So I've been visually inspecting a board and drawing out a diagram free-hand. Which is ok, I guess... there might be better ways I don't know. What I'm wondering is, or looking for rather is advice on circuit applications where I can say build out a diagram, add in the components by things like resistance bands, IC numbers, MM readings. Then simulate that circuit to possibly uncover bad or faulty components in the real-world board.

Any advice for this sort of thing that won't break the bank?

 

For schematic & board layout drawing, there is free Kicad,
For simulation, there is either Spice simulator included or also free is, stand-alone LTspice

 

The process described is often called "Reverse Engineering", and it is very useful on many occasions, including repairs, where the failed part is not obvious. (Note that the part that burns up will usually not be the only failed part).
Drawing the circuit bt hand is a very rapid way for the first step, because it is simple to correct.

 

I have a hand drawn one now.. I think it's complete. I did grab LTSpice which is.. well it's rather disappointing. But it's free so I'm trying to learn it. Seems odd that components I'd call 'default' like potentiometers, AC and DC Motors are missing. I did find a big zip of new symbols that I'm trying to add but encountering trouble.
Outside the scope of this post though.

Thanks guys

 

I copy and paste parts and parts of other schematics (from datasheets?) using Microsoft Paste program.

 

I have a hand drawn one now.. I think it's complete. I did grab LTSpice which is.. well it's rather disappointing. But it's free so I'm trying to learn it. Seems odd that components I'd call 'default' like potentiometers, AC and DC Motors are missing. I did find a big zip of new symbols that I'm trying to add but encountering trouble.
Outside the scope of this post though.

Thanks guys

If you post a sketch of your circuit, maybe someone will create an LTspice schematic for you.