Using Device & System Parameters as Variables
Oddly named but quite useful, the Parameters tab of the Toolbox presents a small spreadsheet-like grid which lists all the parts in the circuit available for scrutiny. This includes only those parts which allow value changes such as resistors, capacitors, current and voltage sources, and inductors, but not the ground. The part’s name is displayed in the left cell, while its value is displayed in the right cell. Use the radio buttons labeled "All", "Some" and "Few" (default) to expand to shrink the list of displayed devices and properties. The "Few" button lists just the primitive devices and their values, such as a resistor's resistance, inductor's inductance, and so forth. The "Some" button will add more sources and their properties, and the "All" button lists every device and parameter that is accessible in your project.
Clicking on the value allows you to edit the value either by typing in a new value and then pressing the "Accept" button (Enter Arrow) or using the slider at the top of the tab to control the value. The "Recenter" button makes the current value the center of the slider. This is handy when you hit the end of the slider's range and want to go further. In this case, clicking on the Recenter button will make the slider's end value the new center which will then allow you to continue modifying the parameter.
Using the Parameters Panel in conjunction with a live Simulation, you can examine how changing a part's values will influence the function of your circuit. Once the simulation is running and the circuit is "Live", take advantage of the Parameters Panel to modify device parameters in real time and see the immediate effects on your circuit's response. The results can be observed either on Virtual Instruments or by enabling Circuit Animation. Please keep in mind that while a simulation is running, modification of device parameters by double clicking on the device itself is not allowed. You will receive a warning message telling you to either stop the simulation first or use the Parameters panel instead.
If you select the All or Some listings, devices and their primitive models will be listed. When you select these parameters, you have the option of changing the model with one from the database. For instance, you can change the model of a diode by highlighting the diode and its model name in the table. Then in the modification area, the accept v5pics/accept.png button is replaced by a selection ellipse v5pics/ellipse.png. Clicking on the ellipse will bring up a dialog box that will allow you to select a new model from the database.
