KiCad includes an embedded circuit simulator that uses ngspice as its simulation engine and exposes simulation through the schematic editor UI. You build a simulation schematic, assign models to symbols, and run analyses to plot results.

What KiCad’s Simulator Is

  • A graphical front end to ngspice: KiCad integrates the open‑source ngspice engine and provides simulation tools directly in the schematic editor.
  • Schematic‑driven: You can run simulations from standard KiCad schematics once models are assigned and simulation directives are configured.

Core Analysis Types

KiCad’s simulator exposes the standard ngspice analysis modes most commonly used in teaching and design:

  • Operating Point (OP)
  • DC Sweep / DC Transfer
  • AC Sweep
  • Transient

Custom analysis directives are also supported for advanced use cases.

Practical Tips and Common Pitfalls

  • Assign models before running: KiCad ships SPICE‑oriented symbols, but you still need to attach appropriate SPICE models for many devices.
  • Use probes or save settings: If you don’t save all voltages/currents, you must probe or explicitly save the signals you want to plot.
  • Bring your own third‑party models: KiCad doesn’t bundle commercial SPICE libraries, but you can use manufacturer‑supplied models.

References