A self-testing method for the pipelined A/D converter

This paper describes a new approach for Built-In Self-Test (BIST) of pipeline A/D converters that can measure the differential non-linearity (DNL) and integral non-linearity (INL) of the converter. This method utilizes a random input signal that is self generated by the pipeline A/D converter as the input stimulus for testing. Unlike the traditional ramp input or sinusoidal input histogram test, this method does not require any precise external input signal sources. It provides a low hardware cost solution for in-field verification since no extra precise analog circuits for signal generation are required. In addition, it is also possible to extend this concept to background self-testing.