A two-stage genetic algorithm method for optimization the /spl Sigma//spl Delta/ modulators

A two-stage optimization approach for the design of /spl Sigma//spl Delta/ modulators using genetic algorithm has been proposed. The conversion speed and consumed CPU time of the design process have been reduced significantly by utilizing the combination of an equation-based and a high-level simulation-based genetic algorithm. The proper circuit specifications of the modulator are obtained by using a new idea called gene-dependent fitness function which takes some circuit-level non-idealities into account in the evaluation of the cost function. This significantly reduces the time-consuming circuit simulations and transient analysis.