An expert system approach to analog circuit synthesis

An analog design methodology that uses the assistance of an expert system is presented. A top-down analytical knowledge based design that fully exploits any inherent hierarchy in the system, is first generated. Exploiting hierarchy permits the design process to be recast as a sequence of smaller design tasks, and permits the sub-blocks to be reused in different contexts. The initial design is further refined by making use of an expert system that learns rules as it gains experience. The design methodology is demonstrated through the example of a CMOS operational amplifier.