Electrical Engineering Program

EEL 3111 – Circuits 1

Spring 2024
Instructor: Dr. Kreidl
Computer Task 1
March 9th, 2024

Group Members: Louay Elimam

Landon Saloum
Connor Green
Abstract:
This computer-based experiment endeavors to harness the power of computer-aided

engineering tools, such as MATLAB and Multisim/PSPICE, in the realm of basic circuit

analysis. Through a meticulously designed series of five subtasks, participants are

immersed in a pedagogically rich environment aimed at fortifying their grasp of circuit

analysis principles and honing their adeptness in employing computational aids for

problem-solving. By engaging with these tasks, students embark on a journey that

transcends mere theoretical understanding, delving into the practical nuances of circuit

analysis and computational techniques. Through iterative exploration and guided

experimentation, learners are afforded the opportunity to bridge the gap between abstract

concepts and real-world application, cultivating a holistic understanding of electrical

engineering fundamentals. Moreover, this immersive experience serves as a catalyst for the

development of crucial skills vital for success in the ever-evolving landscape of engineering

practice. Thus, this experiment not only equips participants with technical proficiency but

also fosters a mindset of inquiry and innovation essential for navigating complex engineering

challenges in the modern era.

Procedures:

The experiment commenced with participants familiarizing themselves with the

computer-aided engineering tools, MATLAB and Multisim/PSPICE, essential for conducting

the circuit analysis tasks. Following an introductory session, students were presented with

a series of five subtasks, each designed to incrementally build upon their understanding of

circuit analysis principles. In the first subtask, learners were instructed to model simple
circuits using MATLAB, applying Kirchhoff's laws and Ohm's law to solve for voltage, current,

and power values. Subsequent subtasks introduced more complex circuit configurations,

challenging students to analyze parallel and series combinations of resistors, capacitors,

and inductors. Participants employed Multisim/PSPICE to simulate these circuits, verifying

their theoretical calculations and gaining proficiency in using simulation software for circuit

analysis. Throughout the experiment, students documented their methodologies,

observations, and results in a structured manner, fostering a systematic approach to

problem-solving and analysis. Finally, participants reviewed their findings, discussed any

discrepancies, and drew conclusions based on their collective experiences.

Results and Observations:

Subtask 1.1 (Solving Equations with MATLAB)

Subtask 1.1 introduced participants to solving systems of linear equations using MATLAB, a

powerful computational tool widely utilized in engineering and scientific disciplines. Participants

began by formulating systems of linear equations representing circuit configurations, with the aim of

solving for unknown variables such as voltages and currents. Leveraging MATLAB's matrix

manipulation capabilities, learners constructed coefficient matrices and right-hand side vectors

corresponding to the equations under consideration.

Through systematic experimentation, participants executed MATLAB scripts to solve for

unknown variables using techniques such as Gaussian elimination or matrix inversion. However,

participants encountered singular matrices in certain scenarios, indicated by the appearance of

"NaN" (Not a Number) outputs. This occurrence signified dependent equations within the system,

leading to an indeterminate solution or infinite solutions. Such instances prompted participants to

critically analyze circuit configurations and identify potential sources of dependency to ensure

accurate and meaningful results.

Furthermore, participants explored strategies for handling singular matrices, such as

reevaluating circuit configurations to mitigate dependencies or applying alternative solution

methods. By engaging in iterative problem-solving and troubleshooting, learners honed their

computational skills and gained insights into the complexities of circuit analysis. Overall, Subtask

1.1 provided participants with a foundational understanding of using MATLAB for solving systems of

linear equations, equipping them with essential tools for tackling circuit analysis problems in

subsequent tasks.

