example, both settings were left at Lin.

There is no need to change the F (final) and I (initial) current and voltage settings.
After the simulation is run, these fields are populated so that the curves fully display. Refer
to the Reviewing IV Analyzer Data section for information about changing these fields to
view specific areas of the curve.
Note

Note

Select Simulate»Run. The IV curves for the device are displayed. If
desired, click on Reverse to change the display to a white background.

Refer to the Reviewing IV Analyzer Data section for more information.

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Optionally, select View»Grapher to view the results of the simulation
on the grapher.

Simulate Parameters Dialog Box
The Simulate Parameters dialog box, which is described in step 4 above,
changes depending on the device selected in the Components drop-down
list. This section describes the data that appear in the dialog box when other
component types are selected.

Diode Parameters
When Diode is selected in the Components drop-down list of the
IV Analyzer dialog box and you click Simulate Param., the Simulate
Parameters dialog box that appears is populated with the following data:
Note

The Source Name box is disabled for diode measurements.

Optionally, change the default settings that appear in the following
fields in the SourceName: V_pn box:

•

Start—Enter the desired start Vpn for the sweep in the left section
and the unit of measure in the right section.

•

Stop—Enter the desired stop Vpn for the sweep in the left section
and the unit of measure in the right section.

•

Increment—Enter the desired size of the steps of Vpn for the
sweep in the left section and the unit of measure in the right
section. The points formed by these steps will be the points at
which measurements will be calculated to form the curve on the
graph.

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PNP BJT Parameters
When BJT PNP is selected in the Components drop-down list of the
IV Analyzer dialog box and you click Simulate Param., the Simulate
Parameters dialog box that appears is populated with the following data.

Optionally, change the default parameters for Vce (collector-emitter
voltage) that appear in the following fields in the Source Name: V_ce
box:
•

Start—Enter the desired start Vce for the sweep in the left section
and the unit of measure in the right section.

•

Stop—Enter the desired stop Vce for the sweep in the left section
and the unit of measure in the right section.

•

Increment—Enter the desired size of the steps of Vce for the
sweep in the left section and the unit of measure in the right
section. The points formed by these steps will be the points at
which measurements will be calculated to form the curve(s) on the
graph.

Optionally, change the default parameters for Ib (base current) that
appear in the following fields in the Source Name: I_b box:

NI Multisim User Manual

•

Start—Enter the desired start Ib for the sweep in the left section
and the unit of measure in the right section.

•

Stop—Enter the desired stop Ib for the sweep in the left section
and the unit of measure in the right section.

•

Num steps—Enter the desired number of steps of Ib. There will be
one curve for each value of Ib.

•

Normalize Data checkbox—Displays the Vce values on the
curves (x-axis) with positive values.

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NPN BJT Parameters
When BJT NPN is selected in the Components drop-down list of the
IV Analyzer dialog box and you click Simulate Param., the Simulate
Parameters dialog box that appears is populated with the following data.

Optionally, change the default settings parameters for Vce
(collector-emitter voltage) that appear in the following fields in the
Source Name: V_ce box:
•

Start—Enter the desired start Vce for the sweep in the left section
and the unit of measure in the right section.

•

Stop—Enter the desired stop Vce for the sweep in the left section
and the unit of measure in the right section.

•

Optionally, change the default parameters for Ib (base current) that
appear in the following fields in the Source Name: I_b box:
•

Start—Enter the desired start Ib for the sweep in the left section
and the unit of measure in the right section.

•

Stop—Enter the desired stop Ib for the sweep in the left section
and the unit of measure in the right section.

•

Num steps—Enter the desired number of steps for Ib. There will
be one curve for each value of Ib.

PMOS FET Parameters
See step 4 for details on the Simulate Parameter dialog box when used
with a PMOS FET.

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NMOS FET Parameters
When NMOS is selected in the Components drop-down list of the
IV Analyzer dialog box and you click Simulate Param., the Simulate
Parameters dialog box that appears is populated with the following data.

Optionally, change the default parameters for Vds (drain-source
voltage) that appear in the following fields in the Source Name: V_ds
box:
•

Start—Enter the desired start Vds for the sweep in the left section
and the unit of measure in the right section.

•

Stop—Enter the desired stop Vds for the sweep in the left section
and the unit of measure in the right section.

•

Optionally, change the default parameters for Vgs (gate-source voltage)
that appear in the following fields in the Source Name: V_gs box:

NI Multisim User Manual

•

Start—Enter the desired start Vgs for the sweep in the left section
and the unit of measure in the right section.

•

Stop—Enter the desired stop Vgs for the sweep in the left section
and the unit of measure in the right section.

•

Num steps—Enter the desired number of steps of Vgs for the
sweep. The points formed by these steps will be the points at
which measurements will be calculated to form the curve(s) on the
graph.

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Reviewing IV Analyzer Data
After you run an IV analysis, you will have a graph similar to the one in the
figure below. Note that the cursor is not on any of the curves and the three
fields at the bottom of the graph are empty.

Note

This section uses data from the analysis of an NPN BJT.
Complete the following steps to view data in the IV Analyzer dialog box:
1.

As shown in the example below, place the mouse cursor over the graph
cursor and drag the graph cursor to a point on the curves. The three
fields at the bottom of the graph now contain data which corresponds
to a base current (Ib) of 1 mA. Ib (1m) is represented by the curve at
the bottom of the graph.

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To select another curve, for example, Ib = 2 mA, click on that curve
with your mouse cursor. The fields at the bottom of the graph now
contain the data from the point where the graph cursor crosses the
selected curve.

You may also use the left and right that appear below the displayed
graph arrows to move the graph cursor.

You can also move the graph cursor to a specific x or y value on the
selected curve by right-clicking on it to display a pop-up menu. Refer
to the Cursor Pop-up Menu section of Chapter 10, Analyses, for more
information.

To view specific areas of the graph, change the data in the Current
Range(A) and Voltage Range(V) boxes:
•

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Current Range(A) (y-axis)
I field—Enter initial current to be displayed on graph in left field
and unit of measure in right field.

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F field—Enter final current to be displayed on graph in left field
and unit of measure in right field.
•

Voltage Range(V) (x-axis)
I field—Enter initial voltage to be displayed on graph in left field
and unit of measure in right field.
F field—Enter final voltage to be displayed on graph in left field
and unit of measure in right field.

Agilent Simulated Instruments
The following virtual simulated Agilent instruments are included in
Multisim:
•

Function Generator 33120A

•

Multimeter 34401A

•

Oscilloscope 54622D

If you are not familiar with connecting and adjusting the settings of the instruments,
refer to the Adding an Instrument to a Circuit and Using the Instrument sections before
using this instrument.

Note

Agilent Simulated Function Generator
The Agilent Technologies 33120A is a high-performance 15 MHz
synthesized function generator with built-in arbitrary waveform capability.
Refer to the Agilent website for a PDF copy of this instrument’s user guide.

Supported Features
Most of the features that are documented in the Agilent 33120A User’s
Guide are available in its virtual simulated version. These include:
•

Standard Waveforms—Sine, Square, Triangle, Ramp, Noise, DC
volts.

•

System Arbitrary Waveforms—Sinc, Negative Ramp, Exponential
Rise, Exponential Fall, Cardiac.

•

User Defined Arbitrary Waveforms—Any type of waveform with
8–256 points.

•

Modulations—NON, AM, FM, Burst, FSK, Sweep.

•

Memory Sections—Four memory sections named #0–#3. #0 is the
system default.

•

Trigger Modes—Auto/Single for Burst and Sweep modulation only.

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•

Display Digital—4–8.

•

Display Voltage—Three modes: Vpp, Vrams and dBm.

•

Edit Digital Value—Change the displayed value with cursor buttons
or number keys, or use the knob, or use the ENTER NUMBER key to
key in the number directly.

•

Menu Operation:
–

A. MODulation MENU—1: AM SHAPE, 2:FM SHAPE,
3:BURST CNT, 4:BURST RATE, 5:BURST PHAS, 6:FSK
FREQ, 7:FSK RATE.

–

B. SWP MENU—1:START F, 2:STOP F, 3:SWP TIME, 4:SWP
MODE.

–

C. EDIT MENU—1:NEW ARB, 2:POINTS, 3:LINE EDIT,
4:POINT EDIT, 5:INVERT, 6:SAVE AS, 7:DELETE.

–

D. SYStem MENU—1:COMMA.

Features Not Supported
The following features are not supported in the simulated version of the
function generator included in Multisim:
•

Remote mode.

•

Terminals on rear panel.

•

Self-test.

•

Hardware error detect.

•

Calibration.

Using the Agilent Function Generator
Complete the following steps to connect the Agilent 33120A Function
Generator to a circuit:

NI Multisim User Manual

Click on the Agilent Function Generator tool button, place its icon
on the workspace and double-click on the icon to open the instrument.
Click the power button to switch on the instrument.

Wire the icon to the circuit following the pin key below.

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Refer to the PDF user guide for complete instructions on the use of this
device.

Agilent Simulated Multimeter
The simulated Agilent Technologies 34401A Multimeter is a 6 1/2-digit,
high-performance digital multimeter. Refer to the Agilent website for a
PDF copy of this instrument’s user guide.

Supported Features
Most of the features that are documented in the Agilent 34401A User’s
Guide are available in its virtual version. These include:
•

Measure Modes—Voltage DC/AC, Current DC/AC, Resistor in two
wires, Frequency of input signal’s voltage wave, Period of input
signal’s voltage wave, Continuity test, Diode test, Ratio test.

•

Functions—Null (relative measurement), Min-Max (store minimum
and maximum readings), dB (display on voltage value), dBm (display
on voltage value), Limit Test (test readings with a lower threshold
value and a high threshold value).

•

Trigger Modes—Auto/Manual.

•

Display Modes—Auto/Manual.

•

Display Digital—4 1/2–6 1/2.

•

Reading Hold—Yes.

•

Reading Memory—Yes.

•

Edit Digital Value—Change the displayed value with cursor buttons
or number keys.

All other features and operations are based on the Agilent 34401A User’s
Guide.

Features Not Supported
The following features are not supported in the simulated version of the
Multimeter included in Multisim:
•

Remote mode.

•

Commands mode.

•

Terminals on rear panel.

•

Self-test.

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•

Hardware error detect.

•

Calibration.

Using the Agilent Multimeter
Complete the following steps to connect the simulated Agilent 34401A
Multimeter to a circuit:
1.

Click on the Agilent Multimeter tool button, place its icon on the
workspace and double-click on the icon to open the instrument. Click
the power button to switch on the instrument.

Wire the icon to the circuit following the pin key below.

Refer to the PDF user guide, available on the Agilent website, for
complete instructions on the use of this device.

Agilent Simulated Oscilloscope
The simulated Agilent Technologies 54622D Oscilloscope is a 2-channel
+16 logic channels, 100 MHz bandwidth oscilloscope. Refer to the Agilent
website for a PDF copy of this instrument’s user guide.

Supported Features
Most of the features that are documented in the Agilent 54622D User’s
Guide are available on its simulated version. These include:

NI Multisim User Manual

•

Running Mode—Auto, Single, Stop.

•

Trigger Mode—Auto, normal, auto-level.

•

Trigger Type—Edge trigger, pulse trigger, pattern trigger.

•

Trigger Source—Analog signals, digital signals, external trigger
signal.

•

Display Mode—Main, delay, roll, XY.

•

Signal Channels—2 analog channels, 1 math channel, 16 digital
channels, 1 probe signal for testing purposes.

•

Cursors—4 cursors.

•

Math Channel—FFT, multiply, subtract, differentiate, integrate.

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•

Measurements—Cursor information, sampling information,
frequency, period, peak-peak, maximum, minimum, rise time, fall
time, duty cycle, RMS, width, average, X at max.

•

Display Controls—Vector/point on traces, trace width, background
color, board color, grid color, cursor color.

•

Auto-scale/Undo—Yes.

•

Print Traces—Yes.

•

File—Save data into a DAT format file; can be converted and displayed
on the system graph window.

•

Soft-button Menu Operation:

–

Main Display MENU—1:Main, 2: Delayed, 3:Roll, 4:XY,
5:Vernier, 6:Time Ref.

–

Cursor MENU—1:Source, 2:X Y, 3:X1, 4:X2, 5:X1 X2, 6:Cursor.

–

Quick Measure MENU—1:Source, 2:Clear Measure,
3:Frequency, 4:Period, 5:Peak_Peak, 6:Maximum, 7:Minimum,
8:Rise Time, 9:Fall Time, 10:Duty Cycle, 11:RMS, 12:+Width,
13:-Width, 14:Average, 15:X at Maximum.

–

Acquire MENU—1:Normal, 2:Average, 3:Args.

–

Display MENU—1:Clear, 2:Grid, 3:Background, 4:Boarder,
5:Vector.

–

Auto-Scale MENU—1:Undo Auto-scale.

–

Save MENU—1:Save.

–

Quick Print MENU—1:Print.

–

Utility MENU—1:Sampling Information, 2:Default Settings.

–

Edge MENU—1:Source, 2:Shape.

–

Pulse MENU—1:Source, 2:Shape, 3:Operation, 4:Less Value,
5:Great Value.

–

Pattern MENU—1:Source, 2:L, 3:H, 4:X, 5:Up Edge, 6:Down
Edge.

–

Mode Coupling MENU—1:Mode, 2:Hold-off Value.

–

Analog Channel MENU—1:Coupling, 2:Vernier, 3:Invert.

–

Math Channel MENU—1:Setting, 2:FFT, 3:Multiply, 4:Subtract,
5:Differentiate, 6:Integrate.

–

Math FFT MENU—1:Source, 2:Span, 3:Center, 4:Scale, 5:Offset.

–

Math 1*2/1-2 MENU—1:Scale, 2:Offset.

–

Math Diff/Inte MENU—1:Source, 2:Scale, 3:Offset.

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–
•

Digital Channel MENU—1:Select Channel/Enable/Disable,
2:Shape, 3:Threshold, 4:User Value.

Intensity—Adjusts the intensity of the traces. If you print the output
of the scope with the trace intensity as the lowest setting, each trace on
the printout will have a diffent line style. If you increase the intensity,
all the trace lines in the printout will be solid.

Features Not Supported
The following features are not supported in the simulated version of the
oscilloscope included in Multisim:
•

Remote mode.

•

Terminals on rear panel.

•

Self-test.

•

Hardware error detect.

•

Calibration.

•

Language selection.

•

Infinite Persistence Operation mode.

•

Label button for editing on digital channel’s label.

•

Delay and phase measurement.

•

Overshoot and preshoot measurement.

•

Clock setting.

•

Cursor has normal mode only.

•

Peak detection and real time data acquirement.

•

Noise reject and high frequency reject modes in data coupling.

•

Duration trigger, IC trigger, Sequence trigger.

•

Bandwidth limit feature.

•

Saving data as .bmp, .tiff or .csv files.

Using the Agilent Oscilloscope
Complete the following steps to connect the simulated Agilent 54622D
Oscilloscope to a circuit:
1.

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Click on the Agilent Oscilloscope tool button, place its icon on the
workspace and double-click on the icon to open the instrument. Click
on power button to switch on the instrument.

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Wire the icon to the circuit following the pin key below:

Refer to the PDF copy of the instrument’s user guide for complete
instructions on the use of this device.

For optimum simulation speed, set the time scale on the scope near to the value you
would like to display during simulation.

Tip

Tektronix Simulated Instruments
The simulated Tektronix TDS 2024 oscilloscope is included in Multisim.
If you are not familiar with connecting and adjusting the settings of the instruments,
refer to the Adding an Instrument to a Circuit and Using the Instrument sections before
using this instrument.

Note

Tektronix Simulated Oscilloscope
The simulated Tektronix TDS 2024 is a 4-channel, 200 MHz oscilloscope.
Refer to the Tektronix website for a PDF copy of this instrument’s user
guide.

Supported Features
Most of the features that are documented in the Tektronix TDS 2024’s User
Guide are available in its simulated version. These include:
•

Running Mode—Auto; Single; Stop.

•

Trigger Mode—Auto; Normal.

•

Trigger Type—Edge Trigger; Pulse Trigger.

•

Trigger Source—Analog signals; Extent trigger signal.

•

Display Mode—Main; Window; XY, FFT, Trig View.

•

Signal Channels—4 analog channels; 1 math channel; one probe
signal in 1kHz for testing purposes.

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•

Cursors—4 cursors.

•

Math Channel—FFT; +; -.

•

Measurements—Cursor information; Frequency; Period; Peak-Peak;
Maximum; Minimum; Rise time; Fall time; RMS; Mean.

•

Display Controls—Vector/Point on traces; Contrast color control.

•

Auto-setup—Yes.

•

Print Traces—Yes.

Control Buttons Operation
•

Run/Stop Button—Start or Stop sampling in multiple-triggers.

•

Single Seq. Button—Start sampling in one-trigger.

•

Trig View Button—See current trigger signal wave and trigger level.

•

Force Trig Button—Immediately to start a trigger.

•

Set to 50% Button—Move trigger level to the mean value of the
trigger signal.

•

Set to Zero Button—Set time offset position to zero.

•

Help Button—Goes to instrument help topic.

•

Print Button—Print the graph to printer.

•

Soft Menu Buttons—To support the menu controls.

Soft Button Menu Operation
The soft button menu is a subset of the Tektronix Oscilloscope TDS
2024’s:

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•

Save/Recall MENU—1: Setup; 2: Save; 3: Recall.

•

Measure MENU—Five measure areas, each one includes second a
level menu to set a source channel and measure type under: Frequency,
Period, Peak_peak, Maximum, Minimum, Rise time, Fall time; RMS,
Mean.

•

Acquire MENU—1: Sample, 2: Average, 3: Average value.

•

Auto Set MENU—Shows one of three menu lists based on the signal
curve type. A) (SIN Curve) 1: Multiple; 2: Single; 3: FFT; 4: Undo,
(Pulse curve) 1: Multiple; 2: Single; 3: Slope Up; 4: Slope Down;
5: Undo, (Unknow curve) 1: Mean Value; 2: Peak-Peak Value.

•

Utility MENU—1: System status, it includes second level menu:
1: Horizontal status; 2: Vertical CH1-CH2 status; 3: Vertical CH3-CH4
status; 4: Trigger status; 5: Misc. status.

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•

Cursor MENU—1: Type; 2: Source.

•

Display MENU—1: Type, 2: Format, 3: Contrast Increase, 4: Contrast
Decrease.

•

Default Setup MENU—1: Undo Default Setup.

•

Trig MENU—It will show one of three menu lists: A) (Edge Trigger)
1: Type; 2: Source; 3: Slope; 4: Mode; 5: Coupling; B) (Pulse Trigger
page 1) 1: Type; 2: Source; 3: When; 4: Pulse Width; 5: More Page; C)
(Pulse Trigger page 2) 1: Type; 2: Polarity; 3: Mode; 4: Coupling; 5)
More Page.

•

Channel MENU—1: Coupling, 2: Volts/Div, 3: Invert.

•

Math channel MENU—Shows one of three sub menu lists: A) (+)
1: Operation; 2: CH1+CH2; 3: CH3+CH4; B) (-) 1: Operation;
2: CH1-CH2; 2: CH2-CH1; 3: CH3-CH4; 4: CH4-CH3; C) (FFT)
1: Operation; 2: Source; 3: Window.

•

Horizontal MENU—1: Main; 2:Window Zone; 3: Window; 4: Trig
Knob selection.

Features Not Supported
The following features are not supported in the simulated version of the
oscilloscope:
•

Remote mode (without external device and RS 232 interface)

•

Terminals on rear panel

•

Probe check

•

Scan mode display

•

Language selection, Error Log and Do Self Calibration on menu item
UTILITY

•

Saving Wave form, Ref A–Ref D on menu item SAVE/RECALL

•

Video Trigger on menu item TRIG MENU

•

Trigger coupling of Noise Reject, HF Reject and LF Reject on menu
item TRIG MENU

•

Cursor source of Ref A–Ref D on menu item CURSOR

•

Persistence display mode on menu item DISPLAY

•

Peak detect acquire on menu item ACQUIRE

•

FFT Zoom on menu item MATH

•

BW limit and Probe selection on menu item CHANNEL

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Using the Tektronix Oscilloscope
Complete the following steps to connect the simulated Tektronix TDS 2024
Oscilloscope to a circuit:
1.

Click on the Tektronix Oscilloscope tool button, place its icon on the
workspace and double-click on the icon to open the instrument. Click
on the Power button to switch on the instrument.

Wire the icon to the circuit following the pin key below:

•

1, 2, 3, 4—analog input channels 1–4

•

T—trigger

•

P—probe comp (internal 1 kHz signal)

•

G—ground

Refer to the PDF copy of the instrument’s user guide for complete
instructions on the use of this device.

Voltmeter
The voltmeter offers advantages over the multimeter for measuring voltage
in a circuit. It takes up less space in a circuit and you can rotate its terminals
to suit your layout.

Using the Voltmeter
Resistance (1.0 Ω –999.99 TW)
The voltmeter is preset to a very high resistance which generally has no
effect on a circuit. If you are testing a circuit that itself has very high
resistance, you may want to increase the voltmeter’s resistance to get a
more accurate reading. (However, using a voltmeter with very high
resistance in a low-resistance circuit may result in a mathematical
round-off error.)
To change the resistance of the voltmeter, double-click on it and change the
value in the Resistance field that is found in the Value tab of the property
dialog that displays.

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Mode (DC or AC)
The voltmeter can measure DC or AC voltage. In DC mode, any AC
component of the signal is eliminated so that only the DC component of the
signal is measured. In AC mode, any DC component is eliminated so that
only the AC component is measured. When set to AC, the voltmeter
displays the root-mean-square (RMS) value of the signal.
To change the voltmeter’s mode, double-click on it and select either DC or
AC in the Mode field that is found in the Value tab of the property dialog
that displays.

Connecting a Voltmeter
Connect the voltmeter in parallel with the load, attaching the probes to
connectors on either side of the load you want to measure. When a circuit
is activated and its behavior is simulated, the voltmeter displays the voltage
across the test points. (The voltmeter may also display interim voltages
before the final steady-state voltage is reached.)
The voltmeter is found in the Indicator component group. It is not found on the
Component toolbar. If a voltmeter is moved after the circuit has been simulated, activate
the circuit again to get a reading.

Note

Ammeter
The ammeter offers advantages over the multimeter for measuring current
in a circuit. It takes up less space in a circuit and you can rotate its terminals
to suit your layout.

Using the Ammeter
Resistance (1.0 pΩ–999.99 W)
The ammeter’s resistance is preset to a low resistance. If you are testing a
circuit that has low resistance, you can lower the ammeter’s resistance even
further to get a more precise measurement. (However, using an ammeter

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with very low resistance in a high-resistance circuit may result in a
mathematical round-off error.)
To change the resistance of the ammeter, double-click on it and change the
value in the Resistance field that is found in the Value tab of the property
dialog that displays.

Mode (DC or AC)
The ammeter is preset to DC mode, which measures only the DC
component of a signal. If you want to measure the current from an AC
source, change the mode to AC. When set to AC, the ammeter displays the
root-mean-square (RMS) value of the alternating signal.
To change the ammeter’s mode, double-click on it and select either DC or
AC in the Mode field that is found in the Value tab of the property dialog
that displays.

Connecting an Ammeter
Like a real ammeter, the simulated ammeter must be connected in series at
nodes you want to measure. The negative terminal is on the side with the
heavy border. If an ammeter is moved after the circuit has been simulated,
activate the circuit again to get a reading.
The voltmeter is found in the Indicator component group. It is not found on the
Component toolbar.

Note

Current Probe
The Current Probe emulates the behavior of industrial clamp-on current
probes, which convert the current flowing in a wire to a voltage at the
device’s output terminal. The output terminal is then connected to an
oscilloscope, where the current is determined based on the voltage to
current ratio of the probe.

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Complete the following steps to place a Current Probe on your schematic:
1.

Click on the Current Probe button found in the Instruments toolbar.
The Current Probe is now attached to the cursor.

Drag the image of the Current Probe to the desired wire and click to
place it. (You cannot place the Current Probe on a junction).

Place an oscilloscope on the workspace and connect the output
terminal of the Current Probe to the oscilloscope.

Current Probe Properties
To emaluate the behavior of a typical real-world current probe, the default
ratio of the current probe’s output voltage to the current being measured is
1 V/mA.
Complete the following steps to change the ratio:
1.

Double-click on the Current Probe to display the Current Probe
Properties dialog box.

Change the value in the Ratio of Voltage to Current field and click
Accept.

Complete the following steps to measure the current:
1.

Double-click on the oscilloscope icon to show its instrument face.

Simulate the circuit and observe the output on the oscilloscope.

Stop or pause the simulation when a trace displays on the oscilloscope.
It may be necessary to adjust the scale setting to display the trace in a
meaningful way.

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Drag one of the oscilloscope’s cursors to a point on the trace and note
the voltage reading.

Refer to the Oscilloscope section for complete information about the oscillope.
5.

Convert the voltage to current using the ratio that is set for the probe.
For details, see Current Probe Properties.
In the example shown above, the voltage reading on the oscilloscope is
459.908 V. Since the ratio for this example was left at the default of
1 V/mA, this corresponds to a current of 459.908 mA.

Tip For a direct 1:1 relationship between the current and the displayed voltage, set the
ratio to 1 mV/mA in the Current Probe Properties dialog box.

To reverse the polarity of the Current Probe output, right-click on the
Current Probe and select Reverse Probe Direction from the pop-up that
appears.

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LabVIEW Instruments
This section describes the LabVIEW instruments functionality available in
Multisim 10.1. For information about LabVIEW instruments in previous versions of
Multisim, refer to the documentation included with that software.

Note

LabVIEW instruments created for Multisim 9 and 10 will continue to function in
Multisim 10.1 but will not have any of the new functionality described below. You must
reinstall any existing LabVIEW instruments in Multisim 10.1 using the instructions in the
Installing a LabVIEW Instrument section.

Note

You can create your own custom instruments using the LabVIEW
graphical development environment. Instruments that you create using
LabVIEW can take advantage of the full functionality of the LabVIEW
development system, including data acquisition, instrument control,
mathematical analysis, and so on. For example, you can create the
following kinds of instruments:
•

An instrument that acquires data from the real world using a National
Instruments data acquisition device or modular instrument. Multisim
will then use that data as a signal source for circuit simulation.

•

An instrument that displays simulation data simultaneously with
multiple measurements (running average and power spectrum, for
example) made from that simulation data.

LabVIEW instruments can be either input instruments, output instruments,
or input/output instruments. Input instruments receive simulation data for
display or processing. Output instruments generate data to use as a signal
source in simulation. Input/output instruments both receive and generate
simulation data.
All LabVIEW instrument types perform their functions continuously
during simulation. For example, input instruments continuously receive
simulation data from Multisim during simulation. Output instruments
continuously generate simulation data during simulation. Input/output
instruments continuously receive and generate simulation data during
simulation.
Output instruments in Multisim 9 and 10.0 did not have the ability to generate data
continuously during simulation. Output instruments in those versions generate a finite set
of data that can be repeated. To see examples of these output instruments, refer to the
output instrument samples in the ...\samples\LabVIEW Instruments\Templates\
Legacy folder. Input/output instruments are a new capability of Multisim 10.1.
Note

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Input instruments allow the user or creator of the instrument to set a
sampling rate. This sampling rate is the rate at which the instrument
receives data from Multisim. This sampling rate is analogous to the
sampling rate you would set for a physical data acquisition device or
modular instrument that acquires data from the real world. You should
observe the Nyquist sampling theorem when choosing a sampling rate for
your instrument. Note that the higher the value of the sampling rate, the
slower simulation will run.
If the sampling rate is set to zero for a LabVIEW input instrument, Multisim chooses
its own sampling rate based on the simulation timestep near the start of simulation.

Note

Input instruments also allow the user or creator of the instrument to set an
interpolation method. The interpolation method is the particular algorithm
Multisim uses to transform unevenly-sampled SPICE simulation data into
evenly-sampled LabVIEW Waveform Data Type data. The available
interpolation methods are Coerce, Linear, Spline, and Force Step. Force
Step is not strictly an interpolation method in that it forces the Multisim
SPICE simulator to take additional timesteps that line up with the requested
sampling rate.
Note

The Force Step interpolation method is new to Multisim 10.1.
If the particular LabVIEW instrument allows the user of the instrument to
set the sampling rate and/or interpolation method, Multisim will recognize
changes to these values during simulation.

In Multisim 9 and 10, Multisim ignored all changes to the sampling rate and
interpolation method values during simulation.

Note

System Requirements
To create and modify LabVIEW instruments, you must have the
LabVIEW 8.2.x or 8.5.x Development System and Application Builder.
To use LabVIEW instruments, you must have the LabVIEW Run-Time
Engine installed on your computer. The version of this Run-Time Engine
must correspond to the version of the LabVIEW Development System used
to create the instrument. NI Circuit Design Suite installs the
LabVIEW 8.2.1 and 8.5.1 Run-Time Engines.

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Sample LabVIEW Instruments
Multisim includes the following sample LabVIEW instruments:
•

Microphone—Records audio from the computer sound device and
outputs the sound data as a signal source.

•

Speaker—Plays input signal using the computer sound device.

•

Signal Generator—Generates and outputs a sine, triangle, square, or
sawtooth wave.

•

Streaming Signal Generator—Generates and outputs a sine, triangle,
square, or sawtooth wave, and allows changes to the signal during
simulation.

•

Signal Analyzer—Displays time-domain data, auto power spectrum,
or running average of input signal.

The source code for the sample instruments is available in the directory
where you installed Multisim at ...\samples\LabVIEW Instruments.

Microphone
The Microphone instrument allows you to record sound data from devices
attached to the input of your computer’s sound device (for example,
microphone, CD player). It then outputs that data as a signal in Multisim.
You configure the settings and record the sound before beginning
simulation. Multisim will then use the audio signal as a signal source
during simulation.
Complete the following steps to use the Microphone:

NI Multisim User Manual

Place it in a schematic and open its face.

Select the desired audio Device (usually the default device is correct),
the Recording Duration, and the desired Sample Rate. The higher
the value you choose for the Sample Rate, the higher the quality of the
output signal, but the slower simulation using that data will run.

Click Record Sound to record the signal that is connected to the input
connection of your computer’s sound device.

Before starting simulation, you can also choose to Repeat Recorded
Sound. If you do not enable this option and simulate the circuit, once
the simulation time has exceeded the length of the recorded signal,
Multisim will continue to simulate but the output signal from the
Microphone instrument will fall to 0 volts. If you enable this option,
the Microphone instrument will repeatedly output the recorded data
until you stop simulation.

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Begin simulation of the circuit. The Microphone instrument will
output the recorded sound as a voltage signal.

Speaker
The Speaker instrument allows you to output a voltage signal as sound
using your computer’s sound device. You configure the settings before
beginning simulation and play the sound after stopping simulation.
Complete the following steps to use the Speaker:
1.

Place the instrument in a schematic and open its face.

Select the desired audio Device (usually the default device is correct),
the Playback Duration, and the Sample Rate at which the instrument
should receive data from the simulation.
If you are using the Speaker instrument in conjunction with the
Microphone instrument, set the Sample Rate of the two instruments
to be the same. Otherwise, set the sample rate of the Speaker to be at
least twice the frequency of the input signal. Note that the higher the
value of the sample rate, the slower simulation will run.

Begin simulation of the circuit. As simulation runs, the Speaker
instrument collects the input data until the simulation time reaches the
limit you configured in the Playback Duration field.

Stop simulation and click Play Sound to play as sound the data that the
Speaker stored during the simulation.

Signal Analyzer
The Signal Analyzer instrument is an example of how to implement a
simple LabVIEW instrument that receives, analyzes, and displays
simulation data. Its settings may be adjusted during simulation.
Complete the following steps to use the Signal Analyzer:
1.

Place the instrument in a schematic and open its face.

Set the desired Analysis Type and Sampling Rate (rate at which the
instrument receives data from the simulation). The sampling rate of the
Signal Analyzer should be at least twice the frequency of the input
signal.

Begin simulation.

Optionally, change the Sampling Rate or Interpolation Method
during simulation.

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Signal Generator
The Signal Generator instrument is an example of how to implement a
simple LabVIEW instrument that generates or acquires data and then
outputs it as a signal source for simulation.
This instrument only uses functionality available in Multisim 9 and 10. It is
provided for compatibility with circuits created in those versions with the
existing Signal Generator instrument.
Complete the following steps to use the Signal Generator:
1.

Place the instrument in a schematic and open its face.

Set the desired Signal Information parameters and Sampling Info. If
desired, enable Repeat Data.

Begin simulation. The instrument generates the output data and then
outputs that data as a signal source for the simulation.

Streaming Signal Generator
The Streaming Signal Generator instrument is an example of how to
implement a simple LabVIEW instrument that generates data and
continuously outputs it as a signal source in Multisim.
Complete the following steps to use the Streaming Signal Generator:
1.

Place the instrument in a schematic and open its face.

Set the desired Signal Information parameters and Sampling Info.

Begin simulation. Multisim continuously requests output data from the
instrument during the simulation.
If you adjust the Signal Information parameters during simulation,
the data streaming out to Multisim is adjusted.

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LabVIEW Instruments Toolbar
The LabVIEW Instruments toolbar buttons are described below.
Button

Description
Microphone button. Places a LabVIEW microphone on the
workspace. Refer to the Microphone section for more
information.
Speaker button. Places a LabVIEW speaker on the
workspace. Refer to the Speaker section for more
information.
Signal Analyzer button. Places a LabVIEW signal analyzer
on the workspace. Refer to the Signal Analyzer section for
more information.
Signal Generator button. Places a LabVIEW signal
generator on the workspace. Refer to the Signal Generator
section for more information.
Streaming Signal Generator button. Places a LabVIEW
streaming signal generator on the workspace. Refer to the
Streaming Signal Generator section for more information.

Creating a LabVIEW Instrument
This section assumes existing familiarity with LabVIEW and concepts such as VIs,
VI Libraries, Projects, and Build Specifications. Refer to the LabVIEW documentation for
more information on these topics.

Note

Note You can find templates for the LabVIEW instruments from Multisim 9 and 10 in the
...\samples\LabVIEW Instruments\Templates\Legacy folder.

The primary component of a LabVIEW instrument for Multisim is a VI
template (.vit file) that serves as the face of the instrument and handles
communication with Multisim.
Multisim includes templates for creating input, output and input/output
instruments. These starter templates include a LabVIEW Project with the
necessary settings for building the final instrument and a VI template that
contains the front panel and block diagram objects necessary for the VI to
communicate with Multisim.

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These starter templates are available in the samples directory at:
•

...\samples\LabVIEW Instruments\Templates\Input

– Use these files when creating a new instrument that receives
simulation data from Multisim.
•

...\samples\LabVIEW Instruments\Templates\Output

– Use these files when creating a new instrument that generates
data to use as a signal source in Multisim.
•

...\samples\LabVIEW Instruments\Templates\
InputOutput

– Use these files when creating a new instrument that both
receives simulation data from Multisim and generates data to use
as a signal source in Multisim.
The starter Projects, StarterInputInstrumentV2.lvproj,
StarterOutputInstrumentV2.lvproj, and
StarterInputOutputInstrumentV2.lvproj each contain a Source
Distribution Build Specification. The output of each Build Specification
will go to:
...\samples\LabVIEW Instruments\Templates\Input\Build,
...\samples\LabVIEW Instruments\Templates\Output\Build,
and ...\samples\LabVIEW Instruments\Templates\
InputOutput\Build.

This output is what you must install into Multisim to use the instrument.
Refer to the Building a LabVIEW Instrument and Installing a LabVIEW
Instrument sections for information about building and installing a
LabVIEW instrument.
Complete the following steps to create your own Multisim instrument:
1.

Copy the contents of the ...\samples\LabVIEW Instruments\
Templates\Input, ...\samples\LabVIEW Instruments\
Templates\Output, or ...\samples\LabVIEW Instruments\
Templates\InputOutput directory to an empty directory on your
computer.

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Open the copy of StarterInputInstrumentV2.lvproj,
StarterOutputInstrumentV2.lvproj, or
StarterInputOutputInstrumentV2.lvproj in LabVIEW.

In the Project tree, right-click on My Computer»Instrument
Template»Starter Input Instrument V2.vit, Starter Output
Instrument V2.vit, or Starter IO InstrumentV2.vit and select
Open.

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In the window for the VI template, select File»Save As. In the save
dialog that appears, select the Rename option and click Continue. In
the next dialog, choose a new name (and location, if you desire) for the
VI template and click OK.

Close the newly renamed VI template.

In the Project tree, right-click: My Computer»subVIs»Starter
Input Instrument V2_multisimInformation.vi, Starter Output
Instruments V2_multisimInformation.vi, or Starter IO
Instrument V2_multisimInformation.vi and select Open.

In the window for the VI, select File»Save As. In the save dialog that
appears, select the Rename option and click Continue. In the next
dialog, choose a new name (and location, if you desire) for the VI and
click OK. The new name for the VI should be:
_multisimInformation.vi. For example, if you
renamed the VI template in step 4 My Instrument.vit, the name for
this VI should be My Instrument_multisimInformation.vi.

Close the newly renamed VI.

Right click on the My Computer»Build Specification»Source
Distribution item in the Project tree and select Properties from the
context menu to edit the Build Specification.

10. In the Custom Destinations section of the Destination Settings page
of the Build Specification Properties dialog, modify the final VI
library in the Destination Path for the Destination Directory to
something unique (for example, My Custom Instrument.llb).
11. In the same location, modify the final directory in the Destination
Directory for the Support Directory to something unique (for
example, My Custom Instrument).
12. Click OK on the Build Specification Properties dialog and save the
Project file.
13. Open the template VI.
14. Edit the icon of the template VI. Multisim will use this icon in the
center of the symbol for the instrument.
15. Follow the guidelines and instruments listed in the comment fields on
the block diagram of the template VI to create your custom instrument.
The sample LabVIEW instruments provide excellent guides for how to
modify the starter instruments to add custom functionality.
16. Save the VI template.

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Building a LabVIEW Instrument
To ready a LabVIEW instrument for installation into Multisim, build the
Source Distribution Build Specification in the LabVIEW Project for your
instrument.
To build the Build Specification for your instrument, right-click the
My Computer»Build Specification»Source Distribution item in the
Project tree for the instrument and select Build from the context menu.
The output of this build process is as follows:
•

VI library file (.llb) containing the main VI template, any VIs

used in the hierarchy of the main VI template, and all VIs that are
members of Libraries referenced in the main VI template hierarchy,
regardless of whether they are actually used in the hierarchy of the
instrument.
•

A directory with the same name as the VI library (minus the .llb
extension) that contains any non-VI portions of the template hierarchy
and referenced Projects. These files can be DLLs, LabVIEW menu
files, and so on.

Installing a LabVIEW Instrument
To install a LabVIEW instrument into Multisim, copy the output of the
build process (a uniquely named VI library and directory) into the location
specified in the User LabVIEW Instruments Path setting found in the
Paths tab of Multisim’s Preferences dialog box.
The next time you launch Multisim, the instrument will appear under the
LabVIEW Instruments button in the Instruments toolbar.

Guidelines for Successfully Creating a LabVIEW Instrument
When creating a LabVIEW instrument for Multisim, you must follow
certain guidelines:

NI Multisim User Manual

•

Always create new instruments from either the template instrument
files or one of the example instruments. These files include the front
panel objects, block diagram objects, and settings necessary for the
instrument to behave correctly.

•

Do not delete or modify the existing diagram objects in the starter
template VI. You may add additional controls/indicators and handle
additional events in the main event loop, but do not modify or delete
any of the existing event-handling code.

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•

You may add diagram code to the starter template VI where specified
in the comments on the block diagram.

•

Every LabVIEW instrument installed in Multisim must have a unique
name. Specifically, the VI library that contains the main VI template,
the support files directory, and the main VI template itself must all
have unique names.

•

All subVIs used in a LabVIEW instrument must have unique names
unless you intend to use the same subVI across multiple instruments.

•

All Libraries used in a LabVIEW instrument must have unique names
unless you intend to use the same Libraries across multiple
instruments.

•

All LabVIEW instruments that contain VIs that are part of a Library
must be built using the same version of that Library. If you build an
instrument using a Library and then make changes to that Library
before building another instrument to install on the same computer,
you must also rebuild and reinstall the original instrument.

•

The Source Distribution Build Specification in the LabVIEW Project
for the instrument must be configured to always include all contained
items. To make this configuration, navigate to the Source File Settings
page of the Source Distribution Build Specification Properties dialog,
select Dependencies in the Project Files tree, and enable the Set
inclusion type for all contained items»Always include option. This
option is already enabled correctly in the starter instrument LabVIEW
Projects.

•

Consider whether subVIs you create for your instruments should be
marked as Reentrant. If subVIs use instance-specific constructs such as
uninitialized shift registers, the First Call? function, and so on, you will
need to mark the VI for Reentrant execution under File»VI
Properties»Execution. This setting is necessary to allow multiple
instances of the same LabVIEW instrument to behave correctly.

•

When creating an output instrument that generates data continously,
you must remember that, in general, Multisim simulates circuits at a
rate slower than the real-time behavior of an equivalent physical
circuit. Therefore, if you were to create an instrument that
continuously acquired real-world data using a data acquisition device,
modular instrument, or other such hardware, and use that data as a
simulation source in Multisim, simulation would not be able to keep up
with the acquired data because it is running at a rate slower than the
data acquisition. It is the responsibility of the output instrument creator
to generate sufficiently small chunks of data at a rate that allows
Multisim simulation to keep up with the data acquisition.

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Input/output instruments have all of the capabilities of input-only and
output-only instruments. Note, however, that LabVIEW instrument
input data is lagging (meaning that it arrives at the instrument in
discrete chunks after the simulator has produced the data), and
streaming out data is leading (meaning that the simulator requests the
data in discrete chunks before it needs it). This behavior means that
tight feedback loops where a LabVIEW instrument's output depends
instantaneously on its intput are not possible. In general, it will take at
least one extra set of continuous outputs through the "Update Data Get
Output Values" event of the instrument before you can be sure that the
input received by that instrument reflects an adjusted output signal.

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This chapter explains how to use the various analyses included in Multisim.
It explains how to work with analyses in general, the specific settings and
options for each individual analysis, and how to view and manipulate
analyses results.
Some of the features described in this chapter may not be available in your
edition of Multisim. Refer to the release notes for a list of the features in
your edition.

Introduction to Multisim Analyses
Multisim offers you many analyses, all of which use simulation to generate
the data for the analysis you want to perform. These analyses can range
from quite basic to extremely sophisticated, and can often require one
analysis to be performed (automatically) as part of another.
For each analysis, you will need to decide upon some settings that will tell
Multisim what you want the analysis to do. In addition to the analyses
provided by Multisim, you can also create user-defined analyses based on
SPICE commands you enter.
When you activate an analysis, the results are displayed on a plot in the
Multisim Grapher, unless you specify otherwise, and saved for use in the
Postprocessor. Refer to the Viewing the Analysis Results: Grapher section
and Chapter 11, Postprocessor, for more information.
Some results are also written to a viewable audit trail. Refer to the
Simulation Error Log/Audit Trail section of Chapter 8, Simulation, for
more information.
To indicate that an analysis is running, the Simulation Running Indicator
appears in the status bar as shown in the figure below. This indicator flashes
until the analysis is complete.

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Some analyses are performed so quickly, that you will not notice the Simulation
Running Indicator flashing.

Note

Viewing the Analysis Results: Grapher
To have the Grapher appear, select View»Grapher.
The Grapher is a multi-purpose display tool that lets you view, adjust,
save, and export graphs and charts. It is used to display:
•

the results of all Multisim analyses in graphs and charts

•

a graph of traces for some instruments (for example the results of the
postprocessor, oscilloscope and Bode plot).

The display shows both graphs and charts. In a graph, data are displayed as
one or more traces along vertical and horizontal axes. In a chart, text data
are displayed in rows and columns. The window is made up of several
tabbed pages, depending on how many analyses, etc. have been run.
Each page has two possible active areas which will be indicated by a red
arrow: the entire page indicated with the arrow in the left margin near the
page name of the chart/graph indicated with the arrow in the left margin
near the active chart/graph. Some functions, such as cut/copy/paste, affect
only the active area, so be sure you have selected the desired area before
performing a function.

