hi,
Looking back over the past few months posts regarding simulators, its obvious that some members
consider them useless, while others praise them.
I think the word 'simulator' has the same broad indefinite meaning as the word 'computer'.
IMO, when a reference is made to a 'simulator', it should be made clear what area of simulation thats
being referred to, for example, circuit, hardware, MCU or training simulators, to name just a few.
Providing the user is aware of the limitations, I consider all simulators have a key role to play in all the above applications.
Speaking from practical experience, they can save time and money in the development of a project, also the safety aspects are very important.
Air crews, Astronauts and now Doctors/Surgeons are trained on simulators.
If a novice\newbie has access to a PIC or Circuit simulator and it helps him to understanding the project,
I would say use it, providing he/she realises its just a 'tool'.
After all, computers are in effect just a simulator programmed to do different tasks.
It could be argued that when a computer runs, say a 'calculator program' its simulating a calculating machine.
I would be interested to know what other members think about 'simulators'.
Regards