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Waveform Viewer

The waveform area displays results from the latest completed simulation. Use it to compare selected signals, inspect timing and amplitude, and support testbench decisions.

Select traces

Open Signals in the Simulation Workbench and select the nets to display. The plot updates from the available result data.

Use:

  • Named nets for important labeled signals;
  • All for broad debugging;
  • None before building a focused comparison.

Image — Waveform Viewer with two signals

Image needed

Capture a real transient result with two clearly named signals, grid and legend enabled, and readable axes. Remove the former ASCII waveform mockup. Suggested size: 1400 × 760 px.

View controls

Control Purpose
Auto-scale results Fit available traces to the current plot
Grid Show measurement reference lines
Legend Identify displayed traces
A/B cursors Compare two points on a trace

Disable auto-scale when you need a stable visual range across repeated runs. Re-enable it when new data falls outside the current view.

Use A/B cursors

  1. Enable A/B cursors.
  2. Place cursor A at the first event.
  3. Place cursor B at the second event.
  4. Read the displayed time and amplitude differences.
  5. Record the measurement or add an equivalent testbench assertion when it must be checked repeatedly.

Short video — Measure a waveform with A/B cursors

Video needed

Record 10–15 seconds enabling A/B cursors, positioning both cursors around one period or transition, and showing the resulting delta. Use a clean waveform and visible pointer. 1080p.

Interpret common analyses

Transient

Check startup, delay, rise/fall time, overshoot, ripple, duty cycle, and settling behavior over time.

AC

Check gain and phase across frequency. Confirm that the selected engine and model support the intended AC behavior.

DC sweep

Check how an output or operating point changes with a swept source or parameter.

Operating point

Check steady node voltages and branch currents without interpreting them as time-domain traces.

Compare results safely

  • keep source, load, model version, scope, and analysis settings identical;
  • do not compare traces from different runs unless the settings are recorded;
  • use assertions for release criteria instead of judging only by visual shape;
  • exclude startup from steady-state measurements when appropriate;
  • export data when another reviewer needs evidence.

Ask Copilot

Use the robot action beside a signal or open the AI tab and select Explain waveform results. State the expected behavior and the relevant time window. Verify the response against the plotted data and testbench limits.

See also