A computer-implemented method simulates a system having multiple interconnected components in a network that couples at least one client computer to a server computer. The method includes: receiving simulation data over the network from the server computer, wherein the simulation data represents one or more characteristics of information that would be present in a particular system having two or more interconnecting components during the operation of the particular system. At the client computer, the method includes generating a first simulation display based on the simulation data for operation of the particular system, and receiving user input at the client computer. Also disclosed are methods for changing component values in a system, compressing waveforms, locally displaying signals from a probe point in a system depiction, processes performed at a server, data structures for displaying user interface screen for providing such information, and a method for circuit creation and use feedback.