Circuit modelling

Circuits can be modelled to make sure they work the way you want them to. Circuit modelling can be done either using a computer modelling application, or on a prototype board - also called a breadboard or veroboard - a board covered with small sockets into which components can be plugged and connected up.

The graphic shows a breadboard with holes connected in two long rows at the top and bottom, and columns of five linked holes elsewhere. Electronic components and wires can be simply plugged into the board in order to make any required circuit connections. The top and bottom rows act as power supply channels for the circuit.

breadboard, showing pattern of holes and connections for prototyping circuits

A breadboard prototype for a 555 monostable timer circuit might look like this:

breadboard showing a 555 timer circuit layout