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Some analyses, such as the AC Analysis, create both a phase and
magnitude graph on the same page when the analysis is run. In this case,
the x-axes (frequency) of the plots will line up as shown in the figure below.
This is the default setting. However, you can change the setting for
individual graphs. Refer to the Axes section for more information.

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The Grapher offers a number of functions on its toolbar:
Button

Description
Opens a new page tab.

Opens a dialog where you select a previously saved graph file
to open.
Saves contents of current pages in a graph file.

Prints some or all of the current pages. Refer to the Print and
Print Preview section for more information.
Shows preview of pages as they will be printed. Refer to the
Print and Print Preview section for more information.
Cuts pages or graphs/charts. Refer to the Cut, Copy and Paste
section for more information.

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Description
Copies pages or graphs/charts. Refer to the Cut, Copy and
Paste section for more information.
Pastes pages or graphs/charts. Refer to the Cut, Copy and
Paste section for more information.
Undoes most recent action.

Applies/removes grid for the selected graph. Refer to the
Grids and Legends section for more information.
Displays/hides graph legend. Refer to the Grids and Legends
section for more information.
Displays/hides cursors and data. Refer to the Cursors section
for more information.
Zoom settings. Refer to the Zoom and Restore section for
more information.

Displays/hides negative image of graph or chart.

Refer to the Working with Pages on the Grapher section for
information.
Refer to the Working with Graphs section for information.

Copies graph properties.

Pastes graph properties.

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Button

Description
Adds traces from the latest simulation results.

Overlay traces.

Lets you export analysis results to Excel. Refer to the
Exporting to Excel section of Chapter 13,
Transfer/Communication, for more information.
Lets you export analysis results to MathCAD. Refer to the
Exporting to MathCAD section of Chapter 13,
Transfer/Communication, for more information.
Lets you export analysis results to either a .lvm or .tdm
measurement file. Refer to the Saving to a Measurement File
section of Chapter 13, Transfer/Communication, for more
information.

Working with Pages on the Grapher
Every analysis you perform on a circuit displays its results on a separate
page of the Grapher. Every trace may also appear on a separate page, if
that is how you have set up your analysis.
To view a page on the Grapher, click its tab.
To scroll through pages (when there are too many tabs to fit in the available
space), click the forward or reverse arrow buttons that appear at the right
edge of the tabs.
Complete the following steps to change page properties:

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Select a page by clicking its tab.

Click the Page Properties button to display the Page Properties
dialog box.

Change the following as desired:
•

Tab Name field—Changes the tab’s name.

•

Title field—Changes the title of the chart or graph.

•

Font button—Changes the title’s font.

•

Background Color drop-down list—Changes the page’s
background color.
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Show/Hide Diagrams on Page button—Displays a list where you
select which diagrams to display on the page.

To apply the change and close the dialog box, click OK. To apply the
change and leave the dialog box open for additional selections, click
Apply.

Working with Graphs
To help you examine graphical data, you can use a grid, a legend and
vertical cursors. You can also zoom in on any part of a graph. You can
apply these tools separately or together. In addition, you can change several
graph display characteristics from the tabs of the Graph Properties dialog
box.
To display the Graph Properties dialog box or to use the buttons described in this
section, you must have a graph selected. Click on a graph to select it. A red arrow appears
to the left of the graph to indicate it is selected. Your selection is also indicated in the
Status Bar at the bottom of the Grapher.

Note

Grids and Legends
Complete the following steps to apply a grid to a graph:
1.

Select a graph by clicking anywhere on it.

Click the Show/Hide Grid button. To remove the grid, click the button
again.
Or

Select a graph by clicking anywhere on it.

Click the Properties button. The Graph Properties dialog box
appears.

Click the General tab.

Enable the Grid On option. If desired, change the grid Pen Size and
color.

Complete the following steps to apply a legend to a graph:
1.

Select a graph by clicking anywhere on it.

Click the Show/Hide Legend button. To remove the legend, click the
button again.
Or

Select a graph by clicking anywhere on it.

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Click the Properties button. The Graph Properties dialog box
appears.

Select the General tab.

Enable the Legend On option. If desired, change the labels of the
traces using the Traces tab. Refer to the Traces section for more
information.

Cursors
As shown in the figure below, when you activate the cursors feature, two
vertical cursors appear on the selected graph. At the same time, a window
pops up, displaying a list of data for one or all traces.

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The cursor data include:
•

x1,y1—(x,y) co-ordinates for the left cursor

•

x2,y2—(x,y) co-ordinates for the right cursor

•

dx—X-axis delta between the two cursors

•

dy—X-axis delta between the two cursors

•

1/dx—Reciprocal of the x-axis delta

•

1/dy—Reciprocal of the y-axis delta

•

min x, min y—x and y minima within the graph ranges

•

max x, max y—x and y maxima within the graph ranges

Complete the following steps to activate the cursors:
1.

Select a graph by clicking anywhere on it.

Click the Show/Hide Cursors button. To hide the cursors, click the
button again.
Or

Select a graph by clicking anywhere on it.

Click the Properties button. The Graph Properties dialog box
appears.

Select the General tab.

Enable the Cursors On option.

Select Single Trace to view cursor data for one trace or All Traces to
view cursor data for all traces. If you select Single Trace and there is
more than one trace in your graph, use the Trace field to select the one
you want.

To move a cursor, click and drag it horizontally.

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Cursor Pop-up Menu
Complete the following steps to move a cursor to a precise location:

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Right-click on the cursor you wish to move. The cursor pop-up
displays as shown below.

Choose Select Trace ID. The following dialog box appears.

Select the trace which you wish to use as the reference for the other
options in the pop-up menu from the Trace drop-down list. When you
select any of the other options in the pop-up, the cursor will move to
the specific location on the trace that you select in this step.

Right-click on the cursor you wish to move and choose one of the
following options:
•

Set X_Value—Click to display the following dialog box. Enter
the desired location on the x-axis and click OK. The cursor moves
to that location.

•

Set Y_Value =>—Click to display the following dialog box.
Enter the desired location on the y-axis to where you would like
the cursor to move and click OK. The cursor moves to the right,
to the first place when that value occurs.

•

Set Y_Value <=—Click to display the following dialog box.
Enter the desired location on the y-axis to where you would like

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the cursor to move and click OK. The cursor moves to the left, to
the first place when that value occurs.
•

Go to next Y_MAX =>—Click to move the cursor to the first
occurence of the maximum Y value that is to the right of its
current location.

•

Go to next Y_MAX <=—Click to move the cursor to the first
occurence of the maximum Y value that is to the left of its current
location.

•

Go to next Y_MIN =>—Click to move the cursor to the first
occurence of the minimum Y value that is to the right of its current
location.

•

Go to next Y_MIN <=—Click to move the cursor to the first
occurence of the minimum Y value that is to the left of its current
location.

Zoom and Restore
Complete the following steps to zoom in on any part of a graph:
1.

Select a graph by clicking anywhere on it.

Click and drag the pointer until the dotted enlargement box covers the
region of the graph that you want to zoom in on.

Release the mouse button. The axes are scaled and the graph redrawn
based on the enlargement box.
Or

Select a graph by clicking anywhere on it.

Click the Properties button. The Graph Properties dialog box
appears.

Click an axis tab to zoom along that axis. For example, choose the
Bottom Axis tab to zoom along the horizontal dimension. (Check the
Traces tab to see which axis is used for the range you want to zoom.)

Type a new minimum and maximum in the Range box.

To restore a graph to its original scale, click the Zoom Restore button.

Title
Complete the following steps to apply a title to a graph:
1.

Select a graph by clicking anywhere on it.

Click the Properties button. The Graph Properties dialog box
appears.

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Choose the General tab.

Type a new title in the Title field. To change the title’s font, click the
Font button.

Axes
You can change several characteristics of a graph’s axes from the four axes
tabs in the Graph Properties dialog box. The options are identical in each
of the tabs.
Complete the following steps to change the characteristics of an axis:

NI Multisim User Manual

Select a graph by clicking anywhere on it.

Click the Properties button. The Graph Properties dialog box
appears.

Click the Axis tab for the axis you want to change.

Change any of the axis’ characteristics, using the following fields:
•

Label—Label for the axis. To change the axis font, click Font.

•

Pen Size—Controls the thickness and color of the axis and the
font of the axis’ values. To change color or font, click Color or
Font.

•

Minimum/Maximum—Controls the minimum and maximum
values displayed. Values change when you zoom.

•

Number—Sets the number of tick marks on axis.

•

Frequency—Sets the occurrence of values on tick marks. For
example, “2” means that a value appears every two tick marks.

•

Precision—Sets the number of significant digits for axis values.

•

Scale—Sets a multiplication factor for axis values. Changes the
scale of the axis.

•

Enabled—Determines whether or not the axis appears.

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Traces
To select a trace, left-click on it. Trace select marks appear on the selected
trace (small triangles along the trace.
Complete the following steps to change other trace properties:
1.

Right-click on the trace to display the following pop-up.

Select the desired item from the pop-up.

You can change several characteristics of each trace in a graph from the
Traces tab in the Graph Properties dialog box.
Complete the following steps to change the characteristics of a trace:
1.

Select a graph by clicking anywhere on it.

Click the Properties button. The Graph Properties dialog box
appears.

Click the Traces tab.

Select a trace.

Change any of the trace’s characteristics, using the following fields:

•

Trace—Specifies the trace whose properties are being affected.

•

Label—Specifies a label for the trace. Appears in legend.

•

Pen Size—Controls the thickness of the trace.

•

Color—Controls the color of the trace. The Sample box shows a
preview.

•

Bottom Axis/Top Axis—Controls the X range of the trace.

•

Left Axis/Right Axis—Controls the Y range of the trace.

•

X Offset/Y Offset—Value to offset the trace from its original
coordinates.

•

Auto-Separate button—Offsets multiple traces in a graph for
easier viewing.

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Merging Traces
Complete the following steps to traces together onto a new graph:
1.

Click on the Overlay Traces button. The Select a Graph dialog box
appears.

Select the files you wish to merge together and click OK. A new graph
appears with the merged traces.

Select Pages Dialog Box
The Select Pages dialog box is used to select pages to print, preview or
remove from the Grapher.
Note The Select Pages dialog does not appear if there is only one page open in the
Grapher.

Complete the following steps to preview pages before printing:
1.

Select File»Print Preview from the Grapher. The Select Pages
dialog box appears.

Check the pages you wish to preview and click OK.

Complete the following steps to print pages:
1.

Select File»Print from the Grapher. The Select Pages dialog box
appears.

Check the pages you wish to print and click OK.

Complete the following steps to remove pages from the Grapher:

NI Multisim User Manual

Select Edit»Clear Pages. The Select Pages dialog box appears.

Check the pages you wish to delete and click OK.

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Graph Pop-up Menu
Complete the following steps to view the graph’s pop-up menu:
1.

Note

Right-click on the background of a graph to display the graph pop-up.

Refer to the Traces section for the pop-up that is accessed from a trace.
2.

Select the desired option from the pop-up.

Viewing Charts
To help you examine and organize a chart, you can sort rows, adjust column
widths, change precision and add a title.
To sort a row of data, click the column name button of the column you want
to sort by. Sorting order is from low to high for numbers; otherwise, it is
alphabetical.
To adjust the width of a column, click and drag the left edge of the column
name button.
Complete the following steps to change the chart’s column precision
(number of significant digits) or title:
1.

Select a chart by clicking anywhere on it.

Click the Properties button. The Chart Properties dialog box
appears.

To change the chart Title, type a new title. To change the font, click the
Font button.

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To change a column’s precision, select a column number and a
precision (number of significant digits). Precision only affects
columns that contain numerical values.

Click OK.

Cut, Copy and Paste
The Grapher lets you cut, copy and paste pages, graphs and charts.
Note You must use the cut, copy and paste buttons from the Grapher window. You cannot
use the Multisim menus, buttons or keyboard shortcuts for these functions.

Complete the following steps to cut, copy and paste pages:
1.

Select a page by clicking on its tab.

Click the Cut or Copy button.

Click the Paste button. The cut or copied page appears.

Note When a page is selected (the red arrow points to the tab), cut, copy and paste affect
page properties only. They do not affect the graphs or charts on the page.

Complete the following steps to cut, copy and paste graphs and charts:
1.

Select a graph or chart.

Click the Cut or Copy button.

Click the Paste button to paste the graph or chart onto the same page.
Or, to paste onto a new page:

Click the New button. A new tab appears in the Grapher.

Click the Paste button.

When a graph or chart is selected (the red arrow points to the graph or chart), cut,
copy and paste affect the selected graph or chart only. They do not affect overall page
properties.

Note

Opening Files
Complete the following steps to open an existing file in the Grapher:
1.

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Click the Open button. A file browser appears.

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Select the desired file type from the drop-down list. Available file types
are:
•

Graph files (*.gra)—Multisim Grapher files.

•

Data files (*.dat)—Files created and saved from the Agilent
Simulated Oscilloscope.

•

Scope data (*.scp)—Files created and saved from the Multisim
Oscilloscope.

•

Bode data (*.bod)—Files created and saved from the Multisim
Bode plotter.

Select the file you want to open.

Click Open.

Saving Files
Simulation data in Multisim consists of unevenly sampled time-value pairs.
This is not an issue when saving either Multisim Grapher files (*.gra) or
standard text files (*.txt). However, text-based measurement files
(*.lvm) such as those created in NI LabVIEW require that the data be
evenly sampled. Depending on how you wish to use the data, you may also
wish to resample the data for binary measurement files (*.tdm) so that they
are evenly sampled.
Details follow.
Complete the following steps to save a file in the Grapher:
1.

Select File»Save As. A file browser appears.

Select the desired file type from the drop-down list. Available file types
are:

•

Graph files (*.gra)—Multisim Grapher files.

•

Text files (*.txt)—Standard text files.

•

Text-based measurement files (*.lvm)—Files such as those
created in NI LabVIEW.

•

Binary measurement files (*.tdm)—Files used to exchange data
between National Instruments software, such as NI LabVIEW and
DIAdem. Note that when you save data this file type, two files are
created; a header file (.tdm) and a binary file (.tdx). Refer to the
Important information about saving simulation data to LVM and
TDM files section for more information.

Select the desired filepath, enter a filename and click Save. Graph files
(*.gra) and text files (*.txt) are saved to the location specified.

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If you selected either text-based measurement files (*.lvm) or binary
measurement files (*.tdm), the Data resampling settings dialog box
appears.
4.

Note

If you chose to save the file as a .lvm or .tdm file, the Data
resampling settings dialog box appears. Change the following
settings as desired:
•

Do not resample checkbox—Appears for .tdm files only. Enable
if you do not wish to resample the data. The other options are
disabled.

•

Resample data checkbox—Appears for .tdm files only.

•

Interpolation mode—select one of: Coerce; Linear
Interpolation; Spline Interpolation. (See below for a description
of each).

•

Δx (in seconds if time-domain data)—The sampling period to
use for resampling.

•

1/Δx (in Hz if time-domain data)—The sampling rate to use for
resampling.

You can change either Δx or 1/Δx. The other will change accordingly.
•
5.

Estimated file size—This read-only field changes as you change
either Δx or 1/Δx.

Click OK to close the dialog and save the file.

Interpolation modes
Coerce—This method returns an output sample value equal to the input
sample value closest to the output sample value in time. An advantage of
this method is that it requires almost no computation.
Linear Interpolation—This method assumes that you know two
neighboring samples of the waveform, and that between those two samples
the signal changes at a constant rate. The algorithm essentially draws a
straight line between these two samples and returns the appropriate point
along that line.
Spline Interpolation—This method uses a cubic spline algorithm, which
yields smooth transitions between the samples and good quality on
single-shot short records.

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Important information about saving simulation data to LVM
and TDM files
In some instances, you may wish to save results with multiple graphs on the
same page to a TDM or LVM file. For example, if you run an AC analysis,
both a magnitude and a phase graph appear on the same Grapher page.
Multisim saves TDM files with each Multisim graph worth of data as a
Channel Group. The Channel Group contains all data channels (voltage,
current, etc.) as well as a channel describing the x-axis (usually time or
frequency). You cannot use the LabVIEW Read From Measurement File
Express VI to read these files. Rather, you must use the File I/O/Storage
VIs to read the files.
If you write multiple graphs of data to an LVM file, the data for the different
graphs are stored in different sections of the LVM file. To read all sections
from an LVM file, you must call the LabVIEW Read from Measurement
File Express VI multiple times until the end of file output is False.

Print and Print Preview
Complete the following steps to view the printed pages before you print:
1.

Click the Print Preview button. The Select Pages dialog box appears.

Select the page that you wish to view and click OK.

Click the Print button to open the print dialog box and print the pages.
Or
Click Close to close print preview.

Complete the following steps to print pages:

Note

Click the Print button on the toolbar or from the print preview. The
Select Pages dialog box appears.

Select the page that you wish to print and click OK. The Print dialog
box for your printer appears.

Enter the desired parameters and click OK.

Colored lines are distinguished with different line styles for black and white printers.

Adding Traces from the Latest Simulation Results
When you run an analysis, the results (based on the items in the Selected
variables for analysis column of the analysis’s Output tab) appear in the
Grapher.

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Multisim also lets you plot extra traces from the results of the most recent
simulation in the Grapher. Before running your analysis, you simply select
the variables that you want to save with the simulation. These variables are
then available for use in the Grapher and the Postprocessor.
Note This section provides instructions on how to add traces from the most recent
simulation using the Grapher. In most cases, this will likely be your method of choice.
However, if you would like to use the Postprocessor to add traces and charts from multiple
sets of simulation results, refer to the Using the Postprocessor section of Chapter 11,
Postprocessor, for more information.

Complete the following steps to select variables to save for later use:
1.

Click Select variables to save from the Output tab of the desired
analysis to display the Select Variables to Save dialog box.

In each of the Voltages and Currents drop-down lists, select one of:
All; All except submodules; Only at static probes; None.

In the Power drop-down list, select one of: All; All except
submodules; None.

Click OK to return to the analysis’s Output tab.

Complete the following steps to add traces from the latest simulation
results:
1.

From the Grapher, click the Add traces button to display the Add
traces from latest simulation result dialog box.

Select one of:

•

To selected graph—Select if you want to add the new trace(s) to
an existing graph. Select the correct Page name and Graph name
from their respective drop-down lists.

•

To new graph—Select if you want to start a new graph for the
new trace(s). Enter the desired Page name and Graph name.

From the Variables list, select the variable you want to include in the
expression being used to define the trace, and click Copy Variable to
Expression. The variable appears in the Expressions selected section.

To filter the Variables list to show only certain variables, choose from the
drop-down list, for example, All Voltages.

Note

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From the Functions list, select the mathematical function you want
included in the expression for this trace, and click Copy function to
expression. To filter the Functions list to show only certain
mathematical functions, choose from the drop-down list of options.
Refer to the Available Postprocessor Functions section of Chapter 11,
Postprocessor, for more information.

It is possible to manually type or modify a trace’s equation although you should
exercise caution if doing so.

Note

Continue to choose analyses, variables and functions until the
expression is complete.

If you wish to add another expression, click Add and add the desired
Variables and Functions as described above. (To delete an expression
from the list, select the expression and click Delete).

Click Calculate to display the results of the expression in the
Grapher.

Working with Analyses
To use an analysis you should follow the general instructions for accessing
and running an analysis described below. Also, each analysis has specific
options that you can set:
•

the analysis parameters (all have default values)

•

how output variables are to be handled (required)

•

a title for the analysis (optional)

•

custom values for analysis options (optional).

Analysis settings are saved with the circuit.
The rest of this section describes the general procedures for performing
analyses. The following sections describe the details of each analysis.

General Instructions
Complete the following steps to perform an analysis:
1.

Select Simulate»Analyses. A menu appears with the list of analyses
available.

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Select the desired analysis. Depending on the analysis selected, the
dialog box that appears will include some or all of the following tabs:
•

the Analysis Parameters tab, where you set the parameters for
this analysis

•

the Output tab, where you specify what is to be done with specific
analysis output (not present in all analyses).

•

the Analysis Options tab, where you set any custom values for
analysis options

•

the Summary tab, where you see a consolidated view of all the
settings for the analysis.

The options and settings available in these tabs are described in the
following sections.
3.

To save the settings as the defaults for future use, click Accept in the
analysis dialog box.

To run the simulation with the current settings, click Simulate in the
analysis dialog box.

To stop the analysis, select Simulate»Analyses»Stop Analysis, or
press ESC.

To run several analyses in a batch, refer to the Batched Analyses
section.

Analysis Parameters Tab
The options available in the Analysis Parameters tab are different for each
analysis, and are therefore described in different sections of this chapter,
one per analysis. Analysis descriptions include guidelines for both normal
and advanced use of the analysis.
Some lists of items are accompanied by a Change filter function. This lets
you filter the items shown in that list, choosing whether or not to include
internal nodes, submodules, open pins and device parameters.

Output Tab
This is where you choose the variables you want to use in the analysis.

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Variables in circuit drop-down list—Use to select types of output
variables to display in the list below.

•

Filter Unselected Variables button—Use to filter types of variables
displayed.

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•

Add device/model parameter button—Use to add a parameter from
a specific device or model to the list of variables.

•

Selected variables for analysis drop-down list—Use to choose types
of variables to be used in analysis.

•

Filter selected variables button—Use to filter the variables displayed
to include internal nodes, open pins and output variables.

•

Edit Expression and Add Expression buttons—Use to add and edit
analysis expressions.

•

Select variables to save button—Use to select variables to save that
can be used to add trace s to a graph after simulation, or for
postprocessing. See Selecting Variables to Save.

For details on the functions used in this tab, see:
•

Choosing How to Handle Output Variables

•

Filtering the Variable Lists

•

Adding Parameters to the Variable List

•

Selecting Variables to Save

•

Adding Analysis Expressions

Choosing How to Handle Output Variables
To include the output variable in the plot, select a variable from the list on
the left and click Add.
To select more than one variable at a time, press Shift while selecting
variables from the list on the left and click Add.
To remove an item from the right hand list, select it and click Remove.
Using the Output tab, you can also filter the variables list, filter the
variables displayed, as well as add a wide range of device or model
parameters.
By default, All variables are initially included in the Variables in circuit
list.

Filtering the Variable Lists
Complete the following steps to filter the variables list according to general
variable type:
1.

Click the Variables in circuit drop-down list.

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Click the general variable type (such as voltages, currents,
device/model parameters) to include in the list.

If you have any static probes placed on the circuit, the contents of the list will default
to static probes and all static probes in the circuit will appear in the list. Any probes that
are designated as reference probes on the workspace will not be used as reference probes
for the analysis, as reference probes are for interactive simulation only. Refer to the Static
Probe Settings section of Chapter 9, Instruments, for information about static probe
properties.

Note

You can filter the variables displayed to include internal nodes (such as
nodes inside a BJT model or inside a SPICE subcircuit), open pins, as well
as output variables from any submodules contained in the circuit.
Complete the following steps to filter the variables displayed:
1.

Click Filter Unselected Variables. The Filter nodes dialog box
appears.

Enable one or more display settings.

Click OK.

Adding Parameters to the Variable List
Complete the following steps to add a parameter from a specific device or
model to the list of variables:

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Click Add device/model parameter. The Add device/model
parameter dialog box appears, allowing you to specify which
parameter is to be added. For example:

From the Parameter Type list, select whether you want to add a
device parameter or model parameter. These let you set how various
internal parameters of a component or model change during the
analysis.

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From the Device Type drop-down list, select a device type from the
devices in the circuit.

From the Name drop-down list, select a specific instance of the device
type.

From the Parameter drop-down list, select a parameter from all
available device/model parameters. A brief description of the selected
parameter appears in the Description field.

Click OK to add the selected parameter to the Variables in circuit list.
This variable can now be included in the analysis.

The parameter appears in the left-hand list in the Output Variables tab on
the analysis dialog box, which is automatically set to show only
device/model parameters.
To delete a parameter added in this way, select it and click Delete selected
variable.
To show the values of all the components and models in the circuit at the
end of the simulation, enable Show all device parameters at end of
simulation in the audit trail.

Selecting Variables to Save
You can select circuit variables to save that can be used to add traces to a
graph after simulation, or for post-processing in the Postprocessor.
Complete the following steps to select variables to save for later use:
1.

Click Select variables to save from the Output tab of the desired
analysis to display the Select variables to save dialog box.

In each of the Voltages and Currents drop-down lists, select one of:
All; All except submodules; Only at static probes; None.

In the Power drop-down list, select one of: All; All except
submodules; None.

Click OK to return to the analysis’s Output tab.

Run the analysis. The results (based on the items in the Selected
variables for analysis column of the analysis’s Output tab) appear in
the Grapher. The variables that you selected to save for later use can
be accessed from either the Grapher or the Postprocessor. Refer to
the Adding Traces from the Latest Simulation Results section and the
Using the Postprocessor section of Chapter 11, Postprocessor, for
information about using the variables you selected in the above
procedure.

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Adding Analysis Expressions
Expressions can be added to analyses via the Analysis Expression dialog
box.
In the following analyses, this dialog box is accesed from the Output tab
by clicking the Add Expression button:
•

DC Operating Point Analysis

•

AC Analysis

•

Transient Analysis

•

Fourier Analysis

•

Distortion Analysis

•

DC Sweep Analysis

•

Parameter Sweep Analysis

•

Temperature Sweep Analysis.

Other analyses support expressions through the Analysis Parameters tab.
For the analyses listed below, you can click on the Expression checkbox
and enter an analysis expression directly into the Output expression field.
When the Expression radio button is enabled, the Edit button becomes
active. Click this to view the Analysis Expression dialog box where you
can enter and edit analyses.
•

Sensitivity Analysis

•

Worst Case Analysis

•

Monte Carlo Analysis.

Complete the following steps to add an expression:
1.

Access the Analysis Expression dialog box as described above.

Optionally, click Change Filter and select any of internal nodes,
submodules or open pins to add to the Variables list.

Filter the available Variables and Functions using their respective
drop-down lists.

Build your expression by selecting the desired Variables and
Functions one at a time and click the Copy Variable to Expression
or Copy Function to Expression button to place them into the
Expression field. The selection will be placed at the current cursor
position.

Instead of using the Copy Variable to Expression and Copy Function to
Expression buttons, you can double-click to place them into the Expression field.

Tip

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To save time, you can type smaller expressions directly into the Expression field.
(Exercise caution, as the syntax of the expression will not be checked until the analysis is
performed). If you wish to remove the entire expression and start over, click Clear.

Tip

Note Available functions are the same as in the Postprocessor, with the exception of
vector functions. Vector functions require a previously acquired set of data, and are
therefore available only via the Postprocessor. Refer to the Available Postprocessor
Functions section of Chapter 11, Postprocessor, for information.

Click OK to close the dialog. Depending on the analysis from which
you accessed the Analysis Expression dialog, your expression is
placed in either the Selected variables for analysis list or the
Output variable field.

From the analysis dialog box, click Simulate. The analysis proceeds
as normal, and the traces on the resulting graph show the output
equation(s) as if they are individual nodes.
When you open the Analysis Expression dialog box again, the
expression that you entered will be in the Recent Expressions list.
Each time you add an expression in the current Multisim session, it
will be added to this list.

To save time entering expressions that are similar to those already used, highlight a
similar expression in the Recent Expressions list and click Copy to Expression. Now edit
the contents of the Expression field as desired. If you wish to remove an expression from
the Recent Expressions list, highlight it and click Delete Selected.

Tip

If you run the Postprocessor on this analysis, the expression and all of its dependant
circuit variables are available for postprocessing.

Note

Complete the following steps to edit an expression from an analysis:
1.

Highlight it in the Selected variables for analysis list and click
Edit Expression to display the Analysis Expression dialog box.

If the analysis displays the expression in the Output expression field, there is no
need to highlight it before clicking Edit.

Note

Edit the expression as desired and click OK to return to the analysis.

Complete the following steps to delete an expression from an analysis:
1.

Highlight the expression in the Selected variables for analysis list and
click Remove. Removing an expression deletes it entirely.

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Or
If the analysis displays the expression in the Output expression field,
click Edit to display the Analysis Expression dialog box and click
Clear, then OK to close the dialog. The Output expression field in the
analysis is now empty.
You can also highlight the entire expression in the Output Variable
field, and click Delete on your keyboard.

Analysis Options Tab
The options in this tab provide you with additional flexibility, but do not
require that you set them.
To check if the circuit is a valid circuit for analysis, enable Perform
consistency check before starting analysis. This option automatically
identifies inconsistencies such as open capacitors, empty circuit files and
ungrounded circuits.
Normally analyses run without further intervention. If an analysis does not
perform as necessary, you may need to set custom analysis options.
To change the analysis title from its default, enter text in the Title for
analysis field.
Complete the following steps to set custom analysis options:
1.

Enable Use Custom Settings and click Customize. The Custom
Analysis Options dialog box appears.

You should have a general knowledge of the SPICE simulation engine before
altering the default settings under this option.

Note

Change the desired settings in the Custom Analysis Options dialog
box.

Click OK to return to the Analysis Options tab.

Click OK.

Refer to the Custom Analysis Options Dialog Box section for a complete
list of the available analysis options.

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Summary Tab
This tab offers a quick overview of the various settings for your analysis. It
does not require you to set any options, but you can use it to view summary
information about your analysis.
You navigate through this display as you do with Windows Explorer. The
“+” beside an item indicates that it has additional information underneath
it, which can be revealed by clicking the “+”. The “–” beside an item
indicates that all its information is being revealed. That information can be
hidden by clicking the “–”.
This window also shows you the SPICE representation of your analysis
options, as well as the name of the file to which the analysis results are
being saved (.raw file). This file is used for postprocessing.

Incomplete Analyses
For a variety of reasons, the simulator in Multisim is occasionally unable
to complete a simulation or an analysis.
Multisim uses the modified Newton-Raphson method to solve nonlinear
circuits. When a circuit includes nonlinear components, multiple iterations
of a set of linear equations are used to account for the non-linearities. The
simulator makes an initial guess at the node voltages, then calculates the
branch currents based on the conductances in the circuit. The branch
currents are then used to recalculate the node voltages and the cycle is
repeated. This cycle continues until all of the node voltages and branch
currents fall within user-defined tolerances, that is, convergence occurs.
You can specify tolerances and iteration limits for the analysis through the
analysis options described in the Custom Analysis Options Dialog Box
section.
If the voltages or currents do not converge within a specified number of
iterations, an error message is produced and the simulation is aborted
(typical messages include “Singular matrix,” “Gmin stepping failed,”
“Source stepping failed” and “Iteration limit reached”).

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DC Operating Point Analysis
DC Operating Point Analysis determines the DC operating point of a
circuit. The results of DC analysis are usually intermediate values for
further analysis. For example, the results obtained from DC analysis
determines the approximate linearized, small-signal models for any
nonlinear components, such as diodes and transistors, to be used with AC
frequency analysis.
Assumptions:
•

AC sources are zeroed out

•

Capacitors are open

•

Inductors are shorted

•

Digital components are treated as a large resistor to ground.

Setting up and Running DC Operating Point Analysis
To start DC Operating Point Analysis, select Simulate»Analyses»DC
Operating Point.

Setting DC Operating Point Analysis Parameters
There are no analysis parameters to be set for this analysis. Hence, the
Analysis Parameters tab does not appear for DC Operating Point
Analysis.
Refer to the Working with Analyses section for details on the other tabs in
the analysis window.

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Sample Circuit
This example analyses the DC Operating Point results at Node #3.

The circuit above is a Colpitts oscillator. When running DC Operating
Point Analysis, Multisim reduces the circuit to that shown below:

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The result of running DC operating point from the sample circuit are shown
below. Note that the results match the calculations made in the diagram
above.

Troubleshooting DC Operating Point Analysis Failures
DC Operating Point Analysis may fail to converge for various reasons.
The initial estimates for the node voltages may be too far off, the circuit
may be unstable or bi-stable (there may be more than one solution to the
equations), there may be discontinuities in the models or the circuit may
contain unrealistic impedances.

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Circuit Failure Example

When current flows through an inductor, voltage develops across the
terminals. SPICE models inductors as time-varying current sources. When
a circuit has two inductors in parallel, the simulator engine automatically
produces an error. When running any analysis for the circuit above, the two
inductors are seen as voltage sources by the simulation engine. As a result,
this circuit will fail.
To correct this problem, place a 0.001ohm resistor in the circuit. The
sources are no longer in parallel, and the DC operating point can converge.

Troubleshooting Techniques
Use the following techniques to solve many convergence problems and
analysis failures. Before you proceed, identify which analysis is causing the
problem (keep in mind that DC Operating Point Analysis is often
performed as the first step of other analyses). In each of the following
solutions, begin with step 1, then continue performing the subsequent steps,
in order, until the problem is solved.
1.

Check the circuit topology and connectivity. Make sure that:
•

the circuit is grounded.

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•

the circuit is correctly wired, and includes no dangling nets or
stray parts.

•

you haven’t confused zeroes with the letter O.

•

the circuit has a ground node and every node in the circuit has a
DC path to ground. Make sure no sections of your circuit are
completely isolated from ground by transformers, capacitors, etc.

•

Capacitors and voltage sources are not in parallel.

•

Inductors and current sources are not in series.

•

All devices and sources are set to their proper values.

•

All dependent source gains are correct.

•

Your models/subcircuits have been correctly entered.

Show all net names. Check the net name assigned to ground
components. All grounds MUST be indicated by net name 0 (ZERO).
If otherwise, delete a ground and replace by another one from the parts
bin.

Check for duplicate net names in the circuit. Each net must have a
unique name. Reassign if necessary by double-clicking the wire
indicating a duplicate net name and typing in another unique name.

If working with digital circuits make sure that both, earth and digital
grounds are left on the workspace.

Copy and then paste your circuit into a new file. Simulate the circuit
again.

If the problem persists, adjust the following parameters:
1.

From the Analysis Options tab of the DC Operating Point dialog
box, enable Use Custom Settings and click Customize. The Analysis
Options dialog box appears.

In the Global tab:

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Reduce the RSHUNT value by a factor of 100.

•

Increase the GMIN minimum conductance by a factor of 10. Note:
GMIN = 1/Rp, where Rp is the smallest parasitic resistance value
in the circuit.

In the DC tab:
•

Set ITL1 = 500 or more. By increasing ITL1, the extra iterations
will only be used if they are needed. ITL1 set to 1000 covers about
90% of circuits

•

Set ITL6 = 500.

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Use .Nodeset to set a DC voltage level if possible (double-click
wire connected to a net in question. Check Use NODESET for DC
and type in a DC voltage).

When running DC Operating Point Analysis for a circuit that contains
ammeters and voltmeters (indicators) and their internal settings (resistance) have been
changed from their default values, the simulation results indicated by DC Operating Point
Analysis will be incorrect. Remove ammeters/voltmeters to correct the problem. The
results are correct if no changes were applied to ammeter/voltmeter internal settings.

Caution

AC Analysis
AC Analysis is used to calculate the frequency response of linear circuits.
In AC Analysis, the DC operating point is first calculated to obtain linear,
small-signal models for all nonlinear components. Then a complex matrix
(containing both real and imaginary components) is created. To construct a
matrix, DC sources are given zero values. AC sources, capacitors, and
inductors are represented by their AC models. Nonlinear components are
represented by linear AC small-signal models, derived from the DC
operating point solution. All input sources are considered to be sinusoidal.
The frequency of the sources is ignored. If the function generator is set to
a square or triangular waveform, it will automatically switch internally to a
sinusoidal waveform for analysis. AC Analysis then calculates the AC
circuit response as a function of frequency.
Assumptions—Applied to an analog circuit, small-signal. Digital
components are treated as large resistances to ground.

Setting AC Analysis Frequency Parameters
Before you perform the analysis, review your circuit and decide on the nets
for analysis. You can specify magnitude and phase of a source for AC
frequency analysis by double-clicking on the source and entering the
settings in the Value tab of the properties dialog box (AC Analysis
Magnitude and AC Analysis Phase) as shown in the figure below. The
other settings in this dialog box are used for other analyses or for simulating
with the instruments.

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Set the following in the Frequency Parameters tab of the AC Analysis
dialog box:

Note

•

Start frequency (FSTART)—The start frequency for the sweep.

•

Stop frequency (FSTOP)—The stop frequency for the sweep.

•

Sweep type—The sweep type: decade, linear, or octave. Defines how
points to be calculated are distributed across the frequency range.

•

Number of points per decade—The number of points to be
calculated during the analysis. For a linear sweep type, use the number
of points between start and end.

•

Vertical scale—The vertical scale: linear, logarithmic, decimal, or
octave. Vertical scale controls the y-axis scaling on the output graph.

To reset all parameters to their default values, click Reset to default.

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The result of the AC frequency analysis is displayed in two parts: gain
versus frequency and phase versus frequency.
If you have the Bode plotter connected to your circuit and activate the
circuit, a similar analysis is performed.

Setting AC Analysis Frequency Parameters for Normal Use
In most cases, you only need to:
•

set a Start Frequency (FSTART)

•

set a Stop Frequency (FSTOP)

Setting AC Analysis Frequency Parameters for Advanced Use
In addition to the frequency range, you can also:
•

choose a desired sweep type (decade, linear, or octave) from the
Sweep type drop-down list

•

enter the number of points to be calculated in the Number of points
per decade field

•

choose the vertical scale (linear, logarithmic, decimal or octave) from
the Vertical scale drop-down list.

The greater the number of points calculated, the more accurate the results will be;
however, the simulation speed will be adversely affected.

Note

Transient Analysis
In transient analysis, also called time-domain transient analysis, Multisim
computes the circuit’s response as a function of time. Each input cycle is
divided into intervals, and a DC analysis is performed for each time point
in the cycle. The solution for the voltage waveform at a node is determined
by the value of that voltage at each time point over one complete cycle.
Assumptions—DC sources have constant values; AC sources have
time-dependent values. Capacitors and inductors are represented by energy
storage models. Numerical integration is used to calculate the quantity of
energy transfer over an interval of time.

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Setting Transient Analysis Parameters
Before you perform the analysis, review your circuit and decide on the nets
for analysis.
Set the Transient Analysis parameters using the following:
•

Initial Conditions drop-down list—Select one of Zero,
User-Defined, Calculate DC Operating Point, Automatically
Determine Initial Conditions.

•

Start time—Must be greater than or equal to 0 and less than End time.

•

End time—Must be greater than Start time.

•

Maximum number of time points radio button—Click to enter
minimum number of time points (number of points between start and
stop times).

•

Maximum time step radio button—Click to enter the maximum time
step the simulation can handle.

•

Generate time steps automatically radio button—Click to generate
time steps automatically.

The result of the transient analysis is a calculation of voltage versus time.
If you have the oscilloscope connected to your circuit and activate the
circuit, a similar analysis is performed.
Note

To re-set all parameters to their default values, click Reset to default.
If Initial Conditions are set to:

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Automatically determine initial conditions—Multisim tries to start
the simulation using the DC operating point as the initial condition. If
the simulation fails, it uses user-defined initial conditions.

•

Calculate DC operating point—Multisim first calculates the DC
operating point of the circuit, then uses that result as the initial
conditions of the transient analysis.

•

Set to zero—The transient analysis starts from zero initial conditions.

•

User-defined—The analysis starts from initial conditions as set in the
Transient Analysis dialog box.

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Setting Transient Analysis Parameters for Normal Use
The default settings are appropriate for normal use, providing the transient
response of the selected output variables starting at time 0 seconds and
stopping after 1 ms (0.001). You can, if you wish:
•

change the start time by entering a value greater than or equal to 0 and
less than the End time in the Start time (TSTART) field.

•

change the end time by entering a value greater than the Start time in
the End time (TSTOP) field.

Setting Transient Analysis Parameters for Advanced Use
For advanced use, you can:
•

define the initial conditions at time 0 seconds by selecting an initial
condition (Set to Zero, User-Defined, Calculate DC Operating
Point, or Automatically Determine Initial Conditions) from the
Initial Conditions drop-down list.
You can set the initial conditions to zero, or use the steady state values
of the circuit under analysis. During and/or after circuit construction,
you can specify node voltages. These forced values can also be used as
initial conditions for the analysis.
If you select “Automatically determine initial conditions”, Multisim
will attempt to use steady state conditions to run the analysis. If this is
unsuccessful, Multisim will set initial conditions to zero. If simulation
is still not possible, Multisim will use the specified user-defined
conditions.

•

define the maximum time step to be taken by the simulation engine by
enabling Maximum time step (TMAX) and entering the desired time
step.

•

define the minimum time step to be taken by enabling Minimum
number of time points and entering the desired number of points to
be calculated.

•

The value of TMAX is determined by dividing the interval between the
specified analysis start and end times by the minimum number of time
points specified.

•

enable Set Initial Time step (TSTEP), and enter a value less than the
specified maximum time step value in the Time step (TSTEP) field.
If possible, the size of the time steps taken during the simulation will
begin with the initial timestep and will continue to increase to the value
specified by the maximum time step.

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Troubleshooting Transient Analysis Failures
If transient analysis is being performed (time is being stepped) and the
simulator cannot converge on a solution using the initial time step, the time
step is automatically reduced, and the cycle is repeated. If the time step is
reduced too far, an error message (“Timestep too small”) is generated and
the simulation is aborted. If this occurs, try one or more of the following:
•

Check the circuit topology and connectivity. See step 1 of
Troubleshooting Techniques.

•

Set relative error tolerance to 0.01. By increasing the tolerance from
0.001 (0.1% accuracy), fewer iterations are required to converge on a
solution and the simulation finishes much more quickly.

•

Increase transient time point iterations to 100. This allows the transient
analysis to go through more iterations for each time step before giving
up.

•

Reduce the absolute current tolerance, if current levels allow. Your
particular circuit may not require resolutions down to 1 μV or 1 pA.
You should allow at least an order of magnitude below the lowest
expected voltage or current levels of your circuit.

•

Realistically model your circuit. Add realistic parasitics, especially
junction capacitances. Use RC snubbers around diodes. Replace
device models with subcircuits, especially for RF and power devices.

•

If you have a controlled one-shot source in your circuit, increase its rise
and fall times.

•

Change the integration method to Gear. Gear integration requires
longer simulation time, but is generally more stable than the trapezoid
method.

Fourier Analysis
Fourier analysis is a method of analyzing complex periodic waveforms. It
permits any nonsinusoidal period function to be resolved into sine or cosine
waves (possibly an infinite number) and a DC component. This permits
further analysis and allows you to determine the effect of combining the
waveform with other signals.
Given the mathematical theorem of a Fourier series, the period function f
(t) can be written as follows:

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where:
A0 = the DC component of the original wave
A1 cosωt + B1 sinωt = the fundamental component (has the same
frequency and period as the original wave)
An cosnωt + Bn sinnωt = the nth harmonic of the function
A, B = the coefficients

= the fundamental angular frequency, or 2π times the frequency of the
original periodic wave
Each frequency component (or term) of the response is produced by the
corresponding harmonic of the periodic waveform. Each term is considered
a separate source. According to the principle of superposition, the total
response is the sum of the responses produced by each term. Note that the
amplitude of the harmonics decreases progressively as the order of the
harmonics increases. This indicates that comparatively few terms yield a
good approximation.
When Multisim performs Discrete Fourier Transform (DFT) calculations,
only the second cycle of the fundamental component of a time-domain or
transient response (extracted at the output node) is used. The first cycle is
discarded for the settling time. The coefficient of each harmonic is
calculated from the data gathered in the time domain, from the beginning
of the cycle to time point “t”. That is set automatically and is a function of
the fundamental frequency. This analysis requires a fundamental frequency
matching the frequency of the AC source or the lowest common factor of
multiple AC sources.

Setting Fourier Analysis Parameters
Before you perform the analysis, review your circuit and select an output
node in the dialog box. The output variable is the node from which the
analysis extracts the voltage waveform.
Set the Fourier Analysis parameters using the following:
•

Frequency resolution (Fundamental frequency) field—Use to set
the frequency of an AC source in your circuit. If you have several AC
sources, use the lowest common factor of frequencies. Click the
Estimate button to have the fundamental frequency estimated.

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•

Number of harmonics field—Use to set the number of harmonics of
the fundamental frequency that are calculated.

•

Stop time for sampling (TSTOP) field—Use to set the amount of
time during which sampling should occur.

