Module: Analogue and Mixed Signal IC Design

Code: AMI4409

15 credits at level HE7

Description and Purpose of Module

Rationale
This module develops analogue IC design techniques from basic components through to building blocks and finally on to systems such as operational amplifiers. Bipolar and CMOS design topics are covered. Example circuits and SPICE simulations are used throughout the module to reinforce the analogue IC design techniques presented. Practical issues surrounding analogue and mixed signal IC design and implementation are emphasised. The design of phase locked loops is given a separate treatment because of the importance of these circuits in deriving reliable clock signals and the unusual mixture of analogue and digital circuitry operating in the GHz region.

The module introduces the design of integrated analogue and mixed analogue and digital circuits and the use of CAD tools to simulate and evaluate such circuit designs. Students who have completed this module have the ideal background to study the AMI module on Analogue Design Using AHDLs.

Who can benefit?
The module is particularly appropriate for electronic designers entering the field of analogue and mixed signal integrated circuit design. You will have a good working knowledge of basic analogue and digital design and a requirement to learn how to re-engineer systems on silicon. Experience of relevant CAD tools is not essential as full instruction will be given. Some experience of VHDL is desirable but accompanying instructional material will be available. The module can be studied on its own or as part of a programme leading to a qualification.

Aims
The module aims to develop an awareness and understanding of:
- the complete analogue and mixed signal design flow
- use of analogue and mixed signal IC design tools and techniques
- analogue and mixed signal design principles influencing efficiency, reliability and robustness.


Indicative Syllabus Content

Bipolar and MOS device operation and modelling, including passive components.

Basic analogue IC blocks, including switches, active resistors, current sources and sinks, current mirrors, voltage and current references.

Operational amplifiers and comparators, including low power, low voltage, BiCMOS design techniques.

Advanced SPICE analysis and simulation techniques, including automated component sensitivity analysis and performance optimisation.

Current mode circuits including multiplier cells and analogue function generators.

Analogue and mixed signal systems, including switched capacitor circuits.

Digital-to-analogue and analogue-to-digital converters.

Practical issues surrounding high level partitioning and the implementation of analogue and mixed signal IC designs.

Phase locked loop design for ICs, including types of divider, minimisation of noise, and limiting factors. Practical issues of design for operation at GHz frequencies.


Learning, Teaching and Assessment

The module is expected to involve 150 hours learning time spread over 12 weeks. All study and assessment is carried out via the internet so there is no requirement to attend in person. The approach is substantially student centered, with tutor support by email and telephone on a one-to-one basis, although peer discussion is encouraged. Typically the generality of a concept is introduced in the online text and the student is then directed to a variety of information sources to research and analyse the subject area further, reflect and draw appropriate conclusions. Self-assessment questions (SAQs) throughout the module reinforce the concepts and help students to monitor their progress and the effectiveness of their study. The module includes practical work using remote access to industry standard software hosted centrally. The module is assessed by two assignments, weighted 30% and 70%. Each assignment includes practical elements and will involve design work based on realistic case studies.


Learning Outcomes and Assessment Criteria

Learning Outcomes Assessment Criteria
When you have successfully completed this module you will: To demonstrate that you have achieved the learning outcome you will:
1.be able to employ a range of specialised skills to execute an analogue system design flow using bipolar technolgies.1.use a range of circuit level and high level analogue design tools to:
1.1 develop an analogue design using components based on bipolar technologies.
1.2 simulate its function.
2.be able to employ a range of specialised skills to execute a mixed signal system design flow using CMOS technologies2.use a range of circuit level and high level M4ixed signal design tools to:
2.1 develop a mixed signal design using components based on CMOS technologies.
2.2 simulate its function
2.3 produce a layout including suitable pad placement, appropriate partitioning and layout of analogue and digital sections and top level routing.

Assessment

Your achievement of the learning outcomes for this module will be tested as follows:

TypeCWCW
DescriptionDevelop and Design a "Brokaw" reference.Design and implement a 4 bit flash ADC convertor. The design should consit of schematics and layouts that meet all the relevant design criteria.
%age3070
Learning Outcomes12

Prerequisite Module(s)

Before taking this module you must have successfully completed the following:

Barred Combinations

No restrictions apply.

Indicative Reading

Gray P, Hurst P, Lewis S, Meyer R, Analysis and Design of Analog Integrated Circuits, John Wiley and Sons Ltd, 4th Edition, 2001, ISBN 0-471-32168-0
Razavi B, Design of Analog CMOS Integrated Circuits, McGraw-Hill, 2001, ISBN 0-071-18815-0
Allen P E, Holburg D R, Douglas R, CMOS Analog Circuit Design, 2nd Edition, Oxford University Press, 2002, ISBN 0-195-11644-5.
Laker K, Sansen W, Design of Analog Integrated Circuits and Systems, McGraw-Hill, 1994, ISBN 0-071-13458-1
Geiger R L, Allen P E, Strader N R, VLSI Design Techniques for Analog and Digital Circuits, McGraw-Hill, 1990, ISBN 0-070-23253-9.
Horrowitz P, Hill W, The Art of Electronics, Cambridge University Press, 2nd Edition, 1989, ISBN 0-521-37095-7.
Millman J, Grabel A, Microelectronics, McGraw-Hill Education, 2nd Edition, 1989, ISBN 0-071-00596-X.