Free Software Still A Bargain

Feb. 2, 2011
No question, software can be expensivebut that is never an excuse not to pay for it. After all, someone (often a team) put a great deal of effort into writing that code. But when free software comes along, the "thrifty" among us usually take notice. It ...

No question, software can be expensivebut that is never an excuse not to pay for it. After all, someone (often a team) put a great deal of effort into writing that code. But when free software comes along, the "thrifty" among us usually take notice. It might just be a utility that can perform conversions or calculations that help speed a design.

Last month, for example, this newsletter introduced the MWI-2010 Microwave Impedance Calculator from Rogers Corp., an executable file capable of calculating transmission-line parameters for technologies such as microstrip and stripline based on a wide range of circuit-board laminates.

This week, semiconductor supplier Analog Devices and test specialist National Instruments have teamed on a free version of National's Multisim component evaluation tool (see story below). Sure, this is a limited version of the software, and it only works for components from Analog Devices. But this is a simplified version of a linear simulator, with more than 500 models. And those who know how to make the most of such software will quickly learn that some components from different manufacturers, such as opamps and switches, can be represented by similar models.

The results may not be exact, but they will provide a starting point for a design. Besides, who can argue with the price?

Sponsored Recommendations

Frequency Modulation Fundamentals

March 14, 2024
The development of crystal-clear FM communications was an innovation of genius and toil. Utilized today in applications such as radar, seismology, telemetry and two-way radios...

44 GHz Programmable Signal Generator

March 14, 2024
The Mini-Circuits SSG-44G-RC is a 0.1 to 44 GHz signal source with an RF output range of -40 to +17 dBm with fine resolution. This model supports CW and pulsed (? 0.5 ?s) outputs...

Webinar: Introduction to OTA Measurement for mmWave and Sub-THz

Feb. 19, 2024
Join Jeanmarc Laurent, a leading expert from MilliBox, for an exclusive live webinar showcasing a complete Over-the-Air (OTA) testing system setup. In this immersive session, ...

Using a CMT VNA with Socket Server

Feb. 19, 2024
This application note describes use of a software application CMT Socket Server which is distributed and supported by Aphena Ltd. Please email [email protected] regarding purchase...