In this code, the coefficient matrix will be noted as “A”, and the right-hand side vector will be “B”

The system of linear equations is represented as Ax = B. The equation is re-arranged to solve for x.
When you use MATLAB to solve for x1, x2 and x3 in the given matrix form, the coefficient is displayed

as “NaN”, which means “Not a Number”. In cases like this, the rows of the matrix are dependent, and

the detrminant is 0. This would lead us to an indeterminate system of equations, meaning there is

infinite solutions. Singular matrices are a challenge in system of equations because the system

doesn’t really have a unique solution. It suggests that the circuit configuration/analysis should be

reviewed to avoid dependancies.

Input:
Output:

Question

question
Input:

output:

Subtask 1.2 (Representing/Graphing Signals with MATLAB)

Subtask 1.2 immersed participants in the realm of signal representation and visualization

using MATLAB, a versatile computational tool widely employed in signal processing and analysis.

Participants began by defining mathematical functions representing voltage signals, with parameters

such as frequency, amplitude, and phase. Leveraging MATLAB's plotting functions, learners

generated graphical representations of these signals to visualize their characteristics and behaviors

over time.

Participants explored the impact of parameter variations on signal waveforms, manipulating

parameters such as sampling frequency and signal duration to observe corresponding changes in

signal representation. Through iterative experimentation, participants gained insights into the

relationship between parameter settings and signal properties, discerning patterns and trends within

signal waveforms.

Moreover, participants investigated strategies for enhancing signal visualization, such as

increasing the number of data points (N) to achieve smoother and more detailed plots. However,
participants also recognized the trade-off between plot smoothness and computational complexity,

as higher values of N necessitated increased computational resources.

In conclusion, Subtask 1.2 provided participants with practical experience in signal

representation and visualization using MATLAB, fostering an understanding of signal properties and

their graphical manifestations. By engaging in hands-on experimentation, learners developed

proficiency in manipulating signals and interpreting graphical representations, laying a solid

foundation for subsequent tasks involving signal processing and analysis.

Subtask 1.2-part A and B:

a)

Here is the MATLAB function to generate the voltage signal v(t)

Part b:

Inputted code calling the function written in part a, given the parameters in part B:
output for the code shown right above:

part c)
Adjusted code to make graphs easier to read:
Adjusted output:

Answering the question in Part C)

The choice of value “N” impacts how the plotted signals are shown. A smaller value of N would result

in a more choppy, inconsistent appearance, which leads to more missing details of the waveform. A

larger value of N results in a smoother, more consistent plot which makes details of the signal easier

to grasp. There is a trade-off between smoothness vs. computation time.

Subtask 1.3 (Circuit Analysis with Multisim/PSPICE)

In Subtask 1.3, participants delved into circuit analysis utilizing Multisim/PSPICE, a powerful

simulation tool widely employed in electrical engineering. This segment aimed to bridge theoretical

circuit concepts with practical simulation, enhancing participants' comprehension and proficiency

in circuit analysis. Initially, learners familiarized themselves with the software interface, navigating
through its features and functionalities essential for modeling and simulating circuits. Subsequently,

participants embarked on analyzing various circuit configurations, including resistive, capacitive,

and inductive elements interconnected in complex arrangements.

Through the utilization of Multisim/PSPICE, students were able to simulate circuit behavior

under different conditions, such as varying input voltages or component values. By observing

simulation results, participants gained insights into voltage and current distributions, node voltages,

and power dissipation across circuit elements. Additionally, the software facilitated the visualization

of transient and steady-state responses, aiding in the interpretation of circuit dynamics over time.

Furthermore, participants utilized Multisim/PSPICE to explore the effects of parameter

variations on circuit performance, assessing sensitivity to component tolerances and environmental

factors. By conducting systematic simulations and analyzing resulting data, learners developed a

deeper understanding of circuit behavior and performance characteristics, thereby strengthening

their analytical skills and problem-solving capabilities in real-world engineering scenarios.

