Development of an analog hardware description language

Network description languages are reviewed, and some of the required features of a standard analog hardware description language (AHDL) are defined. Modifications to IEEE 1076 standard VHDL are proposed in order to create a prototype AHDL. An example circuit description is given. The motivations for the development of a standardized AHDL are threefold. First, such a language would support a hierarchical, behavioral modeling environment for mixed-mode (e.g. analog/digit or time/frequency) and mixed-level (e.g. transfer function/n-port/transistor netlist) circuit simulation. Second, AHDL would support rapid top-down analog ASIC design for formalizing design documentation to facilitate sharing of design information and correct reuse of old designs. Finally, a standard AHDL would promote the development of new mixed-mode simulators and analog design environments.<
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