Topographical Field Map Analysis Tool for Designing Linear LC DCOs

This brief analyses linearity of LC DCOs using a new tool: topographical linearity field maps. The analysis in this brief assesses whether given combinations of LC will produce good linearity. This brief then shows how to apply the analysis in the design of the DCO using the field maps. The DCO in this brief had a max DNL of 0.280 LSB and max INL of 0.645 LSB. This was achievable by taking advantage of an LC core's inherent nature. The measurements indeed confirmed that the analysis technique presented is valid.