Comparison of Spice Vs. Harmonic Balance Simulations

Two primary nonlinear circuit simulator methodologies are currently available for RF circuit development. These two methodologies approach the circuit simulation in two different methods. The first method, SPICE transient, operates in the time domain. The second method, harmonic balance, operates primarily in the frequency domain. The nonlinear device models for both methodologies are very similar and therefore will not be discussed in this paper. This paper will detail the control factors of each simulation methodology for overall simulation time and final simulation results.