What are the best strategies for documenting circuit simulation and testing results?

1 Define your objectives and scope

Before beginning to simulate or test your circuits, it is important to have a well-defined idea of what you hope to accomplish and how you will measure the results. This will assist in determining the scope of documentation, as well as the level of detail and accuracy needed. For instance, you may wish to document various elements of your simulation or testing, such as the purpose and goals, the circuit design and specifications, the environment and tools used, the input and output variables and ranges, expected and actual results, performance indicators, assumptions, limitations, uncertainties, problems encountered, errors found, anomalies observed, recommendations taken or planned.

2 Use a standard format and template

To ensure that your documentation is consistent, clear, and easy to comprehend, you should use a standard format and template for your simulation or testing reports. This will also help save time and prevent you from leaving out important information. You can either use existing formats and templates from your organization, industry, or software, or create your own based on your needs and preferences. Generally speaking, a typical format and template for a simulation or testing report may include a title page with the title, date, author, and summary of the simulation or testing; an introduction with the background, objectives, and scope of the simulation or testing; a methodology with the description of the circuit design, simulation or testing environment and tools, input and output variables and ranges, and performance indicators; results with the presentation and analysis of the expected and actual results using tables, graphs, charts, or other visual aids; a discussion with the interpretation and evaluation of the results emphasizing the main findings, problems, errors, anomalies, limitations, and uncertainties; a conclusion with the summary of the results, recommendations, and actions taken or planned; references with the sources of information used in the simulation or testing; and appendices with any additional or supporting data such as code, schematics, or calculations.

3 Use clear and concise language

To make your documentation understandable and effective, you should use language that is clear, concise, and free from ambiguity or confusion. Grammar, spelling, punctuation, and terminology should be correct and jargon, slang, or acronyms should be avoided. Consider using active voice instead of passive voice to make your message more direct and engaging. Keep sentences and paragraphs short and simple for easier readability. Utilize headings, subheadings, bullets, numbers, or other formatting tools to organize your information. Use consistent terms and symbols to describe circuit elements, variables, and units. Transitions, connectors, or signposts can help guide your reader through your logic and reasoning. Examples, illustrations, or analogies can be used to explain complex or abstract concepts.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?