A mixed-signal design reuse methodology based on parametric behavioural models with non-ideal effects

Current system-on-chip (SoC) designs incorporate an increasing number of mixed-signal components. Design reuse techniques have proved successful for digital design but these rules are difficult to transfer to mixed-signal design. A top-down methodology is missing but the low level of abstraction in designs makes system integration and verification a very difficult, tedious and complex task. This paper presents a contribution to mixed-signal design reuse where a design methodology is proposed based on modular and parametric behavioural components. They support a design process where non-ideal effects can be incorporated in an incremental way, allowing easy architectural selection and accurate simulations. A working example is used through the paper to highlight and validate the applicability of the methodology.