You can also click Edit transient analysis to display the Analysis Parameters tab
of the Transient Analysis dialog box. The analysis will use either the Maximum time
step (TMAX) and Set initial time step (TSTEP) values that you enter in this tab, or an
automatically calculated minimum value that based on the value in the Frequency
resolution (Fundamental frequency) field in the the Analysis Parameters tab of the
Fourier Analysis dialog box—whichever offers a higher sampling rate (resulting in a
more accurate simulation).

Note

Refer to the Setting Transient Analysis Parameters section for more information.
•

Display phase checkbox—Enable to display results as phase.

•

Display as bar graph checkbox—enable to display results as bar
graph. If not enabled, results display as linegraph.

•

Normalize graphs checkbox—Enable to normalize graphs against the
1st harmonic.

•

Display drop-down list—Choose a display option: chart, graph, or
chart and graph.

•

Vertical scale drop-down list—Choose a vertical scale: linear,
logarithmic, decibel, or octave.

•

Degree of polynomial for interpolation checkbox—Enable to enter
degree to be used when interpolating between points on simulation

•

Sampling frequency field—Specify a sampling frequency.

Fourier analysis produces a graph of Fourier voltage component
magnitudes and, optionally, phase components versus frequency. By
default, the magnitude plot is a bargraph but may be displayed as a line
graph.
The analysis also calculates Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) as a
percentage. The THD is generated by notching out the fundamental
frequency, taking the square root of the sum of the squares of each of the n
harmonics, and then dividing this number by the magnitude of the notched
out fundamental frequency.

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where V1 is the magnitude of the i th harmonics.

Setting Fourier Analysis Parameters for Normal Use
For normal use, you just need to specify parameters for the following:
•

frequency under test, either by clicking Estimate to have a value
selected based on the AC sources in the circuit, or by entering a value
in the Frequency resolution (Fundamental frequency) field. This
value should be the lowest common factor for the frequencies present
in the circuit.

•

number of harmonics, by entering a value in the Number of
harmonics field. You can specify the stopping time for sampling to
avoid unwanted transient results prior to the circuit reaching
steady-state operation.

•

stopping time for sampling by enabling Stop time for sampling
(TSTOP) and entering a new stopping time for sampling. Although
the Nyquist rate specifies only two times the highest frequency
component being considered in the analysis as a suitable sampling rate,
it is recommended that you specify a sampling frequency sufficient to
obtain a minimum of 10 sampling points per period.

•

enter a value in the Sampling frequency field.

The sampling frequency should be equal to the frequency resolution (the number of
harmonics plus one) multiplied by at least 10.

Note

Setting Fourier Analysis Parameters for Advanced Use
In addition to the basic procedures, you can also specify parameters for the
following:
•

degree of polynomial for interpolation, by enabling Degree of
polynomial for interpolation and entering a value in the appropriate
field. The higher the degree of polynomial the greater the accuracy of
the results.

•

results display format by doing one or all of the following:

–

choosing a vertical scale (linear, logarithmic, decibel or octave)
from the Vertical scale list.

–

choosing a display option (chart, graph, or chart and graph) from
the Display list.

–

enabling Display phase to display results as phase.

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•

–

enabling Display as bar graph to display the results as a bar
graph instead of a linegraph.

–

enabling Normalize graphs to normalize the results with respect
to the frequency under test.

transient analysis options by clicking Edit transient analysis to edit
the transient analysis setup. Refer to the Setting Transient Analysis
Parameters for Normal Use section for more information.

Noise Analysis
Noise is electrical or electromagnetic energy that reduces the quality of a
signal. Noise affects digital, analog and all communications systems.
Multisim creates a noise model of the circuit, using noise models of each
resistor and semiconductor device, instead of AC models and then
performs AC-like analysis. It calculates the noise contribution of each
component and propogates it to the output of the circuit sweeping through
the frequency range specified in the analysis dialog box.
Noise analysis calculates the noise contribution from each resistor and
semiconductor device at the specified output node. Each resistor and
semiconductor device is considered a noise generator. Each noise
generator’s contribution is calculated and propogated by the appropriate
transfer function to the output of the circuit. The “total output noise” at the
output node is the RMS (Root Mean Square) sum of the individual noise
contribution. The result is then divided by the gain from input source to the
output source to get the “equivalent input noise”. This is the amount of
noise which, if injected at the input source into a noiseless circuit, would
cause the previously calculated amount of noise at the output. The “total
output noise” voltage can be referenced to ground or it may be referenced
to another node in the circuit. In this case the total output noise is taken
across these two nodes.
Multisim can model three different kinds of noise:
1.

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Thermal noise (also known as Johnson, or white noise) is temperature
dependent and caused by the thermal interaction between free
electrons and vibrating ions in a conductor. Its frequency content is
spread equally throughout the spectrum.

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The power of this generated noise is given by Johnson’s formula:
P = k × T × BW
where
k = Boltzmann’s constant (.38 × 10–23 J/K)
T = resistor temperature in Kelvin (T = 273 + temperature in
Celsius)
BW = frequency bandwidth of the system being considered
The thermal voltage could be represented by a mean-square voltage
source in series with the resistor
V2 = 4kTR × BW
or the resistor mean-square current generator
i2 = 4kTBW/R.
2.

Shot noise is caused by the discrete-particle nature of the current
carriers in all forms of semiconductors. It is the major cause of
transistor noise. The equation for shot noise in a diode is:
i = (2q × Idc × BW)1/2
where
i = shot noise (RMS amperes)
q = electron charge (1.6 × 10–19 Coulombs)
Idc = DC current (A)
BW = bandwidth (Hz)
For all other devices, such as transistors, no valid formula is available.
See the device manufacturer’s data sheet. Shot noise and thermal noise
are additive.

Flicker noise is usually generated by BJTs and FETs and occurs in
frequencies below 1 KHz. This is type of noise is also known as
excess noise or pink noise. It is inversely proportional to frequency and
directly proportional to temperature and DC current levels.
V2= k* Idc/f
A component’s noise contribution is determined by its SPICE model.
Within the model two parameters will affect the output of the noise
analysis:

•

AF = Flicker noise component (AF= 0)

•

KF = Flicker Noise (KF=1).

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Setting Noise Analysis Parameters
Before you perform the analysis, review your circuit and decide on an input
noise reference source, output node and reference node.
Set the Noise Analysis parameters using the following:
•

Input noise reference source drop-down list—Choose an AC voltage
source as input.

•

Output node drop-down list—Choose the node at which all noise
contributions will be summed.

•

Reference node drop-down list—Choose the reference voltage.

•

Calculate power spectral density curves radio button—Select to
generate a graph of the power spectral density.

•

Calculate total noise values radio button—Select to generate a table
with total noise data.

Setting Noise Analysis Parameters for Normal Use
Noise analysis performs an AC analysis to determine the noise. Noise
analysis produces an output noise spectrum, an input noise spectrum and,
optionally, a component contribution spectrum. When the analysis is
finished, its results are displayed as a graph of voltage squared, V2, versus
frequency.
In the Analysis Parameters tab, specify:
•

Input noise reference source

•

Output node

•

Reference node.

By default, Multisim will only display nodes that are part of the current
page.
Complete the following steps to display nodes contained within subcircuits
or hierarchical blocks:
1.

Click Change Filter and select Display submodules from the Filter
Nodes dialog box that appears.
All three filter options are explained below:
•

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Display internal nodes—Displays nodes within hierarchical
blocks and subcircuits.

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•

Display submodules—Displays components within
semiconductor devices, determined by the SPICE model of the
semiconductor device.

•

Display open pins—Displays all unconnected nodes of the
circuit.

Setting Noise Analysis Frequency Parameters
Set the Noise Analysis Frequency Parameters as follows:
•

Start frequency (FSTART) field—Enter the start frequency for the
sweep.

•

Stop frequency (FSTOP) field—Enter the end frequency for the
sweep.

•

Sweep type drop-down list—Choose one of decade, linear, octave.

•

Number of points per decade field—For linear, number of frequency
points between start and end frequencies. More points result in more
accuracy in your graph.

•

Vertical scale drop-down list—Choose one of Logarithmic, Linear,
Decibel, Octave.

Setting Noise Analysis Frequency Parameters for Normal Use
The default settings in the Frequency Parameters tab are appropriate for
most cases. You just need to define a frequency range by typing a value in
the Start Frequency (FSTART) field and in the Stop Frequency
(FSTOP) field.
To copy the settings from the current AC analysis to this analysis, click
Reset to main AC values.
Once the required variables are selected and the frequency range has been
defined, you can then run the analysis.

Setting Noise Analysis Frequency Parameters for Advanced
Use
In the Frequency Parameters tab you can also set:
•

sweep type, by choosing the desired sweep type (decade, linear, or
octave) from the Sweep type drop-down list. The sweep type defines
how the points to be calculated are distributed across the frequency
range.

•

the number of points to be calculated during the analysis, by entering
a value in the Number of points per decade field.

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The greater the number of points calculated, the more accurate the results will be,
however, the simulation speed will be adversely affected.

Note

•

the format of the analysis results by choosing the desired scale (linear,
logarithmic, decimal, or octave) from the Vertical scale drop-down
list.

Note Click Reset to Default to reset all parameters in the Frequency Parameters tab to
their default values.

Refer to the Working with Analyses section for information about othe tabs
in the Noise Analysis dialog box.

Noise Analysis Example
The circuit below is a basic operational amplifier with a gain of 5. For this
analysis, we will obtain the results for the noise voltage for R1 and R2 and
display the graph of the noise spectrum across a frequency range between
10 Hz and 10 GHz.

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Expected Results
The calculations below will determine what kind of output we are to
expect:
If R1 = 1Kohm, then:

If R2 = 5 kOhm, then:

Multisim Analysis
Complete the following steps to set up the analysis in Multisim:
1.

Select Simulate»Analyses»Noise Analysis.

Select the Analysis Parameters tab and set the following:

•

Input noise reference source—vv3

•

Output node—V(4)

•

Reference node—V(0)

Select the Frequency Parameters tab, and set the following:
•

FSTART—1Hz

•

FSTOP—10GHz

•

Sweep type—Decade

•

Number of points per decade—5

•

Vertical Scale—Logarithmic

Select the Output tab, select the following variables for plot during
simulation:
•

innoise_total_rr1 & innoise_total_rr2

It is not necessary to add any devices/model parameters to our list of variables for
this example.

Note

Click Simulate. A chart displays in the Grapher with data similar to
the expected results.

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To view the traces, you must complete the following steps to re-initiate the
analysis:
1.

Select Simulate»Analyses»Noise Analysis.

In the Analysis Parameters tab, enable Set points per summary and
enter 5 in the field.

In the Output tab select the following variables to plot during
simulation:
•

onoise_rr1 & onnoise_rr2

Click Simulate. The Grapher displays as follows:

This graph shows that the noise voltage is constant for lower frequencies.
For higher frequencies the noise voltage drops considerably.

Distortion Analysis
A perfectly linear amplifier will amplify the input signal without any signal
distortion at the output. There are always spurious signal components,
however, that are added to a signal in the form of harmonics or
intermodulation distortion.
Distortion Analysis is used to analyze signal distortion that may not be
evident using transient analysis. Signal distortion is usually the result of
gain nonlinearity or phase nonuniformity in a circuit. Multisim simulates
harmonic distortion and intermodulation distortion for analog small-signal
circuits.

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Harmonic Distortion
A perfect linear amplifier can be described using the following formula:
Y = AX, where Y is the output signal, X is the input signal and A is the
amplifier gain.
The general expression including higher order terms is given by the
following:
Y = AX + BX2 + CX3 + DX4 + …, where B and C, etc. are the constant
coefficients for the higher order terms.
The second term in the above equation is known as the second-order
component, the third term is the third-order component and so on.
Harmonic distortion can be analyzed by applying a spectrally pure signal
source to a circuit design. By analyzing the output signal and its harmonics
the distortion can be determined. Multisim will calculate the node voltages
and branch currents at the harmonic frequencies 2f and 3f and display the
results against the input frequency f as it is swept across the user defined
frequency range.

Intermodulation Distortion
Intermodulation distortion occurs when two or more signals are input into
an amplifier simultaneously. In this case, the interaction of the signals
produces an intermodulation effect. This analysis will determine node
voltages and branch currents at the intermodulation product frequencies of
f1 + f2, f1 – f2 and 2f1 – f2 vs. the user defined swept frequency.

Multisim Approach
Multisim simulates both harmonic distortion and intermodulation (IM)
distortion for analog small-signal circuits. For each AC Source in the
circuit you set the parameters to be used with these distortion analyses.
Multisim will determine the node voltages and branch currents at each
point in the circuit. For harmonic distortion values are determined for the
second and third harmonics. For intermodulation distortion the analysis
will calculate values at frequencies f1 + f2, f1 – f2 and 2f1 – f2.

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Preparing the Circuit for Distortion Analysis
Before you perform the analysis you must decide which sources you will
use. The distortion analysis parameters are set for each source
independently. Follow the steps below for each AC Source that you would
like to use in the distortion analysis. To perform harmonic distortion
analysis use only Step 1 and 2 below. If you want to perform an
intermodulation distortion analysis follow all three steps.
Complete the following steps to set source options for distortion analysis:
1.

Double-click on the source.

In the Value tab set the Distortion Frequency 1 Magnitude and
Phase.

In the Value tab set the Distortion Frequency 2 Magnitude and
Phase. Only use this setting if you want to perform an intermodulation
distortion analysis.

Understanding the Distortion Analysis Options
To start Distortion Analysis, select Simulate»Analyses»Distortion
Analysis.
Before you perform the analysis, review your circuit and decide on one or
more sources and one or more nodes for analysis.
Set the Distortion Analysis parameters as follows:

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•

Start frequency (FSTART) field—Enter the start frequency for the
sweep.

•

Stop frequency (FSTOP) field—Enter the stop frequency for the
sweep.

•

Sweep type drop-down list—Select one of decade, octave, linear.

•

Number of points per decade field—Enter number of points (for
accuracy).

•

Vertical scale drop-down list—Units for vertical axis.

•

F2/F1 ratio checkbox—For intermodulation distortion only. When
enabled, if there are signals of two frequencies (F1 and F2), then F2 is
set to this ratio multiplied by the start frequency while F1 sweeps. Must
be greater than 0.0 and less than 1.0.

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Distortion Analysis for Harmonic Distortion
To illustrate the settings and behavior of this analysis, we will use the
following circuit. This is an example of a Class B Push-Pull Amplifier.

Complete the following steps to set up Distortion Analysis (to analyze
Harmonic Distortion):
1.

Note

Double-click on the AC Source and select the Value tab:
•

Choose Distortion Frequency 1 Magnitude and set the input
amplitude to 4 V and leave the phase at zero.

•

Click OK.

Select Simulate»Analyses»Distortion Analysis.

Select the Analysis Parameters tab and set the following:
•

Set the Start frequency (FSTART) to 1 Hz

•

Set the Stop frequency (FSTOP) to 100 MHz

•

Set the Sweep type to Decade

•

Set the Number of points per decade to 100

•

Set the Vertical scale to Decibel

Leave F2/F1 ratio unchecked.

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Select the Output tab.
•

Select the variable “V(output)” from the list Variables in circuit.

•

Click Add. The variable “output” will move to the Selected
variables for analysis list.

Click Simulate. Two graphs will be displayed with the second
harmonic distortion results on one graph and the third harmonic
distortion results on the other.

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Distortion Analysis for Intermodulation Distortion
This example also uses the Class B Push-Pull Amplifier from above.
Complete the following steps to set up Distortion Analysis (to analyze
Intermodulation Distortion):
1.

Double-click on the AC Source and select the Value tab:
•

Choose Distortion Frequency 1 Magnitude and set the input
amplitude to 4 V and leave the phase at zero.

•

Choose Distortion Frequency 2 Magnitude and set the input
amplitude to 4 V and leave the phase at zero.

•

Click OK.

Select Simulate»Analyses»Distortion Analysis.

Select the Analysis Parameters tab and set the following:
•

Set the Start frequency (FSTART) to 100 Hz.

•

Set the Stop frequency (FSTOP) to 10 MHz

•

Set the Sweep type to Decade

•

Set the Number of points per decade to 100

•

Set the Vertical scale to Decibel

•

Check the F2/F1 ratio and set the value to 0.499997. As F1 is
swept the analysis frequency will change according to this product
of the ratio and the initial value of F1 (FSTART.)

The ratio F2/F1 must be greater than 0 and less than 1. Also, this number should be
an irrational number but because of the finite precision of the computer this is not possible.
It is best, therefore, to use a floating point number with a large number of digits.

Note

Select the Output tab.
•

Select the variable “V(output)” from the list Variables in circuit.

•

Click Add. The variable “V(output)” moves to the Selected
variables for analysis list.

Click Simulate. Three graphs will be displayed with plots for
frequencies F1 + F2, F1 – F2 and 2F1 – F2.

F2 is the product of the ratio (F2/F1 ratio) and the initial value of F1 (FSTART.)

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The first graph plots the F1+ F2 harmonic.

Notice as F1 reaches higher frequencies (100 K to 10 M), if mixed with F2
(50 Hz), the F1+F2 harmonic will increase in magnitude dramatically. At
these frequencies, filtering may be needed (if possible) to separate the
F1+ F2 harmonic from the input signal (at the circuit output).
The second graph plots the F1– F2 harmonic.

This harmonic is very similar in response to the F1+ F2 harmonic. The
same analysis would apply.

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The third graph plots 2F1– F2 harmonic.

From the third graph, we notice that the 2F1– F2 harmonic is higher in
magnitude than the first two harmonics (F1+F2 and F1–F2). Although the
magnitude of this harmonic is low, filtering this component may be
necessary.

DC Sweep Analysis
As this analysis is performed in Multisim, the following procedure is
performed.
1.

The DC Operating Point is taken.

The value from the source is incremented and another DC Operating
Point is calculated.

This procedure allows you to simulate the circuit many times, sweeping the
DC values within a pre-determined range. You can control the source
values by choosing the start and stop values and the increment for the DC
range. The bias point of the circuit is calculated for each value of the sweep.
To calculate the DC response of the circuit, SPICE treats all capacitors as
open circuits, all inductors as shorts, and uses only DC values of voltage
and current sources.

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Setting DC Sweep Analysis Parameters
Before setting analysis parameters, review your circuit and decide on one
or two DC sources to sweep, and a node for analysis.
DC Sweep Analysis plots the appropriate curves sequentially. If only one
source is being swept, a curve of the output node value versus source value
is traced. If two sources are swept, the number of curves equals the number
of points for the second source. Each curve represents the output node value
versus the first source value while the second source value is held at each
of its sweep values.
Set the DC Sweep Analysis parameters for Source 1 and Souce 2 as
required:
•

Source list—Choose the source for the sweep. Optionally, click
Change Filter to change the items in the Source list.

•

Start value and Stop value fields—The values at which the analysis
will stop and start.

•

Increment field—The values by which each sweep will increase.

Setting DC Sweep Analysis Parameters
For normal use, you only need to set:
•

the source for the sweep, by choosing from the Source drop-down list
under the Source 1 options

•

a starting value for the sweep, by entering it in the Start Value field

•

a stop value for the sweep, by entering it in the Stop Value field

•

an increment value for the sweep, by entering it in the Increment field.

The analysis will calculate the circuit’s bias point values beginning with the
specified start value. The Increment value will then be added to the start
value and the circuit variables will be recalculated. The Increment value is
added again and the process continues until the stop value is reached.

Setting DC Sweep Analysis Parameters Using Filters
You can filter the variables displayed to include internal nodes (such as
nodes inside a BJT model or inside a SPICE subcircuit), open pins, as well
as output variables from any sub-modules contained in the circuit.
Complete the following steps to filter the variables displayed:

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Click Change Filter. The Filter Nodes dialog box appears.

Enable one or more settings.

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Click OK.

Refer to the Working with Analyses section for details on the other tabs in
the analysis window.

DC Sweep Analysis Examples
In this example we will vary V2 from 0 V to 20 V and observe the output
at node 3.

Example 1
Expected Results:

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Vcc = Voltage Source (V1)
Vbe = Voltage from Base to Emitter
Ic = Collector current
Vc = Collector Voltage
Complete the following steps to set up the analysis:
1.

Select Simulate»Analyses»DC Sweep and click on the
Analysis Parameters tab.

Enter the values below:
•

Source—vv2

•

Start value—0 V

•

Stop value—20 V

•

Increment—0.5 V.

In the Output tab, move V(3) to the Selected variables for analysis
column.

Click on the Simulate button. The following displays in the grapher:

To view the cursors and DC transfer characteristics, select in the
grapher View»Show/Hide Cursor. Two cursors will be displayed.
Move cursor 2 to the left side of the graph, and move cursor 1 to the
right and line it up along the x-axis with vv2 = 20 V.
The cursor set at V= 20 V (x1), in the figure above displays the transfer
characteristics for y1, which displays the value of 15.9982 V.
Therefore the graph displays when the DC source V2 is set to 20 V,
then the output form the collector of the transistor will be 15.99 V.

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Example 2 (Nested DC Sweeps)
The following example displays the characteristics of the transistor in a
common emitter configuration. The graph will display the operating points
for this transistor, which will define the region in which amplification will
occur.
The current controlled voltage source (V3) has been added so that current
flow through the collector can be converted to a voltage for display on the
grapher.

Complete the following steps to set up the analysis:
1.

Enter the following in the Analysis Parameters tab for Source 1:
•

Source—vv1

•

Start value—0 V

•

Stop value—10 V

•

Increment—0.5 V

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Enter the following in the Analysis Parameters tab for Source 2:
•

Source—vv2

•

Start value—0 V

•

Stop value—2.5 V

•

Increment—0.5 V

In the Output tab, move V(7) to the Selected variables for analysis
column. This is the output node at the current controlled voltage
source.

Click Simulate. The following displays in the grapher:

DC and AC Sensitivity Analyses
Sensitivity Analyses help identify how much a circuit component will
affect the output signal. As a result, critical components can be specified
with tighter tolerances, and are the best candidates for optimization.
Likewise, the least critical components can be identified, which make good
candidates for cost reduction as their precision does not critically affect
design performance.
Sensitivity Analysis calculates the sensitivity of an output node voltage or
current with respect to the parameters of a component(s) in your circuit.
Sensitivity is expressed as the change in output per unit change of input
(both in values and percentages).

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Sensitivity Analysis Parameters
Sensitivity Analysis includes:
•

DC Sensitivity

•

AC Sensitivity

Both analyses calculate the change produced in an output voltage or current
by changing each parameter independently. The results of the DC
sensitivity analysis are displayed in tabular form on the grapher. The AC
sensitivity analysis plots the AC graphs for each parameter selected over
the user defined frequency range.
When setting up Sensitivity Analysis, the following options must be
specified:
Output nodes/currents:
•

Voltage: Sensitivity Analysis will look at node voltages.
–

Output node—select the node to examine

–

Output reference—select the reference point for the Output
node. Usually this is node 0 (Ground).

•

Current: Output current will be used to determine sensitivity.

•

Expression: directly enter an output expression for analysis in the
Output Expression field or click Edit to display the Analysis
Expression dialog box. Refer to the Adding Analysis Expressions
section for more information.

Output Scaling: Select either Absolute or Relative:
•

Absolute—The output voltage or current change per unit of change of
the selected component parameter.

•

Relative—The output voltage or current change per relative change of
the selected component parameter relative to the voltage or current
when the component parameter is unchanged.

Analysis Type:
•

DC Sensitivity—DC sensitivity analysis generates a report of the
output voltage at a circuit node with respect to all components and their
parameters. You can choose to run a DC sensitivity analysis of the
current source or voltage source.

•

AC Sensitivity—AC sensitivity analysis plots an AC graph (frequency
domain) for each parameter of the component.

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Setting Up and Running Sensitivity Analysis
Example 1
This example determine the AC sensitivity of the circuit shown below to
the resistance of R1 at node 2.

Complete the following steps to set up Sensitivity Analysis:
1.

Select Simulate»Analyses»Sensitivity.

Select the Analysis Parameters tab and set the following:

•

Set Output nodes/currents to Voltage.

•

Set Output node to V(2) and Output reference to V(0).

•

Set Output scaling to Absolute.

•

Set Analysis type to AC Sensitivity.

Click Edit Analysis to display the Sensitivity AC Analysis dialog box
and set the following parameters:
•

Start frequency (FSTART)—1 Hz

•

Stop frequency (FSTOP)—100 MHz

•

Sweep type—Decade

•

Number of poits per decade—10

•

Vertical scale—Logarithmic.

Select the Output tab:
•

Select rr2 under Variables in circuit. You may need to select
Filter Unselected Variables, select all items and choose OK to
see the resistor in the selection area.

•

Click Add.

The rr2 variable will move to the Selected variables for analysis field.

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Click Simulate. The following is displayed:

The results will plot the output voltage change if R2 is changed by 1 Ω from
1 Hz to 100 MHz.
It is possible to calculate the Sensitivity results manually. However, this can
only be done for one frequency value at a time. We will analyze the same
circuit at 100 Hz.
Using the Sensitivity results shown above the analysis reports that at
100 Hz, the output will change by 628 µV. To calculate this value, we will
follow the instructions below:

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Therefore, the voltage change is 629 µV. This is supported by the results
calculated by Multisim.

Example 2
To truly understand the power of this analysis, we will analyze the speech
filter circuit shown below. When building this circuit, all components will
have tolerances. Therefore, the circuit output will always change slightly
from simulated results to real results. We will use Sensitivity Analysis to
predict which component(s) will affect the circuit dramatically if their
values are slightly different from expected.

Complete the following steps to start Sensitivity Analysis:
1.

Select Simulate»Analyses»Sensitivity.

Select the Output tab, set the following:

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•

Select rr1 under Variables in circuit field.

•

Click Add.

•

Repeat for rr2 to rr7.

Select the Analysis Parameters tab, set the following:
•

Set Output Nodes/currents to Voltage.

•

Set Output node to V(14) and Output reference to V(0).

•

Set Output scaling to Absolute.

•

Set Analysis type to AC Sensitivity.

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Click Simulate. The Grapher will plot the sensitivity for all resistors
in the design.

From the graph, we can determine that if any resistor is changed by 1 ohm,
the results will not change dramatically. However, R7 will cause the biggest
change in the circuit output.

Parameter Sweep Analysis
With Parameter Sweep Analysis, you can verify the operation of a circuit
by simulation across a range of values for a component parameter. The
effect is the same as simulating this circuit several times, once for each
value. You control the parameter values by choosing a start value, end
value, type of sweep that you wish to simulate and the desired increment
value in the Parameter Sweep dialog box. There are three types of analysis
that can be performed on the circuit while the component is manipulated:
DC Operating Point, Transient Analysis and AC Analysis.
You will find that some components have more parameters that can be
varied than others. This will depend on the model of the component. Active
components such as op-amps, transistors, diodes and others will have more
parameters available to perform a sweep than passive component such as
resisters, inductors and capacitors. For example the inductance is the only
parameter available for an inductor as compared to a diode model that
contains approximately 15 to 25 parameters.

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Setting Parameter Sweep Analysis Parameters
The behavior of a circuit is affected when certain parameters in specific
components change. Before you perform the analysis, review your circuit
and decide on a component and parameter to sweep, and a node for
analysis.
Set the Paramater Sweep as follows:
•

Sweep parameter drop-down list—Choose Device Parameter or
Model Parameter.

•

Device Type drop-down list—Choose the type of device to sweep.

•

Name drop-down list—Enter the component to sweep.

•

Parameter drop-down list—Choose the device parameter of the
component to be swept.

•

Sweep Variation Type drop-down list—Dictates how to calculate the
interval between the stop and start values. Choose from Decade,
Octave, Linear, or List.

•

Value List—For List sweep only. A list of values to sweep over. Items
in the list must be separated by spaces, commas or semicolons.

•

Analysis to sweep drop-down list—Choose DC Operating Point,
AC Analysis, Transient Analysis, or Nested Sweep.

•

Group all traces on one plot checkbox—If not enabled, each trace
appears on a separate plot.

•

Edit Analysis button—Click to edit parameters of the chosen analysis.
(For Nested Sweep analysis, see Nested Sweep Analyses).

Parameter sweep analysis plots the appropriate curves sequentially. The
number of curves is dependent on the type of sweep as shown below:
•

Linear—The number of curves is equal to the difference between the
start and end values divided by the increment step size.

•

Decade—The number of curves is equal to the number of times the
start value can be multiplied by ten before reaching the end value.

•

Octave—The number of curves is equal to the number of times the
start value can be doubled before reaching the end value.

Setting Parameter Sweep Analysis Parameters
Complete the following steps to set up the analysis parameters:
1.

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Select a sweep parameter by choosing a parameter type (Device or
Model) from the Sweep Parameter drop-down list, then enter
information in the Device, Name, and Parameter fields.

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A brief description of the parameter appears in the Description field
and the present value of the parameter is displayed in the Present
Value field.
2.

Set the sweep variation type by choosing either linear, decade, or
octave from the Sweep Variation Type drop-down list.

Select the analysis to sweep by choosing from the Analysis to sweep
drop-down list.

If you want to sweep other than the list, type the desired parameter
values, separated by a space, in the Values field.

Optionally, you can set the analysis parameters by clicking Edit
Analysis. The analysis parameters available depend upon the analysis
selected. See the respective analysis elsewhere in this chapter for
details on setting these parameters.

If the analysis is unedited, the last values set for the analysis will be used. If the
analysis has not been run previously, the default values will apply.

Note

You can also perform nested sweeps, combining various levels of device/model
parameter sweeps. Refer to the Nested Sweep Analyses section for more information.

Note

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Parameter Sweep Analysis—Example

The above circuit is a Colpitts oscillator. The output of the circuit will
generate a square wave. The analysis to be performed on this circuit will
change the value of the inductor and simulate the circuit. If you simulate
this circuit you will notice that as you decrease the inductance, the
frequency of the signal will decrease.
Before we proceed with the analysis we will calculate the expected results.
When the inductor L0 varied the frequency at node 3 (the transistor emitter)
will vary according to:

If L0 = 120 µH, then the frequency at the output of the circuit will be:

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If L0 = 500 µH, then the frequency at the output of the circuit will be:

If L0 = 900 µH, then the frequency at the output of the circuit will be:

Complete the following steps to set up and run the analysis:
1.

Select Simulate»Analyses»Parameter Sweep.

Select the Analysis Parameters tab and enter the following
parameters:

•

Sweep parameter drop-down list—Choose Device Parameter.

•

Device Type drop-down list—Choose Inductor.

•

Name drop-down list—Choose ll0.

•

Parameter drop-down list—Choose inductance.

•

Sweep Variation Type drop-down list—Choose List.

•

Value List—Enter 0.00012, 0.0005, 0.0009.

•

Analysis to sweep drop-down list—Choose Transient Analysis.

•

Group all traces on one plot checkbox—Enable.

Click Edit Analysis and set the values as follows:
•

Initial Conditions— Select Set to zero.

•

Start time (TSTART)—0 Sec.

•

End time (TSTOP)—2e-006.

•

Maximum time step settings (TMAX) checkbox—Enable.

•

Maximum time step (TMAX) radio button—Enable and enter
1e-005.

Select OK.

Select the Output tab.

For this circuit the output variable is at node 3. Under Variables in
circuit highlight V(3) and click on Add. Once selected you will notice
that variable is under the column Selected variable for analysis.

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Click Simulate to generate the results.

Complete the following steps to view the results:

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In the graph window select View»Show/Hide Cursors.

To verify the frequency of the signal when L0 = 120uH, move cursor
1 to the first rising edge of the signal and cursor 2 to the next rising
edge as shown in the above graph. To verify the results use the values
of X1 and X2 in the Device Parameter Sweep table.

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To verify the frequency of L0 = 500 µH, move cursor 1 to the rising
edge of the next signal and cursor 2 to the next rising edge shown
below.

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To verify Lo = 900 µH move cursor 1 to the rising edge of the next
signal and cursor 2 to the next rising edge shown below.

The simulated results are similar to the expected results.

Temperature Sweep Analysis
Using Temperature Sweep Analysis, you can quickly verify the operation
of your circuit by simulating it at different temperatures. The effect is the
same as simulating the circuit several times, once for each temperature.
You control the temperature values by choosing start, stop and increment
values.
You may perform three types of sweeps: DC Operating Point, Transient
Analysis, and AC Frequency Analysis.
Assumptions—See the assumptions for the selected analysis: DC
operating point analysis described in DC Operating Point Analysis,

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transient analysis described in Transient Analysis, or AC frequency
analysis described in AC Analysis.
Temperature sweep analysis affects only components whose model
includes temperature dependency, including:
•

Virtual Resistor

•

3 - Terminal Depletion N-MOSFET

•

3 - Terminal Depletion P- MOSFET

•

3 - Terminal Enhancement N- MOSFET

•

3 - Terminal Enhancement P- MOSFET

•

4 - Terminal Depletion N- MOSFET

•

4 - Terminal Depletion P- MOSFET

•

4 - Terminal Enhancement N- MOSFET

•

4 - Terminal Enhancement P- MOSFET

•

Diode

•

LED

•

N-Channel JFET

•

NPN Transistor

•

P-Channel JFET

•

PNP Transistor

Setting Temperature Sweep Analysis Parameters
Before you perform the analysis, review your circuit and decide on a node
for analysis.
Set the Temperature Sweep Analysis parameters as desired:
•

Sweep Parameter drop-down list—Displays the parameter type.

•

Sweep Variation Type drop-down list—Dictates how to calculate the
interval between the stop and start values. Choose from Decade,
Octave, Linear, or List.

•

Value List—For List sweep only. A list of values to sweep over. Items
in the list must be separated by spaces, commas or semicolons.

•

Analysis to sweep drop-down list—Choose DC Operating Point, AC
Analysis, or Transient Analysis.

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•

Group all traces on one plot checkbox—If not enabled, each trace
appears on a separate plot.

•

Edit Analysis button—Click to edit parameters of the chosen analysis.

Temperature sweep analysis plots the appropriate curves sequentially. The
number of curves is dependent on the type of sweep, as shown below:
•

Linear—The number of curves is equal to the difference between the
start and end values divided by the increment step size.

•

Decade—The number of curves is equal to the number of times the
start value can be multiplied by ten before reaching the end value.

•

Octave—The number of curves is equal to the number of times the
start value can be doubled before reaching the end value.

Setting Temperature Sweep Analysis Parameters
You can use the Analysis Parameters tab to define the temperature values
to be swept, and the type of analysis to be run at the various swept
temperatures. You can also edit the specific analysis being performed.
Complete the following steps to set up and run temperature sweep:

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Choose the type of distribution (linear, decade, or octave) from the
Sweep Variation Type drop-down list. To enter a list of temperatures,
enter each value separated by a space.

Choose the analysis to be performed from the Analysis to sweep
drop-down list.

Click Edit Analysis to specify the analysis parameters. The analysis
parameters available depend on the analysis selected. See the
respective analysis elsewhere in this chapter for details on setting these
parameters. If the analysis is unedited, the last values set for the
analysis will be used. If the analysis has not been run previously, the
default values will apply.

Select the Output tab and choose the node for which you want to see
the results.

Click Simulate to generate the results.

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Transfer Function Analysis
Transfer Function Analysis calculates the DC small-signal transfer
function between an input source and two output nodes (for voltage) or an
output variable (for current) in a circuit. It also calculates input and output
resistances. Any nonlinear models are first linearized based on the DC
operating point and then small-signal analysis is performed. The output
variable can be any node voltage, while the input must be an independent
source defined somewhere in the circuit.
Assumptions—Analog circuit, linear models. Models are linearized.
The DC small signal gain is the derivative of the output with respect to the
input at the DC bias-point (and zero frequency). For example:

The input and output resistance of a circuit refers to the “dynamic” or
small-signal resistance at the input or output. Mathematically, small-signal
DC resistance is the derivative of the input voltage with respect to the input
current at the DC bias-point (and zero frequency). The following is an
expression for input resistance:

In Multisim, the results of the Transfer Function Analysis produces a
chart showing the ratio of the output to the input signal, the input resistance
at the input source node and the output resistance across the output voltage
nodes.
This is a DC analysis and does not calculate either the time- or frequency-domain
transfer function.

Note

Setting Transfer Function Analysis Parameters
Before you perform the analysis, review your circuit and decide on an
output node, a reference node and an input source.
Set the Transfer Function Analysis parameters as desired:
•

Input source drop-down list—Choose a voltage or current source.

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•

Output node drop-down list—For Voltage only, this is the point in the
circuit for which you want to see results.

•

Output reference drop-down list—For Voltage only, this is the
reference voltage.

Transfer Function Analysis produces a chart showing the transfer
function (output/input), input resistance at the input source and output
resistance across the output voltage nodes or at the output variable.

Setting Transfer Function Analysis Parameters
Complete the following steps to set up and run Transfer Function
Analysis:
1.

Choose an input source from the Input source drop-down list

Enable Voltage and select an output node from the Output node
drop-down list and an output reference node (usually ground or node
0) from the Output reference drop-down list
Or
Enable Current and select a current from the Output source
drop-down list.

Note

A source current or output node voltage can be used for this analysis.
You can filter the variables displayed to include internal nodes (such as
nodes inside a BJT model or inside a SPICE subcircuit), open pins, as well
as output variables from any submodules contained in the circuit. Filtering
the variables shortens the list of results.
Complete the following steps to filter the variables displayed:
1.

Click Change Filter. The Filter Nodes dialog box appears.

Enable one or more settings.

Click OK.

Refer to the Working with Analyses section for information about the other
tabs in the analysis window.

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Examples of Transfer Function Analysis
Linear Example

The circuit above is an inverting amplifier. The gain of this circuit is 2. We
can define the mathematical function for this circuit as:
Vout = –2Vin
Taking the derivative of the equation above, we get:

Finding Rin

Rearranging the equation we get:

Finding Rout
Since the Zin is much smaller than the op-amp impedance, Zout ~ 0.

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Verifying the Results with Multisim
Complete the following steps to verify the results:
1.

Set the following in the Analysis Parameters tab:
•

Input source—vv1

•

Voltage radio button—Enable

•

Output node—V(5)

•

Output reference—V(0)

Click Simulate. Note that the transfer function result shown below
closely matches the calculated value.

Non-linear Example

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This example uses the polynomial source (A1) to square the input voltage.
Double-click on A1 and enter “1” for the value of the coefficient of E as
shown below. All other fields should be 0.

Complete the following steps to run the analysis:
1.

Set up the analysis as follows:
•

Input source—vv1

•

Output node—V(3)

•

Output reference—V(0)

Click Simulate to run the simulation.

Verifying the Results
The equation for the circuit is:

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Therefore:

Note that this value matches the value in the chart that was produced during
the simulation.

Worst Case Analysis
Worst Case Analysis is an analysis that lets you explore the worst possible
effects of variations in component parameters on the performance of a
circuit. Multisim performs the Worst Case Analysis in conjunction with a
DC or AC analysis. In either case the simulation is first performed with
nominal values. Next, a Sensitivity analysis (either AC or DC) is performed
to determine the sensitivity of the specified components on the output
voltage or current. Lastly, the simulation is performed with the component
parameter values that will produce worst case values at the output. The
worst case parameters are determined by adding or subtracting the
tolerance value from the nominal value according to whether the
component’s sensitivity on the output is a positive or negative value.
Assumptions—Applied to an analog circuit, DC and small-signal. Models
are linearized.

Worst Case Analysis—DC Analysis
Upon selecting DC analysis the following calculations are performed:
1.

DC sensitivity. If the DC sensitivity of the output voltage with respect
to a specific component is determined to be a negative number, then the
minimum value of this component is calculated. For example, if the
DC sensitivity of resistor R1 is –1.23 V/Ohm, then the minimum value
is derived from the following formula:
R1min = (1 – Tolerance) × R1nom,
where,
R1min = the minimum value of the resistor R1
Tolerance = Tolerance specified by the user. (Tolerance is either an
absolute value, or a percentage of the nominal value).

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R1nom = Nominal value of the resistor R1
If the DC sensitivity of the output voltage with respect to a specific
component is determined to be a positive number, then the maximum
value of this component is calculated. For example, a resistor with a
positive sensitivity would be determined according to the formula:
R2max = (1 – Tolerance) × R2nom,
where,
R2max = the maximum value of the resistor R2
Tolerance = Tolerance specified by the user, expressed as a
fraction of 1
R2nom = Nominal value of the resistor R2
2.

The DC analysis is performed using the nominal value and either the
minimum or maximum value of the resistance according to the sign of
sensitivity analysis.

Worst Case Analysis—AC Analysis
Upon selecting AC analysis the following calculations are performed:
1.

AC sensitivity to determine the sensitivity of the components on the
output voltage.

According to the sensitivity results the minimum or maximum values
of the selected components are calculated as explained above.

AC analysis is performed using the above calculated values for the
components.

Setting Tolerance Parameters
Before you perform the analysis, review your circuit and decide on an
output node.
In the Model tolerance list tab, choose which tolerance parameters are to
be used. You can do this using any of the following methods:
To edit a tolerance in the list, select it and click Edit selected tolerance.
The tolerance’s current variable settings appear. Modify the variables as
desired and click OK to save.
To delete a tolerance from the list, select it and click Delete selected
tolerance.
1.

To add a tolerance, click Add tolerance. The Tolerance dialog box
appears.

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Enter the following parameters as required:
•

Parameter Type—Choose type of sweep to be performed:
Model Parameter or Device Parameter.

•

Device Type—Choose desired device from list.

•

Tolerance Type—Choose Absolute to enter a value, or Percent
to vary the parameter by the specified percentage of its stated
value.

•

Toldrance value—Enter a percentage value, or a set value
depending on the tolerance type selected.

Enter the desired variables in the appropriate fields.

Setting Worst Case Analysis Parameters
Set the Worst Case Analysis parameters as follows:
•

Analysis drop-down list—Choose DC Operating Point or AC
Analysis. For details on either parameter, see DC Operating Point
Analysis.

•

Output variable drop-down list—Choose an output variable.

•

Collating Function drop-down list—Choose a function: MAX, MIN,
RISE_EDGE, FALL_EDGE, FREQUENCY.

•

Direction drop-down list—Choose a direction: Low or High.

•

Change Filter button—Click to change the filter that affects the list of
possible output variables.

•

Expression checkbox—Enable to enter an analysis expression in the
Output Variable field.

•

Group all traces on one plot checkbox—Enable as desired.

For DC circuits, the worst case analysis generates a table of the circuit’s
possible output voltages ranging from the nominal specification value to
the worst case value. A list of the components and their worst case values
appears in tabular form.
For AC circuits, the worst case analysis generates separate plots for the
nominal and worst case runs. A list of the components and their worst case
values appears in tabular form.
Analysis Expressions—As well as being able to select a node in the
Output Variable field, you can click on the Expression checkbox and
enter an analysis expression in the Output Variable field. When the
Expression checkbox is enabled, the Change Filter button changes to the
Edit Expression button. You can click this to view the Analysis
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Expression dialog box where you can enter and edit expressions. Refer to
the Adding Analysis Expressions section for more information.

Worst Case Analysis Example
This circuit is a Wien-bridge oscillator. The feedback to the non-inverting
pin is designed to stabilize the amplitude of the oscillator. R1 – R4 must
be chosen carefully to ensure this circuit will oscillate.

This circuit will oscillate if the following conditions are met:

Under normal conditions, the output is a sinewave of approximately
8 v p-p.
Complete the following steps to set up the analysis:
1.

Open the Worst Case Analysis dialog box and click Add tolerance.

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Enter the parameters displayed below in the Model tolerance list tab.

Click on the Analysis Parameters tab and confirm the following
settings:

•

Analysis—DC Operating Point

•

Output variable—V(1)

•

Direction—High

•

Group all traces on one plot—Enabled.

Click Simulate. The following results display.

The Worst Case Analysis section shows the DC operating point at node 1
for both nominal and worst case.

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The Run Log Descriptions section displays the resistance values required
to achieve the greatest difference from the nominal value.
Recall that one condition for oscillation is:

Inserting the output results, we get:

This does not meet the oscillation requirement. Therefore the circuit may
fail if the component tolerances are not carefully chosen.

Pole Zero Analysis
Pole Zero Analysis is used to determine the stability of electronic circuits
by calculating the poles and zeros of the circuit’s transfer function.
A pole is any number that will cause the denominator in a transfer function formula
to be zero. A zero is any number that will cause the numerator in a transfer function
formula to be zero.

