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i just started to learn about Computer Organization and circuits. Is there a good free software where i can build my own computer and Design my own circuit boards?

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Short, practical guide for (and anyone coming to this old thread): building a CPU (computer organization) and laying out a PCB are related but different tasks — use a digital-logic simulator for learning CPU design and a dedicated EDA tool for boards. Below are classroom-friendly, free options and quick workflow/tips that complement ’s pointer to free tools.

For learning and prototyping CPU designs: use Logisim‑evolution for gate‑level and hierarchical digital circuits (it’s cross‑platform and education‑focused). For a guided, project‑based path that actually walks you from NAND gates to a working computer, use the Nand2Tetris course and tools — great if your class expects you to understand every layer. Work flow: build small combinational blocks, unit‑test them, then combine into sequential modules; keep everything as subcircuits so you can step through clock cycles. (github.com)

For quick interactive circuit visualization (ideal for experiments and classroom demos) try the Falstad circuit simulator; for real transistor‑level analysis and power/analog work, use LTspice. Tip: Falstad is great for conceptual checks; LTspice is for accurate DC/AC/transient results — always check units, initial conditions, and use probes to verify waveforms. (falstad.com)

For PCB design and manufacturing: KiCad is the leading free EDA suite (schematic capture, footprint/PCB layout, 3D viewer, Gerber export). Typical workflow: create the schematic, annotate and assign footprints, run ERC, lay out PCB, set net classes/clearances, run DRC, then generate Gerbers and BOM. Use version control for the project files and double‑check footprint/package sizes before ordering boards. (kicad.io)

If a tutor requires a specific package, follow that for assignments; otherwise these tools are widely used in teaching and hobbyist projects and will scale from learning to real boards.

Member Avatar for BigPaw

Have a look here - Open Circuit

Are you familiar with Linux? There are some interesting free packages available for Ubuntu.

Has your tutor recommended anything? If someone is teaching you, then it would be a great help to you if you used the same package. For example, if your tutor wanted you to place a particular component in sequence with another, you may know how to do it in theory, but a different software package may complicate your doing this - and your tutor would not be able to advise you because the layout of the features (menus, options, etc) are different to his/hers.

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