Module overview
The key aim of this module is to provide the background and the methods for the understanding of the operation of basic analogue CMOS cells, and how to design common functions. The emphasis is placed on design of analogue functions specifically as part of mixed signal systems.
Only a few “Digital” CMOS ICs are actually completely digital; most have some analogue functions, often signal conditioning and data conversion interfaces, but maybe only a clock oscillator. The approach adopted is based on “bottom-up” approach, by encouraging a sound understanding of the analogue behaviour of devices and a range of fundamental circuit principles, with the emphasis on gaining skills at first order design by hand as a starting point for simulation and as guidance for optimisation.
Device models suitable for hand calculation are considered as well as their limits of applicability. The methods for manufacturability and robustness in design are given high priority.
Functions addressed include primitive cells, biasing and references, op-amp designs, sampled and continuous time filters, A/D and D/A converters.
Pre-Requisite Knowledge:
- Basic MOS transistor construction and physics
- Basic MOS transistor large and small signal models
- DC and AC network analysis skills
- Behavioural level understanding of Op-Amp circuits
- Elementary appreciation of sampled data systems
- Basic circuit simulation CAD skills (SPICE)
Linked modules
Pre-requisites: ELEC2201 AND (ELEC2205 OR ELEC2217) OR ELEC6259
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- Behaviour and design of basic analogue circuit primitives, including quantitative treatment of matching
- Active and passive components available in CMOS and their parasitic elements of first order transistor modelling for initial manual design and the limits of applicability
- CMOS Op-Amp design, from single ended to full differential structures
- Signal and bias handling for noise immunity in mixed signal substrate
- Switched capacitor techniques
Subject Specific Practical Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Practical issues in voltage and current scaling A/D and D/A converters
- PLL circuits suitable for clock generation
- SD modulator operation and design
Syllabus
- CMOS Technology and MOS Transistor Model Review
- Amplifier Basics
- Current Mirrors
- Reference Circuits
- Matching
- Op-Amp Design
- Comparators
- Switched Capacitor Techniques for Data Conversion
- Nyquist A/D and D/A Converters
- Sigma-Delta A/D and D/A Converters
- PLLs for IC Clock Generation
- Crystal Oscillators
Learning and Teaching
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Completion of assessment task | 19 |
| Lecture | 30 |
| Revision | 10 |
| Preparation for scheduled sessions | 15 |
| Follow-up work | 15 |
| Wider reading or practice | 61 |
| Total study time | 150 |
Assessment
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Final Assessment | 75% |
| Continuous Assessment | 25% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Set Task | 100% |
Repeat
An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Set Task | 100% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External