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DesignSpark Circuit Simulator Support FAQs

If you're just getting started using DesignSpark Circuit Simulator or looking into registering, it can throw up many questions.

From how the software works, to pricing plans and potential use cases, there's a lot of information to consider beforehand.

On this page, we've answered as many common queries as possible, including information on billing, file formats and where to find templates. If you can't see your question listed here, feel free to contact us.

You can also browse our library of Circuit Simulator articles to find in-depth guides on how to use the software, as well as case studies written by DesignSpark members just like you!

Compare DesignSpark Circuit Simulator tiers

Sign up for a DesignSpark account to explore Circuit Simulator and to compare our pricing plans.

You can browse the benefits of our paid premium Creator and Engineer options, and register for a seven-day trial completely free of charge.

If they're not what you're looking for, you will still have access to a free Explorer account that comes with a huge list of features.

Frequently asked questions

What kind of devices and browsers are supported?

DesignSpark Circuit Simulator will work on any modern web browser (like Chrome, Firefox, Opera, Edge, etc.) and any desktop operating system. It has not been optimised for touchscreen devices, though it will still work on them.

Is DesignSpark Circuit Simulator an offline or cloud-based tool?

DesignSpark Circuit Simulator is a cloud-based tool that runs in a web browser and requires a stable internet connection to use.

Can I work on my designs without joining a group?

Yes, it will be saved in your account workspace and will be publicly viewable. However, only you can edit the design.

If my design is public, will it be edited by others?

If others try to edit your design, it will be saved to a copy. Your original design will not be affected.

How do I make my designs private?

DesignSpark Circuit Simulator is a great platform for finding, modifying, cloning, and sharing designs that can be utilised into your final PCB design. The nature of the platform means that for general users, all designs are public and searchable.

If you are a “DesignSpark Engineer” subscriber and working within an organisation with engineering teams collaborating on designs, you can apply for a Private Group. Designs in Private Groups are only visible to you and your group members. Applications are reviewed and approved by the DesignSpark team.

What is a closed collaboration group for DesignSpark Circuit Simulator ?

A Closed collaboration group is a publicly viewable area to collaborate with other users on a topic or theme. Any logged-in user can create a closed group. Users can request to join and become a member to contribute, but outsiders cannot add any content.

What is a private collaboration group for DesignSpark Circuit Simulator ?
A Private collaboration group is a place to collaborate in private. Designs in Private Groups are only visible to you and your group members.

If you are a “DesignSpark Engineer” subscriber, and working within an organisation with engineering teams collaborating on designs, you can apply to create or join a Private Group by submitting a support ticket: https://designspark.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/requests/new.

Applications are reviewed and approved by the DesignSpark team

Where can I find existing designs created by others?

Open DesignSpark Circuit Simulator and use the search box to lookup a design by project name or username. Or click on 'Designs', then click 'Browse Designs'.

Where can I find more tutorials on DesignSpark Circuit Simulator ?

"You can find some basic tutorials on the DesignSpark Learning area or in the help menu inside the tool.

For more written tutorials and videos, click on Learn in the DesignSpark Circuit Simulator webpage."

What languages is DesignSpark Circuit Simulator available in?

Currently, DesignSpark Circuit Simulator is available in English only.

Which file formats can I import to DesignSpark Circuit Simulator?

VHDL-AMS and SPICE. DesignSpark Circuit Simulator doesn’t provide support and/or compatibility for several proprietary constructs found in some PSpice® or LTspice® models.

Is there a limit to the number of designs I can create?

No, there is no limit on the number of designs that you can create or add to groups.

Can I create or import a custom model?

Yes, you can create custom SPICE, VHDL-AMS simulation models and import component models from an existing schematic or datasheet information. Your components will automatically be added to your personal library.

Why is my Firefox browser not loading DesignSpark Circuit Simulator designs?

You may see this error message when trying to open or browse a design in DesignSpark Circuit Simulator, within the Mozilla Firefox Browser:

To protect your security, diswlogin.siemens.com will not allow Firefox to display the page if another site has embedded it. To see this page, you need to open it in a new window.

Solution: Firefox requires you to allow cookies from third parties and modifying the browser privacy setting should resolve the issue. Go to Firefox settings -> Privacy and Security -> Browser Privacy -> Enhanced tracking protection -> Select Custom and uncheck the Cookies checkbox:

Then, refresh the DesignSpark Circuit Simulator page.

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