Note

A transfer function formula is a convenient way of expressing the behavior
of analog circuits in the frequency domain. A transfer function is a Laplace
Transform ratio of the output signal vs. input signal. The Laplace
Transform of the output signal is commonly referred to as VO(s) and the
Laplace Transform of the input signal is referred to as VI(s). The parameter
s stands for s=jω , more commonly known as s=j2πf.
A transfer function is generally a complex value given by the magnitude
response (or transmission) and phase response. The Transfer Function of a
circuit can be expressed by the following formula:

The numerator of the above formula contains the zeroes of the function
(–z1,–z2,–z3,–z4,...) while the denominator of the function contains the
Poles of the function (–p1,–p2,–p3,–p4,...).

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The zeroes of the function are those frequencies at which the transmission
will be zero while the poles of the function are the natural modes of the
network which define natural frequencies. Both, poles and zeroes can
contain either real, complex or purely imaginary numbers.
Determining the poles and zeroes from a transfer function formula will
allow the designer to predict how a circuit design will perform under
operation. Since pole and zero values are numeric (real or imaginary), it is
important to understand how these numbers relate to circuit stability. Refer
to the figure below to see how different poles affect circuit stability in
response to a step impulse. (“X” is the pole or zero value).

To illustrate this, analyze the following circuit.

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Assuming this passive filter performs as expected in the frequency domain,
we will examine how this circuit will react when a signal is injected to the
input. Since we are only interested in the initial response of the circuit, it is
logical to test the circuit’s response using a step function.

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Analyzing the circuit, the following can be determined:

The transfer function Vout/Vin:

If C = 1uf and R = 1Kohm, the following can then be determined:

A pole is any number that will cause the denominator in a transfer function
formula to be zero. In this case:

Zeroes are any number that will cause the numerator in a transfer function
formula to be zero. There are no zeroes in the above transfer function
formula since the numerator does not contain an ‘s’ term.
Referring back to the first figure in this section, it is clear that this circuit is
not unstable since the only pole in the above transfer function exists in the
negative region of the s-plane.

Multisim Approach
Pole Zero Analysis computes the poles and/or zeroes in the small-signal
AC transfer function. The program first computes the DC operating point
and then determines the linearized, small-signal models for all the
nonlinear devices in the circuit. This circuit is then used to find the poles
and zeroes of the transfer function.

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•

output voltage / input voltage

•

output voltage / input current

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The result is a real and/or imaginary coordinate of the poles and/or zeroes,
depending on which analyses are enabled.
Note The Pole Zero Analysis provides precise results on circuits containing passive
devices (resistors, capacitors and inductors). Circuits containing active devices (transistor
or op-amps) will not always display the expected results.

Setting Pole Zero Analysis Parameters
Before you perform the analysis, review your circuit and decide on input
and output nodes (positive and negative). The input nodes are the positive
and negative points in the circuit which are the transfer function inputs.
Likewise, the output nodes are the positive and negative points in the
circuit which are the transfer function outputs. You can use 0 (ground) for
both positive nodes or both negative nodes.
Set the Pole Zero Analysis parameters as follows:
•

Analysis Type box—Choose one of Gain Analysis, Impedance
Analysis, Input Impedance, or Output Impedance.

•

Nodes box—Choose the desired positive and negative Input and
Output nodes.

•

Analyses performed drop-down list—Choose analyses to be
performed: Pole Analysis (finds poles of transfer function), Zero
Analysis (finds zeroes of transfer function), Pole and Zero Analysis
(finds both).

Pole Zero Analysis produces the real and imaginary coordinates of the
poles and/or zeroes, depending on which analyses are enabled.
The Pole Zero Analysis provides precise results on circuits containing
passive devices (resistors, capacitors and inductors). Circuits containing
active devices (transistor or op-amps) will not always display the expected
results.

Setting Pole Zero Analysis Parameters
For normal use, you only need to:
•

select the analysis type by enabling the desired type

•

select an input node from the Input (+) drop-down list and the
Input (–) drop-down list

•

select an output node from the Output (+) drop-down list and the
Output (–) drop-down list

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•

select the analysis to be performed, by choosing from the Analysis
performed list

For more advanced use, you can filter the variables displayed to include
internal nodes (such as nodes inside a BJT model or inside a SPICE
subcircuits), open pins, as well as output variables from any submodules
contained in the circuit.
Complete the following steps to filter the variables displayed:
1.

Click Change Filter. The Filter Nodes dialog box appears.

Enable one or more settings.

Click OK.

Running Pole Zero Analysis
For this pole zero example, we will use the following circuit:

Complete the following steps to setup and run pole zero analysis using the
circuit shown above:

NI Multisim User Manual

Select Simulate»Analyses»Pole Zero.

In the Pole-Zero Analysis dialog, in the Analysis Parameters tab:
•

Set Input (+) to V(2) (input node).

•

Set Input (–) to V(0) (ground node).

•

Set Output (+) to V(1) (output node).

•

Set Output (–) to V(0) (ground node).

•

Set the Analyses Performed option to Pole And Zero Analysis.

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Click Simulate. The Grapher appears displaying the following:

This graph indicates that two poles exist. One of the poles appears in the
negative region and one in the positive region of the s-plane. Because one
of the poles exists on the positive region of the s-plane, the stability of this
circuit is poor.

Monte Carlo Analysis
Monte Carlo Analysis is a statistical technique that lets you explore how
changing component properties affects circuit performance. Monte Carlo
Analysis will perform DC, AC or Transient Analysis and vary the
component properties. Multiple simulations are performed (also known as
runs) and, for each run, the component parameters are randomly varied
according to the distribution type and parameter tolerances specified by the
user.
The first simulation is always performed with nominal values. For the rest
of the simulations, a delta value is randomly added to or subtracted from
the nominal value. This delta value can be any number within the standard
deviation (σ). The probability of adding a particular delta value depends
on the probability distribution. The two probability distributions available
are:
•

Uniform distribution (also know as Flat Distribution)

•

Guassian distribution (also known as Normal Distribution)

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Uniform Distribution
A uniform distribution is one for which the probability of occurrence is the
same for all values of x. This could be the component value within a
specified tolerance. For example, if a fair die is thrown, the probability of
obtaining any one of the six possible outcomes is 1/6. Since all outcomes
are equally probable, the distribution is uniform.
The distribution of a population can be described by several parameters
such as the mean and standard deviation.The arithmetic mean is commonly
called the average. The mean is the sum of all the observed properties
divided by the number of observations.
The formula in summation notation is:

where μ is the population mean and N is the number of scores.

Gaussian Distribution
Many statistical tests assume a gaussian distribution. Most of these tests
work well even if the distribution is only approximately normal and in
many cases as long as it does not deviate greatly from normality. Gaussian
distributions are a family of distributions that have the shape shown in the
figure below.

Gaussian distributions are symmetric with most observed properties
concentrated in the middle than in the tails. They are defined by two
parameters: the mean (μ) and the standard deviation (also know as σ, SD or
Sigma).

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The formula for the height of a normal curve for a given value of x is:

The standard deviation (σ) is calculated from the parameter tolerance
according to:

In Multisim, gaussian distribution will insure that only 68% of the
population is within the specified tolerance. The remaining population will
be outside the tolerance (specified by the user). As an example, let us look
at the gaussian distribution for a 1 k resistor with 5% tolerance.
The standard deviation leads to a tolerance band of 50 Ω. Therefore, one
standard deviation leads to a tolerance from 0.95 kohms to 1.05 kΩ (1 kΩ
± 50 Ω). Only 68% of the population will be within the tolerance of 5%.
With a large enough sample, the μ (mean) will be approximately
1000 ohms.

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Multisim Approach
Multisim begins by performing a simulation using the nominal component
values. For the rest of the simulations, a delta value is randomly added to
or subtracted from the nominal value for each component/tolerance. This
delta value can be any number within the standard deviation. The
probability of adding a particular delta value depends on the probability
distribution, which is selected by the user (for each component tolerance).

Setting Up and Running Monte Carlo Analysis
To start Monte Carlo Analysis, select Simulate»Analyses»Monte Carlo.
The Monte Carlo Analysis dialog box displays.

Entering a Component Tolerance
Complete the following steps to enter component tolerances:
1.

Click Add tolerance in the Model tolerance list tab. The Tolerance
dialog box displays.

Specify the following:

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•

Parameter Type—Select Device Parameter in the drop-down
list. This option allows you to select which component (R1, U5,
etc) will be included in a tolerance. In addition, this section allows
you to select the parameter to be used in this tolerance (eg:
Resistance, Temperature Coefficient, etc).

•

Distribution—Select either Uniform or Gaussian.

•

Tolerance Type—This option allows the user to specify if the
tolerance value is a percentage of the component value) of a
specific amount of the component value (eg: Using a resistor, if
the Tolerance Type is Absolute and the Tolerance Value is 20, the
component tolerance will be ±20 Ω).

•

Tolerance value—This option allows the user to set the
magnitude of the tolerance (in percent or absolute depending on
what is selected in the Tolerance Type option).

Click Accept.

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Specifying Monte Carlo Analysis Parameters
Set the analysis parameters in the Analysis Parameters tab as described
below:
Note Refer to the Output Tab, Analysis Options Tab and Summary Tab sections for details
on the other tabs in the analysis window.

Analysis—This option allows the user to specify what type of
simulation Monte Carlo will perform for each run. There are three
options:
•

Transient Analysis (time domain)

•

DC Operating Point (DC operating point of every node in the
circuit)

•

AC Analysis (frequency domain)

Number of runs—This option allows the user to specify how many
simulations Monte Carlo will generate. Each simulation will use a
slightly different component value.

Analysis Expressions—As well as being able to select a node in the
Output Variable field, you can click on the Expression checkbox and
enter an analysis expression in the Output Variable field. When the
Expression checkbox is enabled, the Change Filter button changes to
the Edit Expression button. You can click this to view the Analysis
Expression dialog box where you can enter and edit expressions.
Refer to the Adding Analysis Expressions section for more
information.

Collating Function and Threshold—There are four options
available:
•

MAX—This option will inform the user (when the Monte Carlo
results have been generated) what the maximum voltage (peak) is
for each run.

•

MIN—This option will inform the user (when the Monte Carlo
results have been generated) what the minimum voltage (peak) is
for each run.

•

RISE_EDGE—This option will inform the user (after Monte
Carlo has generated the results) the time when the signal reached
the threshold voltage on the first rising edge of the waveform. As
an example:
A 1 KHz Sine wave generator is connected to a voltage divider. If
the threshold setting is 0 (volts), Monte Carlo will generate a

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‘worst case value’ of zero (since the waveform exceeds the
threshold voltage (0 volts) at zero seconds).
Refer to figure below.
•

FALL_EDGE—This option will inform the user (after Monte
Carlo has generated the results) the time when the signal reached
the threshold voltage on the first falling edge of the waveform. As
an example:
A 1 KHz Sine wave generator is connected to a voltage divider.
If the threshold setting is 0 (volts), Monte Carlo will generate a
‘worst case value’ of 0.001 since the waveform exceeds the
threshold voltage on the negative edge at 0.0005 seconds (half of
the period).
Refer to the figure below.

Monte Carlo Analysis Example
This example analyses the following circuit at node 6. Details follow.

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Setting up the Sample Monte Carlo Analysis
Complete the following steps to set up the sample analyses:
1.

Fill in the data as shown below.

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Click Edit Analysis to modify the transient analysis to be used for the
simulation and change the parameters as shown below.

Click OK.

Click on the Model tolerance list tab, to specify component to vary
during the simulation.

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Click Add tolerance and enter all information in the fields as shown
below.

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Click Accept. The model tolerance should appear as below.

To add more than one component to be varied during simulation, click Add
tolerance again, and add new information.

Note

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Click Simulate to run the analysis.

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Simulation Results

Note

The results of your simulation may be different than what is shown above.
To export Voltage vs. Time data from the graph, click on the graph to make
it active. Now click the Excel icon to export the data.
To export the data under Run Log Descriptions to Excel, place the mouse
pointer within the data box and click once to make it active. Now click on
the Excel icon. Excel should start automatically. See table below.

Run
Nominal

Time (sec)
6.84997e-007

Voltage (V)

Sigma

Resistance (Ω)

8.02391

0.0762047

7.99053

0.238791

49.3672

8.07372

0.166473

50.9656

7.99164

0.233375

49.3881

7.99839

0.200508

49.5152

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Run

Time (sec)

Voltage (V)

Sigma

Resistance (Ω)

7.66444

1.82732

43.8137

8.28861

1.21325

55.445

8.28717

1.20627

55.4133

7.68974

1.70408

44.2215

8.14702

0.523529

52.4342

8.27988

1.17076

55.2525

The data in the above table are extracted from Run Log Descriptions. The
Voltage column refers to the first value under the Worst value column.
Output mean = 8.03955
Standard Deviation = 0.205279
The mean and standard deviation can be found under the # of Run column.
You must expand this column to view this information.
The Time column in the above table indicates the instance where the
voltage reaches maximum level. This is defined in the Function field in the
Analysis Parameters tab.

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The cursor in the above figure is approximately placed at the time where
voltage reaches the max value (X1 in the cursor table). This is the same
value that Multisim shows under voltage column (Y1 in the cursor table).
Calculating the Mean value from the table in the Simulation Results
section:

Standard Deviation:

Finding Sigma for the table in the Simulation Results section:
Note sigma corresponds to resistance value data and not the voltage value
from the above calculation. First we need to calculate the mean and
standard deviation for the resistance data.
Finding the exact value for sigma requires the equation for the distribution
curve. For our purpose we will use an approximation method to find sigma.
We will use Run 10, since this will give us the closest value to the simulated
results.

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At 1 standard deviation:

Trace Width Analysis
Trace Width Analysis calculates the minimum trace width needed in the
circuit to handle the RMS current at any trace/wire. The RMS current is
derived from simulation. To fully understand the importance of this
analysis, we must first understand what happens to a trace or wire as current
increases on that wire.
The flow of current through a trace will cause the temperature of the trace
to increase. The formula for power is P= I2R, so the relationship is not
simply linear with respect to current. The resistance of a trace (per unit
length) is a function of its cross-sectional area (width times thickness). The
relationship between temperature and current, therefore, is a non-linear
function of current, trace width, and trace thickness. The ability of a trace
to dissipate heat is a function of its surface area, or width (per unit length).
The PCB layout technology limits the thickness of the copper used for
wires. This thickness is related to the nominal weight, which is provided in
oz/ft2, in the form of a table.

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Understanding how Trace Width is Determined
A common model in thermodynamics for current in a trace is:

where:
I = current in amps
ΔT = change in Temperature above ambient, in degrees C
A = cross sectional area in square mils, and K, B1 and B2 are constants
This is the starting point for McHardy and Gandi.
To estimate the coefficients for the above equation, it is convenient first to
convert them to linear form. We can do this by using logarithms, as follows:

Where ln( ) is the natural logarithm (to the base e).

DN Data
DN sources are charts relating temperature change and current for various
trace configurations. The DN data provides information allowing the
independent evaluation of length and width for the traces under study.
When all DN data is used in a regression analysis, we get the following
estimate:

which leads to:

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Below is a graph plotting approximately 300 data points from the above
formula.

Multisim Approach
Multisim uses the trace weight value (oz/ft2) to calculate the required
thickness for Trace Width Analysis. See the table below for the assumed
trace thickness for each copper weight. Using transient analysis, the
currents of each wire are calculated first. These currents are usually time
dependent, that is, their amplitude changes in time to a positive or negative
value.
Thickness

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Width

1.0/8.0

.0/4.0

.36

3.0/8.0

.52

1.0/2.0

.70

3.0/4.0

1.40

2.80

4.20

5.6

7.0

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Width

8.4

9.80

19.60

Since the transient analysis is performed for discrete time points, the
accuracy of the maximum absolute value depends on how many time points
are selected. Here are a few recommendations to increase the accuracy of
Trace Width Analysis:
•

Set the end time of the transient analysis (visible in the Analysis
Parameters tab) to a time point where at least one cycle of the signal
is processed. This is particularly the case if the signal is periodic. If not,
you must set the end time to a value large enough for Multisim to
capture the correct maximum current.

•

Manually increase the number of points to 100 or more. The more
points of the signal, the more accurate the maximum value. Note that
increasing the number of time points beyond about 1000 will increase
the execution time and slow down Multisim.

•

Consider the effect of the initial condition, which can change the
maximum of the signal at starting time. It may slow down the
simulation if the steady state (DC operating point, for example) is far
from the initial condition (say, zero IC).

Once I and ΔT are known, Multisim uses the McHardy and Gandhi formula
to find the width of the wire. The formula is:

where:
I = maximum current in Amps
K = derating Constant (0.024 for inner)
T = maximum temperature rise above ambient in °C
A = cross-sectional area in square mils (not millimeters)
Note that one “mil” is 1/1000 of an inch.

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Sample Trace Width Analysis
This example uses the following circuit:

Notice that the input signal is 120V AC (RMS). The input signal and the
output signal are shown below using the Multisim Oscilloscope.

Complete the following steps to set up Trace Width Analysis:

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Select Simulate»Analyses»Trace Width Analysis.

Select the Trace Width Analysis tab, and set the following:
•

Maximum temperature above ambient to 10 (degrees C).

•

Weight of plating to 1 (oz/ft2).

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•

Optionally, enable Set node trace widths using the results from
this analysis.

•

Units—After a trace width analysis, the minimum trace width is
output to the Grapher. Set the unit of measurement for the trace
width here, typically mils.

Select the Analysis Parameters tab and choose Set To Zero from the
Initial Conditions drop-down list.

Click Simulate. The Grapher displays with the results of the analysis
in a chart. These results are listed below:

Component: c1,
•

Pin #1, Trace Width = 0.270535 mils

•

Pin #2, Trace Width = 0.270535 mils

Component: c2,
•

Pin #1, Trace Width = 0.270535 mils

•

Pin #2, Trace Width = 0.270535 mils

Component: c3,
•

Pin #1, Trace Width = 0.0819493 mils

•

Pin #2, Trace Width = 0.0819493 mils

Component: t1,
•

Pin #1, Trace Width = 3.60528 mils

•

Pin #3, Trace Width = 3.60528 mils

•

Pin #4, Trace Width = 0.465827 mils

•

Pin #5, Trace Width = 0.465827 mils

Trace Width Analysis determines that the minimum trace width required
to pin 1 of T1 (transformer) is 4.07095 mils. Therefore, in order to insure
that the connection between the input source and transformer T1 operates
successfully, the trace width must be a minimum of 4.0 mils when the PCB
board is created.

RF Analyses
RF analyses (Characterizer, Noise Figure and Matching Networks
analyses) are performed through the Network Analyzer. Refer to the RF
Analyses section of Chapter 14, RF, for more information.

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Nested Sweep Analyses
Temperature Sweep and Parameter Sweep analyses can be performed in
a nested fashion, with a series of sweeps being performed, each within the
constraints of the sweep before it. For example, you can perform a
temperature sweep on the results of a parameter sweep.
Complete the following steps to perform a Nested Temperature or
Parameter Sweep Analysis:
1.

Open the Parameter Sweep dialog box by choosing either
Temperature Sweep or Parameter Sweep from the Analyses menu.

From the Analysis to Sweep drop-down list, select Nested Sweep.

Click Edit Analysis. The Nested Parameter Sweep dialog box
appears. The title bar of the dialog box indicates you are defining
nested sweep level 1.

Set the parameters as desired.

To create another level of the nest, again select Nested sweep from the
Analysis to sweep drop-down list.

Click Edit Analysis. A new Nested Parameter Sweep dialog box
appears, this time indicating that you are at nest Level 2.

You can continue to add nested sweeps by repeating this procedure.

To return to the higher level, saving your changes, click OK. To return
to the higher level without saving your changes, click Cancel.

When all nested analyses have been defined, click Simulate.

Batched Analyses
You can batch together different analyses, or different instances of the
same analysis, to be performed in sequence. This provides a convenient
way for advanced users to perform multiple analyses from a single,
interpreted command.
For example, you might use batched analyses to:

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•

repeatedly perform the same set of analyses, such as when trying to
fine-tune a circuit

•

build a record of the analyses that you performed on the circuit

•

set up a sequence of long running analyses to run automatically.

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Complete the following steps to set up batched analyses:
1.

Choose Simulate»Analyses»Batched Analyses. The Batched
Analyses dialog box appears.

To add an analysis to the batch, select it and click the Add Analysis
button. The parameters dialog box for the selected analysis appears, so
you can set the parameters for the analysis.

When you have finished the settings for the analysis, click Add to List.

The analysis is added to the Analyses to Perform list on the right.
Summary information can be revealed by clicking the “+” beside the
analysis.

Continue to add analyses as desired. Note that the settings for one
instance of an analysis become the default settings for that analysis
during this operation. For example, if you set your first DC Sweep to
an increment of 0.6, the 0.6 increment is the default value when you
add your next DC Sweep to the batch.

To run just one of the analyses in the batch, select it and click Run
Selected Analysis. To run all of them, click Run All Analyses.

To edit an analysis’ parameters in the batch, select it and click Edit
Analysis. The selected analysis’ parameters dialog box appears, allowing
you to make any modifications you wish to the analysis.

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To remove an analysis from the batch, select it and click Delete Analysis.
To remove all analyses, click Remove All Analyses.

User Defined Analyses
The User Defined Analysis allows you to manually load a SPICE card or
netlist and type in SPICE commands. This gives you more freedom to
adjust a simulation rather than using the graphical interface of Multisim.
However, a thorough knowledge of SPICE is essential.
To demonstrate the User Defined Analysis, two Berkeley SPICE 3F5
compatible SPICE netlists are simulated in the following sections.

Creating and Simulating a SPICE Netlist
This example will create and simulate the following SPICE netlist:
*Basic RC Circuit
v1 1 0 sin(0 1 1000)
r1 1 2 1000
c1 2 0 1e-6
.tran 0.1m 1m

Complete the following steps to create a SPICE netlist:
1.

Type the netlist into any text editor, as in the example shown above.

From the text editor, select File»Save As.

In the dialog box that appears, enter Rc.cir for the filename and
select C:\Temp for the filepath.

Complete the following steps to run the User Defined Analysis:
1.

Select Simulate»Analyses»User Defined Analysis.

In the Commands tab of the User Defined Analysis dialog box, enter
the following syntax:
source C:\Temp\Rc.cir
tran = 100u 1m
plot v(1)

Click Simulate.

Multisim gives you the option of using an equal sign after the statement i.e. tran =
100u 1m or tran 100u 1m. Both revisions of the “tran” statement work. In addition, if you
would like to have a smoother waveform, reduce the step value from 100u to 1u.

Note

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The waveform example in the figure below will appear on the your display
grapher in Multisim.

Importing the SPICE netlist into Multisim
Complete the following steps to import the Rc.cir SPICE netlist into
Multisim:
1.

Select File»Open. Click on the drop-down arrow next to “Files of
type”, and select SPICE Netlist Files (*.cir).

Select the file Rc.cir from the C:\Temp\ directory and click Open.
The Rc.cir file imports into Multisim and shows the schematic
equivalent of the text-based SPICE netlist.

Select File»Save As and name the file Rc.ms10.

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Plotting Two Nodes Using the Tran Statement
To plot two nodes using the tran statement enter the syntax shown below:
•

First line shows the path and loads the SPICE netlist file

•

Second line shows the “tran” statement with a 1u step value and a
final stop value of 2m

•

plot v(1) v(2) will plot nodes 1 and 2 on the Grapher.

Custom Analysis Options Dialog Box
Multisim lets you control many aspects of the simulation used within the
analyses, such as resetting error tolerances, selecting simulation techniques
and viewing the results. Simulation efficiency is also dependent on the
options you choose.
This section briefly describes the simulation options you have for
controlling simulation used within the analyses and lists their default
values. You will find these options through the Analysis Options tabs of

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the various analyses dialog boxes. Refer to the Analysis Options Tab
section for more information.

Global Tab
Code

Option Name

Description

Default

Unit

Recommendation

ABSTOL

Absolute error
tolerance

Resets the absolute current error
tolerance. Default is suitable for
most bipolar transistor VLSI
circuits.

1.0e-12

—

VNTOL

Voltage error
tolerance

Resets the absolute voltage
error tolerance of the program.

1.0e-06

Generally, set to
6 to 8 orders of
magnitude smaller
than the largest
voltage signal in
the circuit.

CHGTOL

Charge error
tolerance

Resets the charge tolerance in
coulombs.

1.0e-14

Do not change
default.

RELTOL

Relative error
tolerance

Resets the relative error
tolerance of the simulation,
which is the universal accuracy
control. The value can
significantly affect the
convergence of the solution and
the simulation speed. Value
must be between 1 and 0.

0.001

GMIN

Minimum
conductance

Resets the minimum
conductance used in any circuit
branch. Cannot be zero.
Increasing this may positively
improve the convergence of the
solution; however, it will also
negatively affect simulation
accuracy.

1.0e-12

PIVREL

Minimum
acceptable ratio of
pivot

Resets the relative value
between the largest column
entry in the matrix and an
acceptable pivot value. Value
must be between 1 and 0.

0.001

PIVTOL

Minimum
acceptable pivot

Resets the absolute minimum
value for a matrix entry to be
accepted as a pivot.

1.0e-13

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—

Use typical values
between 1.0e-06
and 0.01.

mho

Do not change
default.

—

Do not change
default.

—

Do not change
default.

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Code

Option Name

Description

Default

Unit

Recommendation

TEMP

Operating
temperature

Resets the temperature at which
the entire circuit will be
simulated. Setting in the
Analysis Parameters dialog box
will override.

°C

—

RSHUNT

Shunt resistance
from analog
nodes to ground

Inserts resistance to ground at
all analog nodes in the circuit.
Reducing value reduces
simulation accuracy.

1.0+e12

Should be set to
some very high
resistance, say
1e+12Ω. If you get
a “No DC path to
ground” or a
“Matrix is nearly
singular” error
message, try
decreasing
RSHUNT to
1e+9Ω or 1e+6Ω.

RAMPTIME

Transient analysis
supply ramping
time

Ramps independent sources,
capacitor and inductor initial
conditions from zero to their
final values during the time
period specified.

—

CONVSTEP

Fractional step
allowed by code
model inputs
between iterations

Controls automatic convergence
assistance by establishing a
relative step size limit in solving
for the DC operating point.

0.25

—

CONVABSSTEP

Absolute step
allowed by code
model inputs
between iterations

Controls automatic convergence
assistance by establishing an
absolute step size limit in
solving for the DC operating
point.

0.1

—

CONVLIMIT

Enable
convergence
assistance on code
models

Enables/disables a convergence
algorithm used in some built-in
component models.

—

ACCT

Print simulation
statistics

Turns on/off display of
statistical data on
simulation-related information.
Data may be useful for
debugging simulation-related
problems. Data appears in the
Grapher dialog box.

Off

—

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DC Tab
Code

Option Name

Description

ITL1

DC iteration limit

Resets the upper bound limit to
the number of Newton-Raphson
iterations during a DC operating
point analysis.

ITL2

DC transfer curve
iteration limit

ITL6

Unit

Recommendation

100

—

If you receive the
error message “No
convergence in DC
analysis”, increase
the ITL1 value to
500 or 1000 and
rerun the analysis.

Resets the DC transfer curve
iteration limit.

—

Steps in source
stepping
algorithm

Sets the number of steps in the
Source stepping algorithm.
Helps find a solution during a
DC operating point analysis.
Refer to the Convergence
Assistance Algorithms section
of Chapter 8, Simulation, for
more information.

—

GMINSTEPS

Number of Gmin
steps

Sets the number of steps in the
Gmin stepping algorithm. Helps
find a solution during the DC
operating point analysis. Refer
to the Convergence Assistance
Algorithms section of
Chapter 8, Simulation, for more
information. If a zero value is
specified, the Gmin stepping
algorithm is disabled.

—

NOOPITER

Go directly to
Gmin stepping

—

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Transient Tab
Code

Option Name

Description

Default

Unit

Recommendation

ITL4

Upper transient
iteration limit

Resets the upper bound limit to
the number of Newton-Raphson
iterations at each transient time
point. Increasing the value may
slow down transient simulation
time. Decreasing the value
increases the chance of
in-convergence.

100

—

If you receive the
error message “Time
step too small” or
“No convergence in
transient analysis”,
increase the ITL4
value to 150 and
rerun the analysis.

MAXORD

Maximum
integration order

Sets the maximum order for
integration when GEAR chosen
as transient analysis integration
method. Must be between 2 and
6. Using a higher order
theoretically leads to more
accurate results, but slows down
simulation.

—

Use the default value
for most circuit
simulation.

TRTOL

Truncation error
overestimation
factor

Resets transient error tolerance.
Only used in the local
truncation error criterion.

—

Use default value

METHOD

Integration
method

Selects for transient analysis.
Default provides faster
simulations with same
numerical accuracy, but can
produce unintended results.

TRAPEZOIDAL

—

Use GEAR (gear
integration method)
if unwanted
numerical
oscillations occur
during simulation or
if circuit contains
ideal switches. Use
default if circuit
operates in
oscillation mode, for
example, oscillator
circuits. Be aware
that Gear integration
may overdamp
results.

ADERROR

Maximum
Analog-to-Digital
Interface Error

Sets the maximum time that
elapses between the time an
analog node passes an A/D
bridge threshold and the time
that this bridge changes its
digital output state.

0.1n

Small values will
increase accuracy at
the expense of
decreased simulation
speed. Use as
needed.

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Device Tab
Code

Option Name

Description

Default

Unit

°C

Recommendation

TNOM

Nominal
temperature

Resets the normal
temperature at which
model parameters are
measured and calculated.

BYPASS

Allow bypass of
unchanging
elements

Turns off/on the device
bypass scheme for
nonlinear model
evaluation. Turning off
may increase simulation
time

Off

DEFAD

Default MOSFET
area of drain

Resets the value for
MOS drain diffusion
area.

Use default value
unless you know how
to specify a value from
a MOS device
datasheet.

DEFAS

Default MOSFET
area of source

Resets the value for
MOS source diffusion
area.

Use default value
unless you know how
to specify a value from
a MOS device
datasheet.

DEFL

Default MOSFET
length

Resets the value for
MOS channel length.

0.0001

Use default value
unless you know how
to specify a value from
a MOS device
datasheet.

DEFW

Default MOSFET
width

Resets the value for
MOS channel width

0.0001

Use default value
unless you know how
to specify a value from
a MOS device
datasheet.

10-121

—

Do not change unless
you want your circuit
to match data book
specifications that were
extracted at a
temperature other than
300.15 °K.
Do not change default.

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Chapter 10

Analyses

Code

Option Name

TRYTOCOMPACT

Try compaction
for LTRA lines

OLDLIMIT

Use SPICE2
MOSFET
limiting

Description

Default

Unit

Recommendation

Applicable only to lossy
transmission line
component. When option
turned on, Multisim tries
to reduce data storage
and memory usage
needed for transient
simulation of circuits
containing lossy
transmission lines.

Off

—

Off

—

Advanced Tab
Code

Option Name

Description

AUTOPARTIAL

Use auto-partial
computation for all
models

—

BADMOS3

Use old mos3 model
(discontinuous with
respect to kappa)

KEEPOPINFO

Record operating
point for each
small-signal
analysis

MAXEVTITER

Unit

Recommendation

Off

—

Off

—

Retains the operating
point information
whether an AC,
Distortion, or Pole-Zero
analysis is run.

Off

—

Particularly useful if
the circuit is large
and you do not want
to run a redundant
“.OP” analysis.

Maximum event
iterations at analysis
point

—

MAXOPALTER

Maximum
analog/event
alternations in
DCOP

—

MINBREAK

Minimum time
between breakpoints

—

NOOPALTER

Do not do
analog/event
alternation in DCOP

Off

—

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Postprocessor

This chapter explains how to use the Postprocessor to mathematically
manipulate the results of simulation obtained through analyses in different
ways.
To use the Postprocessor, you must have performed at least one analysis
on your circuit. This chapter assumes that you are familiar with the analyses
offered by Multisim, and the Grapher that displays analysis results. Refer
to Chapter 10, Analyses, for more information.
Some of the features described in this chapter may not be available in your
edition of Multisim. Refer to the release notes for a list of the features in
your edition.

Introduction to the Postprocessor
Use the Postprocessor to manipulate the output from analyses performed
on a circuit and plot the results on a graph or chart. The plotted results are
referred to as “traces”. Types of mathematical operations that can be
performed on analysis results include: arithmetic, trigonometric,
exponential, logarithmic, complex, vector, and logic.
The following illustrate possible uses of the Postprocessor:
•

Divide the output curve by the input curve obtained from a transient
analysis, and observe the results.

•

Multiply a voltage by a current to observe circuit power.

•

Assess the differences caused by minor changes to your circuit. For
example, run an analysis on a circuit, then change one condition of the
circuit (such as changing the input voltage of the component’s value)
and run the analysis again. Subtract one set of results from the other to
show the effect of the circuit modification.

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Using the Postprocessor
The Postprocessor calculates the results of equations and plots these
results as “traces” on graphs and charts. To use the Postprocessor, you
build the equations by combining the variables from previous circuit
analysis results with mathematical functions.
To build equations for the Postprocessor, you must have performed at least
one analysis. When you perform an analysis on a circuit, the results appear
in the Grapher and are stored for use by the Postprocessor. Refer to
Chapter 10, Analyses, for information about performing analyses.
Equations created in the Postprocessor will be saved with Multisim allowing them
to be available in the Postprocessor the next time you open Multisim. Your expressions
can be used with other analysis results as long as the expression variables are labeled the
same.

Note

Basic Steps
To construct an equation from which a trace will be plotted, you select
variables and mathematical functions.
You must have done an analysis on the circuit you wish to use with the postprocessor
in the current Multisim session so that the current simulation results are available.

Note

Complete the following steps to build an expression:
1.

NI Multisim User Manual

Click the Postprocessor button on the Main toolbar or select
Simulate»Postprocessor. The Postprocessor dialog box appears with
the following information:
•

Select simulation results—This list contains names of the
circuits on which analyses have been performed in this session.
For example, Amplitude Modulator in the figure below. Below
each circuit name is a list of the specific analyses performed.

•

Variables—This lists the variables that resulted from the analysis
selected in Select simulation results.

•

Functions—This lists the mathematical functions available for
use in your expression.

•

Expressions—This is where you build your Postprocessor
expression. Expressions from earlier sessions may be here. To
remove, highlight the expression and click Delete.

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Click on the Expression tab. The Select Simulation Results section
lists Multisim files and each analysis performed within the file. Each
analysis is identified with a name followed by a code in brackets. That
code will be used to identify the variables from that analysis when the
trace is plotted. Click on the analysis name; the variables that resulted
from that analysis appear in the Variables list.

From the Variables list, select the variable you want to include in the
equation being used to define the trace, and click Copy Variable to
Expression. The variable appears in the Expressions section,
prepended with the code of the analysis from which it is drawn, unless
the selected analysis is the default analysis. Refer to the Using the
Default Analysis section for more information.

The Variables list contains the variables selected in the Selected Variables for
Analysis list in the analyses Output tabs. To filter the Variables list to show only certain
variables, choose from the drop-down list, for example, All Voltages.

Note

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From the Functions list, select the mathematical function you want
included in the equation for this trace, and click Copy Function to
Expression. To filter the Functions list to show only certain
mathematical functions, choose from the drop-down list of options.
Refer to the Available Postprocessor Functions section for more
information.

It is possible to manually type or modify a trace’s equation although you should
exercise caution if doing so.

Note

NI Multisim User Manual

Continue to choose analyses, variables and functions until the equation
is complete.

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When complete, click Add or press Enter to save your equation in the
Expressions section, as in the example below.

Repeat above steps to add more equations.

Complete the following steps to view the results of the built equation:
1.

Select the Graph tab in the Postprocessor dialog box.

Click the Add button to the right of the Pages section. A default name
will appear in the Name column of the Pages section. This is the name
of the tab that will display the results in the Grapher. Change the
default name if necessary.

Click the Add button to the right of the Diagrams section. A default
name will appear in the Name column of the Diagrams section. This
is the title of the diagram that will be displayed in the Grapher.
Change the default name if necessary.

Click in the Type column of the Diagram section and choose either
Graph or Chart from the drop-down list that appears.

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In the Expressions Available section, select the equation you want to
view.

Click the > button to move the equation to the Expressions Selected
field. The dialog box will resemble the following:

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Click the Calculate button to open the Grapher and view the results.

The results of the Postprocessor plotting the trace appear in the Grapher,
in tabs with the names you specified, along with the results of the analyses
previously performed. Results, including errors, are also recorded in the
Simulation Error Log/Audit Trail. Refer to the Simulation Error
Log/Audit Trail section of Chapter 8, Simulation, for more information.

Using the Default Analysis
The equation you build using the Postprocessor contains variables that are
prepended with their analysis’ code. To simplify the equation and the trace
displayed on the graph, you can set one of the analyses to be the default
analysis.
The Select Simulation Results list always contains one analysis defined as
the default. The default is the analysis that, in the absence of any other
indication, the Postprocessor uses for calculations. Variables from the
default analysis do not have identifying prefixes in the equation or when the
trace is plotted.
The default analysis is identified below the Select Simulation Results
section in the Expression tab.
Complete the following steps to change the default analysis:
1.

Click on the desired analysis in the Select Simulation Results section.

Click Set Default. The Default Analysis field displays your choice.

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Creating Multiple Traces
Complete the following steps to add another trace to a Grapher page:
1.

Select the Graph tab from the Postprocessor dialog box.

In the Expressions Available section, select another equation you
want to view.

Click the > button to move the equation to the Expressions Selected
field.

Click the Calculate button to open the Grapher and view the results.

Working with Pages, Traces, Graphs and Charts
Complete the following steps to add another page (tab) to the Grapher to
display traces:
1.

Select the Graph tab in the Postprocessor dialog box.

Click the Add button in the Pages section. A default name will appear
in the Name column under the first page name. Change the default
name if necessary.

Click the Add button in the Diagrams section. A default name will
appear in the Name column under the first diagram name. Change the
default name if necessary.

Click in the Type column of the Diagram section and choose either
Graph or Chart from the drop-down list that appears.

In the Expressions Available section, select the equation you want to
view.

Click the > button to move the equation to the Expressions Selected
field.

Click the Calculate button to open the Grapher and view the results.

Complete the following steps to change between a graph or chart:
1.

Select the Graph tab in the Postprocessor dialog box.

Click in the Type column of the Diagram section and choose either
Graph or Chart from the drop-down list that appears.

Note Each chart or graph appears on the page in the Grapher to which it has been
assigned.

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Complete the following steps to remove a trace:
1.

Select the Graph tab and highlight the expression to be removed in the
Expressions Selected field.

Click the < button to move the expression to the Expressions
Available field.

To delete a page, select it in the Pages section of the Graph tab and click
the Delete button to the right of the Pages section.

Postprocessor Variables
The variables that appear in the Analysis Variables list of the
Postprocessor are based on the selected analysis. They can include any or
all of the following:
•

All variables

•

All Voltages

•

Voltages except submodules

•

Voltages only at static probes

•

All Currents

•

Currents except submodules

•

Currents only at static probes

•

All Powers

•

Powers except submodules.

Available Postprocessor Functions
The functions you can apply to the Postprocessor variables are detailed in
the following sections (symbol followed by description).

Algebraic Functions
+—plus
-—minus
*—times
/—divided by
^—to the power of

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Postprocessor

%—modulus
,—complex 3,4 = 3 + j (4)
abs(X)—absolute value
sqrt(X)—square root

Trigonometric Functions
sgn(X)—1(if x>0), 0(if x=0), –1(if x<0)
sin(X)—Trigonometric sine (argument in radians)
cos(X)—Trigonometric cosine (argument in radians)
tan(X)—Trigonometric tangent (argument in radians)
atan(X)—Trigonometric inverse tangent

Relational Functions
gt—Greater than
lt—Less than
ge—Greater than or equal to
le—Less than or equal to
ne—Not equal to
eq—Equal to

Logical Functions
and—And
or—Or
not—Not

Exponential Functions
db(X)—Decibels 20 log10(mag(X))
log(X)—Logarithm (base 10)

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ln(X)—Natural logarithm (base e)
exp(X)—Exponential e to the vector power

Complex Functions
j(X)—Complex i (sqrt(–1)) times X
real(X)—Complex real component of X
imag(X)—Complex imaginary part of X
vi(X)—Complex vi(X) = image (v(X))
vr(X)—Complex vr(X) = real (v(X))

Vector Functions
avg(X)—Running average of the vector X where:
xi

∫ X ( x ) dx
xo
avg ( X ( x i ) ) i = --------------------xi – xo

avgx(X, d)—Running average of the vector X over d where:
xi

∫

X ( x ) dx

i–d
avgx ( X ( x i ) ) i = x--------------------------xi – d

if xi – d = x0, otherwise:
xi

∫ X ( x ) dx
xo
avgx ( X ( x i ) ) i = --------------------xi – xo

deriv(X)—Vector derivative of X uses numeric differentiation by
interpolating a polynomial and may not produce satisfactory results,
particularly with iterated differentiation. Only calculates the derivative with
respect to the real component of the vector’s scale.

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Postprocessor

envmax(X, n)—Upper envelope of the vector X where n is the number of
points on either side of a peak that must be less than the value for a peak to
be identified.
envmin(X, n)—Lower envelope of the vector X where n is the number of
points on either side of a valley that must be greater than the value for a
valley to be identified.
grpdelay(X)—Group delay of vector X in seconds, where:
[ ph ( X ( freq ) ) ]
1 - d-------------------------------------grpdelay ( X ( freq ) ) i = – -------dfreq
360

freq i

1
= – --------- deriv [ ph ( X ( freq ) ) ] freqi
360

integral(X)—Running integral of vector X, where:
xi

integral ( X ( x i ) ) i =

∫ X ( x ) dx
xo

mag(X)—Vector magnitude
ph(X)—Vector phase
norm(X)—Vector X normalized to 1 where:
X
norm ( X ) = --------------------------------max ( abs ( X ) )
rms(X)—Running RMS average of vector X where:
xi

∫ X(x )
rms ( X ( x i ) ) i =

xo
-------------------------xi – xo

rnd(X)—Vector random
mean(X)—Vector results in a scalar (a length 1 vector) that is the mean of
the elements of the vector

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Vector(n)—Vector results in a vector of length n, with elements 0, 1, ...
n–1. If n is a vector than just the first element is taken, and if it isn't an
image then the floor of the magnitude is used
length(X)—Vector length of vector X
max(X)—Vector maximum value from X
min(X)—Vector minimum value from X
vm(X)—Vector vm(x) = mag(v(X))
vp(X)—Vector vp(x) = ph(v(X))

Constant Functions
yes—Yes
true—True
no—No
false—False
pi—Pi
e—Natural logarithm base
c—Speed of light in vacuum
i—Square root of –1
kelvin—Absolute zero in Celsius
echarge—Fundamental charge
boltz—Boltzman’s constant
planck—Planck’s constant

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Reports

This chapter details the various reports that are available in Multisim.
Some of the features described in this chapter may not be available in your
edition of Multisim. Refer to the release notes for a list of the features in
your edition.

Bill of Materials
A Bill of Materials (BOM) lists the components used in your design and
provides a summary of the components needed to manufacture the circuit
board. You can also select which fields to view and print on your BOM.
The Bill of Materials report includes each component’s:
•

Quantity

•

Description, including its type (for example, resistor) and value (for
example, 5.1 kohm)

•

RefDes

•

Package or footprint

•

Type.

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The Bill of Materials can also show all user fields and their values. Refer
to the Editing User Fields section of Chapter 6, Component Editing, for
information about defining and completing user fields.

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Because a BOM is primarily intended to assist in procurement and manufacturing,
it includes only “real” parts. Therefore, it excludes parts that are not real or able to be
purchased, such as sources or virtual components. If desired, you may also view a list of
the virtual components in a circuit, as in the example shown in the figure below.

Note

Using the BOM Report
Complete the following steps to create a Bill of Materials (BOM) for your
circuit:
1.

Have the desired circuit open in your workspace.

Select Reports»Bill of Materials. The Bill of Materials View dialog
box displays.

Note If there are multiple variants in the circuit, the Variants Filter dialog box will
display before the report dialog. Refer to the Variants Filter Dialog Box section for more
information.

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Optionally, adjust the displayed information using the buttons detailed
below.

