Experience of behavioural modelling in the mixed-signal ASIC design process-a case study

The use of computer simulation at IC level has become prevalent in the design process. As the size of designs has increased rapidly, the same simulations have become progressively more difficult to perform, to the extent that the simulations have become less of a design tool and more of a bureaucratic step to be carried out. Behavioural modelling offers a practical route to achieving productive simulation, by allowing what-if analyses, or component variations to improve the design prior to and concurrently with the progression of the design to silicon implementation. In this paper, the positive use of behavioural modelling, multi-level modelling and mixed signal simulation is highlighted, based on the authors' experience during a practical mixed-signal ASIC design project. The benefits and drawbacks of such an approach are discussed, with the key aspects identified that led to the project's successful completion.