Using matlab for mixed-signal verification of a software radio ASIC

Integration and verification of a complex mixed signal IC demands a multi-faceted approach in order to ensure that analogue, digital and software components function correctly as a complete system whilst completing the project to time and budget. Cambridge Consultants Ltd (CCL) has developed a practical Matlab based solution that takes the place of expensive co-simulation tools allowing us to develop complex mixed-signal ICs in very short timescales. Using the methodology described, a complete integrated software radio transceiver IP block was developed from a standing start to a fully debugged emulator in only 6 months. Having the ability to concurrently engineer the System Verilog code, synthesis scripts, APE2 DSP core Verilog code, DSP software and the analogue cells meant that the design was completely ready for tape-out at this stage and worked first time in silicon. A significant overall time to market saving was achieved by using Matlab as the key to designing the system, cross checking the results from each design environment and performing final automated acceptance tests in the lab. A practical example of a software radio IC is used to illustrate the application of the methodology.