Circuit simulators for circuit analysis in graduate engineering courses

Circuit simulators are extensively used as an aid in many courses at the graduate level in many different engineering and applied sciences programs. SPICE (Simulation Program with Integrated Circuits Emphasis) based software programs have been used for long due to their traditional market position. If we focus on circuits analysis and linear systems subjects, the features that are required from a given simulator can be found in student/limited versions of commercial EDA (Electronic Design Automation) suites or in freeware/open source codes. In this contribution, we analyse and compare the most revelant characteristics of a representative set of the software packages that are commonly adopted in these courses, focusing on the Spanish University system. For this purpose, the analysis (transient, DC and AC) of a typical second order passive low-pass filter is approached making use of each one. Then, we give some comments and recommendations, based on our own expertise, always taking into account the particular circumstances within a given academic scenario.