Re: Software for a beginner to design and learn about circuits with?

From: Bob Stephens (stephensyomamadigital_at_earthlink.net)
Date: 11/29/04 

Date: Mon, 29 Nov 2004 18:02:14 GMT

On Mon, 29 Nov 2004 17:31:48 GMT, Kevin Aylward wrote:

>> msv-groups wrote:
>>> Hi,
>>>
>>> I'm interested in learning about circuitry as a hobby and to
>>> eventually create a few small projects that I had in mind, such as
>>> guitar pedals
>>
>>> and a few audio devices, but obviously I have to start small.
>>>
>>> I'm somewhat competent with programming/mathematics, have some text
>>> books, and I do know a -little- analogue+digital circuit theory, but
>>> I've never had a real hands-on attempt by myself before so I'll be
>>> pretty much attacking this as though I know nothing.
>>>
>>> Can anyone recommend some software (free or cheap) that would be good
>>
>>> for a beginner to use to learn about circuit behaviour and design
>>> some circuits with? Are there programs out there that actually
>>> allow you to drop in popular microcontrollers and model their
>>> behaviour as well?
>>>
>>> Thanks,
>>> Matt.
>>

Do a Google search on "Craig Anderton". Also "PAIA" and "Electronic
Projects for Musicians".

He wrote a couple of books in the '80's presenting interesting music
oriented electronics projects well within the grasp of a casual hobbiest.
Probably a bit dated now, but I'll bet he's still up to something similar.

Screw software. Get your hands dirty.

Bob