Button

Description
Show Real Components button. Click to return to the Bill of
Materials View dialog box from either the Select Columns
dialog box or the Virtual Components View dialog box.
Show Virtual Components button. Click to display the
Virtual Components View dialog box.
Select Columns button. Click to display the Select Columns
dialog box. Select or deselect the columns you wish to view.
Note that the buttons on the left side of the toolbar are
greyed-out (disabled) when this view is selected.

Optionally, click on a column (Quantity, Description, etc.) to sort the
data in ascending order by that column. Click again to sort by
descending order.

Use the buttons detailed below as required to produce your report.

Button

Description
Save to a Text File button. Click to save the data (from either
the Bill of Materials View or the Virtual Components
View) to a text file. A standard Windows save dialog box
appears. Choose the desired filepath and click Save.
Print button. Click to display a standard Windows print
dialog box. Choose the desired print options and click OK.
Print Preview button. Click to display the Print Preview
dialog box.
Export to MS Excel button. Click to open a Microsoft®
Excel spreadsheet with the data from the dialog box
displayed. (You must have Excel installed to use this
function).

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Component Detail Report
You can produce a Component Detail Report showing all information
stored in the Multisim database for a particular component.

Using the Component Detail Report
Complete the following steps to produce a Component Detail Report
showing detailed information about a specific component:
1.

Select Reports»Component Detail Report. The Select a
Component to Print dialog box displays.

Select a specific Database, Group, Family and Component in the
dialog box.

Click the Detail Report button to display the report window.

Scroll through the information as necessary using the scrollbar on the
right of the dialog box.

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Use the following buttons on the dialog box as required:

Button

Description
Save button. Click to save the data to a text file. A standard
Windows save dialog box appears. Choose the desired
filepath and click Save.
Print button. Click to print the information in the report. A
standard Windows print dialog box appears. Choose the
desired print options and click OK.

Note This report can also be accessed via the Detail Report button in the Components
tab of the Database Manager dialog box.

Netlist Report
The Netlist Report provides the following circuit connectivity information
for each component:
•

Net (net name)

•

Page (filename)

•

Pin (logical pin name).

Using the Netlist Report
Complete the following steps to produce a netlist:
1.

Have the desired circuit open in your workspace.

Select Reports»Netlist Report. The Netlist Report dialog box
displays.

Note If there are multiple variants in the circuit, the Variants Filter dialog box will
display before the report dialog. Refer to the Variants Filter Dialog Box section for more
information.

NI Multisim User Manual

Optionally, click on a column (for example, Net, Page) to sort the data
on the dialog box in ascending order by that column. Click again to sort
by descending order.
•

Net—The net to which the Component Pin is connected.

•

Page—Page (filename) where the component is located or the
root page if the component is part of a subcircuit, hierarchical
block or multi-page.

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•

Component—Component’s RefDes and subcircuit, hierarchical
block or multi-page name.

•

Pin—Logical pin name.

Use the buttons detailed below as required to produce your report.

Button

Schematic Statistics Report
The Schematic Statistics Report lists the quantity of the following in your
circuit:
•

Components—Total number of components. (Real components +
virtual components).

•

Real components—Components that can be purchased.

•

Virtual components—Components that cannot be purchased.

•

Gates—Total number of gates used in the design.

•

Nets—Total number of connections between pins.

•

Pins in nets.

•

Unconnected pins.

•

Total pins—Pins in nets + unconnected pins.

•

Pages.

•

Hierarchical blocks—Total number of hierarchical blocks, unique or
otherwise. Instances of hierarchical blocks equals the number of
copies of the same hierarchical block.

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•

Unique hierarchical blocks—Total number of unique hierarchical
blocks.

•

Subcircuits—Total number of subcircuits, unique or otherwise.

•

Unique subcircuits.

Using the Schematic Statistics Report
Complete the following steps to produce a schematic statistics report:
1.

Have the desired circuit open in your workspace.

Select Reports»Schematic Statistics. The Schematic Statistics
Report dialog box displays.

Note If there are multiple variants in the circuit, the Variants Filter dialog box will
display before the report dialog. Refer to the Variants Filter Dialog Box section for more
information.

Optionally, click on a column (Name, Quantity) to sort the data on the
dialog box in ascending order by that column. Click again to sort by
descending order.

Use the buttons detailed below as required to produce your report.

Button

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Spare Gates Report
The Spare Gates Report lists the unused sections of multi-section
components in a circuit. By running the Spare Gates Report, you can
quickly see which components still have available gates.
For example, in a QUAD 2-INPUT NAND you may not have used all four
of the available NAND gates (sections).

Using the Spare Gates Report
Complete the following steps to produce a Spare Gates Report:
1.

Have the desired circuit open in your workspace.

Select Reports»Spare Gates Report. The Spare Gates Report
dialog box displays.

Note If there are multiple variants in the circuit, the Variants Filter dialog box will
display before the report dialog. Refer to the Variants Filter Dialog Box section for more
information.

Optionally, click on a column to sort the data on the dialog box in
ascending order by that column. Click again to sort by descending
order.
The columns contain the following information:

•

RefDes—The reference designator of the component that
contains the spare gates.

•

Part—The type of component.

•

Section(s) available—The sections in the component that are still
unplaced. Each section corresponds to one gate.

Use the buttons detailed below as required to produce your report.

Button

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Button

Description
Print Preview button. Click to display the Print Preview
dialog box.
Export to MS Excel button. Click to open a Microsoft®
Excel spreadsheet with the data from the dialog box
displayed. (You must have Excel installed to use this
function).

Model Data Report
The Model Data Report gives you the model information for a selected
component.

Using the Model Data Report
Complete the following steps to generate a Model Data Report:
1.

Select Place»Component to display the Select a Component dialog
box.

Use the Database, Group, Family and Component lists to navigate
to, and highlight, the component for which you wish to generate the
report.

Click on View Model. The Model Data Report displays.

Note You can also click the View Model button from the Select a Component to Print
dialog box, which appears when you select Reports»Component Detail Report. Refer to
the Component Detail Report section for information about the Component Detail
Report.

Use the following buttons on the dialog box as required:

Button

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Cross Reference Report
The Cross Reference Report provides a detailed list of all components in
the active circuit.

Using the Cross Reference Report
Complete the following steps to produce a Cross Reference report:
1.

Have the desired circuit open in your workspace.

Select Reports»Cross Reference Report. The Cross Reference
Report dialog box displays.

Note If there are multiple variants in the circuit, the Variants Filter dialog box will
display before the report dialog. Refer to the Variants Filter Dialog Box section for more
information.

Optionally, click on a column to sort the data on the dialog box in
ascending order by that column. Click again to sort by descending
order.

Use the buttons detailed below as required to produce your report.

Button

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Variants Filter Dialog Box
When there is more than one variant present in a circuit, the
Variants Filter dialog box displays when you run the following reports:
•

Bill of Materials—Refer to the Bill of Materials section for
information.

•

Netlist Report—Refer to the Netlist Report section for information.

•

Schematic Statistics—Refer to the Schematic Statistics Report
section for more information.

•

Spare Gates Report—Refer to the Spare Gates Report section for
more information.

•

Cross Reference Report—Refer to the Cross Reference Report
section for more information.

If you select one of the above reports in a circuit that has multiple variants,
the Variants Filter dialog box appears.

NI Multisim User Manual

Include or exclude each variant from the report using the Status
drop-down list.

Enable the Include All Variants checkbox if you wish to include all
variants in the report.

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Transfer/Communication

This chapter explains how to use Multisim to transfer either circuit
schematics or the results of simulation.
Some of the features described in this chapter may not be available in your
edition of Multisim. Refer to the release notes for a list of the features in
your edition.

Introduction to Transfer/Communication
Multisim makes it easy to transfer schematic and simulation data to and
from other programs for further processing. Multisim can combine
schematic information and simulation data for transfer together. For
example, when transferring your schematic to perform a PCB layout,
Multisim can include optimized trace width information (calculated using
the Trace Width Analysis during simulation).

Exporting to PCB layout
Multisim provides features that integrate with many PCB layout programs,
and it is particularly well-integrated with its sister product, Ultiboard.
In Multisim you define PCB Layers, and then constrain nets to be routed on
these layers. You can also indicate for specific nets the desired, min and
max trace widths, min and max trace lengths, minimum distances to other
traces, pads, vias, and so on. As well, Multisim will keep track of power and
ground nets, and constrain them to be routed only on layers of the
appropriate type.

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When the schematic has been prepared, the design will be flattened and
consolidated, and transferred to Ultiboard for board layout. In Ultiboard
you design the board shape and size, place the components on the board,
and route the nets as copper traces on as many layers as you like, placing
vias to connect traces between layers.

The Multisim and Ultiboard databases also contain full 3D mechanical
CAD information for boards and parts. A 3D view of the board enables you
to quickly preview the mechanical properties of the board. A small
mechanical CAD package in Ultiboard allows for quick casing designs. For
larger jobs, the 3D board information can be exported to popular
mechanical CAD packages.
In order to enable better routing, Ultiboard may wish to swap pins of
components (for example, swap the two inputs of an AND gate), or may
wish to swap sections within a component (for example, use a different gate
in a QUAD AND chip). Multisim provides Ultiboard with all the
information required to do this.
Changes made in Ultiboard (either automatic ones or manual ones) can be
“back annotated” to Multisim. For example, if a component is renamed,
swapped with one another, pins are swapped, parts are deleted, and so on.
The changes will be made into the schematic in Multisim as well. Likewise,
subsequent changes to the schematic in Multisim can be “forward
annotated” to Ultiboard, in order that progress to date on a board design is
not lost if a small change in the schematic is made. Both programs have a
feature called “cross probing”, which enables parts or nets in one
application to be quickly found in the other.

Transferring from Multisim to Ultiboard for PCB Layout
One of the most common applications to which you may want to transfer
data is a PCB layout program. Ultiboard is one of the industry’s leading
PCB layout tools and offers many advantages over other layout programs,
including trace width optimization synchronized with Multisim simulation.

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If you wish to keep analog and digital grounds separate during the PCB layout
process, be sure that the Connect digital ground to analog ground checkbox in the PCB
tab of the Sheet Properties dialog box is de-selected before exporting your schematic to
Ultiboard. Refer to the Sheet Properties—PCB Tab section of Chapter 1, User Interface,
for more information.
Caution

Complete the following steps to transfer a circuit design from Multisim to
Ultiboard 10:
1.

Select Transfer»Transfer to Ultiboard 10. A standard Windows
Save As dialog box appears.

Specify the name and location of the file to be created and click Save.
Multisim creates files that can then be loaded into Ultiboard.

Load the created files into Ultiboard, following the instructions in the
Ultiboard User Manual.

Note If you have an earlier version of Ultiboard, select Transfer»Transfer to
Ultiboard 9 or earlier.

Transfering to Other PCB Layout Packages
If you are using a PCB layout package other than Ultiboard, you can create
files in the necessary formats for transfer to the following third party layout
packages:
•

OrCAD

•

PADS Layout 2005

•

P-CAD

•

Protel

Complete the following steps to transfer the circuit design to a third party
layout package:
1.

Select Transfer»Export to PCB Layout. A standard Windows
Save As dialog box appears.

Navigate to the desired folder, enter a file name, choose the desired
manufacturer from the drop-down list and click Save. Multisim creates
a file of the appropriate format that can then be loaded into the layout
package of your choice.

Note Multisection components in different subcircuits, hierarchical blocks or multi-pages
of the same design may be placed on the same IC even though they may have different
RefDes’s (Reference Designators).

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Transfering to PADS Layout 2005
All of the components shipped with Multisim map to either a valid PADS
footprint, or a generic PADS footprint that will allow you to retain the net
connections. However, for this to work properly, two additional PADS
files containing these generic footprints must be imported into the PADS
library.
You must be careful if you change a component’s footprint or create a new one
that the component has a valid PADS footprint or generic PADS footprint. Otherwise, the
component and the nets attached to it will be deleted by PADS.

Caution

Complete the following steps to import the custom PADS library:
1.

In PADS Layout, go to File»Library to display the Library Manager.

Click on the Create New Lib... button and give the library a name (for
example, Multisim Library).

Under the Library drop-down list make sure the newly created library
is selected.

Click on the Decals button and click the Import button.

Browse to ...INSTALLDIR\PADS\, select the Generic.d file and
click OK.

Click on the Parts button and click the Import button.

Browse to ...INSTALLDIR\PADS\, select the Generic.p file and
click OK.

The new parts are now part of the PADS library.
After exporting to PADS Layout, you may map any components with
generic PADS footprints to existing PADS footprints. You can also use the
PADS Footprint column in the Select a Footprint dialog box to map
generic PADS footprints (or any other type of footprint) to existing PADS
footprints before exporting.

Forward Annotation
Forward Annotation lets you annotate changes made to a schematic file
in Multisim to its existing Ultiboard file. If you wish to re-number a
reference designator, we recommend that you do this from Ultiboard, and
back annotate.

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Complete the following steps to forward annotate changes to Ultiboard 10:
1.

Select Transfer»Forward Annotate to Ultiboard 10. A standard
Save As dialog box appears.

Enter the desired filename and filepath and click Save. This file can be
opened in Ultiboard and used to update the circuit information.

Note If you have an earlier version of Ultiboard, select Transfer»Forward Annotate to
Ultiboard 9 or earlier.

Back Annotation
Back Annotation allows you to incorporate changes to a circuit that were
made in Ultiboard (for example, deleted components) into the
corresponding Multisim circuit file.
Complete the following steps to back annotate changes made in Ultiboard:
1.

Select Transfer»Back Annotate from Ultiboard. A standard Open
dialog box appears.

Select the desired .log file and click Open. The Annotation Log
dialog box appears.

Select the changes that you wish to back annote to your Multisim file
and click OK.

The circuit file must be open before you use this command. If a changed part is in a
hierarchical block or a subcircuit with multiple instances, changes will be ignored.

Note

Exporting Simulation Results
You can export simulation results from the Grapher to MatchCAD, Excel
or LabVIEW. You must have the required software installed on your
computer if you are exporting to either MathCAD or Excel.

Exporting to MathCAD
You can export the results of your simulation to MathCAD, allowing you
to perform sophisticated mathematical operations on your data.
Note

This function is only available if you have MathCAD installed on your computer.

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Complete the following steps to export the simulation results to a
MathCAD session:
1.

Select View»Grapher. The Grapher appears, showing the results of
your simulation and/or analysis.

Click the Transfer to MathCAD button. The Select Traces dialog
box appears. The contents of this dialog box change depending on the
traces that are found in the tab you have selected in the Grapher.

Use the checkboxes to select the traces you wish to export to
MathCAD and click OK.

If you place the cursors on the graph (via the Show/Hide Cursors button), the
output data will be limited to the data that is located between the two cursors.

Note

4.
Note

A new MathCAD session is started.

MathCAD will shut down when Multisim shuts down.

Exporting to Excel
You can export your simulation results to Excel, allowing you to use the
data for further processing in a spreadsheet.
Note

This function is only available if you have Excel installed on your computer.
Complete the following steps to export the simulation results to an Excel
spreadsheet:
1.

Select View»Grapher. The Grapher appears, showing the results of
your simulation and/or analysis.

Click the Transfer to Excel button. The Select Traces dialog box
appears. The contents of this dialog box change depending on the
traces that are found in the tab you have selected in the Grapher.

Use the checkboxes to select the traces you wish to export to Excel and
click OK.

If you place the cursors on the graph (via the Show/Hide Cursors button), the
output data will be limited to the data that is located between the two cursors.

Note

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A new Excel spreadsheet is created, with data from the x coordinates
in column one and data from the y coordinates in column two.

If desired, save the Excel spreadsheet.

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Saving to a Measurement File
You can save the results of your simulation to either a text-based (.lvm) or
binary (.tdm) measurement file, and use applications like National
Instruments LabVIEW and DIAdem to compare simulated output with
actual circuit output.
Complete the following steps to save the simulation results as a
measurement file:

Note

Select View»Grapher. The Grapher appears, showing the results of
your simulation and/or analysis.

Click the Save to Measurement File button. A file browser appears.

Select the desired file type from the drop-down list. Available file types
are:
•

Text-based measurement files (*.lvm)—Files such as those
created in NI LabVIEW.

•

Binary measurement files (*.tdm)—Files used to exchange data
between National Instruments software, such as LabVIEW and
DIAdem. Note that when you save data as this file type, two files
are created: a header file (.tdm) and a binary file (.tdx).

Select the desired filepath, enter a filename and click Save. The
Data resampling settings dialog box appears.

Change the following settings as desired:
•

Do not resample checkbox—Appears for .tdm files only. Enable
if you do not wish to resample the data. The other options are
disabled.

•

Resample data checkbox—Appears for .tdm files only.

•

Interpolation mode—Select one of: Coerce; Linear
Interpolation; Spline Interpolation. Refer to the Interpolation
modes section of Chapter 10, Analyses, for information about
each.

•

Δx (in seconds if time-domain data)—The sampling period to
use for resampling.

•

1/Δx (in Hz if time-domain data)—The sampling rate to use for
resampling.

You can change either Δx or 1/Δx. The other will change accordingly.
•

Estimated file size—This read-only field changes as you change
either Δx or 1/Δx.

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Click OK to close the dialog and save the file.

Exporting a Netlist
You can export a netlist for your circuit.
Complete the following steps to export a netlist of your design:
1.

Select Transfer»Export Netlist. A standard Windows Save As dialog
box appears.

Select the filepath and filetype, enter the filename and click Save. The
netlist is saved.

Importing Files with Other Formats
Files with the following formats can be opened with Multisim:
•

Multisim 10 Files—*.ms10. Opens Multisim 10.0, Multisim 10.0.x,
and Multisim 10.1 files.

•

Older Multisim Files—*.ms9, *.ms8, *.ms7, *.msm

•

Electronics Workbench 5 Files—*.ewb

•

Multisim 10 Project Files—*.mp10

•

Older Project Files—*.mp9, *.mp8, *.mp7

•

EWB Database Update Files—*.prz

•

SPICE Netlist Files—*.cir

•

Orcad Files—*.dsn

•

Ulticap Files—*.utsch

•

EDA Parts Update Files—*.edp, *.mxm, *.msml

Note When opening files from earlier versions of Electronics Workbench or Multisim,
Reference Designators may be renamed to ensure that all instances are unique.

Complete the following steps to open a file of any of the above-listed types
except Electronics Workbench 5 or Ulticap files:

NI Multisim User Manual

Select File»Open. A standard Open dialog box displays.

Select the desired file type from the Files of Type drop-down list.

Highlight the desired file and click Open. The file is opened in
Multisim.

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Opening an Electronics Workbench 5 File
Complete the following steps to open a .ewb file:
1.

Open the file in the usual manner. The File Loading Options dialog
box displays, with the default Horizontal Scaling and Vertical
Scaling settings of 120, that is 120% of the original spacing.
This indicates that there will be 20% more space between the
components than in the original .ewb file. This is because the
components in Multisim are larger than in Electronics Workbench 5.

If desired, increase or decrease the spacing between the components by
increasing or decreasing the Horizontal Scaling and Vertical Scaling
values.

Click OK to import the file. A dialog appears asking you to wait while
the circuit is imported.

Opening an Ulticap File
Complete the following steps to open an Ulticap schematic file:
1.

Open the file in the usual manner. The Ulticap Import dialog displays.

Select the desired options in the Save to Database Options box:

•

Do not save imported parts—Imports the Ulticap parts without
saving them to any of the Multisim databases.

•

Save imported parts—Saves the imported Ulticap parts to the
selected Multisim database.

In the Use Grid Size box, select one of:
•

50 Mil—Places the Ulticap parts and the connected wires on a
50 mil grid. This will result in fewer importation errors, but some
parts may appear quite large.

•

100 Mil—Places the Ulticap parts and the connected wires on a
100 mil grid. Symbols will be smaller in size, but more
importation errors may occur after the file is imported.

Click OK to import the file. A status message displays during
importation of the Ulticap file. If desired, click Abort to cancel.

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Importing a SPICE or Cadence® PSpice® Netlist
In addition to the File»Open command, there is a second method for
importing SPICE or Cadence® PSpice® netlists. The source command,
under the Simulate»XSPICE Command Line Interface menu, is
available for advanced users who need the flexibility offered from the
command line. With this method, models and commands in the netlist file
are interpreted, without substitution, by the simulation engine as they are
represented in the netlist.
Complete the following steps to import a SPICE or Cadence® PSpice®
netlist from the command line:
1.

Select Simulate»XSPICE Command Line Interface to display the
XSPICE Command Line dialog.

Type the source command and the filename (for example, source
rc.cir) in the bottom line and press ENTER. This will load the netlist
along with the models and connectivity information into memory. You
will not see the circuit on the workspace but you can continue to
execute other commands, such as tran, and display the results on the
grapher with the plot command.

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This chapter contains descriptions of the components, model makers,
instruments and analyses of Multisim’s RF design functionality, as well as
a tutorial demonstrating their use and some specific examples of RF
functionality.
Some of the features described in this chapter may not be available in your
edition of Multisim. Refer to the release notes for a list of the features in
your edition.

Introduction to the Multisim RF Module
Multisim RF provides fundamental RF circuit design features needed to
design, analyze and simulate RF circuits.
It consists of:
•

RF-specific components, including customized RF SPICE models

•

model makers for creating your own RF models

•

two RF-specific instruments (Spectrum Analyzer and Network
Analyzer)

•

several RF-specific analyses (circuit characterizer, matching network
cells, noise figure).

Elements of the RF design functionality are fully integrated into Multisim.
The instruments, analyses and components are installed in the same places
and invoked in the same way as all other instruments, analyses and
components. The RF components have their own group which is accessed
via the RF button on the Components toolbar and the RF instruments are
accessed through the Instruments toolbar.

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RF Components
Electronics components fall into two categories—lumped components and
distributed components. Lumped components are smaller than the
wavelength, where:

In these cases, the wavelength of the voltages and currents at which they are
operating is significantly larger than the components themselves. Ohm’s
Law, in this case, is valid. For example, a 1/4 watt resistor is about
0.270 inches long and 0.090 inches in diameter.
RF components, on the other hand, are most often distributed elements,
where the phase of a voltage or current changes significantly over the
physical extent of the device, because the device dimensions are similar to,
in some cases even larger than, the wavelength. Standard circuit theory is
therefore not always applicable to circuits that are working at a few MHz
to above 1 GHz.
The usual models for lumped components are often not valid for RF
devices. For example, a capacitor can behave like an inductor or an inductor
can behave like a capacitor at high frequencies.
RF components exhibit parasitic effects, and have models different from
those used in low frequencies. Connections between two nodes at high
frequencies exhibit different behavior from those at low frequencies, and
are modeled using capacitances and inductances. These connections
behave as transmission lines when implemented on a printed circuit board
(PCB). The board itself becomes part of the circuit, interfering with the
normal circuit function. Consequently, low frequency circuit simulation
EDA tools can become unreliable at higher frequencies.
Standard RF components include capacitors, inductors, toroids, ferrite
beads, couplers, circulators, transmission lines or striplines, waveguides,
and high frequency active devices such as transistors and diodes. More
complex components, such as quadrature hybrids, mixers, filters, and
attenuators, are built using these standard components. This chapter deals
with the standard components and their models in high frequencies.

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Multisim’s RF Components
The RF group contains parts and models specifically built for accuracy at
higher frequencies. This ability to handle higher frequencies helps
overcome a typical problem with SPICE models, which tend to perform
poorly at such frequencies.
To access these parts, click the RF button in the Components toolbar.
There are several component families in the RF parts group, including:
RF capacitors, RF inductors, RF NPN BJTs, RF PNP BJTs, RF MOSFETs,
RF tunnel diodes, RF striplines/waveguides and ferrite beads.
Families containing components with wide commercial availability (for
example, RF_BJT_NPN) have a large number of components within them.
Families containing components that are not readily available
“off-the-shelf” (for example, RF inductors) contain only a few components.
The latter were modeled using Multisim’s RF Model Makers, which you
can also use to customize your own parts. Refer to the RF Model Makers
section for more information.

Theoretical Explanation of the RF Models
This section explains some of the scientific theory behind the operation of
RF components and why they must be modeled differently at higher
frequencies. You do not need to understand this information to use the RF
components in Multisim, but it may be of interest to you.

Striplines/Microstrips/Waveguides
Wires are used to connect two internal nodes on a circuit and show no
difference in phase and magnitude between two connecting nodes. Wires,
however, behave differently at RF frequencies depending on their length
and diameter. One of these behaviors is called the “skin effect”, explained
below.
A conductor, at low frequencies, uses its entire cross-sectional area as a
transport medium for charge carriers. As the frequency is increased, an
increased magnetic field at the center of the conductor presents an
impedance to the charge carriers, thus decreasing the current density at the
center of the conductor and increasing it around its perimeter. This effect is
called the “skin effect”, and occurs in all conductors, including resistor
leads, capacitor leads, and inductor leads. As the frequency increases, this
effect is more pronounced.

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A simple wire connecting two nodes in high frequencies behaves as a
transmission line. The following figure shows the equivalent circuit of a
transmission line. There are four components. The capacitor is the result of
an actual capacitance existing between the center of the conductor and the
ground. Between these two plates is the dielectric, which is not perfect.
This leakage is modeled using conductance G and is given per unit length
of line. Also, due to the resistance of the conductor itself, there is a series
resistance R. Its value depends on the resistivity of the material used, the
length, the cross-section of the conductor, and the skin effects.

Every transmission line has a resistance, called its “characteristic
impedance”. Most microwave systems have a characteristic impedance of
50 ohms. This value is a compromise between maximum power handling
capability and minimum attenuation. At 50 ohms, there is a reasonably low
attenuation, and adequate power handling capability.
If the outer diameter of the conductor of a coaxial line is shown by “D”, and
the inner diameter is shown by “d”, and ε is the dielectric constant of the
cable, the characteristic impedance is calculated by the following formula:

The components C and L in the figure above are calculated as follows:

A stripline is a useful form of a transmission line. The stripline consists of
a conducting strip lying between, and parallel to, two wide conducting
planes. The region between the strip and the planes is filled with a uniform
dielectric.

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Microstrips are easy to fabricate using photolithographic processes. At the
same time that a transistor is placed on top of the board, for example, a
microstrip can also be placed. Microstrips are, therefore, easily integrated
with other passive and active devices. A conductor of width W is printed on
a thin, grounded dielectric substrate of thickness “d” and relative
permittivity “ur”.
A waveguide is a structure, or part of a structure, that causes a wave to
propagate in a chosen direction.
If the waveguide boundaries change direction, the wave is constrained to
follow. Waveguides come in a variety of types: simple parallel plate
structure, cylindrical structures with conducting boundaries, rectangular
waveguides, and circular waveguides. A transmission line or a stripline is a
special case of waveguide.

RF Resistors
Resistors find many applications as terminators or attenuators. The
equivalent circuit of a resistor at radio frequency is shown in the following
figure. The inductors are calculated using the physical geometry of the
resistor.

RF Capacitors
Capacitors are used for interstage coupling, for bypassing, in resonant
circuits, and in filters. RF capacitors must be chosen carefully to ensure the
best performance for specific applications. RF capacitors consist of two
metal plates separated by a dielectric. The capacitance of an ideal capacitor

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has a direct relationship with the area (A), and is inversely proportional to
the thickness of the dielectric (d). Its relationship is expressed in the
following formula, where ε is the dielectric constant of the dielectric
material.

The actual capacitor shows imperfection. One type of capacitor is modeled
as shown in the following figure.

To find the numerical values of the ideal elements in the model above, a
number of factors are considered.
Let φ represent the phase of current compared to the voltage. This phase is
ideally 90, but is smaller for real components. The power factor (PF) is
defined as COS (φ). This factor is a function of temperature, frequency, and
the dielectric material. The power factor is usually used to describe the
capacitor in low frequencies.
This factor in higher frequencies is sometimes referred to as the dissipation
factor. This factor describes how much power is dissipated, lost, or
transformed to heat energy in RF frequencies. Another factor that defines
the quality of the capacitor is closely related to power factor and is called
Q. This factor is the reciprocal of dissipation factor. The larger the Q, the
better the capacitor.
No dielectric material is perfect. Therefore, there is always leakage current
between two plates. This behavior is best described by Rp which is usually
around 100,000 MOhm. The series resistor is the AC resistance of the
capacitor at high frequencies, and is obtained using COS (φ)/Cω * 1e6.
Here, ω =2*pi*f.
There is a frequency point above which the capacitor starts to behave like
an inductor.

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RF Inductors
Inductors are extensively used in resonant circuits, filters, and matching
networks. The following figure shows a typical inductor modeled for RF
frequencies. An inductor is a wound or coiled wire. Each two windings are
at close proximity, which creates a distributed capacitor, Cd. The inductor
behaves like a capacitor at high frequencies. There is always a series
resistance which prevents the coil from resonating. The ratio of an
inductor's reactance to its series resistance is often used as a measure of the
quality of the inductor. The larger the ratio, the better the inductor.

Devices
In low frequencies, active devices are modeled using a number of ideal
components such as resistors and capacitors. In high frequencies, each of
these ideal components should be replaced by its equivalent, as discussed
earlier. For example, a resistor should be replaced by a resistor in series
with an inductor. Some simplifications reduce redundant components. Two
inductors in series, for example, can be replaced by one inductor. A typical
equivalent circuit of an RF transistor is shown in the following figures.

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The cut-off frequency fc can be derived from the equivalent circuit and is
inversely proportional to the transit time τc:

where Lg is the effective length of the gate, and vs is the saturation velocity
at which electrons travel.

RF Instruments
Multisim has two key instruments for successful RF circuit design and
analysis: the Spectrum Analyzer and the Network Analyzer.

Spectrum Analyzer
The Spectrum Analyzer is capable of measuring a signal's power and
frequency components, and helps determine the existence of harmonics in
the signal.
One area that has an interest in spectrum measurement is communications.
For example, cellular radio systems must be checked for harmonics of the
carrier signal that might interfere with other RF systems.
Usually the frame of reference in signal analysis is time. In that case, an
oscilloscope is used to show the instantaneous value as a function of time.

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Sometimes a sine waveform is expected but the signal, rather than being
purely sinusoidal, has a harmonic on it. As a result, it is not possible to
measure the waveform’s level.
However, the Spectrum Analyzer displays its measurements in the
frequency domain rather than the time domain. If the same signal (with
harmonics) is displayed on a Spectrum Analyzer, the amplititude of its
fundamental frequency displays, as well as its frequency components
(harmonics).
Time domain measurements such as rise and fall times, pulse width,
repetition rates, and delays, cannot be easily obtained in frequency domain
measurements. Therefore, both techniques are important.

Using Multisim’s Spectrum Analyzer
Multisim’s Spectrum Analyzer does not generate the noise normally
expected in a real-world spectrum analyzer. In reality, the noise generated
by a spectrum analyzer (due to the random electron motion through the
various components of an analyzer) is amplified by the various gain stages
in the analyzer, and ultimately appears on the display as a noise signal
below which measurement cannot be made. With Multisim’s Spectrum
Analyzer, no additional noise is introduced by the instrument itself.
A number of parameters characterize a Spectrum Analyzer:
•

frequency range in which the instrument operates

•

frequency spans

•

reference level

•

measurement range.

These are all represented on the Multisim Spectrum Analyzer, and must
be set manually.

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Frequency Range
Frequency range is the range of frequencies over which the
Spectrum Analyzer will analyze signals. There are two frequencies that
you manually set: f-start (minimum value 1kHz) is entered in the Start
field and f-end (maximum value of 4 GHz) is entered in the End field. Zero
frequency is not allowed for any of the frequency settings.

Frequency Spans
This parameter indicates the frequency range to be displayed:

NI Multisim User Manual

•

Set Span—The frequency span is determined using either span control
or frequency control. Refer to the Frequency Analysis section for more
information.

•

Zero Span—A single frequency defined by the Center field is
displayed.

•

Full Span—The entire instrument range of 1 kHz to 4 GHz is
displayed.

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Frequency Analysis
There are two methods to select the frequency range:
•

span control

•

frequency control.

Span Control
This technique sets the span and the center frequencies, that is, f-span and
f-center.
To set the span and the center frequencies, click Enter (in the Frequency
area of the instrument’s display) to automatically calculate the values of
f-start and f-end using the following expressions:
f-start = (f-center – f-span / 2)
f-end

= (f-center + f-span/2)

Frequency Control
You can define the starting and ending frequencies manually. In order to do
this, you need to enter the numerical values of frequencies in the
Frequency area of the dialog box. Their values should be non-zero values.
When Enter is clicked, the center frequency (f-center) and the range of
frequency displayed on the Spectrum Analyzer (f-span) are calculated
automatically. The relationship among these parameters is expressed as
follows:
f-center = (f-start + f-end)/2
f-span = (f-end – f-start)
These two techniques are interrelated, that is, it is not possible to set all four
parameters independently. Both techniques are useful. For example, if you
want to see frequency components around one specific frequency such as
100 Mhz ± 100 kHz, then the frequency control technique is easier to apply.
The center frequency, in this example, is 100 Mhz, and the span is
2*(100 kHz) = 200 kHz.

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Amplitude Range
You can set the amplitude range of the signal visible on the screen by
choosing one of the following three options in the Amplitude area:
•

dB—Stands for 20*log10(V), where log10 is the logarithm in base 10,
and V is the amplitude of the signal. When this option is used, the
signal is displayed by “dB per division”, shown in the right-hand side
of the Spectrum Analyzer. The dB reading is of interest when
measuring the power of the signal.

•

dBm—Stands for 10*log10(V/0.775). Zero dBm is the power
dissipated in a 600 Ohm resistor when the voltage across it is 0.775 V.
This power is equal to 1 mW. If the level of a signal is +10 dBm, it
means that its power is 10 mW. When this option is used, the signal
power is displayed based on the reference of 0 dBm. For applications
in which the terminating resistor is 600 Ohm, such as in telephone
lines, it is more convenient to read dBm as it is directly proportional to
the power dissipation. However, in dB, you need to include the value
of the resistor to find the dissipated power in the resistor. In dBm, the
value of the resistor has been accounted for already.

•

Lin—Selects a linear display of the signal. To change the maximum
amplitude displayed on the screen, enter a voltage value in the Range
field.

Reference Level
The reference level is used to set the range of the input signal that can be
displayed on the screen.
The axes of the Spectrum Analyzer are not marked by units and values.
You can read the frequency and the amplitude of each point displayed on
the screen by using the cursor. You can also right-click on the cursor to
display a pop-up menu that lets you move the cursor to a precise point on
the graph. When the cursor is moved and placed on the point of interest, the
frequency and the amplitude in V, dB, or dBm are displayed below the
graph.
You can observe more than one frequency and evaluate the results for the
entire frequency range shown. You may want to know when the amplitude
(in dB or dBm) of some components is above a certain limit in dB or dBm.
For example, assume you are interested in the (–3dB) amplitude. By
locating (–3dB) points you can estimate the bandwidth of the amplifier. By
clicking Show Refer., you can set the reference level to (–3dB) and, using
the cursor at the same time, you can find the lower edge and upper edge of
the pass band.

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You can also find out whether the amplitude of the signal is less than a
certain value for a certain band of frequency. To do this, observe signals on
the Spectrum Analyzer, and use the reference button. The maximum
reference value in dB is set to (+30 dB). Show Refer. is available only if
either dB or dBm are activated.

Frequency Resolution
The Resolution Freq. is initially set to a minimum value of
Δ f = f_end/1024. However, you can change it to a greater value and
observe the spectrum. You must select the frequency resolution so that the
frequencies are integer multiples of frequency resolutions.
Note

For an accurate reading, the frequency components should not be below Δ f.

Examples
Example 1
The following figure shows a mixer, which is often used in
communications applications.

There are two input sinusoidal waveforms. Their frequencies are 0.8 MHz
and 1.2 MHz. The amplitudes are set at 8 V and 10 V, respectively. Note
that the amplitude is the peak value of the sinusoidal waveform—it is not
the RMS value of the waveform. The mixer is set to multiply the signals
with unity gain without introducing an offset in either of the input signals.
You can expect to find two components at the output placed at (1.2 + 0.8)
= 2 MHz, and (1.2 – 0.8) = 0.4 MHz.

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Complete the following steps to try this example for yourself:
1.

Construct the network as shown above.

Double-click on the multiplier and set the gains to 1 and the offsets to
zero.

Double-click on the Spectrum Analyzer and initialize it using one
start and end frequency (Example 3 shows another way to initialize the
Spectrum Analyzer).

•

Set Span to 3MHz and Center to 1.8 MHz.

•

Click Enter. The frequency value of f-start is automatically set to
(1.8 MHz – 3/2 MHz) = 300 kHz. The frequency value of f-end is
automatically set to (1.8 MHz + 3/2 MHz) = 3.3 MHz.

•

Since the amplitude of the component is around (8*10)/2 = 40 V,
set the amplitude Range to 100 V in Lin mode.

Click Start and wait until the signal stabilizes.

The Spectrum Analyzer starts performing the Fourier Transform of the
input signal in time domain. However, since it begins with only a few
samples, it does not provide accurate results initially. You must wait until
the screen is refreshed a few times to obtain accurate readings of the
frequency components and their magnitudes. At this time, the internal
frequency resolution is equal to the user-defined frequency resolution. Both
of these values are shown on the device. Using the cursor on the screen, you
can read the amplitude and frequency of each component. In the example,
the readings are the same as the calculated values, that is, two frequency
components at 2 MHz and 0.4 MHz, with 40 V magnitude.

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Example 2
In order to run another example, you must stop the simulation running for
the previous example. The second example has the same circuit structure,
as shown below.

However, DC offsets (1 V) to the input and the output signals are
introduced. Due to the offsets, there are components at DC, as well as
0.8 MHz and 1.2 MHz. The Spectrum Analyzer shows the components
and their amplitude on the screen if the same setting used in the previous
example is also used here.

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Example 3
This example considers an active device that works in saturation. This
structure is shown below:

Complete the following steps to initialize the Spectrum Analyzer:
1.

Double-click on the Spectrum Analyzer.

Set Start to 1 kHz and End to 11 MHz.

Click Enter. The frequency value of f-span is (11 MHz – 1 kHz) =
10.999 kHz. The frequency value of f-center is (11 MHz + 1 kHz)/2 =
5.5005 MHz.

Set Range to 2 dB/division, and set Ref. to 4 dB to demonstrate the
application of reference dB level.

The frequency values of f-start and f-end are set so that the frequency
components of interest are captured and their magnitudes can be studied.
Using the Spectrum Analyzer, you can verify that there are more than two
frequency components present at the output node. There are three
components above 4 dB—zero frequency, 2 MHz, and 4 MHz. Other
frequency components are at higher frequencies and have dB level less than
4 dB.

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Using the Network Analyzer
The circuit is idealized as a two-port network. To properly use the Network
Analyzer, the circuit must be left open at its input and output ports. During
simulation the Network Analyzer completes the circuit being analyzed by
inserting its subcircuits. You must remove these subcircuits from the circuit
before performing other analysis and simulation.
When you start simulation, the Network Analyzer automatically executes
two AC analyses. The first AC analysis is applied at the input port to
compute the forward parameters S11 and S21. The second analysis is
applied at the output port to compute the reverse parameters S22 and S12.
After the S-parameters are determined, you can use the Network Analyzer
to view the data in many ways and perform further analyses based on the
data.

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The Network Analyzer is divided into two regions:
•

The left region contains a chart display area and a text display area that
shows marker and circuit information.

•

The right region contains the controls.

Marker Controls
Select how you want data represented from the Marker drop-down list:
•

Real/Imaginary (Re/Im)

•

Magnitude/Phase (Mag/Ph(Deg))

•

dB Magnitude/Phase (dB Mag/Ph (Deg)).

Use the left and right arrows below the graph to step through each data
point acquired for the circuit. Initially, the frequency points are selected in
decade. The default frequency sweep range is between 1 MHz and 10 GHz.
You can also use the PAGE UP and PAGE DOWN keyboard keys to navigate
the data set.

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Trace Controls
Use the Trace buttons to show and hide each individual trace on the chart.
When the Network Analyzer is opened, S11 and S22 are shown in the
trace area. The trace buttons change depending on what parameter or
analysis is being looked at. The possible sets in Measurement mode are
{S11, S12, S21, S22}, {Z11, Z12, Z21, Z22}, {H11, H12, H21, H22},
{Y11, Y12, Y21, Y22}, {K, |Δ|}. The possible sets in RF Characterizer
mode are {P.G., T.P.G., A.P.G.}, {V.G.}, and {Zin, Zout}. Refer to the
Mode Controls section for more information about these modes.

Format Controls
Parameter Options
Select the set of parameters to be displayed on the chart. The parameters
available depend on the Mode setting. In Measurement mode, you can
choose from S-, Y-, H-, Z- parameters, and stability factors K and |Δ|. In
RF Characterizer mode, select from Power gains, Voltage gains, and
Impedance.

Format Buttons
Use these buttons to display data using different chart formats. The formats
available depend on the selected parameter group.
Use the Scale button to change the scaling of the current chart. Only Polar
plot, Real/Imaginary plot and Magnitude/Phase plot can be changed.
Use the Auto Scale button to automatically scale the data so that it can be
displayed within the current chart.
Use the Set up button to change the various display properties of the
Network Analyzer.

Data Controls
Use the Save button to save the current S-parameter data set to file.
Use the Load button to load a previously saved S-parameter data set into
the Network Analyzer. Once the data is loaded, you can use all the
functions provided by the Network Analyzer to view and analyze the data.
The saved S-parameter file has the file extension .sp.
Use the Export button to export the data set of the selected parameter group
to a text file. For example, if the selected parameter group is Z-parameters

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displayed in magnitude/phase chart format, Z-parameters will be exported,
and their values will be in magnitude/phase format.
Use the Print button to print the selected chart.

Mode Controls
From the Mode box, click the button for the desired Network Analyzer
mode:
•

Measurement—Provides the parameters in different formats.

•

RF Characterizer—Provides the power gains, voltage gains, and
impedances seen from input and output ports.

•

Match Net. Designer—Opens a new dialog box which is described in
the Matching Network Analysis section.

Use the first of the above choices to use the Network Analyzer to perform
measurement (its normal application). Use the second and third options to
access the two RF analyses explained in the RF Analyses section.
Use the Simulation Set button to enter the measurement settings for
computing the circuit’s S-parameters.

RF Analyses
Multisim includes the following RF analyses:
•

RF Characterizer Analysis—Helps designers study RF circuits in
terms of their power gains, voltage gain, and input/output impedances.

•

Matching Network Analysis—Provides three options for analyzing
circuit behavior.

•

Noise Figure Analysis—Use to specify how noisy a device is.

RF Characterizer Analysis
Multisim’s RF characterizer analysis tool helps designers study RF circuits
in terms of their power gains, voltage gain, and input/output impedances.
A typical application is an RF amplifier. The source signal at the input of
an amplifier is usually provided by a receiver and its power is relatively
small. The RF designer often intends to magnify the input signal and
provide an output signal in terms of both voltage and current: that is, the
output power delivered to the load is considerably higher than that of the
input signal. That is why the power transferability of the designed circuit is

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of interest. The power gains in Multisim are calculated by assuming that
source and load impedances are 50 Ohm. You can change these values by
clicking the RF Param. Set button to specify that the RF simulator
assumes:
Zl = Zo and Zs = Zo or Γs = Γl = 0.
Another aspect of a circuit is the input and output impedances of the
amplifier. An RF amplifier usually has more than one stage of
amplification. Each stage of the amplifier is loaded by the input port of the
next stage.
The loading effect is best understood by studying the input/output
impedances. Most engineers would like to design an amplifier which has
maximum input impedance in low RF frequencies, to reduce its loading
effect on the previous stage. On the other hand, the smaller the output
impedance is, the better the output signal would be delivered. In higher RF
frequencies, it is desirable to have an output impedance matching that of the
load to minimize the reflection of signals. The Multisim RF characterizer
analysis helps you to study these impedances and choose the most
appropriate frequency of operation.
Complete the following steps to use the simulator in order to read the
desired variable:

Tip

Connect the Network Analyzer to the amplifier.

Run the simulator. Ignore any DC warnings and wait until the AC
analyses are complete.

Double-click on the Network Analyzer.

Click RF Characterizer in the Mode box.

