Tuning and calibration of analogue, mixed-signal and RF circuits

Abstract

The variability of integrated components is often a challenge to analogue and mixed signal IC design and, as has been described in the preceding sections, in many instances requires the provision of on-chip tuning systems to provide analogue functions with the required precision. On-chip tuning is therefore an essential feature in the implementation of high-performance analogue signal processing for mixed signal SoCs, and in many cases the design of a satisfactory tuning system represents a substantial proportion of the overall circuit design challenge. On-chip automatic antenna tuning is not yet widely deployed in integrated wireless systems. However, with the trend for multi-standard, multi-band, wide bandwidth operation and continual pressure to reduce the size of antennas while retaining overall power efficiency, it is likely that antenna tuning systems will soon become useful or essential. Significant challenges exist in providing low-loss matching network components and switching, while also achieving adequate power handling. Tuning algorithm design also remains an area for further study.