The Data Input Element in CircuitJS1 allows you to simulate a voltage source where the voltage values change over time based on data from a file you provide. It's like connecting a circuit to real-world data or pre-calculated voltage sequences.

Loading Your Data:

• Select a File:
  • Once placed, right-click the Data Input Element to access its settings, then select Edit, then Choose File to select a file.
  • File Type: Your data file should contain values in volts, one per line, in text format. Comments (lines starting with #) or empty lines will be ignored by the system.
• After Selection: The filename will appear as a label on the element in the circuit for easy identification.

Adjusting Settings:

• Scale Factor: This allows you to multiply all voltage values from your file by a constant. Useful if your data needs adjustment to fit your circuit's scale.
• Sample Length (Time per Data Point): Define how much time each voltage value from your file represents. For example, if each value is meant to last for 1 millisecond, you'd set this to 0.001 seconds, or 1m.
• Repeat Option: If checked, the element will start over from the beginning of the file when it reaches the end, effectively looping the data.

Running the Simulation:

• With your settings adjusted, start or continue your simulation.
• The Data Input Element will now output voltages according to the sequence in your file.

Troubleshooting:

• If you see "No file" on the element, ensure you've selected a file correctly.
• If voltages are not as expected, check the Scale Factor and Sample Length.

Tips for Effective Use:

• Data Preparation: Ensure your data file is clean. Any non-numeric data should be commented out with a # at the beginning of the line.
• Experimentation: Play with different settings to see how they affect your circuit's behavior.
• File Saving: Remember, once you set up your Data Input with a file, if you save your circuit, the data isn't saved within the circuit file. You'll need to keep the original data file or reselect it when loading your circuit.
• Current Input: Use this element in conjunction with a VCCS to simulate a current source where the current values change over time.

This element is particularly useful for simulating real-world scenarios, testing how circuits respond to custom voltage patterns, or for educational purposes where you want to demonstrate specific voltage behaviors over time.