Block Diagram Elements
Block diagram elements have the same properties as other schematic components. The difference is in creation. Schematic components are instances of parts fetched from the library and placed on the schematic page. The part and symbol needed for each block diagram element are generated automatically in project library according to sizing and appearance parameters specified by the users. In other words, each newly created block diagram element has its own private symbol for graphical representation. Copied block diagram elements refer to the same part and symbol as original.
Since parts and symbols of block diagram elements reside in project library, they may be edited as any other library elements if some adjustments in their appearances are necessary. Subsequently, they may also be stored in user’s disk libraries for further use.
Applies to: Schematic Editor
Purpose:
This feature simplifies creation of block diagrams of hierarchical circuits. As any other schematic component, a block diagram element may be assigned as a handle to sub-circuit of lower hierarchy.
Since in present version, the MM Simulator models may be assigned directly to components, the user may create simple circuits for simulation without fetching parts from the library. By placing block diagram elements on the page, assigning models and making necessary connection, the circuit may be simulated.
Block diagrams element feature may also used when experimenting with new models.
Adding block diagram elements is an option for tool Add components to the Circuit in Components toolbox.
Clicking on this button opens dialog for specification of parameters for block diagram creation. This is done in two stages
1. Settings for Block Diagram Element
- Block Diagram Element Properties
Block diagram elements are rectangular boxes with block label placed centrally inside the box. User must specify number of entry points for connecting wires on four sides of the rectangle. Conventionally, entries placed on the left and top side of rectangle are assumed as
“Inputs” whereas those placed on the right and bottom side of rectangle as
“Outputs”. Real interpretation of entries depends on particular application and may be defined by assigning them meaningful names.
Total size of the element is calculated based on
sizing option parameters.
Margins define distances between block label text and respective sides of the block outlines. User specified margins – when too small - are automatically adjusted upwards to reserve space for entry label texts. Required distances between entries on each side of rectangle are specified as pitch. User may also specify overall length and height of the outline rectangle. If uses specified dimension are found too small to contain all texts within the box, it size and length will be automatically adjusted upwards.
This set of options specify line width of box outline, visibility of labels and allow to select text size and font separately for element and input output labels. Additionally, user may specify whether I/O labels should be placed inside or outside box outline.
2. Specify Entry Name
Each entry must be labeled by unique name. User may decide upon naming conventions as long as the names are not longer than 32 characters. Default entry names (I/O labels), with prefixes IN_ and OUT_, may be generated upon request
Upon clicking Finish button, block diagram element is created according to specification and may be relocated to desired position on the page, in the same manner as other schematic components. The settings (with exception of block label) are retained and may subsequently used for creating new block diagrams elements.