Under the Trace options, set the desired variable, from among PG,
APG, and TPG. While the curves are plotted versus frequency, the
numerical values are displayed at the top of curves for each frequency
point. Refer to the Power Gains section for more information.

From the Param. drop-down list, select Gains. The voltage gain (VG)
is plotted versus frequency and its value is given at the top of the curve.

Use Auto Scale each time you change the parameters to get a better reading.
7.

From the Param. drop-down list, select Impedance. The input/output
impedances are provided in the form of a curve as well as printed out
at the top of the curves.

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Use the frequency scroll bar at the bottom of the curves to select the
desired frequency for a specific variable.

Power Gains
The Multisim RF Simulator calculates the General Power Gain (PG),
Available Power Gain (APG) and Transducer Power Gain (TPG) for
Zo = 50 ohms at a given frequency. The dBMag is derived as 10log10 |PG|.
PG is defined as the ratio of the power delivered to the load and the average
power delivered to the network from the input, and is given as
PG = |S21|2/(1–|S11| 2).
TPG is the ratio of the power delivered to the load to the power available
from the source.
For Gs = GL= 0, TPG = |S21| 2 .
APG is the ratio of the power available from the output port of the network
to the power available from the source and it is expressed as
APG = |S21|2 / (1– |S22| 2 )

Voltage Gain
Voltage Gain, VG, is obtained for Γs = Γl = 0 and is expressed as
VG = S21/(1 + S11).
Voltage Gain expressed in dBMag is calculated as 20log 10 |VG|.
If you observe the time domain signals of the input and output while the
transistors are operating in the linear region, you find that the amplitude of
the output voltage signal (when 50 Ohm load and source impedances are
used) to the amplitude of the input voltage signal is the same as VG given
by Multisim. Note, however, that VG is calculated using S-parameters.

Input/Output Impedances
These values are calculated assuming Γs = Γl = 0. For this condition, we
have:
Zin= ( 1 + Γin) / (1 - Γin)

where Γin = S11 and

Zout= ( 1 + Γout) / (1 - Γout)

where Γout = S22.

One must note that these values are normalized. The simulator prints
denormalized values of Zin and Zout.

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Matching Network Analysis
While designing RF amplifiers using Multisim, RF engineers need to
analyze and, if necessary, modify circuit behavior. The Matching
Network Analysis provides three options for analyzing circuit behavior:
•

Stability circles

•

Unilateral gain circles

•

Impedance matching

These options are described in detail in this section. Depending on the
application, one or more of the options is used. For example, to design
oscillators only stability circles are used. On the other hand, to match an
unconditionally stable circuit, the simulator first analyzes the stability
properties of the circuit then uses automatic impedance matching.
The three options are accessed from the Match Net. Designer dialog box.
Before opening the Match Net. Designer dialog box, you must activate the circuit
by clicking the Run/resume Simulation button and stop the simulation by clicking the
Stop Simulation button.

Note

Complete the following steps to open the Match Net. Designer dialog box:
1.

Double-click the Network Analyzer on the circuit window.

Click the Match Net. Designer button. The Match Net. Designer
dialog box appears.

Stability Circles
Stability circles are used to analyze the stability of a circuit at different
frequency points.
In an ideal design, when an input signal is delivered to the input port of a
two-port network, the entire source signal is delivered without any loss. In
practice, however, part of the input signal bounces back to the source. Then,
when the amplified signal is delivered to the load impedance, part of this
signal bounces back to the output port of the amplifier. The amplifier, if it
is not unilateral, transfers the reflected wave back to the source impedance.
A circuit is considered unstable if the signal reflected is equal to the signal
delivered in either the input or the output port.
An RF engineer aims to minimize this “bounce” effect and deliver
maximum signal to the load. The stability circles in the Network Analyzer
help achieve this goal.

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Complete the following steps to perform the analysis:
1.

Connect the biased amplifier to the Network Analyzer using two
series capacitors (usually 100 F). The values of these capacitors are
selected to minimize the numerical errors. In practice, however, two
capacitors must be used to isolate the amplifier from the pre- and
post-stage amplifiers in DC mode. Note that the impedance of these
capacitors should not contribute to the attenuation of the input or
output signal. The impedance of a capacitor is frequency dependant
and is calculated using X_c = 1/(jwC) where “w” is (2*pi*f).

To activate the Network Analyzer, click Run/resume simulation.
Wait until the AC analyses are complete. Ignore any warning for
DC analysis.

Double-click on the Network Analyzer icon on the circuit window.

Click the Match Net. Designer button.

From the Match Net. Designer dialog box, click the Stability Circles
tab.

Set the desired operating frequency in the Freq. field in the lower left
corner of the dialog box, and click OK.

The result is a Smith Chart showing an input stability circle and an output
stability circle. A stability circle represents the boundary between the
values of source or load impedance that cause instability and those that do
not. The perimeter of the circle thus represents the locus of points which
forces K=1. Note that either the inside or the outside of the circle may
represent an unstable region. Unstable regions are hatched on the Smith
Chart.
There are three possible scenarios on the Smith Chart, as described below:

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None of the Smith Chart is hatched In this case the circuit is said to
be “unconditionally stable”, meaning that any area of the Smith Chart
represents a valid passive source or load impedance. The designer can,
then, select the input or output impedances using other criteria (such as
gain or noise criteria).

•

Parts of the Smith Chart are hatched In this case the circuit is
“potentially unstable”, meaning it is possible to select passive input or
output impedance and still maintain the stability of the circuit. An
input impedance should fall outside the hashed area of the input
stability circle to achieve stability at the input port, while an output
impedance should be selected outside the output stability circle to
achieve stability at the output port.

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•

The entire Smith Chart is hatched In this case, the circuit is unstable
regardless of input or output impedances. The designer has a number
of options to achieve stability, including changing the frequency of
operation, changing the DC biasing of the transistor, changing the
transistor itself, or changing the entire structure of the amplifier.

In addition to stability circles, there are two numerical values printed on the
Match Net. Designer dialog box. They are Delta and “K”. The design is
unconditionally stable if (|Delta| < 1) and K>1. For K<1, for example, the
circuit is potentially unstable, and will most likely oscillate with certain
combinations of source or load impedance.

Unilateral Gain Circles
This option is used to analyze the unilateral property of a circuit. A
transistor is said to be unilateral when there is no “bounce” effect, meaning
the signal reflected from the output port to the input port is zero.
This occurs if the reverse transmission coefficient, S12 or the reverse
transducer power gain, |S12|2 is equal to 0. This means that the input section
of the amplifier is completely isolated from the output section. (Note that
passive networks are usually not unilateral.)
The unilateral property of a network is determined by calculating the
Unilateral Figure of Merit (U). If necessary, the frequency can be
adjusted to improve the unilateral property.
Complete the following steps to calculate the Unilateral Figure of Merit:
1.

From the Match Net. Designer dialog box click the Unilateral Gain
Circles tab.

Read the value of “U” or the “Unilateral Figure of Merit”.

Calculate the upper and lower limits of the following inequality using
“U”. 1/(1 + U) 2 < GT/GTU < 1/(1-U) 2 where, GT – transducer power
gain, is defined as the ratio of the output power delivered to a load by
a source and the maximum power available from the source, and GTU
represents the transducer power gain assuming unilateral property
(S12=0) for the network. You need not calculate GT or GTU since only
the limits are of interest here. If the limits are close to one, or “U” is
close to zero, the effect of S12 is small enough to assume unilateral
property for the amplifier. If it is not, go to the next step.

Change the frequency so that the minimum “U” is read. This frequency
suggests an operating point for the amplifier where the unilateral
property is best met.

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The operating frequency to achieve the best unilateral property for the amplifier does
not necessarily coincide with the maximum gain for the circuit. The unilateral gain circles
are developed to identify the best load and source impedances to minimize the error due to
unilateral assumption and maintain a satisfactory level of gain. The gain circles are also
used for a trade off between the gain and the bandwidth.
Note

Wide Band Amplifier
Complete the following steps to design a wide band amplifier, first find the
maximum gain delivered by the circuit:
1.

Double-click the Network Analyzer icon on the circuit window.

Click on the RF characterizer button.

Read the value of TPG (transducer power gain or GT). This value is
printed in dB.

Click on the Match Net. Designer button.

From the Match Net. Designer dialog box, click the Unilateral Gain
Circles tab.

Change the value of GS and GL manually and individually until the
circles become a dot on the Smith Chart.

Calculate the maximum transferable power.
Gmax = Gs (dB) + TPG (dB) + GL(dB)

The maximum gain is achieved only for a narrow band. Since the slightest
change in the circuit component would change its performance, the
maximum gain is not achievable in reality. For a wider band of frequency,
use a gain of less than the maximum.
Knowing the level of gain you want to achieve, complete the following
steps toselect input and output impedances:
1.

Select the desired gain (should be less than the maximum gain
calculated above).

Choose GS and GL so that these three conditions are met:

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•

GS + GTU + GL < Gmax

•

GS < Gsmax

•

GL < Glmax

Enter the selected values for GS and GL and observe the circles. Select
points on the circles closest to the center of the Smith Chart. These
points are shown on the Smith Chart and circles by two triangles. The
circle for GL = 0 dB always passes through the center. Therefore, the
best point of the GL to produce GL = 0 dB.

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Any point selected on the Smith Chart is a normalized point. These points
provide the impedances for the input and output ports that you then design
manually.
To ensure these points will not cause instability, we recommend you follow the
instructions in the Stability Circles section. If the amplifier is “unconditionally stable”, it
would be stable for any passive load or source network, so you need not check stability
circles in this case.

Note

Impedance Matching
Occasionally, a design is considered “unconditionally stable”, meaning the
amplifier does not oscillate in the presence of any passive load or source
impedance. In this case, you can use the impedance matching option to
automatically modify the structure of an RF amplifier to achieve maximum
gain impedance.
To deliver maximum power, a circuit must match at both its input and
output ports. In other words, there needs to be maximum matching between
the output of the amplifier and the output impedance, and the input of the
amplifier and the source impedance. There are eight possible structures for
each port, although only a few of these provide complete matching.
Complete the following steps to use impedance matching to find a
matching network:
1.

Connect the Network Analyzer to your amplifier as described in the
Stability Circles section. Do not forget the capacitors in order to
prevent DC loading of the Network Analyzer.

Run the simulation.

Double-click the Network Analyzer icon.

Click the Match Net. Designer button.

On the Match Net. Designer dialog box, click the Impedance
Matching tab.

Change the frequency to the desired operating point.

Enable the Auto Match checkbox.

The instrument provides the structure as well the numerical values of
components. You can click on the left and right sides of the Impedance
Matching dialog box to change the structure. However, only a few of the
eight structures can provide matching.

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Noise Figure Analysis
The noise figure, or NF, is used to specify exactly how noisy a device is.
For a transistor, noise figure is simply a measure of how much noise the
transistor adds to the signal during the amplification process.
In a circuit network, the noise figure is used as a “figure-of-merit” to
compare the noise in a network with the noise in an ideal or noiseless
network. It is a measure of the degradation in signal-to-noise ratio (SNR)
between the input and output ports of a network.
When calculating the noise figure of a circuit design, Noise Factor (F)
must also be determined. This is the numerical ratio of NF, where NF is
expressed in dB. Thus,
NF = 10log10F
And,
F = Input SNR
Output SNR
The noise figure for any device is provided on the part datasheet and is
plotted similar to the graph below (for the 2N4957):

Another method of describing noise figure is using the following formula:
NF = 10log10 Si/Ni
So/No
= 10log10NR

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Where Si/Ni is the signal-to-noise power ratio at the device’s input and
So/No is the signal-to-noise power ratio at its output. The term (Si/Ni,
So/No) is called the noise ratio (NR). If the device under consideration was
ideal (injected no additional noise), then Si/Ni and So/No would be equal,
the NR would equal 1, and NF = 10log(1)=0 dB. Of course, this result
cannot be obtained in practice.

Cascaded Networks
The following is an example of a cascade network:

Often, it is necessary to calculate the noise figure of a group of amplifiers
that are connected in cascade. This is easily done if the noise figure of each
individual amplifier in the cascade configuration is known.

Where,
Fn = the noise factor of each stage
Gn = the numerical gain of each stage (not in dB)
Another look at the above equation reveals an interesting point. If the gain
of the first stage is sufficiently high, the denominators of the second and
succeeding terms will also be very large (since G1 is multiplied with the
denominator of every term). This will force all other terms to be very small
values leaving only F1 in the equation. Hence, the NF of the first stage will
typically determine the NF of the cascade network.

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Noise Figure in SPICE Models
In order to understand how Noise Figure Analysis operates within
Multisim, we must first understand how noise figure is introduced to a
SPICE model.
Every simulatable part in a Multisim circuit design contains a SPICE
model. This model describes how the part functions in simulation. There
are two possible methods of constructing a model:
•

Create a SPICE circuit that emulates the function of the desired part
(for example, an Op-amp model in SPICE is constructed using several
transistors, resistors, etc).

•

Certain components are already defined in a SPICE engine (for
example, transistors). Models for these components are simply a list of
parameter values (for example, Beta) that feed into a ‘predefined’
circuit already included in the SPICE engine.

This example analyzes option 2.
Below is a SPICE model for a typical transistor:
.MODEL BF517 NPN (IS=0.480F NF=1.008 BF=99.655 VAF=90.000
IKF=0.190
+ ISE=7.490F NE=1.762 NR=1.010 BR=38.400 VAR=7.000
IKR=93.200M
+ ISC=0.200F NC=1.042
+ RB=1.500 IRB=0.100M RBM=1.200
+ RE=0.500 RC=2.680
+ CJE=1.325P VJE=0.700 MJE=0.220 FC=0.890
+ CJC=1.050P VJC=0.610 MJC=0.240 XCJC=0.400
+ TF=56.940P TR=1.000N PTF=21.000
+ XTF=68.398 VTF=0.600 ITF=0.700
+ XTB=1.600 EG=1.110 XTI=3.000
+ KF=1.000F AF=1.000)

Although noise figure in a model is achieved using a combination of several
model parameters, parameter NF is the most significant value (when
simulating noise figure in a transistor model). When selecting a SPICE
model to use for Noise Figure Analysis, you must insure that this
parameter exists. If not, the part will operate without noise parameters and
therefore will generate no noise.
For a description of all parameters available in the above SPICE model or
in any other SPICE model, please refer to the Berkeley SPICE manual
available through the University of Berkeley.

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Multisim Approach
Multisim calculates the noise figure using the equation:

Where No is the output noise power (which includes the noise due to
two-part network and the magnified input noise) Ns is the thermal noise of
the source resistor (this resistor generates noise equal to the output noise of
the previous stage), and G is the AC gain of the circuit (the ratio of the
output signal to the input signal of the two-part network). Note that the
bandwidth of the signal has been considered in the source resistor.
Finally, Multisim prints the Noise Figure in dB, that is 10 log10 (F).

Noise Figure Analysis Tabs
Just as for other Multisim analyses, you need to fill in the appropriate fields
from the Analysis Parameters tab.

Setting Noise Figure Analysis Parameters for Normal Use
For normal use, you only need to:
•

select an input source from the Input noise reference source
drop-down list

•

select an output node from the Output node drop-down list

•

select a reference node from the Reference node drop-down list

•

enter a value in the Frequency field

•

enter a value in the Temperature field.

You can filter the variables displayed to include internal nodes (such as
nodes inside a BJT model or inside a SPICE subcircuits), open pins, as well
as output variables from any submodules contained in the circuit.
Complete the following steps to filter the variables displayed:
1.

Click the Change Filter button. The Filter Nodes dialog box appears.

Enable one or more settings.

Click OK.

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Sample Noise Figure Analysis
To illustrate how Noise Figure Analysis operates, this example uses the
following circuit:

The circuit frequency response is shown below:

Notice that the maximum gain appears at approximately 1.5 MHz.
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Complete the following steps to set up Noise Figure Analysis using the
circuit shown:
1.

Select Simulate»Analyses»Noise Figure Analysis.

Under the Analysis Parameters tab, set the following:

•

Input noise reference source to vv1 (which is the input AC
Source)

•

Output node to V(output)

•

Reference node to V(0)

•

Frequency to 1.5e+006 (1.5 MHz)

•

Temperature to 27 degrees C

Click Simulate. The following displays.

Therefore, the Noise Figure for the circuit is approximately –110 dB.

RF Model Makers
As with the other Multisim Model Makers, RF Model Makers
automatically simulate models based on the input you provide. Whereas
input for other model makers usually comes from data books, RF Model
Makers can also receive other types of input, such as operating
characteristics or physical dimensions, depending on the type of
components you are modelling.

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Multisim has RF Model Makers for the following types of components:
•

Waveguide

•

Microstrip Line

•

Open End Microstrip Line

•

RF Spiral Inductor

•

Strip Line Model

•

Stripline Bend

•

Lossy Line

•

Interdigital Capacitor.

Waveguide
For Waveguide models, enter values in the two tabs shown below. Use the
following diagram for assistance in identifying the values:

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Microstrip Line
For the Generic Microstrip Line models, enter values in the two tabs shown
below. Use the following diagram for assistance in identifying the values:

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Open End Microstrip Line
For Open End Microstrip models, enter values in the following tabs:

RF Spiral Inductor
For the RF Spiral Inductor models, enter values in the two tabs shown
below. Use the following diagram for assistance in identifying the values:

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Strip Line Model
For the Strip Line models, enter values in the two tabs shown below. Use
the following diagram for assistance in identifying the values:

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Stripline Bend
For the Stripline Bend models, enter values in the two tabs shown below.
Use the following diagram for assistance in identifying the values (refer to
the Stripline diagram in the Strip Line Model section for Relative dielectric
constance (εr), Dielectric thickness and Conductor thickness):

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Lossy Line
For Lossy Line models, enter values in the dialog shown below. Use the
following catalogue excerpt for assistance in identifying the values:

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Interdigital Capacitor
For Interdigital Capacitor models, enter values in the two tabs shown
below. Use the following diagram for assistance in identifying the values:

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Chapter 14

Tutorial: Designing RF Circuits
This tutorial:
•

provides an introduction to simple RF circuit design

•

demonstrates to engineers how to use Multisim for designing an RF
circuit. Each design step is accompanied by the required simulation
steps in Multisim.

The methodology that an RF engineer uses to design an RF circuit differs
from that used for a low-frequency circuit design. An RF designer looks at
performance parameters such as S-parameters, input/output impedances,
power gain, noise figure, and stability factor. These design parameters are
not directly available from a SPICE simulation. Impedance matching is a
phase of RF circuit designs where the designer uses a Smith Chart, and
calculates the values of matching elements such that maximum power is
transferred to the load impedance. The Smith Chart or the calculations are
not provided by SPICE simulation.

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Selecting Type of RF Amplifier
Select the type of amplifier based on the application. Amplifiers designed
for low-power applications are different than those for low-noise
applications. Similarly, broad-band amplifiers are different in terms of
design and structure than those for high-gain amplifiers. Some of the
possible applications are:
•

Maximum Power Transfer—These types of amplifiers operate in a
very narrow band of frequencies.

•

Design for Specified Gain—You may intentionally introduce
mismatching at the input and/or the output ports to improve the
bandwidth, even though the resulting power transfer is not maximal.

•

Low-Noise Amplifier Design—In receiver applications, you need a
pre-amplifier with as low a figure noise as possible since the first stage
of a receiver front end has a dominant effect on the noise performance
of the overall system. It is not possible to obtain both minimum noise
figure and maximum gain for an amplifier.

•

Oscillators—To produce a sinusoidal steady-state RF signal, you can
use active elements and intentionally introduce negative resistance.

The Network Analyzer provided by Multisim is not intended for
high-power RF amplifiers, because the Network Analyzer performs
small-signal analyses of the RF network only.
In this tutorial, we will design the amplifier for maximum power transfer.
Then, you will provide design steps for constant gains.
To prepare for the tutorial, open a new circuit window.

Selecting an RF Transistor
Different types of transistors are designed for a broad range of applications.
For example, you may find many transistors for low noise applications.
Cost of the transistor plays a significant role in choosing from those
offered. In this tutorial, we will choose MRF927T1 because it is used for
low power, low noise applications at relatively high frequencies.
Complete the following steps to select the MRF927T1 transistor in
Multisim:

NI Multisim User Manual

Click the RF button in the Components toolbar.

Select the RF_BJT_NPN family in the Select a Component browser.

Scroll down in the component list until you find MRF927T1 and select
it. Component data for that component appears in the dialog box.

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Click OK. The browser closes and your cursor changes to indicate a
transistor is ready to be placed.

Click to place the transistor on the circuit window.

Selecting a DC Operating Point
DC Operating point is referred to as Vce and Ic. There are many reasons to
select a specific DC Operating point. You need to consider “maximum
swing” at the output, small/portable power source, and gain-bandwidth.
Some DC Operating points are available in data books, and others must be
decided based on the application.

Vce Settings
Vce is always less than Vcc, and it is usually around Vcc/2 for maximum
swing in a common-emitter configuration. For this tutorial Vce=3V and
Vcc=9V are selected.

Ic Settings
The nominal value of Ic for the selected transistor is 5mA. The power
dissipated in the transistor at any time is Ic*Vce. For this tutorial, Ic=3mA
is selected to dissipate less power and to be close to the nominal value of
Ic. This will let us achieve relatively good current-gain bandwidth and
moderate voltage gain. (The voltage gain is maximum at Ic=1mA and the
current gain-bandwidth is maximum at Ic=5mA.)

Selecting the Biasing Network
There are a number of possible structures to select from for proper DC
biasing of the network. It is important to note that the performance of the
transistor and the amplifiers depends on DC Operating points. The
following figure shows one possible biasing network.

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This is the simplest structure for a biasing network. However, its thermal
stability is poor. To find the resistor values for this structure you need to
know five values: Vce, Ic, Vcc, Vbe, and Beta (which is the DC current gain
of the transistor and is given in most data books). Beta relates Ic to Ib as
Beta = Ic/Ib. Vbe is the base-emitter voltage of the transistor when it is
active, and is typically 0.7 V. Both Beta and Vbe depend on the values of Ic
and Ib. The initial design process starts with typical values of Rc and Rb in
the structure shown above. However, if accuracy is critical, you should use
Multisim to ensure that the values of Ic and Vce are as intended. In this
tutorial, these selections are used:
•

Vce = 3 V

•

Ic = 3 mA

•

Vcc = 9 V

•

Vbe = 0.7 V

•

Beta = 100.

The initial values of Rc and Rb are calculated as shown below.
•

Rc = (Vcc-Vce)/Ic = (9 V – 3 V)/ 3 mA = 2 kOhm

•

Ib = Ic/Beta = 3 mA/100 = 30 μA

•

Rb = (Vcc - Vbe)/Ib = (9 V – 0.7 V)/30 μA = 277 kOhm

Complete the following steps to select the DC operating points:
1.

Draw the circuit shown above with Rb=277 kOhm and Rc=2 kOhm.
Note that Vcc=9 V and the transistor is MRF927T1.

Click the Analysis button and choose DC Operating Point. The DC
Operating Point Analysis dialog box appears.

Select the nodes representing the collector and base of the transistor.

Click Simulate.

The results will show a reading of Vc and Vb. In the DC biasing network,
Vc is Vce and Vb is Vbe. The first readings are Vce=3.33 V and
Vbe=0.8 V. You can modify the value of either Rc or Rb or both, to achieve
the desired DC operating point. After a number of iterations, you arrive at
Rc=2 kOhm and Rb=258 kOhm. Reading the values of Vce and Vbe for the
final simulation, you will note that
Beta = Ic/Ib = Rb*(Vcc–Vce) / [Rc. (Vcc–Vbe)] = 94.36
which is close to the initial value of Beta.

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Selecting an Operating Frequency Point
The operating frequency point chosen depends on the type of application,
and is usually defined in the design specifications. For this tutorial, you can
assume a single (center) frequency analysis of 3.02 GHz.

Analyzing the RF Network
Complete the following steps to perform the simulation:
1.

Connect the biased transistor to the Network Analyzer using two
series capacitors. These capacitors are used to isolate the Network
Analyzer from the biasing network in DC mode. This step is necessary
whenever the biasing network is important, that is, for active circuits
only.
The connection should look like this:

Choose Simulate»Run and wait until the AC analyses are complete.
Ignore any warnings for DC analyses.

Double-click on the Network Analyzer icon and click the Match Net.
Designer button.

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In the Match Net. Designer dialog box that appears, do the following:
•

set the frequency to 3.02 GHz

•

since the circuit is “unconditionally stable” for this frequency
point, click Impedance Matching

•

since the circuit is “unconditionally stable”, automatic impedance
matching is possible. Enable Auto Match.

The dialog box provides the structure and the values necessary for
conjugate matching. Hence, maximum power transfer is achieved.
Below is our design for maximum power transfer at f=3.02 GHz:

1F is needed to isolate the active network from its matching network to keep the
transistor in its biasing state.

Note

Impedance matching yields maximum power transfer for a very narrow
bandwidth. In real applications, however, you need to balance the power
transfer and the bandwidth. For this reason, mismatching is intentionally
introduced to the circuit.
Complete the following steps to design the amplifier for a constant gain less
than the maximum possible gain, for better frequency response:
1.

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Open the DC biased transistor circuit discussed previously.

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Open the Network Analyzer and change settings as follows:
•

click RF Characterizer

•

select “Power Gains” from the Param drop-down list

•

select “dB MAG” from the Marker drop-down list

•

set the frequency to 3.02 GHz

•

click TPG (Transducer Power Gain) under Trace and set its value
to 4.3652 dB for our example.

Click Match Net. Designer and, in the Match Net. Designer dialog
box, select the Unilateral Gain Circles tab.

Change the value of Gs and Gl manually and individually until the
circles become a dot on the Smith Chart.The example shows
Gs=0.042 dB and Gl=1.2650 dB.

Calculate the maximum transferable power. Pmax = 0.042 + 4.3652 +
1.2650 = 5.6722 dB.

Select the gain desired. This gain should be less than 5.6752 dB.
3.5302 dB was selected as the power gain.

Choose Gs and Gl so that Gs + 4.3652 + Gl = 3.5302 dB and
Gs < 0.042 dB and Gl < 1.2650 dB. You selected Gs = –0.08350 dB
and Gl = 0 dB.

Enter the selected values for Gs and Gl and observe the circles. Select
point or points on the circles which are closest to the center of the
Smith Chart. The circle for Gl = 0 dB always passes through the center.
Therefore, the best point of the Gl is the center itself. This means that
50 Ohm load is sufficient to produce Gl = 0 dB. The best point on Gs
for the example is Zl = 2 (normalized). Using this value, you can
design the matching network at the input port of the amplifier. You
must make sure that the selected point or points are stable. Therefore,
it is recommended that you go back to “Stability Circles”, and confirm
the stability of the design. Since the amplifier is unconditionally stable,
it would be stable for any passive load or source network. Hence, you
need not check the stability circles.

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The complete amplifier is shown in the following figure:

Note

The matching elements are calculated manually in this example.

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Multisim MCU

Multisim’s MCU co-simulation system provides software development
features for writing and debugging code for embedded devices.

Introduction to Multisim MCU
Microcontroller (MCU) components are useful for many circuit designs. A
modern microcontroller typically combines a CPU, data memory, program
memory, and peripheral devices on a single physical chip. The integration
of these essential elements of a computer into a single chip reduces
component counts and board size resulting in higher reliability with more
capabilities.
Embedded software development can be a challenging process for even the
best programmers. Multisim helps you produce high quality code more
quickly and easily. The MCU development interfaces allow you to pause a
simulation, inspect the internal memory and registers of the MCU, set code
breakpoints and single step through your code.
Refer to the Getting Started with NI Circuit Design Suite manual for a tutorial
covering Multisim’s main MCU functions.

Note

Multisim MCU Basics
This and subsequent sections give a brief overview of the Multisim’s MCU
functionality.
Complete the following steps to place an MCU:
1.

Select Place»Component to display the Select a Component dialog
box.

Navigate to the MCU Group and select the Family containing the
desired MCU (for example, 805x, PIC).

Select the desired MCU, click OK and click again to place the
component on the workspace. The MCU Wizard dialog appears. The
MCU Wizard helps you get started by creating an MCU Workspace,
default project and source file.

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Complete the steps in the wizard as detailed in the MCU Wizard
section.

Use the MCU Code Manager to manage the MCU files in your MCU
workspace and to set the build settings for your MCU project. Refer to
the MCU Code Manager Overview section for more information.

Debugging Tools
Multisim’s MCU debugging tools give you the ability to control execution
at the instruction level while also providing views of the memory and
registers within the MCU.
After an MCU's project has been built (without errors) using the Build
command, the debug window becomes accessible.
To open the debug window for a particular MCU, select MCU»»Debug View.
This opens a new window in Multisim with a drop-down list at the top used
to select between the different views.
There is one view available for each source code file, as well as one for the
disassembly of the entire project. By default, opening a Debug View opens
the project disassembly view which is a complete disassembly of the ROM
for the relevant MCU. In the project disassembly view, every memory
address is shown from address zero to the maximum address of the ROM.
The project disassembly view always shows the disassembly (not the listing
assembly) because it shows memory addresses which may not have a
corresponding listing (such as the opcodes from statically linked libraries).
Refer to the MCU Debugging Features section for more information.

MCU Source Code Editor
The source code view shows the assembly or C source code for the MCU
program.
The numbers on the far left are the program memory addresses and the
hexadecimal codes to their immediate right are the assembled codes for
each mnemonic assembly instruction. The column of numbers in the
middle shows the line number in the original assembly or C source. The
remainder of the line to the right shows the assembly source and comments.

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MCU Memory View
The contents of the MCU Memory View change depending on the type of
MCU. It may, for example, contain internal memory information, register
views and configuration information.
Refer to the Component Reference help file for information about specific
MCUs.

Advanced Features
Multisim’s MCU functionality includes advanced debugging tools that
make it easy to pause your circuit and explore the internal data and state of
the MCU controlling your circuit. You can set breakpoints and single step
through assembly code while validating that the register contents are
changing as expected. You can also manually edit most memory views
while debugging.
An example of these advanced debugging features is found in Getting
Started with NI Circuit Design Suite.

Peripheral Devices
Along with its selection of MCUs, Multisim contains a number of
peripheral devices.
The MCU Group contains RAM and ROM devices that are designed to
function specifically with the MCUs.
The Advanced Peripherals Group contains a selection of Keypads,
LCDs, Terminals and Miscellaneous Peripherals such as the Liquid
Holding Tank.
Refer to the Component Reference help file for more information.

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Multisim MCU File Management
This section describes the file management features used in Multisim
MCU.

MCU Design Overview
Every MCU component that is placed on the circuit schematic is associated
with an MCU design consisting of a set of MCU files that exist on your hard
disk separate from the Multisim circuit file (*.ms10):
MCU File Type

File Extension

Description

MCU workspace
file

.mcuws

Maintains information on projects
contained in the MCU workspace.

MCU project file

.mcuprj

Maintains information on files contained
in the MCU project.

Assembly source
file

.asm

Assembly code

Assembly
include file

.inc

Assembly code

C source file

C code

C header file

C code

Each MCU workspace file is contained inside a workspace folder with the
same name as the workspace file. All the other MCU-related files for this
particular MCU component are stored inside the MCU workspace file in a
hierarchical manner.
Each MCU project has its own project folder inside the workspace folder.
Each MCU project file resides inside the project folder and the name of the
project folder is the same as the project file. The assembly and C files are
contained inside the project folder and also can be stored inside additional
folders nested inside the project folder.
Below is an example of a circuit (Circuit1) in Multisim. It contains an
8051 MCU component (U1) that has an MCU design in the MCU
workspace 8051workspace as shown in the Design Toolbox view. The
MCU workspace contains two projects, project1 and project2.
Project1 has some MCU files, but project2 is empty.

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The MCU files for the above circuit are organized on disk in the file
structure shown in the figure shown below. The arrows point to the contents
contained in the project1 and folder1 folders.

Multisim stores the path to the MCU workspace file inside the circuit file
(*.ms10). Every time Circuit1.ms10 is opened, the MCU workspace
must be found on disk in order for Multisim to load the MCU design and
display it in the Design Toolbox or perform any actions on the MCU
workspace.

MCU Wizard
The MCU Wizard helps you get started by creating an MCU Workspace,
default project and source file.
Complete the following steps to invoke the MCU Wizard:
1.

Select Place»Component to display the Select a Component dialog
box.

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Navigate to the MCU Group and select the Family containing the
desired MCU (for example, 805x, PIC).

Select the desired MCU, click OK and click again to place the
component on the workspace. Step 1 of the MCU Wizard dialog
appears. This is where you specify the MCU workspace information.

Complete the following as desired:
•

...workspace path for this MCU—Specifies where the
workspace folder will be created. Or, click Browse and navigate
to the desired location.

•

...workspace name—The name of the folder and the name of the
MCU workspace file inside the workspace folder.

Click Next to display step 2 of the MCU Wizard. This is where you
specify the project information.

Complete the following as desired:
•

Project type—Choose one of: Standard—this project type
contains source code files that needs to be built in order to create
a machine code (intel hex) file to load into the MCU at the start of
simulation; Use External Hex File— this project type contains no
files and does not need a build step.

•

Programming language—Active for standard Project type only.
Select C or Assembly.

•

Assembler/compiler tool—Active for standard Project type
only.

•

Project name—The name of the project file and the project folder
that will be created inside the MCU workspace folder.

Click Next to display step 3 of the MCU Wizard. This is where you
specify the source file that you want to create for the project.

Complete the following as desired:

•

Create empty project—Select if you do not wish to create a
source file.

•

Add source file—Enable if you wish to create a source file.

•

Enter the name of the source file—Becomes active when Add
source file is enabled. Can be an assembly or C file.

Click Finish to close the MCU Wizard and create the MCU related
files for the MCU component.

Note If you select Cancel at any time, no MCU workspace is created and the MCU
component is removed from the circuit schematic.

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Adding and Removing Projects, Folders and Files
After you place the MCU component and create the MCU workspace,
project and file, you can add or remove any projects and/or MCU files to
the MCU design.
Complete the following to manipulate items in the MCU design:
1.

Right-click on an MCU item in the Design Toolbox. The contents of
the pop-up menu that appears vary depending on the MCU item type
that you clicked, as detailed below:
MCU Item Type

MCU workspace

Add MCU Project…

MCU project

Add New MCU Source File…
Add Existing MCU Source File…
Add MCU Source Folder…
Remove MCU Project
Set Active MCU Project

MCU source file

Remove MCU Source File

MCU source folder

Add MCU Source File…
Add Existing MCU Source File…
Add MCU Source Folder…
Remove MCU Source Folder

Right-click Context Menu Items

Select the desired menu item:
•

Add MCU Project—Displays a dialog box where you specify the
Project Type that you want to create (standard/load external hex
file) and the Project Name. The new project is created in the
MCU Workspace folder of the MCU workspace that you
right-clicked in the Design Toolbox.

•

Add New MCU Source File—Displays a dialog box where you
select the File type (assembly file (.asm), assembly include file
(.inc), C source file (.c), or C header file (.h)), and enter the
Filename. The file is created in the MCU project folder or MCU
source folder that you right-clicked in the Design Toolbox.

•

Add Existing MCU Source File—Displays a file browser where
you select an existing source file. The selected file is copied to the
MCU project folder or source folder that was selected in the
Design Toolbox.

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•

Add MCU Source Folder—Adds an MCU folder to the MCU
project folder or source folder that you right-clicked in the
Design Toolbox.

•

Remove MCU Project—Removes the selected MCU project
from the MCU workspace.

•

Remove MCU Source File—Removes the selected source file
(*.asm, *.inc, *.c, *.h) from the MCU design.

•

Remove MCU Source Folder—Removes the selected folder
from the MCU design.

•

Set Active MCU Project—Sets the selected MCU Project to be
the active project. The active project in the Design Toolbox for an
MCU workspace, has a blue colored square in the icon next to it.
Any build operation applied to an MCU instance uses this
project’s files. The results of the build on the active project are also
used for simulating the circuit.

Each file manipulation command that appears in the right-click context menus also
appears in the MCU Code Manager. Refer to the MCU Code Manager Overview section
for more information.

Note

Multisim MCU Code Manager
This section describes the MCU Code Manager.

MCU Code Manager Overview
The MCU Code Manager dialog box lets you manage the MCU files in an
MCU workspace and enter the build settings for each MCU project. Each
MCU project has a number of build settings that consist of
assembler/compiler tool information, the command line options to be used
with the selected tool, and additional information on the
intermediate/output files to generate during a build, and where the
tools/files are located.
Complete the following to access the MCU Code Manager for a specific
MCU:
1.

Select MCU»»MCU Code
Manager.
Or
Right-click on the MCU workspace in the Design Toolbox and select
MCU Code Manager from the pop-up that displays.

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The MCU menu displays all instances of MCUs in a circuit design. In the example
below, there is only one MCU “U1”.

Note

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The above shows the contents of the MCU Code Manager for MCU U1
from the previous screen capture. Project1 is an 8051 Metalink
assembler project that has only one tab (General) in its project build
settings.

Adding and Removing Projects, Folders and Files in the MCU Code
Manager
After you place the MCU component and create the MCU workspace,
project and file, you can add or remove any projects or MCU files in the
MCU design.
The buttons in the MCU Code Manager located below the tree display of
the MCU workspace correspond to the file manipulation commands that

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display in the right-click context menus of MCU items in the Design
Toolbox.
Complete the following to manipulate items in the MCU design from the
MCU Code Manager:
1.

Click the New MCU Project, New File, New Folder or Files button
to display the same dialog boxes as the right-click context menu
commands Add MCU Project, Add New MCU Source File,
Add MCU Source Folder, and Add Existing MCU Source File.
Refer to the Adding and Removing Projects, Folders and Files section
for more information.

To remove an item from the MCU workspace tree view, highlight the
desired item in the tree and click Remove Selected.
Note

You cannot remove the MCU workspace.
To select a different active project, select another project from the
Active Project drop-down list.
To select the external ROM into which to load the MCU’s machine code,
select the desired ROM from the XROM used by MCU drop-down list.

There are no XROMs in the example in the MCU Code Manager Overview section,
but if there was and an XROM part was selected, the Load machine code (*.hex) file
only… checkbox would be enabled to let you control how to load the machine code into
the XROM for simulation.

Note

MCU Project Build Settings
Each MCU project in an MCU design has its own build settings that can be
different from other projects inside the same workspace. The build settings
available are different for each assembler or compiler tool that is supported
by Multisim. The tools supported by Multisim are the 8051 Metalink
Assembler, the Microchip PIC Assembler, the Hi-Tech 8051 C Lite
compiler and the Hi-Tech PICC Lite compiler.
To configure the build settings, use the tabs that appear on the right of the
MCU Code Manager dialog box. The tabs that appear, and their content,
correspond to the project that is currently selected in the MCU workspace
tree on the left.

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The following table lists the assembler/compiler families of tools that are
supported by Multisim and the MCU Code Manager tabs that are
available for configuring those tools:
Assembler/compiler Family

MCU Code Manager Tabs

Metalink
- 8051/8052 Cross Assembler

General

Microchip (PIC)
- MPASM absolute and relocatable
assembler
- MPLINK linker
- MPLIB librarian

General
C/Assembly
Link
Library

Hi-Tech
- 8051 C Lite compiler
- HLINK linker
- LIBR librarian

General
C/Assembly
Library

Hi-Tech
- PICC Lite compiler
- LINK linker
- LIBR librarian

General
C/Assembly
Library

Documentation for Supported Tools
User documentation for the supported tools is found at the following:
•

Metalink assembler—...\Program Files\National
Instruments\Circuit Design Suite 10.1\documentation\
MetaLink 8051 Cross Assembler Guide.pdf.

•

Microchip MPASM assembler—...\Program Files\National
Instruments\Circuit Design Suite 10.1\documentation\
DS-33014J.pdf.

•

HI-TECH 8051 C compiler—...\Program Files\HI-TECH
Software\HC51\lite\9.60\docs\manual.pdf.

•

NI Multisim User Manual

HI-TECH PICC Lite compiler—Go to www.htsoft.com and
download HI-TECH PICC (V9.50PL2).

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8051 Workspace Build Settings Example
In the example shown in the MCU Code Manager Overview section,
project1 is selected. The Metalink assembler is selected for the project.
Since this is an absolute assembler, the build settings for it are very simple.
Consequently, only the General tab is available to configure the build
settings. The Intermediate files and Output files paths are disabled
because the Metalink assembler does not allow you to redirect your output.
After the output machine code file (*.hex) is generated, the contents must
be loaded into the Multisim simulation engine in order to simulate the
circuit.
To the set the output *.hex file generated during a build step, select the file
from the Machine code file for simulation drop-down list.
Complete the following to see the whole path name of output files:
1.

Click Show machine code for simulation location on disk. Windows
Explorer opens in the folder where the output file will be located.

In the screen capture below, project2 of 8051workspace is selected in
the MCU Code Manager. Project2 has the “Hi-tech C51-Lite compiler”
selected as the tool. This is a C compiler which compiles and links code in
order to produce an output machine code file (*.hex), and is more
advanced than the Metalink assembler. It has three tabs (General,
C/Assembly, and Library) to configure its build settings.

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The assembler or compiler type determines the type of output target files
that you can generate. In the screen capture above, the Hi-Tech C51 Lite
compiler is chosen. Consequently, there are two types of target files that
you can create: a machine code file and a library file. If you choose a library
file, the compiler generates object files from the source files and places
them in the specified library file instead of creating a machine code file.
The library file is configured in the Library tab.
There is a C/Assembly tab (see below) in addition to the Library tab
available to allow you to configure the Hi-Tech tools further. One of the
advanced features of the Hi-Tech tools is that intermediate and output files
generated by the Hi-Tech C51 Lite can be redirected—therefore the
Intermediate files and Output files paths are enabled in the General tab.

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The above shows the MCU Code Manager for MCU U1 in the MCU Code
Manager Overview section. The C/Assembly tab of the Hi-Tech C51 Lite
compiler for project2 is displayed.
The Project options edit box contains the compiler line options for the C51
Lite compiler. The default settings are normally sufficient to build an 8051
Hi-Tech C program but you can customize the options based on the Hi-Tech
C51 Lite documentation. Refer to the Documentation for Supported Tools
section for more information.
The Libraries edit box is where you can specify pre-existing libraries to be
linked into the final build. In the above screen capture, one library file will
be linked into the final build. Use the Add library file button to display a
file browse window to find the library that should be linked into the build
and automatically add the library file path to the Libraries edit box.

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The Library tab, as shown below, is enabled only if the output target selected
in the General tab is a library. The Project options edit box in the Library
tab displays the command line options used when the Hi-Tech tools generate
the library. The figure below shows that the Library options are disabled
since the output selected for project2 is a hex file. The Hi-Tech compiler
documentation includes details on it command line options. Refer to the
Documentation for Supported Tools section for more information.

The above figure shows the MCU Code Manager for MCU U1 in the
MCU Code Manager Overview section. The Library tab of Hi-Tech C51
Lite compiler for project2 is displayed.
The tabs for the other assembler/compiler files are all similar except that the
command line options in the C/Assembly and Library tabs are different
for each tool. Refer to the assembler/compiler documentation for each tool

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for more information on the options that can be used with them. Refer to
the Documentation for Supported Tools section for more information.
The tab that was not shown in the above example is the Link tab. The
Hi-Tech compilers have the ability to pass on the command line options to
their linker tool from the compiler. This means that the command line
options for both the compiler and the linker can be specified all at once in
the command line options for the compiler, which is when no Link tab is
required.
The Microchip relocatable assembler requires the Link tab to configure the
command line options for MPLINK, its linker. The C/Assembly tab for the
Microchip tools displays the options for the compiler, MPASM. The figure
below shows an example of the C/Assembly tab for the Microchip
assembler.

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Use the Link tab for the Microchip assembler to add any libraries that need
to be linked into the final build and the linker options that have to be passed
to MPLINK. The next figure shows an example of the Link tab.
The Microchip assembler has both absolute and relocatable assembler. To use
MPASM in relocatable assembler mode, you must add the /o option to the
Project options edit box in the C/Assembly tab shown above, to generate the object files
(*.o) used in the linking stage. Otherwise the object files do not generate and only the
machine code file (*.hex) will be generated as the output file. You must also write your
code in a relocatable fashion using the CODE directive before the code can be assembled
in relocatable mode.

