Analog Circuit Design Using Symbolic Math Toolboxes: Demonstrative Examples

Abstract

In this article, a synthesis methodology for analog circuit design is presented. This methodology utilizes symbolic math tools to systematically and exhaustively search for candidate analog circuits avoiding tedious manual work. The two-port network matrix representation of active devices, such as MOS transistors, paves the way for efficiently using advanced symbolic math toolboxes (e.g., in MAPLE or MATLAB) to automate the generation of new analog circuits and further investigate the effects of nonidealities and parasitics. Using this synthesis methodology new amplifiers, filters, and oscillators can be obtained starting from a predefined structure. This article aims to motivate and provide an overview of the current status of research in this area. In addition, two detailed design examples of a family of differential filters and a family of differential oscillators along with their simulations and measurement results are provided to illustrate and verify the synthesis methodology.