Subtask 1.4 (Verifying Circuit Theorems with Multisim/PSPICE)

In Subtask 1.4, participants utilized Multisim/PSPICE to confirm fundamental circuit

theorems, employing simulation-based experimentation to validate theoretical concepts. This

segment aimed to fortify participants' comprehension of circuit principles and enhance their

capacity to apply theoretical knowledge practically. Participants commenced by selecting specific

circuit theorems, such as Kirchhoff's laws, Ohm's law, and voltage/current division, to confirm via

simulation techniques.

Through systematic experimentation, learners constructed circuit configurations embodying

the principles under examination and simulated their behavior within the Multisim/PSPICE

environment. By comparing simulation results with theoretical predictions, participants assessed

the accuracy and applicability of circuit theorems in diverse circuit scenarios. Additionally,

participants explored how variations in components and changes in circuit topology affected

theorem validity, gaining insights into the robustness and limitations of theoretical models in real-

world contexts.

Furthermore, participants utilized Multisim/PSPICE to investigate practical applications of

circuit theorems in circuit analysis and design, elucidating their relevance in engineering practice. By

engaging in hands-on verification exercises, learners deepened their conceptual understanding and

honed their critical thinking skills, preparing them for addressing complex engineering challenges

with confidence and proficiency.

Learners recognized the significance of the voltage at the high resistance point of the IV curve

as it represents the Vth, the y-intercept, while the slope of the curve, representing the change in

voltage over the change in current, illustrates the Rth. This insight provides a tangible link between

theoretical concepts and practical experimentation, enriching participants’ understanding of circuit

behavior and analysis.

Subtask 1.5 (Op Amp Circuit Analysis with Multisim/PSPICE)

Subtask 1.5 focused on Op Amp circuit analysis using Multisim/PSPICE, where participants

delved into the behavior and applications of operational amplifiers in various circuit configurations.

Operational amplifiers, commonly referred to as Op Amps, are ubiquitous in modern electronics and

serve as essential building blocks in numerous circuit designs, ranging from signal processing to

feedback control systems.

Participants began by exploring basic Op Amp circuits, such as voltage followers, inverting

amplifiers, and non-inverting amplifiers, using Multisim/PSPICE to simulate their operation and

behavior under different input conditions. Through simulation-based experimentation, learners

investigated key performance parameters, including gain, bandwidth, input/output impedance, and

frequency response, to gain insights into Op Amp behavior and characteristics.

Furthermore, participants analyzed more complex Op Amp configurations, such as summing

amplifiers, difference amplifiers, and integrators, exploring their applications in practical circuit

designs. By simulating circuit responses to varying input signals and operating conditions,

participants gained a comprehensive understanding of Op Amp behavior and its implications for

circuit performance.

Overall, Subtask 1.5 provided participants with valuable hands-on experience in Op Amp

circuit analysis, enabling them to apply theoretical concepts to practical circuit designs and

simulations. By engaging in systematic experimentation and analysis, learners enhanced their

proficiency in circuit analysis techniques and developed insights into the design and optimization of

Op Amp-based circuits for diverse engineering applications.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, this computer-based experiment has provided invaluable insights and

practical experiences to participants in the field of circuit analysis. Through the utilization of MATLAB

and Multisim/PSPICE, learners have not only deepened their understanding of fundamental circuit

principles but have also cultivated essential skills in computational problem-solving. The

completion of the five subtasks has enabled students to navigate through a diverse range of circuit

scenarios, from basic to more complex, thereby broadening their analytical capabilities and

bolstering their confidence in tackling real-world engineering challenges. By bridging the gap

between theory and application, this experiment has empowered participants to apply abstract
concepts in tangible contexts, laying a solid foundation for their future endeavors in electrical

engineering. Moving forward, the lessons learned from this experiment will undoubtedly serve as a

springboard for continued growth and exploration in the dynamic field of engineering. As students

embark on their professional journeys, they can draw upon the knowledge and skills acquired here

to address the intricate problems of tomorrow, driving innovation and progress in the realm of

electrical engineering.