Note

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The Link tab for the Microchip MPLINK tool displays command line
options in the Project options edit box and provides a way of specifying
the libraries that should be linked into the final build.

Loading an External Hex File Project
The build settings described in the previous section are for standard
projects that have an assembler/compiler tool associated with them. The
second type of project, (load external file project) requires no tools. Only
the machine code file path must be configured.
During simulation, the Machine code file for simulation (*.hex) specified
in the edit box containing the opcodes is loaded into the simulation and run.
It is also possible to load the code into an XROM part associated with the
MCU as is done for standard projects.

Building an MCU Workspace
To build an MCU workspace, the proper build settings must be configured
in the MCU Code Manager as described in the previous sections and all
necessary source files must be present in the active MCU project. The
assembler/compiler tools selected in the General tab of the MCU Code
Manager for the active project, are invoked during the build to generate the
appropriate files. These files can be machine code files (*.hex), object
files, libraries, listing files and any other intermediate or output files
described in the tool’s documentation. Refer to the Documentation for
Supported Tools section for more information.
Complete the following to build the MCU Workspace:
1.

From the MCU menu, navigate to the submenu of the MCU that you
wish to build and select Build.
Or
Right-click on the workspace or active project item in the Design
Toolbox to display the context menu and select Build.

The results of the build are displayed in the Results tab of the Spreadsheet
View. An example is shown below. If the build is successful, you will have
either a *.hex or *.lib file in the output path where your output files
should go. You can verify this by using Windows Explorer to view the files
in that subdirectory.

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Errors and Warnings
If there are errors or warnings in your build, they will be displayed in the
Results tab.
Complete the following to find an error:
1.

Double-click on the line displaying the error in the Results tab. The
file that contains the error comes into focus with the cursor placed on
the line corresponding to the error.

Correct the errors in the source file and then build the MCU workspace
again, continuing in the same manner until the build is error-free.

Simulation of Machine Code File
Standard Projects
After building the MCU workspace successfully, simulate the circuit
containing the MCU component by selecting Simulate»Run. If you try to
run the simulation without building the MCU workspace first, Multisim
prompts you to build the MCU.
When you build the MCU workspace, listing files (*.lst) are generated
that are loaded into Multisim for debugging purposes. Depending on the
assembler/compiler tool, the listing files contain a combination of data such
as opcodes, where the opcodes should reside in the MCU internal ROM,
error information, assembly instructions corresponding to the opcodes and
the matching line of source code for each assembly instruction. If the listing
file is missing, or cannot be loaded into Multisim, then no instruction level
debugging can be performed on the MCU.
The intel hex format machine code file (*.hex) that is generated by the
build is also loaded into Multisim at the start of simulation so that the MCU

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component’s internal ROM representation can be loaded with the opcodes
that should be executed during simulation. This machine code file path is
specified in the General tab of the MCU Code Manager. You can check
that the correct machine code file exists in the machine code file path if
Multisim has trouble loading it.

Load External Hex File Projects
Standard MCU projects generate the *.hex file during the build step.
However the *.hex file does not have to be generated for load external hex
file projects. The machine code file specified in the General tab of the
MCU Code Manager is loaded at the start of simulation. It is still possible
to debug through disassembled assembly instructions for the MCU during
simulation in the Debug view since the opcodes are disassembled when the
*.hex file is loaded.

Simulating MCU with XROM
The General tab of the MCU Code Manager allows an XROM (external
ROM) component to be used with the MCU. There are three scenarios that
can happen relating to XROM:
•

If no XROM is selected, the machine code (*.hex) file opcodes are
loaded entirely into the MCU as described in all of the other examples
above for standard and load external hex file projects.

•

If an XROM is selected and the Load machine code (*.hex) file into
XROM checkbox is selected, the machine code file generated by the
MCU build is loaded entirely into the XROM. None of the opcodes are
loaded into the MCU; the internal ROM of the MCU will be empty
(filled with no-ops).

•

If an XROM is selected and the Load machine code into XROM
checkbox is not selected, the machine code file generated by the MCU
build is loaded into the MCU’s internal ROM, but any opcodes that
should be loaded into memory address extending beyond the physical
size of the internal ROM are loaded into the XROM at those very high
memory addresses.

The example below shows a circuit containing an MCU (U1) and an
XROM (U2) where the opcodes in the *.hex file generated during the
build step for a standard project project1 is loaded entirely into the
XROM (U2). The simulation is paused and the XROM Memory View
shows that the opcodes are indeed loaded into U2 and that there is nothing
in U1 as shown in the MCU Memory View. The bottom right side is a
snippet from the MCU Code Manager settings for project1 that shows

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the XROM settings. The *.hex file is generated using the 8051 Metalink
assembler from the main.asm source code:
$MOD51
;This includes 8051 definitions for the
metalink assembler

MOV ACC,#08H
LOOP:
JMP LOOP

END

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The circuit containing MCU U1 and XROM U2 is configured so that during
simulation, the opcodes generated from the source code for project1 are
loaded entirely into the XROM as shown in the XROM Memory View.

Multisim MCU Source Code Editor
This section describes the MCU Source Code Editor.

Opening a Source Code File
Complete the following to open a source code file in the editor:
1.

Double-click on the name of the source code file (for example, main.c
or main.asm) in the Design Toolbox.

Optionally, select MCU»Show Line Numbers if you wish to display
line numbers in the source code view.

Building Source Code Files
Source code files must be built to create a machine code (intel hex) file to
load into the MCU at the start of simulation. Also, any changes in source
code files will not take effect until the MCU project is built.
Complete the following to build source code files:
1.

Select MCU»»Build.
Or
Right-click on the desired source code file in the Design Toolbox and
select Build.

The Build command invokes the appropriate compilers, assemblers and
linkers, and then loads the error, listing and hex files that they generate into
Multisim. Errors, warnings and messages display in the Results tab of the
Spreadsheet View.
If the build is successful, the hex file is loaded into the appropriate MCU or
external ROM. If it is unsuccessful, the ROM is filled with zeros.
To go to the line of source code associated with an error, double-click on
the error in the Results tab.

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Source Code View
Sections of the MCU Source Code Editor are color-coded to denote the
text type:
•

Blue text—Key words (3).

•

Green text—Notes (1).

•

Black text—All other text, including data (2), errors (4).

1
2

Notes
Data

3
4

Key Words
Error

If you type text with an error (spelling, incorrect syntax) into a key word section of
the code, the text changes color from blue to black.

Note

To save the source code file, select File»Save from the source code view.
To print the source code file, select File»Print from the source code view.
Complete the following to find a text string in the source code:

NI Multisim User Manual

Select Edit»Find to display the Find dialog box.

Enter the desired string and click Find Next.

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MCU Debugging Features
This section describes the Multisim MCU Debugging Features.
You should also read the Multisim MCU Tutorial chapter of the Getting
Started with NI Circuit Design Suite manual.

Definitions
After an MCU project has been compiled/assembled into a hex file and
loaded by Multisim, several different pieces of information are available:
•

source code—The original text that was entered by you and passed to
the compilers.

•

listing assembly—The assembly text that is output by the compiler
into the listing files. This form assembly has variable names and other
extra notations from the compiler which is useful when debugging or
analyzing the output of a C program. If the original source code was
assembly the listing assembly is often identical; only when macros are
used does it differ.

•

disassembly—Created by Multisim from the raw hex opcodes. This is
often similar to the listing assembly, however, it usually contains
absolute values instead of variable names, except for the jump/goto
instructions which use the named labels.

Multisim’s MCU functionality includes code and debugging windows in
addition to Multisim’s standard circuit windows. Inside the debugging
windows a dropdown list allows you to pick different debugging views. The
views show different subsets of the same information, and the debug
window settings let you further filter and customize what the information
that is presented in these views.

Opening a Debug View
After an MCU's project has been built (without errors) using the Build
command the debug window becomes accessible.
To open the debug window for a particular MCU, select MCU»»Debug View.
This opens a new window in Multisim with a drop-down list at the top that
you use to select between the different views.
There is one view available for each source code file, as well as one for the
disassembly of the entire project. By default, when you open a Debug View

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the project disassembly view which is a complete disassembly of the ROM
for the relevant MCU opens. In the project disassembly view, every
memory address displays from address zero to the maximum address of the
ROM. The project disassembly view always shows the disassembly (not the
listing assembly) because it shows memory addresses which may not have
a corresponding listing (such as the opcodes from statically linked
libraries).
To switch to another of the available views, left-click on the drop-down list.
The source file debug listing view is similar to the listing text that a
compiler generates when it builds a single file. It contains a subset of the
information available in the complete ROM disassembly, but the
information is sorted into the order of the original source code, rather than
the memory address.
The debug file view can also be launched directly—right-click the appropriate file
in the Design Toolbox and select Debug View.

Note

Debug Window Settings
Complete the following to select the information to view in the Debug
view:
1.

Select MCU»Debug View Format and select the desired option.
Or
Right-click on the Debug view and enable the desired option from the
Debug View Format menu item.
Or
Enable the desired button in the MCU toolbar.
These settings are saved as part of each MCU component, thus if you
have two components they can have different settings, however all the
views inside the debugging window will have the same settings.

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MCU Toolbar Buttons
Button

Description
Source Code button. Enable to debug through the original
source code or the assembly from the compilers listing
files/multisim disassembler. Applies to the file debugging
views, not to the project disassembly.
Disassembly button. Determines whether you see the listing
assembly text or the version from the disassembler. Applies
to the file debugging views, not to the project disassembly.
Show Secondary Language as Comments button.
Enables/disables one of two things. If you are looking at the
project disassembly view or if you are looking at the listing
assembly or disassembly of a file it will add the original
source code corresponding to those lines as comments above
or beside the assembly. If you are viewing the source code
debug listing then this will show the corresponding listing
assembly/disassembly as comments below the source code.
Show Line Numbers button. Displays the line numbers in
the Debug View.
Show Memory Addresses in Debug View button.
Enables/disables the showing of memory addresses for any
text that shows source code in any of the debug listing views.
Show Memory Addresses in Assembly Code button.
Enables/disables the showing of memory addresses for any
text that shows listing assembly or disassembly in any of the
debug listing views.
Show Hex Opcodes in Assembly Code button.
Enables/disables the showing of the hex values of opcodes
for any text that shows listing assembly or disassembly in any
of the debug listing views.

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Button

Description
Show Jump/Goto Labels button. Enables/disables the
showing of the jump/goto labels for any text that shows
listing assembly or disassembly in any of the debug listing
views.
Show Headings Above Code button. Enables/disables the
showing of the heading comments above each block of
source or assembly code which labels the different fields
being shown in the text.

Simulation Markers
The margin that runs down the left side of the MCU debug windows and
Source Code View is where breakpoints and simulation markers are
shown. When you pause the simulation, a yellow arrow in the bar on the
left side of the source code indicates the current line of execution which
corresponds to the current value of the program counter (PC) in that MCU.
Since each line of source code may actually refer to many opcodes, the
current program counter may actually be located somewhere in the middle
of the opcodes for a line when you pause the simulation.
The simulation marker also appears in the debug view, which is where most
of the debugging is done. If your debug view is currently set to show source
code, it behaves the same way the source code window does. If you are
viewing the disassembly or the listing assembly, the indicator is located on
the line that contains the memory address that corresponds to the program
counter. Since the debug view corresponds to a single MCU it has a
maximum of one simulation marker. However, the source code view may
have more than one indicator if there are two MCU instances which share
that MCU project (this can only happen if you have MCU components
inside subcircuits or hierarchical blocks).

Breakpoints
You can place breakpoints in either source code or debugging views.
Breakpoints can only be added to lines that correspond to real memory
addresses, therefore they cannot be placed on comments or other lines that
do not map to any real opcodes. Before breakpoints can be placed, you must
build the project. Refer to the Building Source Code Files section for more
information.

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Complete the following to place a breakpoint:
1.

Double-click on the margin at the left edge of the source code or
debugging window. Breakpoints are displayed as a red dot in the left
margin beside any line of source code or assembly.
Or
Select the line of source code or debug listing text that the breakpoint
should be placed on and choose the Toggle Breakpoint button in the
Simulation toolbar.
Or
Right-click on the line of source code or debugging text and choose
Toggle Breakpoint from the context menu.

To remove a breakpoint, repeat any of the above, or, click the Remove All
Breakpoints button.
A breakpoint placed on a source code window will also be visible in the
debug view. These are simply two different ways of looking at the same
information. Breakpoints that are placed on listing assembly or
disassembly views that are associated with a line of source code, even if
they are in the ‘middle’ of the opcodes for that source code, show up in any
source code views. Breakpoints placed on source code correspond to the
first memory address associated with that line of source code in the
disassembly or listing assembly.
After each build the breakpoints may be adjusted based on the changes to
the source code and may shift slightly in both views. This happens because
breakpoints placed in the source code view will remain ‘locked’ to the line
of source code on which they were placed even if changes result in the
compiler moving the memory address of the opcodes that correspond to the
source code. Breakpoints that are placed on the listing assembly or the
disassembly remain ‘locked’ to the exact memory address, so if the source
code is modified and then built they may shift their position in the source
code view to the source code that now corresponds to that memory address.
If MCU components are placed in hierarchical blocks or subcircuits it
becomes possible to have two different ‘instances’ of the same component
in your circuit. In this case both MCU components share the same MCU
project and source code files, and therefore a breakpoint will be placed in
each of MCU components. Toggling the breakpoint on or off in the source
code toggles them all on or off, however toggling them on or off in the
debug view only removes the breakpoint for the corresponding component.
The breakpoint marker in the source code view only disappears when all the
breakpoints in all the MCU’s debug windows are removed.

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Stepping and Breaking
The controls for simulation stepping and breaking into an MCU are located
in the Simulation toolbar, and also in the MCU menu.
When you select the Pause Simulation toolbar button menu item during a
simulation, the simulator stops at the next SPICE timestep, possibly leaving
the CPU simulator in mid-instruction. If you press the Pause Simulation
at Next MCU Instruction Boundary button, the simulation waits slightly
longer before breaking. If the currently activated window and view is
displaying listing assembly or disassembly then the simulation break does
not cause the simulation to stop until it reaches the begining of a new MCU
opcode. If the current window and view is displaying source code then the
simulator continues until it reaches the start of an opcode which is
associated with the start of the next line of source code.
The stepping functions are Step into, Step over, Step out and Run to
cursor. All of these buttons work by starting a simulation and then stopping
when a certain point is reached. The behavior depends on whether the view
that is active is showing source code (as the primary language) or listing
assembly/disassembly.
If you click the Step into toolbar button, the simulator starts and runs until
it reaches the next line of source code or listing assembly/disassembly. If
the current opcode is the start of a function call, the Step into command
follows the call to its new location and breaks at the next opcode.
If you click the Step over button, the simulator starts and runs until it
reaches the next line of source code or listing assembly/disassembly. If the
current opcode is the start of a function call then Step over does not follow
the call, but rather breaks at the first opcode after the functions return.
Another way of thinking of this is that the simulator breaks at the start of
the first opcode where the call stack depth is less than or equal to the current
value.
If you click the Step out button, the simulator starts and runs until it reaches
the line of source code or listing assembly/disassembly that immediately
follows the return from the current function. Another way of thinking of
this is that the simulator breaks at the start of the first opcode where the call
stack depth is less than the current value.
For a demonstration of these functions, refer to the Multisim MCU Tutorial
chapter of Getting Started with NI Circuit Design Suite.

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Memory View
To display an MCU’s memory view, select MCU»»Memory View. A dockable window opens which
contains several spreadsheet-like grids of data.
These grids contain data only while the simulation is running and in a
paused state. When paused, they represent a snapshot of the internal
registers and memory banks for that component at a point in simulation
time. Different MCUs have different subsets of these grids depending on
the features of that microchip. While the simulation is paused, these values
can be used to examine the internal state of the component and also to
manually modify them.
To modify the values, click on the corresponding grid entry and type in new
values in the same format as the previous values.
External RAM and ROM components also have memory views. When the
simulation is paused, then you can view the contents of the memory for
these parts. Refer to the Component Reference help file for more
information.

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Automation API

Multisim provides an Application Programming Interface (API) that allows
for the automation of circuit simulation and analyses using Multisim. This
is a COM interface that you can use to programmatically control Multisim
without directly interacting with it.
The COM interface supports a limited set of circuit editing features. For
example, from the client application, you can open a Multisim circuit,
simulate the circuit, and then retrieve simulation results for further
processing in the client. In addition, the client program can select output
variables and substitute client-supplied data for power supplies. Other
applications include:
•

Component Evaluator—This lets you test multiple components
under the same circuit topology. You can replace the device under test
with others from the database and compare the results. You can also
vary the values of the resistors, capacitors, and inductors in the circuit
to determine their impact.

•

Stress Analysis—This is akin to an automated worst-case analysis,
where circuit elements are successively replaced by elements that are
within the original elements' tolerances to see whether power
consumption or other such variables exceed allowed values.

•

Fault Diagnosis—This simulates a number of faults in a circuit (for
example, short circuits, burned-out components, missed connections)
that can be compared against a faulty prototype PCB to try to diagnose
where the error in the prototype actually lies. This may require the
addition of extra circuit elements to simulate the faults.

The COM interface in Multisim can be used by clients written in any
COM-aware programming language, such as NI LabVIEW, Visual Basic
or C++.
Refer to the Multisim help file for complete information on the Automation
API.

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Menus and Commands

This section contains brief descriptions for the commands in the Multisim
menus.

Multisim Menus
The following menus are found in Multisim.
•

File Menu

•

Edit Menu

•

View Menu

•

Place Menu

•

MCU Menu

•

Simulate Menu

•

Transfer Menu

•

Tools Menu

•

Reports Menu

•

Options Menu

•

Window Menu

•

Help Menu

File Menu
The subjects in this section describe the commands found in the File menu.

File»New»Schematic Capture
Opens an untitled circuit window that can be used to create a circuit. The
new window opens using your default circuit preferences. Until you save,
the circuit window is named “Circuit#”, where “#” is a consecutive number.
For example, “Circuit1”, “Circuit2”, “Circuit3”, and so on.

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Menus and Commands

File»Open
Opens a previously created circuit file or netlist. Displays a file browser. If
necessary, change to the location of the file you want to open. You can also
open Ulticap and Orcad files. Refer to the Importing Files with Other
Formats section of Chapter 13, Transfer/Communication, for more
information.
You can open files created with Version 5 of Electronics Workbench, files
created in previous versions of Multisim, and netlist files.

File»Open Samples
Opens a folder containing sample and getting started files.

File»Close
Closes the active circuit file. If any changes were made since the last save
of the file, you are prompted to save those changes before closing.

File»Close All
Closes all circuit files. If any changes were made since the last save of the
file, you are prompted to save those changes before closing.

File»Save
Saves the active circuit file. If this is the first time the file is being saved,
displays a file browser. If you want, change to the desired location for
saving the file. You can save a circuit file with a name of any length.
The extension.ms10 is added to the file name automatically. For example,
a circuit named Mycircuit is saved as Mycircuit.ms10.
Tip

To preserve the original circuit without changes, choose File»Save As.

File»Save As
Saves the current circuit with a new file name. The original circuit remains
unchanged.
Use this command to experiment safely on a copy of a circuit, without changing the
original.

Tip

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File»Save All
Saves all open circuit files.

File»New Project
Creates a new project for grouping together related circuit designs. Refer to
the Setting up Projects section of Chapter 4, Working with Larger Designs,
for more information.

File»Open Project
Opens an existing project. Refer to the Working with Projects section of
Chapter 4, Working with Larger Designs, for more information.

File»Save Project
Saves a project. Refer to the Working with Projects section of Chapter 4,
Working with Larger Designs, for more information.

File»Close Project
Closes an open project. Refer to the Working with Projects section of
Chapter 4, Working with Larger Designs, for more information.

File»Version Control
Backs up or restores a project. Refer to the Version Control section of
Chapter 4, Working with Larger Designs, for more information.

File»Print
Opens a standard Print dialog box. Refer to the Printing the Circuit section
of Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics, for more information.

File»Print Preview
Previews the circuit as it will be printed. Opens a separate window, where
you can move from page to page and zoom in for details. You can also print
what you preview. Refer to the Printing the Circuit section of Chapter 2,
Schematic Capture—Basics, for more information.

File»Print Options»Print Circuit Setup
Allows you to set the page margins, page orientation (landscape or
portrait), zoom level and output options.

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These settings apply only to the current circuit. Refer to the Printing the
Circuit section of Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics, for more
information about these fields.
If you change the page orientation using the Page Circuit Setup dialog box, the
change is also reflected in the Print Setup dialog box.

Note

File»Print Options»Print Instruments
Prints the faces of any or all of the instruments in your circuit. Refer to the
Printing Instruments section of Chapter 9, Instruments, for more
information.

File»Recent Designs
Displays a list of the eight most recently saved circuit files. To re-open a
file, select it from the list.

File»Recent Projects
Displays a list of the eight most recently saved projects. To re-open a
project, select it from the list.

File»Exit
Closes all open circuit windows and exits Multisim. If you have unsaved
changes in any circuits, you are prompted to save or cancel them.

Edit Menu
The subjects in this section describe the commands found in the Edit menu.

Edit»Undo
Undoes the most recently performed action.

Edit»Redo
Redoes the most recently performed undo.

Edit»Cut
Removes selected components, circuits or text. What you cut is placed on
the Windows clipboard so you can paste it elsewhere.

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Edit»Copy
Copies selected components, circuits or text. The copy is placed on the
Windows clipboard. You can then use the Paste command to paste the copy
elsewhere, including other applications such as word processors.

Edit»Paste
Places the contents of the clipboard. The cursor shows a “ghosted” image
of the item to be pasted. Click to indicate where the item is to be pasted.

Edit»Delete
Permanently removes selected components or text. Does not place the
selection on the clipboard and does not affect anything currently on the
clipboard.
Use the Delete command with care. Deleted information cannot be retrieved,
although a delete can be recovered using the Undo command.

Caution

Edit»Select All
Selects all items in the active circuit window.
To select all but a few items, use the Select All command and then deselect the ones
you don’t want by Shift-clicking.

Tip

Edit»Delete Multi-Page
Displays the Delete Multi-Page dialog box where you select the page to be
removed from a multi-page circuit file. Refer to the Delete Multi-Page
Dialog Box section of Chapter 4, Working with Larger Designs, for more
information.
Use the Delete Multi-Page command with care. Deleted information cannot be
retrieved, although a delete can be recovered using the Undo command.

Caution

Edit»Paste as Subcircuit
Pastes the selection on the clipboard as a subcircuit. Refer to the
Hierarchical Design section of Chapter 4, Working with Larger Designs,
for more information.

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Edit»Find
Displays the Find Component dialog box. Refer to the Finding
Components in Your Circuit section of Chapter 2, Schematic
Capture—Basics, for more information.

Edit»Graphic Annotation
Shows various graphic annotation options.

Edit»Graphic Annotation»Pen Color
Displays a palette where you can change the color of lines for graphic
elements, excluding placed text.

Edit»Graphic Annotation»Pen Style
Displays options for the appearance of lines for graphics elements,
excluding placed text.

Edit»Graphic Annotation»Fill Color
Displays a palette where you can change the fill color of graphic elements
like rectangles.

Edit»Graphic Annotation»Fill Type
Displays options for the appearance of the fill of graphic elements like
rectangles.

Edit»Graphic Annotation»Arrow
Displays available arrows used to end lines and other graphic elements.

Edit»Order
Use to either send a selected graphic item to the back, or bring it to the
front.

Edit»Assign to Layer
Assigns the selected item to an annotation layer. Refer to the Visibility Tab
section of Chapter 1, User Interface, for more information.

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Edit»Layer Settings
Displays the Visibility dialog box. The settings found in this dialog box are
also found in the Visibility tab of the Sheet Preferences dialog box. Refer
to the Sheet Properties—Visibility Tab section of Chapter 1, User
Interface, for more information.

Edit»Orientation
Shows options for changing the orientation of selected elements.

Edit»Orientation»Flip Horizontal
Flips the selection horizontally. Refer to the Rotating/Flipping Placed
Components section of Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics, for more
information.

Edit»Orientation»Flip Vertical
Flips the selection vertically. Refer to the Rotating/Flipping Placed
Components section of Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics, for more
information.

Edit»Orientation»90 Clockwise
Rotates the selection 90 degrees clockwise. Refer to the Rotating/Flipping
Placed Components section of Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics, for
more information.

Edit»Orientation»90 CounterCW
Rotates the selection 90 degrees counter-clockwise. Refer to the
Rotating/Flipping Placed Components section of Chapter 2, Schematic
Capture—Basics, for more information.

Edit»Title Block Position
Contains options for locating the title block on the sheet.

Edit»Title Block Position»Bottom Left
Places the title block at the bottom left of the sheet.

Edit»Title Block Position»Bottom Right
Places the title block at the bottom right of the sheet.

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Edit»Title Block Position»Top Left
Places the title block at the top left of the sheet.

Edit»Title Block Position»Top Right
Places the title block at the top right of the sheet.

Edit»Symbol»Title Block
Use to do an in-place edit of a selected component’s symbol, or a selected
title block.

Edit»Font
Displays the Font dialog box, where you can change various font
properties. Contains the same information as the Font tab in the Sheet
Properties dialog box. Refer to the Sheet Properties—Font Tab section of
Chapter 1, User Interface, for more information.

Edit»Comment
Use to edit the contents of a selected comment. Refer to the Adding a
Comment section of Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics, for more
information.

Edit»Forms/Questions
Displays the Edit Form dialog box where you enter and edit questions
related to the circuit. Refer to the Linking a Form to a Circuit section of
Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics, for more information.

Edit»Properties
Opens the properties dialog box of the item selected in the active window.
If there is no item selected, the Sheet Properties dialog box displays.

View Menu
The subjects in this section describe the commands found in the View
menu.

View»Full Screen
Shows the workspace without any toolbars or menu items showing.

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View»Parent Sheet
Use to view the active subcircuit or hierarchical block’s parent sheet. Refer
to the Viewing a Parent Sheet section of Chapter 4, Working with Larger
Designs, for more information.

View»Zoom In
Lets you increase the magnification of your view of the circuit.

View»Zoom Out
Lets you decrease the magnification of your view of the circuit.

View»Zoom Area
Lets you zoom in on selected components when the workspace is displayed
at less than 100%.

View»Zoom Fit to Page
Lets you display your entire circuit on the workspace at once.

View»Zoom to Magnification
Displays the Zoom dialog box where you enter the desired magnification.

View»Zoom Selection
Zooms in on a selected area of the workspace.

View»Show Grid
Shows or hides a grid in the background of the circuit window. This helps
you place elements in specific locations on a grid.

View»Show Border
Shows or hides the circuit’s border.

View»Show Page Bounds
Shows or hides page boundaries in the circuit window. This helps you note
where circuits will appear on printed output.

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View»Ruler Bars
Shows or hides the ruler bars on the top and left margins that appear outside
of the workspace.

View»Status Bar
Shows or hides the status bar at the bottom of the workspace.

View»Design Toolbox
Shows or hides the Design Toolbox. Refer to the Design Toolbox section
of Chapter 1, User Interface, for more information.

View»Spreadsheet View
Select/deselect to show/hide the Spreadsheet View. Refer to the
Spreadsheet View section of Chapter 3, Schematic Capture—Advanced
Functions, for more information.

View»Circuit Description Box
Opens a window in which you can enter comments or information about the
circuit.

View»Toolbars
Shows or hides the selected toolbar. Choose to show or hide any or all of
the toolbars discussed below. Refer to the Toolbars section of Chapter 1,
User Interface, for more information.

View»Toolbars»Standard
Select/deselect to show/hide the Standard toolbar.

View»Toolbars»View
Select/deselect to show/hide the View toolbar.

View»Toolbars»Main
Select/deselect to show/hide the Main toolbar.

View»Toolbars»Graphic Annotation
Select/deselect to show/hide the Graphic Annotation toolbar.

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View»Toolbars»3D Components
Select/deselect to show/hide the 3D Components toolbar. You can place
virtual 3D components from this toolbar.

View»Toolbars»Analog Components
Select/deselect to show/hide the Analog Components toolbar. You can
place virtual analog components from this toolbar.

View»Toolbars»Basic
Select/deselect to show/hide the Basic toolbar. You can place virtual basic
components from this toolbar.

View»Toolbars»Diodes
Select/deselect to show/hide the Diodes toolbar. You can place virtual
diodes from this toolbar.

View»Toolbars»Transistor Components
Select/deselect to show/hide the Transistor Components toolbar. You can
place virtual transistors from this toolbar.

View»Toolbars»Measurement Components
Select/deselect to show/hide the Measurement Components toolbar. You
can place virtual measurement components from this toolbar.

View»Toolbars»Miscellaneous Components
Select/deselect to show/hide the Miscellaneous Components toolbar. You
can place miscellaneous virtual components from this toolbar.

View»Toolbars»Components
Select/deselect to show/hide the Component toolbar.

View»Toolbars»Power Source Components
Select/deselect to show/hide the Power Source Components toolbar. You
can place virtual power source components from this toolbar.

View»Toolbars»Rated Virtual Components
Select/deselect to show/hide the Rated Virtual Components toolbar. You
can place rated virtual components from this toolbar.

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View»Toolbars»Signal Source Components
Select/deselect to show/hide the Signal Source Components toolbar. You
can place virtual signal source components from this toolbar.

View»Toolbars»Virtual
Select/deselect to show/hide the Virtual toolbar, which is used to place
virtual components. Refer to the Placing Virtual Components section of
Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics, for more information.

View»Toolbars»Simulation Switch
Shows or hides the simulation on/off switch.

View»Toolbars»Simulation
Select/deselect to show/hide the Simulation toolbar.

View»Toolbars»Instruments
Select/deselect to show/hide the Instruments toolbar.

View»Toolbars»Description Edit Bar
Select/deselect to show/hide the Description Edit Bar. This toolbar is used
to edit the Circuit Description Box. Refer to the Circuit Description Box
section of Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics, for more information.

View»Toolbars»MCU
Select/deselect to show/hide the MCU toolbar.

View»Toolbars»LabVIEW Instruments
Select/deselect to show/hide the LabVIEW Instruments toolbar.

View»Toolbars»NI ELVISmx Instruments
Select/deselect to show/hide the NI ELVISmx Instruments toolbar.

View»Show Comment/Probe
Shows or hides information boxes for selected comments or static probes.
Refer to the Adding a Comment section of Chapter 2, Schematic
Capture—Basics, and the Measurement Probe section of Chapter 9,
Instruments, for more information.

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View»Grapher
Shows or hides the Grapher, which shows the results of simulation on a
graph or chart. Refer to the Viewing the Analysis Results: Grapher section
of Chapter 10, Analyses, for more information.

Place Menu
The subjects in this section describe the commands found in the Place
menu.

Place»Component
Lets you browse the databases (Master Database, Corporate Database
and User Database) for components to be placed. Refer to the Using the
Place Component Browser section of Chapter 2, Schematic
Capture—Basics, for more information.

Place»Junction
Places a junction where you click. Refer to the Manually Adding a Junction
section of Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics, for more information.

Place»Wire
Use to place a wire on the workspace that is not connected to any
component. Refer to the Placing Wires Directly Onto Workspace section of
Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics, for more information.

Place»Bus
Places a bus with segments created as you click. Refer to the Buses section
of Chapter 4, Working with Larger Designs, for more information.

Place»Connectors
Lets you place various connectors on the workspace.

Place»Connectors»HB/SC Connector
Adds connecting nodes to a circuit for use in a hierarchical block or a
subcircuit.

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Place»Connectors»Bus HB/SC Connector
Places a bus connector between the main circuit and a hierarchical block or
subcircuit. Refer to the Connecting Buses to HB/SCs section of Chapter 4,
Working with Larger Designs, for more information.

Place»Connectors»Off-Page Connector
Places an off-page connector on your workspace. Refer to the Flat
Multi-Sheet Design section of Chapter 4, Working with Larger Designs, for
more information.

Place»Connectors»Bus Off-Page Connector
Places a bus connector between the main circuit and a multi-page. Refer to
the Placing a Bus across Multi-Pages section of Chapter 4, Working with
Larger Designs, for more information.

Place»New Hierarchical Block
Places a circuit without any components in a hierarchical structure. Refer
to the Adding a Hierarchical Block section of Chapter 4, Working with
Larger Designs, for more information.

Place»Hierarchical Block from File
Places a circuit in a hierarchical structure. Refer to the Placing a HB from
an Existing File section of Chapter 4, Working with Larger Designs, for
more information.

Place»Replace by Hierarchical Block
Replaces the elements that you have selected with a hierarchical block.
Refer to the Replacing Components with an HB section of Chapter 4,
Working with Larger Designs, for more information.

Place»New Subcircuit
Places a subcircuit without any components. Refer to the Adding a
Subcircuit section of Chapter 4, Working with Larger Designs, for more
information.

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Place»Replace by Subcircuit
Replaces the selected components with a subcircuit containing those
components. Refer to the Adding a Subcircuit section of Chapter 4,
Working with Larger Designs, for more information.

Place»Multi-Page
Opens a new flat page. Refer to the Flat Multi-Sheet Design section of
Chapter 4, Working with Larger Designs, for more information.

Place»Merge Bus
Merges two buses together. Refer to the Merging Buses section of
Chapter 4, Working with Larger Designs, for more information.

Place»Bus Vector Connect
This is the preferred method for placing numerous connections from a
multi-pinned device, such as an IC, to a bus. Refer to the Bus Vector
Connect section of Chapter 4, Working with Larger Designs, for more
information.

Place»Comment
Use to “pin” a comment to the workspace, or directly to a component.
When a component with an attached comment is moved, the comment also
moves. Refer to the Adding a Comment section of Chapter 2, Schematic
Capture—Basics, for more information.

Place»Text
Lets you place text on the circuit. Refer to the Adding Miscellaneous Text
section of Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics, for more information.

Place»Graphics
Lets you place an assortment of the graphic elements. Refer to the Graphic
Annotation section of Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics, for more
information.

Place»Title Block
Lets you place a title block on your workspace. Refer to the Adding a Title
Block section of Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics, for more
information.

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MCU Menu
For details, refer to Chapter 15, Multisim MCU.

Simulate Menu
The subjects in this section describe the commands found in the Simulate
menu.

Simulate»Run
Runs/resumes the simulation of the active circuit. Running a simulation
initializes the circuit, performs the circuit simulation and displays the
results on the instrument or grapher.

Simulate»Pause
Pauses the simulation.

Simulate»Stop
Stops the simulation.

Simulate»Instruments
Some versions of Multisim do not include all of the instruments noted
below.
Contains commands you use to place instruments (an alternative to using
the Instruments toolbar).

Simulate»Instruments»Multimeter
Places a multimeter on the circuit window. The multimeter is used to
measure AC or DC voltage or current, resistance, or decibel loss between
two nodes in a circuit. Refer to the Multimeter section of Chapter 9,
Instruments, for more information.

Simulate»Instruments»Function Generator
Places a function generator on the circuit window. The function generator
is a voltage source that supplies sine, triangular or square waves. It provides
a convenient and realistic way to supply power to a circuit. Refer to the
Function Generator section of Chapter 9, Instruments, for more
information.

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Simulate»Instruments»Wattmeter
Places a wattmeter on the circuit window. The wattmeter provides the
combined functions of a voltmeter and an ammeter. It is used to measure
the magnitude of the active power, that is, the product of the voltage
difference and the current flowing through the current terminals in a circuit.
Refer to the Wattmeter section of Chapter 9, Instruments, for more
information.

Simulate»Instruments»Oscilloscope
Places an oscilloscope on the circuit window. The dual-channel
oscilloscope displays the magnitude and frequency variations of electronic
signals. It can provide a graph of the voltage of one or two signals over
time, or allow comparison of one waveform to another. Refer to the
Oscilloscope section of Chapter 9, Instruments, for more information.

Simulate»Instruments»Four Channel Oscilloscope
Places a four-channel oscilloscope on the circuit window. Refer to the
Four-Channel Oscilloscope section of Chapter 9, Instruments, for more
information.

Simulate»Instruments»Bode Plotter
Places a Bode plotter on the circuit window. A Bode plotter produces a
graph of a circuit’s frequency response and is useful for analyzing filter
circuits. Refer to the Bode Plotter section of Chapter 9, Instruments, for
more information.

Simulate»Instruments»Frequency Counter
Places a frequency counter on the circuit window. Refer to the Frequency
Counter section of Chapter 9, Instruments, for more information.

Simulate»Instruments»Word Generator
Places a word generator on the circuit window. A word generator sends
digital words or patterns of bits into circuits as a bit stream. Refer to the
Word Generator section of Chapter 9, Instruments, for more information.

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Simulate»Instruments»Logic Analyzer
Places a logic analyzer on the circuit window. A logic analyzer displays the
levels of up to 16 digital signals in a circuit. It is used for fast data
acquisition of logic states and advanced timing analysis to help design large
systems and carry out troubleshooting. Refer to the Logic Analyzer section
of Chapter 9, Instruments, for more information.

Simulate»Instruments»Logic Converter
Places a logic converter on the circuit window. It can be attached to a circuit
to derive the truth table or Boolean expression the circuit embodies, or to
produce a circuit from a truth table or Boolean expression. Refer to the
Logic Converter section of Chapter 9, Instruments, for more information.

Simulate»Instruments»IV Analyzer
Places an IV analyzer on the workspace, which is used to measure
current-voltage curves. Refer to the IV Analyzer section of Chapter 9,
Instruments, for more information.

Simulate»Instruments»Distortion Analyzer
Places a distortion analyzer on the circuit window. A typical distortion
analyzer provides distortion measurements for audio signals in the range of
20 Hz to 100 KHz. Refer to the Distortion Analyzer section of Chapter 9,
Instruments, for more information.

Simulate»Instruments»Spectrum Analyzer
Places a spectrum analyzer on the circuit window. The spectrum analyzer
is used to measure frequency versus amplitude. Refer to the Spectrum
Analyzer section of Chapter 9, Instruments, for more information.

Simulate»Instruments»Network Analyzer
Places a network analyzer on the circuit window. The network analyzer is
used to measure the scattering parameters (or S-parameters) of a circuit,
commonly used to characterize a circuit intended to operate at higher
frequencies. Refer to the Network Analyzer section of Chapter 9,
Instruments, for more information.

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Simulate»Instruments»Agilent Function Generator
Places the Agilent Technologies 33120A Function Generator on the circuit
window. This is a high-performance 15 MHz synthesized function
generator with built-in arbitrary waveform capability. Refer to the Agilent
Simulated Function Generator section of Chapter 9, Instruments, for more
information.

Simulate»Instruments»Agilent Multimeter
Places the Agilent Technologies 34401A Multimeter on the circuit window.
This is a 6 1/2-digit, high-performance digital multimeter. Refer to the
Agilent Simulated Multimeter section of Chapter 9, Instruments, for more
information.

Simulate»Instruments»Agilent Oscilloscope
Places the Agilent Technologies 54622D Oscilloscope on the circuit
window. This is a 2-channel +16 logic channels, 100-MHz bandwidth
oscilloscope. Refer to the Agilent Simulated Oscilloscope section of
Chapter 9, Instruments, for more information.

Simulate»Instruments»LabVIEW Instruments
Displays a number of LabVIEW instruments that you can place on the
workspace. Refer to the LabVIEW Instruments section of Chapter 9,
Instruments, for more information.

Simulate»Instruments»Tektronix Oscilloscope
Places the Tektronix TDS 2024 Oscilloscope on the circuit window. Refer
to the Tektronix Simulated Oscilloscope section of Chapter 9, Instruments,
for more information.

Simulate»Instruments»Measurement Probe
Using the Measurement Probe is a fast and easy way to check voltage and
frequency readings on different nodes and pins. Refer to the Measurement
Probe section of Chapter 9, Instruments, for more information.

Simulate»Instruments»Preset Measurement Probes
Places a preset (static) measurement probe on the workspace. Refer to the
Measurement Probe section of Chapter 9, Instruments, for more
information.

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Simulate»Instruments»Current Probe
Places a “clamp-on” current probe on the workspace. Refer to the Current
Probe section of Chapter 9, Instruments, for more information.

Simulate»Interactive Simulation Settings
Allows you to set default settings for instruments that are based on a
transient analysis (such as the oscilloscope, spectrum analyzer and logic
analyzer). Refer to the Interactive Simulation Settings section of Chapter 9,
Instruments, for more information.

Simulate»Digital Simulation Settings
Allows you to choose between optimizing on accuracy or speed of
simulation when digital components are included in your circuit. Refer to
the Digital Simulation section of Chapter 8, Simulation, for more
information.

Simulate»Analyses
Contains commands you use to set up and run the circuit’s analysis.

Simulate»Analyses»DC Operating Point
Sets up and runs DC operating point analysis, which determines the DC
operating point of a circuit. Refer to the DC Operating Point Analysis
section of Chapter 10, Analyses, for more information.

Simulate»Analyses»AC Analysis
Sets up and runs AC analysis, in which the DC operating point is first
calculated to obtain linear, small-signal models for all nonlinear
components. Then a complex matrix (containing both real and imaginary
components) is created. Refer to the AC Analysis section of Chapter 10,
Analyses, for more information.

Simulate»Analyses»Transient Analysis
Sets up and runs Transient analysis, also called time-domain transient
analysis, which computes the circuit’s response as a function of time. Refer
to the Transient Analysis section of Chapter 10, Analyses, for more
information.

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Simulate»Analyses»Fourier Analysis
Sets up and runs Fourier analysis, which evaluates the DC, fundamental and
harmonic components of a time-domain signal. Refer to the Fourier
Analysis section of Chapter 10, Analyses, for more information.

Simulate»Analyses»Noise Analysis
Sets up and runs Noise analysis, which is used to detect the magnitude of
noise power in the output of electronic circuits. Refer to the Noise Analysis
section of Chapter 10, Analyses, for more information.

Simulate»Analyses»Noise Figure Analysis
This analysis is part of Multisim’s RF Design module. Refer to the Noise
Figure Analysis section of Chapter 10, Analyses, for more information.

Simulate»Analyses»Distortion Analysis
Sets up and runs Distortion analysis, which measures harmonic distortion
and intermodulation distortion products. Refer to the Distortion Analysis
section of Chapter 10, Analyses, for more information.

Simulate»Analyses»DC Sweep
Sets up and runs DC sweep analysis, which computes the DC operating
point of a node in the circuit for various values of one or two DC sources in
the circuit. Refer to the DC Sweep Analysis section of Chapter 10,
Analyses, for more information.

Simulate»Analyses»Sensitivity
Sets up and runs Sensitivity analysis, which calculates the sensitivity of an
output node voltage or current with respect to the parameters of all
components (DC sensitivity) or one component (AC sensitivity) in a circuit.
Refer to the DC and AC Sensitivity Analyses section of Chapter 10,
Analyses, for more information.

Simulate»Analyses»Parameter Sweep
Sets up and runs Parameter Sweep analysis, which verifies the operation of
a circuit by simulating it across a range of values for a component
parameter. Refer to the Parameter Sweep Analysis section of Chapter 10,
Analyses, for more information.

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Simulate»Analyses»Temperature Sweep
Sets up and runs Temperature Sweep analysis, which quickly verifies the
operation of a circuit by simulating it at different temperatures. The effect
is the same as simulating the circuit several times, once for each different
temperature. You control the temperature values. Refer to the Temperature
Sweep Analysis section of Chapter 10, Analyses, for more information.

Simulate»Analyses»Pole Zero
Sets up and runs Pole Zero analysis, which finds the poles and zeros in the
small-signal AC transfer function of a circuit. Refer to the Pole Zero
Analysis section of Chapter 10, Analyses, for more information.

Simulate»Analyses»Transfer Function
Sets up and runs Transfer Function analysis, which calculates the DC
small-signal transfer function between an input source and two output
nodes (for voltage) or an output variable (for current) in a circuit. It also
calculates input and output resistances. Refer to the Transfer Function
Analysis section of Chapter 10, Analyses, for more information.

Simulate»Analyses»Worst Case
Sets up and runs Worst Case analysis, a statistical analysis that lets you
explore the worst possible effects on circuit performance of variations in
component parameters. Refer to the Worst Case Analysis section of
Chapter 10, Analyses, for more information.

