It featured an advanced interface for drawing electronic schematics using a vast library of standardized symbols.
One of its standout features was the ability to perform mixed analog and digital simulations simultaneously. It utilized a proprietary version of SPICE (Simulation Program with Integrated Circuit Emphasis) for high-accuracy results. Circuit Maker 2000
The software was typically bundled with TraxMaker , a tool that imported netlists from CircuitMaker to design physical printed circuit boards (PCBs). It included an autorouter to automatically connect components with copper tracks. Educational & Specialized Features It featured an advanced interface for drawing electronic
Instructors could secretly place defects (shorts, opens, or wrong values) into a working circuit for students to find and repair using virtual troubleshooting tools. Using CircuitMaker - Northwestern Mechatronics Wiki The software was typically bundled with TraxMaker ,
Unlike professional-grade EDA (Electronic Design Automation) tools that can be overly complex, CM2K included features specifically for learning:
Users could toggle switches or adjust potentiometers during a live simulation and see results instantly on virtual LEDs or seven-segment displays.
CircuitMaker 2000 (often abbreviated as CM2K) was a landmark software package in the late 1990s and early 2000s, serving as a comprehensive "virtual electronics lab" for students, educators, and hobbyists. Originally developed by MicroCode Engineering and later acquired by Protel (now Altium), it remains a cult favorite for its balance of simplicity and powerful simulation capabilities.