Simulate»Analyses»Monte Carlo
Sets up and runs Monte Carlo analysis, a statistical analysis that lets you
explore how changing component properties affects circuit performance.
Refer to the Monte Carlo Analysis section of Chapter 10, Analyses, for
more information.

Simulate»Analyses»Trace Width Analysis
Sets up and runs Trace Width analysis, which calculates the minimum trace
width needed in a circuit to handle the peak current to be carried by that
trace. Refer to the Trace Width Analysis section of Chapter 10, Analyses,
for more information.

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Menus and Commands

Simulate»Analyses»Batched Analyses
Sets up and runs batched analyses, which let you set up a series of different
analyses, or different variations on the same analysis, to be performed on a
circuit in sequence. Refer to the Batched Analyses section of Chapter 10,
Analyses, for more information.

Simulate»Analyses»User Defined Analysis
Sets up and runs a user-defined analysis. This command presents you with
a dialog box into which you can type the SPICE commands to be executed
to perform the analysis. Refer to the User Defined Analyses section of
Chapter 10, Analyses, for more information.

Simulate»Analyses»Stop Analysis
Stops the currently running analysis.

Simulate»Postprocessor
Opens the Postprocessor dialog box, which you use to combine the results
of several analyses in different ways. To use the Postprocessor, you must
have performed at least one analysis on your circuit. Refer to Chapter 11,
Postprocessor, for more information.

Simulate»Simulation Error Log/Audit Trail
Shows or hides the simulation log, which records all the events of a circuit
simulation. Refer to the Simulation Error Help section of Chapter 8,
Simulation, for more information about this log.

Simulate»XSpice Command Line Interface
Opens a window into which you can type Xspice commands to be executed.
Refer to the Simulation from Netlist Without Schematic section of
Chapter 8, Simulation, for more information.

Simulate»Load Simulation Settings
Use to load a set of simulation settings that you saved earlier. Refer to the
Loading a Simulation Profile section of Chapter 8, Simulation, for more
information.

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Menus and Commands

Simulate»Save Simulation Settings
Use to save a set of simulation settings for later use. Refer to the Saving a
Simulation Profile section of Chapter 8, Simulation, for more information.

Simulate»Auto Fault Option
Applies faults to randomly selected components in the circuit. You choose
the number of faults (either in total, or the number of each type of fault) to
be applied.

Simulate»VHDL Simulation
Runs the legacy MultiVHDL simulation software. Refer to the
documentation that was included with your copy of MultiVHDL for more
information.

Simulate»Dynamic Probe Properties
Displays the Probe Properties dialog box where you enter the properties
for Dynamic Measurement Probes. Refer to the Dynamic Probe Settings
section of Chapter 9, Instruments, for more information.

Simulate»Reverse Probe Direction
Reverses the polarity of a placed probe. Refer to the Measurement Probe
section of Chapter 9, Instruments, for more information.

Simulate»Clear Instrument Data
Clears simulation data from instruments like the oscilloscope. Does not
clear the Grapher.

Simulate»Use Tolerances
Select to toggle the command on or off. When there is a checkmark beside
this command in the Simulate menu, the component tolerances set in
individual components will be used during simulation. Refer to the
Component Tolerances in Multisim section of Chapter 8, Simulation, for
more information about this feature.

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Menus and Commands

Transfer Menu
The subjects in this section describe the commands found in the Transfer
menu.

Transfer»Transfer to Ultiboard 10
Use to transfer a design from Multisim to Ultiboard 10. Refer to the
Transferring from Multisim to Ultiboard for PCB Layout section of
Chapter 13, Transfer/Communication, for more information.

Transfer»Transfer to Ultiboard 9 or earlier
Use to transfer a design from Multisim to Ultiboard 9 or earlier. Refer to
the Transferring from Multisim to Ultiboard for PCB Layout section of
Chapter 13, Transfer/Communication, for more information.

Transfer»Export to PCB Layout
If you are using a PCB layout package other than Ultiboard, you can create
files in the necessary formats for transfer to third party layout packages.
Refer to the Transfering to Other PCB Layout Packages section of
Chapter 13, Transfer/Communication, for more information.

Transfer»Forward Annotate to Ultiboard 10
Lets you annotate changes made to a schematic file in Multisim to its
existing Ultiboard 10 file. Refer to the Forward Annotation section of
Chapter 13, Transfer/Communication, for more information.

Transfer»Backannotate from Ultiboard
Backannotates changes made to a circuit in Ultiboard (for example, deleted
components) to the Multisim circuit file. Displays a file browser where you
choose the backannotation file corresponding to your circuit file. The
circuit file must be open before you use this command. Refer to the Back
Annotation section of Chapter 13, Transfer/Communication, for more
information.

Transfer»Forward Annotate to Ultiboard 9 or earlier
Lets you annotate changes made to a schematic file in Multisim to its
existing Ultiboard 9 or earlier file. Refer to the Forward Annotation section
of Chapter 13, Transfer/Communication, for more information.

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Menus and Commands

Transfer»Highlight Selection in Ultiboard
When Ultiboard is running, and you have selected components in Multisim,
the corresponding components are highlighted in Ultiboard.

Transfer»Export Netlist
Exports the netlist of your design. Opens a standard file browser where you
can choose the file name and folder for the exported netlist.

Tools Menu
The subjects in this section describe the commands found in the Tools
menu.

Tools»Component Wizard
Invokes the Component Wizard, which takes you through the steps
required to create a component. Refer to the Creating Components with the
Component Wizard section of Chapter 6, Component Editing, for more
information.

Tools»Database
Tools»Database»Database Manager
Lets you add component families, assign button icons to families, edit, copy
and delete components, and (for some editions of Multisim) enter or
modify user field titles for those component families. Refer to the
Managing the Database section of Chapter 5, Components, for more
information.

Tools»Database»Save Component to DB
Lets you save the selected component, including any changes you made to
it, to the database. Refer to the Saving Placed Components section of
Chapter 5, Components, for more information.

Tools»Database»Merge Database
Displays the Merge Database dialog box where you can merge the
contents of another database into your User or Corporate Database. Refer
to the Merging Databases section of Chapter 5, Components, for more
information.

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Menus and Commands

Tools»Database»Convert Database
Converts components in an existing Corporate or User Database into
Multisim format. Refer to the Converting Databases section of Chapter 5,
Components, for more information.

Tools»Variant Manager
Displays the Variant Manager dialog box. Refer to the Variants section
of Chapter 4, Working with Larger Designs, for more information.

Tools»Set Active Variant
Displays the Active Variant dialog box. Refer to the Variants section of
Chapter 4, Working with Larger Designs, for more information.

Tools»Circuit Wizards»555 Timer Wizard
Lets you design astable or monostable timer circuits. Refer to the 555
Timer Wizard section of Chapter 8, Simulation, for more information.

Tools»Circuit Wizards»Filter Wizard
Lets you design Low Pass, High Pass, Band Pass and Band Reject filters.
Refer to the Filter Wizard section of Chapter 8, Simulation, for more
information.

Tools»Circuit Wizards»Op-amp Wizard
Lets you design the following op-amp circuits: Inverting Amplifier;
Non-inverting Amplifier; Difference Amplifier; Inverted Summing
Amplifier; Non-inverted Summing Amplifier; Scaling Adder. Refer to the
Op-amp Wizard section of Chapter 8, Simulation, for more information.

Tools»Circuit Wizards»CE BJT Amplifier Wizard
Lets you design common emitter amplifier circuits by entering the desired
specifications into its fields. Refer to the Common Emitter BJT Amplifier
Wizard section of Chapter 8, Simulation, for more information.

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Menus and Commands

Tools»Rename/Renumber Components
Lets you renumber components on the screen. This is useful if you have
numbers that appear all over the screen, depending on where they were
placed, or if you have numbers missing in a sequence. Refer to the
Renaming Component Instances section of Chapter 4, Working with
Larger Designs, for more information.

Tools»Replace Components
Before using, select the desired component(s) in the circuit window to be
replaced. Invokes the Select a Component browser from which you can
select a new component. Click OK to replace the old component(s) with the
selected new one. Refer to the Replacing a Placed Component section of
Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics, for more information.

Tools»Update Circuit Components
If you open a circuit that was created in an older version of Multisim, you
can update its components to match the current database. Refer to the
Updating Components from Databases section of Chapter 5, Components,
for more information.

Tools»Update HB/SC Symbols
Use to update HB/SC symbols on designs from older versions of Multisim.

Tools»Electrical Rules Check
Displays the Electrical Rules Check dialog box where you can create
reports of electrical connection errors, such as an output pin connected to a
power pin. Refer to the Electrical Rules Checking section of Chapter 3,
Schematic Capture—Advanced Functions, for information about running
the rule check.

Tools»Clear ERC Markers
Clears ERC error markers from the workspace that were placed during
earlier ERC runs. Refer to the Electrical Rules Checking section of
Chapter 3, Schematic Capture—Advanced Functions, for information
about running the rule check.

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Menus and Commands

Tools»Toggle NC Marker
Use to place a no connection (NC) marker on a selected pin, which prevents
wires from being attached to that pin. Refer to the Marking Pins for No
Connection section of Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics, for more
information.

Tools»Symbol Editor
Lets you create and edit component symbols. Refer to the Creating and
Editing a Component’s Symbol with the Symbol Editor section for more
information.

Tools»Title Block Editor
Lets you edit the appearance of, or create a new, title block. Refer to the
Title Block Editor section of Chapter 3, Schematic Capture—Advanced
Functions, for more information.

Tools»Description Box Editor
Displays the screen where you edit the contents of the Circuit Description
Box. Refer to the Circuit Description Box section of Chapter 2, Schematic
Capture—Basics, for more information.

Tools»Capture Screen Area
Use to make a screen capture of a specific area of your screen. Refer to the
Capturing Screen Area section of Chapter 2, Schematic Capture—Basics,
for more information.

Reports Menu
The subjects in this section describe the commands found in the Reports
menu.

Reports»Bill of Materials
Lets you print a Bill of Materials (BOM) for your circuit. A BOM lists the
components used in your design and provides a summary of the
components needed to manufacture the circuit board. Refer to the Bill of
Materials section of Chapter 12, Reports, for more information.

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Menus and Commands

Reports»Component Detail Report
Lets you produce a report showing all information stored in the database for
a particular component. Refer to the Component Detail Report section of
Chapter 12, Reports, for more information.

Reports»Netlist Report
Lets you print a report that provides circuit connectivity information for
each component. Refer to the Netlist Report section of Chapter 12, Reports,
for more information.

Reports»Cross Reference Report
Lets you produce a detailed list of all components in the active circuit.
Refer to the Cross Reference Report section of Chapter 12, Reports, for
more information.

Reports»Schematic Statistics
Lets you print a report that lists the quantities of various elements in your
circuit, such as real components, virtual components and nets. Refer to the
Schematic Statistics Report section of Chapter 12, Reports, for more
information.

Reports»Spare Gates Report
Lets you produce a report that lists the components in a circuit that have
unused gates. Refer to the Spare Gates Report section of Chapter 12,
Reports, for more information.

Options Menu
The subjects in this section describe the commands found in the Options
menu.

Options»Global Preferences
Displays the Preferences dialog box. Refer to the Using the Preferences
Dialog Box section of Chapter 1, User Interface, for more information.

Options»Sheet Properties
Displays the Sheet Properties dialog box. Refer to the Using the Sheet
Properties Dialog Box section of Chapter 1, User Interface, for more
information.

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Menus and Commands

Options»Customize User Interface
Lets you tailor your interface to your personal preferences. Refer to the
Customizing the Interface section of Chapter 1, User Interface, for more
information.

Window Menu
The subjects in this section describe the commands found in the Window
menu.

Window»New Window
Creates a copy of the existing window.

Window»Close
Closes the active file.

Window»Close All
Closes all open files.

Window»Cascade
Arranges circuit windows so that they overlap.

Window»Tile Horizontal
Resizes all open circuit windows so they all show on the screen in a
horizontal orientation. Allows you to quickly scan all open circuit files.

Window»Tile Vertical
Resizes all open circuit windows so they all show on the screen in a vertical
orientation. Allows you to quickly scan all open circuit files.

Window»Windows
Displays the Windows dialog box where you can show or close the files
that you currently have open.

Window (open files)
Lists the open Multisim circuit files. Select one to make it active.

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Menus and Commands

Help Menu
The subjects in this section describe the commands found in the Help
menu.

Help»Multisim Help
Displays the Multisim help file.

Help»Component Reference
Displays Multisim’s Component Reference help file.

Help»Patents
Displays a file with a list of National Instruments software-related patents.

Help»Release Notes
Displays edition information, additions or corrections to printed
documentation, and other useful information.

Help»File Information
Displays the File Information dialog box.

Help»About Multisim
Displays information on the edition number of Multisim.

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Archiving Data

National Instruments recommends that you regularly back up the files
created within the Multisim and Ultiboard components of NI Circuit
Design Suite. Additionally, you should back up internal files that store
user-created data, such as database components. This section provides
information on where to find these files in order to properly back them up.
NI Circuit Design Suite stores program and user data in two possible
locations. Files that need to be accessed on a per-machine basis are stored
in different locations, depending on the operating system. Files that are
created on a per-user basis are stored in the Windows per-user folder.
Multisim and Ultiboard share the same three database files: Master,
Corporate, and User.

Backing up the Corporate Database
Windows XP and Windows 2000
The default Corporate database location for Windows XP and Windows
2000 is C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application
Data\National Instruments\Circuit Design Suite\10.1\
database\.

The file name for the Corporate database is CPCOMP_S.PRJ.
The Application Data folder is a system folder and thus may be hidden.
Complete the following steps to view this folder:
1.

Open a standard Windows explorer window.

Select Tools»Folder Options.

Select the View tab, Show hidden files and folders, OK.

Windows Vista
The default Corporate database location for Windows Vista is
C:\ProgramData\National Instruments\Circuit Design
Suite\10.1\database\.

The file name for the Corporate database is CPCOMP_S.PRJ.

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Appendix B

Archiving Data

The ProgramData folder is a system folder and thus may be hidden.
Complete the following steps to view this folder:
1.

Open a standard Windows explorer window.

Select Organize»Folder & Search Options.

Select the View tab, Show hidden files and folders, OK.

Note The default location for the Corporate database can change if the database has been
configured to be shared across a network drive. Check the Preferences dialog box to find
the location of this database. Refer to the Preferences—Paths Tab section of Chapter 1,
User Interface, for more information.

You do not need to back up the Master database. However, any user field information that
you have added for Master dB components is saved in the Corporate dB. Consequently,
if your corporate database is lost, the User field information for Master dB components
resets to “as shipped”.
Also, R, L, and C components found in the Master database are in fact a combination of
the component’s value, component type, tolerance, and footprint manufacturer/type.
Whenever a unique combination of these values is selected in the Select a Component
dialog box, and the Save unique component on placement checkbox is enabled, the
combination of these values is saved in the Corporate database. Consequently, if the
Corporate dB is lost, these components will also be lost to the Master database.

Backing up the User Database and Configuration Files
Windows XP and Windows 2000
For Windows XP and Windows 2000, the User database is stored at:
C:\Documents and Settings\\Application Data\
National Instruments\Circuit Design Suite\10.1\
database\.

The file name for the User database is UsrComp_S_.usr.
The user’s configuration file is stored at:
C:\Documents and Settings\\Application Data\
National Instruments\Circuit Design Suite\10.1\config\.

The Application Data folder is a system folder and thus may be hidden.

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Appendix B

Archiving Data

Complete the following steps to view this folder:
1.

Open a standard Windows explorer window.

Select Tools»Folder Options.

Select the View tab, Show hidden files and folders, OK.

Windows Vista
For Windows Vista, the User database is stored at:
C:\Users\\AppData\Roaming\National
Instruments\10.1\database\.

The file name for the User database is UsrComp_S_.usr.
The user’s configuration file is stored at:
C:\Users\\AppData\Roaming\National
Instruments\10.1\config\.

The AppData folder is a system folder and thus may be hidden.
Complete the following steps to view this folder:
1.

Open a standard Windows explorer window.

Select Organize»Folder & Search Options.

Select the View tab, Show hidden files and folders, OK.

You can change the locations of the configuration files and User database from the
Preferences dialog box. Refer to the Preferences—Paths Tab section of Chapter 1, User
Interface for more information.
Note

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Technical Support and
Professional Services

Visit the following sections of the National Instruments Web site at
ni.com for technical support and professional services:
•

Support—Online technical support resources at ni.com/support
include the following:
–

Self-Help Resources—For answers and solutions, visit the
award-winning National Instruments Web site for software drivers
and updates, a searchable KnowledgeBase, product manuals,
step-by-step troubleshooting wizards, thousands of example
programs, tutorials, application notes, instrument drivers, and
so on.

–

Free Technical Support—All registered users receive free Basic
Service, which includes access to hundreds of Application
Engineers worldwide in the NI Discussion Forums at
ni.com/forums. National Instruments Application Engineers
make sure every question receives an answer.
For information about other technical support options in your
area, visit ni.com/services or contact your local office at
ni.com/contact.

•

Training and Certification—Visit ni.com/training for
self-paced training, eLearning virtual classrooms, interactive CDs,
and Certification program information. You also can register for
instructor-led, hands-on courses at locations around the world.

•

System Integration—If you have time constraints, limited in-house
technical resources, or other project challenges, National Instruments
Alliance Partner members can help. To learn more, call your local
NI office or visit ni.com/alliance.

If you searched ni.com and could not find the answers you need, contact
your local office or NI corporate headquarters. Phone numbers for our
worldwide offices are listed at the front of this manual. You also can visit
the Worldwide Offices section of ni.com/niglobal to access the branch
office Web sites, which provide up-to-date contact information, support
phone numbers, email addresses, and current events.

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Index
Numerics

Analysis Parameters tab, 10-22
audit trail, 8-23
batched, 10-112
custom options, 10-116
cutting/copying/pasting pages, graphs,
and charts, 10-16
DC operating point, 10-30
DC sensitivity, 10-62
DC sweep, 10-57
determining component use, 3-6
distortion, 10-50
Fourier, 10-40
incomplete, 10-29
matching network, 14-23
Monte Carlo, 10-93
nested sweep, 10-112
noise, 10-44
output tab, 10-22
parameter sweep, 10-67
performing (general instructions), 10-21
pole zero, 10-87
printing graphs and charts, 10-19
results, 8-23
RF, 14-20
RF Characterizer, 14-20
summary tab, 10-29
temperature sweep, 10-74
trace width, 10-106
transfer function, 10-77
transient, 10-37
user-defined, 10-114
viewing charts, 10-15
viewing graphs, 10-7
working with pages, 10-6
worst case, 10-82
Analysis Expression dialog box, 10-26
analysis options, 10-28

555 Timer Wizard, 8-14

A
ABM modeling, 6-47
AC analysis, 10-35
AC Motor model maker, 6-58
AC sensitivity analysis, 10-62
Add a Footprint dialog, 6-52
Add Buslines dialog box, 4-20
Add Variant Name dialog box, 4-35
adding
components, 6-3
device/model parameters, 10-24
adding traces to a graph, 10-19
Advanced Pin Mapping dialog, 6-53
Agilent Simulated Function Generator, 9-63
Agilent simulated instruments, 9-63
Agilent Simulated Multimeter, 9-65
Agilent Simulated Oscilloscope, 9-66
algorithm
Gmin stepping, 8-11
source stepping, 8-11
ammeter
about, 9-73
connecting, 9-74
mode, 9-74
multimeter measurement options, 9-8
resistance, 9-73
analog component creation, 6-3
analog ground, 4-5
analyses
about, 10-1
AC, 10-35
AC sensitivity, 10-62
analysis options tab, 10-28

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Index

Bus Vector Connect dialog, 4-25
bus width, 1-25
Buses, placing, 4-17
Button Appearance dialog, 1-34

analysis options tab, about, 10-28
analysis output, manipulating, 11-1
Analysis Parameters tab, about, 10-22
assigning faults to components, 3-8
audit trail, 8-23
Auto Fault option, 3-9
auto-backup, 1-20
automatic wiring, 2-19
Automation API
introduction, 16-1
axes, Bode plotter settings, 9-21

C
capturing screen area, 2-40
CE BJT Wizard, 8-18
changing component value/model, 3-2
channel settings, 9-17
chart, properties, 10-15
charts
cut/copy/paste, 10-16
printing, 10-19
using in postprocessor, 11-8
viewing, 10-15
checking electrical connections, 3-33
circuit
adding instruments to, 9-2
consistency, checking in simulation, 8-6
equation, 8-9
printing files, 2-56
simulation mechanisim, 8-7
circuit window
multiple, 2-1
placing components, 2-3
clock
logic analyzer, 9-29
Clock Setup dialog, 9-29
code model
about, 6-94
creating, 6-95
implementation file, 6-106
interface file, 6-98
color
component, 2-18
customizing, 1-24
selecting, 1-24
wire, 2-24
command line, 8-6

B
back annotation, 13-5
backing up projects, 4-50
batched analyses, 10-112
Bill of Materials, 12-1
BJT model maker, 6-58
Bode plotter
about, 9-19
axes settings, 9-21
magnitude, 9-21
phase, 9-21
readouts, 9-22
settings, 9-21
BOM report, using, 12-3
Boolean expressions, entering, 9-34
Boost Converter model maker, 6-70
breaking, 15-30
breakpoints, 15-28
browsing database, 2-2
Buck Boost Converter model maker, 6-71
Buck Converter model maker, 6-71
build errors and warnings, 15-20
building MCU projects, 15-23
bus, placing, 4-15
Bus Entry Connection dialog box, 4-22, 4-24
Bus Merge dialog box, 4-21
Bus Properties dialog box, 4-20
Bus Vector Connect, A-15

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Index

information stored, 5-4
moving, 2-15
package information, 6-49
pins, 6-49
placed, properties, 3-1
placing, 2-2
placing on circuit window, 2-3
removing, 5-7
rotating, 2-27
user fields, 6-56
virtual, 2-2
wiring, 2-18
configuration files, back-up, B-2
connecting
ammeter, 9-74
voltmeter, 9-73
controlled source syntax, 6-47
conventions used in the manual, v
convergence assistance, 8-11
Convergence Assistant, 8-25
Convert Database dialog, 5-12
converting V6 database, 5-12
converting V7 database, 5-12
copying
component symbol, 6-19
components, 5-7
placed components, 2-17
corporate database, back-up, B-1
creating
components, 6-3
projects, 4-47
Cross Reference report, 12-11
using, 12-11
Cuk Converter model maker, 6-71
current probe, 9-74
Current Probe Properties dialog, 9-74
custom analysis options, 10-116
Custom Analysis Options dialog, 10-116

component
properties, General tab, 6-17
symbol, editing, 6-17
value/model, changing, 3-2
Component Detail Report
dialog box, 12-5
Component Detail report
using, 12-5
Component Editing
about, 6-1
Component List dialog, 6-42
component tolerances, 8-3
component value
capacitors, 3-3
inductors, 3-3
resistors, 3-3
component wizard, 6-3
component’s properties dialog, 2-17
Variant tab, 4-40
components
about, 5-1
adding, 6-3
assigning faults, 3-8
Auto Fault option, 3-9
changing value/model, 3-2
classification in database, 5-2
color, 2-18
copying, 5-7
copying placed, 2-17
copying symbols, 6-19
creating model, 6-39
detail report, 12-5
determining use in analyses, 3-6
displaying information, 3-1
editing, 6-16
editing model, 6-39
editing symbol, 6-17
finding, 2-28
flipping, 2-27
general properties, 6-17

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Index

Description Label dialog, 2-49
Description window, 2-41
description, adding to circuit, 2-41
Design Toolbox
Hierarchy tab, 4-45
diagnostic tools (NI resources), C-1
difference amplifier, 8-20
digital component creation, 6-7
digital ground, 4-5
diode model maker, 6-72
displaying information about placed
components, 3-1
distortion analysis, 10-50
Distortion Analyzer
Settings dialog, 9-34
distortion analyzer, 9-34
SINAD, 9-35
documentation
conventions used in the manual, v
NI resources, C-1
drivers (NI resources), C-1
dropping a two-pinned component onto a
wire, 2-14
dual-channel oscilloscope, 9-15
Duplicate Component Name dialog, 5-12
dynamic probe properties, 9-37

Customize dialog
Commands tab, 1-32
Keyboard tab, 1-33
Menu tab, 1-33
Options tab, 1-33
pop-up menus, 1-34
Toolbars tab, 1-32
customizing interface, 1-18
cut/copy/paste pages, graphs, and
charts, 10-16

D
database
adding a component family, 5-9
browsing for components, 5-3
component classification, 5-2
deleting a component family, 5-9
finding components, 5-3
levels, 5-2
loading a component toolbar button, 5-9
management, 5-6
searching for components, 5-3
selecting components, 2-2
structure of, 5-1
V6 conversion, 5-12
V7 conversion, 5-12
Database Information dialog box, 5-12
database levels, 5-2
Database Manager dialog, 5-6
Date and Time dialog, 2-44
DC operating point analysis, 10-30
DC sensitivity analysis, 10-62
DC sweep analysis, 10-57
debug window settings, 15-26
default analysis, postprocessor, 11-7
Delete Multi-Page dialog, 4-2
deleting
component family, 5-9
components, 5-7
empty component families, 5-9

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E
Edit footprint dialog, 3-5
Edit Forms dialog box, 2-53
Edit Labels dialog, 2-50
Edit menu, A-4
Edit Model dialog, 3-4
editing
component symbol, 6-17
component toolbar button, 5-9
components, 6-16
Electrical Rules Checking, 3-33
Electronic Parameters, 6-56
ERC markers, clearing, 3-37

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Index

function generator
about, 9-11
signal options, 9-13

ERC Options tab, 3-36
ERC Rules tab, 3-38
error log/audit trail, 8-23
examples (NI resources), C-1
Excel, exporting simulation results to, 13-5
exporting
simulation results to Excel, 13-5
simulation results to MathCAD, 13-5
exporting a netlist, 13-8
exporting components from the dB
manager, 5-8
exporting simulation results, 13-5
exporting to Excel, 13-6
exporting to MathCAD, 13-5

G
general component properties, 6-17
General tab, 6-17
global nets
0, 4-5
analog ground, 4-5
digital ground, 4-5
GND, 4-5
VCC, 4-5
VDD, 4-5
VEE, 4-5
VSS, 4-5
Gmin stepping, 8-11
Graph properties
axis tabs, 10-12
general tab, 10-7
traces tab, 10-13
Grapher, 10-2
Grapher window, 10-2
Graphic Annotation, 1-8, 2-37
Graphic Annotation Toolbar, 1-8
Graphics, placing, A-15
graphs
cut/copy/paste, 10-16
printing, 10-19
using in post processor, 11-8
viewing, 10-7
grounding oscilloscope, 9-16

F
faults, assigning to components, 3-8
File menu, A-1
File Properties dialog, 4-49
files
locking and unlocking, 4-49
opening with project, 4-48
removing from project, 4-47
filter nodes, 10-23
Filter Wizard, 8-16
Find Component dialog, 2-28
Finding components, 2-28
finding components, 2-28
finding components in database, 5-3
Flat multi-sheet design, 4-1
flipping components, 2-27
font settings, 1-25
Footprint tab, 6-49
forms
about, 2-52
forward annotation, 13-4
Four Channel Oscilloscope, 9-43
Fourier analysis, 10-40
frequency, 9-26
Frequency Counter, 9-50

H
HB/SC connector
placing, A-13
help, technical support, C-1
hidden pins, 2-18

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Index

interactive simulation, 8-2
Interactive Simulation Settings, 9-5
interdigital model, 14-40
interface
customizing, 1-18
elements, 1-1
toolbars, 1-1
interface file (code model), 6-98
internal settings of multimeter, 9-11
inverting amplifier, 8-20
inverting summing amplifier, 8-20
IV Analyzer, 9-53
Simulate Parameters dialog, 9-57

Hierarchical Block
creating new, 4-7, A-14
placing, A-14
Hierarchical Block Properties dialog, 4-7
Hierarchy tab
Variants folder, 4-45
horizontal Bode plotter settings, 9-21

I
Ideal Transformer (mult. winding) model
maker, 6-75
implementation file (code model), 6-106
importing
files, other formats, 13-8
SPICE, Cadence® PSpice® netlist, 13-10
In Use list, 2-13
incomplete analyses, 10-29
information stored for components, 5-4
in-place edit mode, 6-28
Insert Object dialog, 2-45
instrument drivers (NI resources), C-1
instruments
adding to a circuit, 9-2
ammeter, 9-73
Bode plotter, 9-19
distortion analyzer, 9-34
function generator, 9-11
logic analyzer, 9-26
logic converter, 9-31
measurement options, 9-8
multimeter, 9-7
multiple, 9-4
oscilloscope, 9-15
spectrum analyzer, 9-36
using, 9-3
voltmeter, 9-72
wattmeter, 9-13
word generator, 9-23
integration order, maximum, 8-10
interactive components, 8-3

NI Multisim User Manual

J
junction, adding, 2-26

K
KnowledgeBase, C-1

L
labeling, 2-30
labels
assigning to nets, 2-31
LabVIEW instruments, 9-78
creating, 9-83
microphone, 9-80
signal analyzer, 9-81
signal generator, 9-82
speaker, 9-81
streaming signal generator, 9-82
toolbar, 9-83
levels of database, 5-2
Linear Transformer (mult. winding) model
maker, 6-76
Linear Transformer (neutral terminal) model
maker, 6-76
loading external hex file project, 15-19

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menu
Edit, A-4
File, A-1
Options, A-30
Place, A-13
pop-up, 1-11
Reports, A-29
Simulate, A-16
Symbol Editor, 6-28
Tools, A-26
Transfer, A-25
View, A-8
Window, A-31
microstrip line model, 14-35
microstrip open end model, 14-36
mode
ammeter, 9-74
voltmeter, 9-73
model
changing component, 3-2
loading, 6-45
model creation
using code modeling, 6-94
Model Data report, 12-10
using, 12-10
model maker
AC Motor, 6-58
BJT, 6-58
Boost Converter, 6-70
Buck Boost Converter, 6-71
Buck Converter, 6-71
Cuk Converter, 6-71
diode, 6-72
Ideal Transformer (mult. winding), 6-75
Linear Transformer (mult. winding), 6-76
Linear Transformer (neutral
terminal), 6-76
Non-linear Transformer (mult.
winding), 6-77
silicon controlled rectifier, 6-87
Two Winding Linear Transformer, 6-76

loading model, 6-45
locking files, 4-49
locking net names in place, 2-31
logic analyzer
about, 9-26
adjusting clock, 9-29
reset, 9-28
stop, 9-28
triggering, 9-30
logic converter, 9-31
constructing a truth table, 9-33
deriving truth table from a circuit, 9-32
entering Boolean expressions, 9-34
lossy line model, 14-39

M
machine code file simulation, 15-20
magnitude, 9-21
managing families, 5-9
managing files in MCU workspace, 15-7
manual wiring, 2-21
matching network analyses, 14-23
MathCAD, exporting simulation results
to, 13-5
maximum integration order, 8-10
MCU Code Manager
file management, 15-10
MCU Code Manager overview, 15-8
MCU design overview, 15-4
MCU project build settings, 15-11
MCU Wizard, 15-5
MCU workspace, 15-19
measurement options
ammeter, 9-8
ohmmeter, 9-8
Measurement Probe, 9-37
dynamic connection, 9-37, 9-40
placed connection, 9-41
settings, 9-37
static connection, 9-37, 9-41

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Index

Op-amp Wizard, 8-20
opening
file within project, 4-48
project, 4-48
opening debug view, 15-25
opening ewb5 files, 13-9
opening ulticap files, 13-9
Options menu, A-30
options, analysis, 10-116
oscilloscope
about, 9-15
channel settings, 9-17
grounding, 9-16
time base, 9-16
trigger, 9-18
output tab, about, 10-22

module
RF, 14-1
Monte Carlo analysis, 10-93
moving component, 2-15
multimeter, 9-7
internal settings of, 9-11
signal mode, 9-10
using ammeter measurement option, 9-8
using ohmmeter measurement option, 9-8
Multimeter Settings dialog, 9-11
multiple circuit windows, 2-1
multiple instruments, 9-4
multiple traces, postprocessor, 11-8

N
National Instruments support and
services, C-1
nested sweep analysis, 10-112
Net dialog, 2-31
netlist errors, 8-21
Netlist report, 12-6
using, 12-6
netlist warnings, 8-21
nets, assigning labels, 2-31
network analyzer, 14-17
New Family Name dialog, 5-9
New Project dialog, 4-47
NI support and services, C-1
noise analysis, 10-44
Noise Figure Analysis, 14-28
non-inverting amplifier, 8-20
non-inverting summing amplifier, 8-20
Non-linear Transformer (mult. winding)
model maker, 6-77

P
package information, 6-49
Page Name dialog, 4-1
page properties, 10-6
pages
cut/copy/paste, 10-16
using in analyses, 10-6
using in postprocessor, 11-8
Paragraph dialog, 2-43
parameter sweep analysis, 10-67
Paste Special dialog, 2-17
PCB layout, transfer to, 13-3
phase, 9-21
pin information, 6-49
pin parameters, 6-48
pins, adding to symbols, 6-23
Place menu, A-13
placed components, properties, 3-1
Placed Probe, 9-37
placing
multi-page, 4-1
Placing a bux, 4-17
placing capacitors, 2-5

O
Off-page connector
placing, 4-1, A-14
ohmmeter, 9-8

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Index

printing instruments, 9-5
Probe Properties dialog, 9-37
programming examples (NI resources), C-1
project
backing up, 4-50
creating, 4-47
opening, 4-48
removing files from, 4-47
saving, 4-47
Project bar, 4-47
project management, about, 4-47
Projects
working with, 4-48
Properties dialog, 2-45
properties of placed components, 3-1

placing components, 2-2
placing inductors, 2-5
placing multi-section components, 2-7
placing potentiometers, 2-5
placing resistors, 2-5
placing variable capacitors, 2-5
placing variable inductors, 2-5
pole zero analysis, 10-87
pop-up
from selected wire, 1-15
from title block, 1-17
pop-up menu, 1-11
from selected component, 1-14
no component selected, 1-11
postprocessor
about, 11-1, 11-2, 11-9
basic steps, 11-2
creating multiple traces, 11-8
functions, 11-9
pages, graphs and charts, 11-8
using the default analysis, 11-7
variables, 11-9
Power Pro
using code modeling, 6-94
pre-defined fields in database, 5-5
preferences
General tab, 1-22
Preferences dialog, 1-19
Sheet Properties dialog, 1-23
Preferences Dialog
Parts tab, 1-21
Paths tab, 1-19
Save tab, 1-20
print
circuit setup, A-3
Print Circuit Setup dialog, 2-56
Print Instruments dialog, 9-5
printing
circuit files, 2-56
graphs and charts, 10-19

Q
questions
creating, 2-53
linking to a circuit, 2-52
setting submit options, 2-55

R
readouts, 9-22
Recent Circuits, A-4
Reference Designator Prefix Setup
dialog, 4-12
Refine Search Component dialog, 5-3
release notes, A-32
removing components, 5-7
Rename Busline dialog box, 4-20
Rename Variant dialog box, 4-35
replacing components with a subcircuit, 4-10
reports
Bill of Materials, 12-1
component detail, 12-5
Reports menu, A-29

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Index

Search Component Result dialog, 5-3
Select a Component browser, 2-17
other buttons, 2-10
using, 2-3
Select a Footprint dialog, 6-49
Select a Form dialog, 2-54
Select a Model dialog, 6-40
Select Model Data dialog, 6-46
Select Model Maker dialog, 6-42
Select variables to save dialog, 10-25
Set Parameters dialog, 6-40, 6-49
settings, oscilloscope channel, 9-17
Sheet Properties
Circuit tab, 1-24
Sheet Properties dialog
Font tab, 1-25
PCB tab, 1-27
Visibility tab, 1-27
Wiring tab, 1-25
signal mode, 9-10
signal options, 9-13
silicon controlled rectifier model maker, 6-87
Simulate menu, A-16
simulation
checking circuit consistency, 8-6
circuit, 8-7
circuit equation, 8-9
Gmin stepping, 8-11
interactive, 8-2
maximum integration order, 8-10
RF, 8-13
source stepping, 8-11
stages of, 8-7
starting and stopping, 8-4
simulation error help, 8-24
simulation errors, 8-21, 8-22
simulation errors and warnings
troubleshooting, 9-6
simulation markers, 15-28
simulation speed, 8-5

resistance
ammeter, 9-73
voltmeter, 9-72
RF analyses, 14-20
RF characterizer analysis, 14-20
RF components
about, 14-2
interdigital model, 14-40
lossy line model, 14-39
microstrip line model, 14-35
microstrip open end model, 14-36
RF model makers, 14-33
RF spiral inductor model, 14-36
strip line model, 14-37
stripline bend model, 14-38
waveguide model, 14-34
RF instruments, 14-8
network analyzer, 14-17
spectrum analyzer, 14-8
RF module, 14-1
about, 14-1
See also RF components
See also RF instruments
RF simulation, 8-13
RF tutorial, 14-41
RLC Components tab, 5-11
rotating components, 2-27
Rule Check tab, 3-38

S
saving
project, 4-47
saving placed components, 5-8
scaling adder, 8-20
schematic capture, 2-1
Schematic Statistics report, 12-7
using, 12-8
Search Component dialog, 5-3

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noise source, 7-51
number format, 7-8
piecewise linear file source, 7-47
piecewise linear source, 7-46
polynomial specifications, 7-57
primitive device declarations, 7-2
pulse source, 7-44
resistor, 7-18
single frequency FM source, 7-45
sinusoidal source, 7-45
SPICE subcircuits, 7-4
SWP modulation source, 7-50
uniform R.C. Line, 7-26
unusual device syntax, 7-62
user-defined functions, 7-16
voltage controlled current source, 7-59
voltage-controlled switch, 7-30
voltage-controlled switch, smooth
transition, 7-31
voltge controlled voltage source, 7-56
XARB source, 7-52
XSPICE code model, 7-61
XSPICE syntax reference, 7-61
SPICE simulation
circuit, 8-7
circuit equation, 8-9
Gmin stepping, 8-11
maximum integration order, 8-10
source stepping, 8-11
spiral inductor, RF, 14-36
Spreadsheet view, 3-10
buttons, 3-15
Components tab, 3-12
Nets tab, 3-10
PCB Layers tab, 3-14
Simulation tab, 3-14, 8-21, 8-22
static probe, 9-41
static probe properties, 9-38
stepping, 15-30
strip line model, 14-37
stripline bend model, 14-38

Simulation tab, 8-21, 8-22
Simulation toolbar, 1-4
SINAD, 9-35
software (NI resources), C-1
source code file, 15-23
source stepping, 8-11
Spare Gates report, 12-9
using, 12-9
spectrum analyzer, 9-36, 14-8
SPICE reference
AM modulation source, 7-48
analog devices, 7-17
arbitrary source, 7-54
BJT, 7-34
BST modulation source, 7-50
capacitor, 7-19
circuit parameters, 7-6
comments, line continuation, 7-8
compatibility modes, 7-63
coupled mutual inductor, 7-21
current controlled current source, 7-60
current controlled voltage source, 7-58
current-controlled switch, 7-33
diode, 7-22
documentation conventions, 7-1
exponential source, 7-46
FM modulation source, 7-48
FSK modulation source, 7-49
general purpose syntax, 7-2
independent current source, 7-52
independent voltage source, 7-42
inductor, 7-20
JFET, 7-27
lossless transmission line, 7-23
lossy transmission line, 7-24
mathematical expressions, 7-9
mathematical functions, operators,
constants, 7-10
MESFET, 7-28
modulation source, 7-47
MOSFET, 7-36
© National Instruments Corporation

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Index

structure of database, 5-1
subcircuit
replacing components with, 4-10
Subcircuit Name dialog, 4-10
summary tab, about, 10-29
support
technical, C-1
symbol
adding pins, 6-23
copying, 6-19
editing, 6-17
Symbol Editor
Default Pin Options dialog, 6-25
Draw Tools toolbar, 6-35
Drawing toolbar, 6-38
Edit menu, 6-29
Enter Text dialog, 6-27
File menu, 6-28
Graphics menu, 6-31
Help menu, 6-33
in-place edit mode, 6-28
Layout menu, 6-32
menus, 6-28
palette, 6-33
Pin Array Options dialog, 6-26
Pins menu, 6-31
Place Pin toolbar, 6-37
pop-up menus, 6-33
screen, 6-19
Spreadsheet view, 6-21
Standard toolbar, 6-34
symbol pins, 6-23
symbol shape, 6-23
Tool menu, 6-33
toolbars, 6-33
using, 6-19
View menu, 6-30
working with, 6-23
Zoom toolbar, 6-35
system toolbar, 1-2

NI Multisim User Manual

Tabs dialog, 2-44
technical support, C-1
Tektronix simulated instruments, 9-69
Tektronix Simulated Oscilloscope, 9-69
temperature sweep analysis, 10-74
time base, 9-16
Title Block
adding, 2-32
contents, editing, 2-32
placing, A-15
Title Block Editor, 3-16
Draw Tools toolbar, 3-30
Drawing toolbar, 3-31
Edit menu, 3-22
Enter Text dialog, 3-18
Enter Title Block Attribute dialog, 3-18
field codes, 3-20
Fields menu, 3-24
File menu, 3-22
Graphics menu, 3-26
Help menu, 3-27
menus, 3-22
pop-up menus, 3-27
Spreadsheet View, 3-21
Standard toolbar, 3-28
Toolbars, 3-28
Tools menu, 3-27
View menu, 3-23
Zoom toolbar, 3-29
toolbars, 1-1
system, 1-2
zoom, 1-2
Tools menu, A-26
trace width analysis, 10-106
training and certification (NI resources), C-1
transfer function analysis, 10-77
Transfer menu, A-25
transfer to other PCB Layout, 13-3
transfer to Ultiboard PCB Layout, 13-2

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transfer/communication functions,
introduction to, 13-1
transferring data, 13-1
transferring, from Multisim to Ultiboard, 13-2
transferring, multi-section components to PCB
layout, 13-3
transient analysis, 10-37
Trigger Settings dialog, 9-30
trigger, oscilloscope, 9-18
triggering
logic analyzer, 9-30
word generator, 9-26
troubleshooting (NI resources), C-1
troubleshooting simulation, 9-6
truth table
constructing, 9-33
deriving from circuit, 9-32
Two Winding Linear Transformer model
maker, 6-76
two-pinned components
dropping directly onto a wire, 2-14

value, changing component, 3-2
variables, postprocessor, 11-9
Variant Manager dialog, 4-35
Variant tab, 4-40
variants, 4-35
Variant Manager dialog, 4-35
Variants Filter dialog box, 12-12
Variants folder, 4-45
version control
about, 4-47
using, 4-50
Version Control dialog, 4-50
vertical Bode plotter settings, 9-21
VHDL component creation, 6-11
View menu, A-8
virtual components, 2-2
virtual wiring, 2-25
voltmeter
about, 9-72
connecting, 9-73
mode, 9-73
resistance, 9-72

U
Ultiboard, transfer to, 13-2
Ulticap Import dialog, 13-8
unlocking files, 4-49
Updating components, 5-14, A-28
user database
back-up, B-2
user field titles, modifying, 5-11
user fields, 5-5
working with, 6-56
User Fields tab, 3-7
user interface
customizing, 1-18
elements, 1-1
toolbars, 1-1
user-defined analysis, 10-114
using instruments, 9-3
using model makers, 6-57

W
wattmeter, 9-13
waveguide model, 14-34
Web resources, C-1
Window menu, A-31
Windows dialog box, A-31
wire
color, 2-24
re-shaping, 2-24
width, 1-25
wiring
mid-air, 2-23
automatic, 2-19
combining automatic and manual, 2-22
components, 2-18

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Index

directly onto workspace, 2-23
manual, 2-21
properties, 2-23
setting options, 1-25
virtual, 2-25
width, 2-23
Wizard
555 Timer, 8-14
Commom Emitter BJT, 8-18
Component, 6-3
Filter, 8-16
Op-amp, 8-20
word generator, 9-23
controls, 9-25
entering words, 9-24
setting clock frequency, 9-26
triggering, 9-26
using word patterns in, 9-25
worst case analysis, 10-82

NI Multisim User Manual

Xspice
command line, 8-6
XSpice Command Line dialog, 8-6

Z
zoom out, A-9
zoom toolbar, 1-2

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