CFU
6
Length
14 Weeks
Semester DD
Second
Introduction to the analog design.
Simplified models of electronic circuits with active devices.
Basic physics of the "MOSFET" device.
Overview of devices and CMOS process technologies.
Introduction to the study of electrical noise in circuits.
Analog circuit simulation tools (Spice and Spectre).
Methodologies and design techniques.
Design-flow: schematic entry, simulation, layout.
Layout specific techniques for analog circuits.
Amplifiers, general classifications and types: voltage amplifiers, current amplifiers, trans-conductance amplifiers, trans-resistance amplifiers.
Basic circuits in analog design.
Single-stage amplifiers.
Current mirrors.
Operational Trans-conductance Amplifier (OTA).
Classes of power amplification: A, AB, B and C.
Application examples:
- Front-End for particle detectors in experiments of high energy physics.
- Neuromorphic VLSI (neural networks).
LEARNING OUTCOMES:
This teaching course aims to provide the basic knowledge necessary for the integrated analogue electronic circuits design on silicon, mainly intended in the ability to define and design analogue systems used in physics experiments. The course provides both the basic concepts of the CMOS silicon devices physics, the corresponding fundamental electrical equations, the main technological aspects of the devices realization and the acquisition of the fundamental techniques of the design flow, from the schematic simulation to the realization of the layout and simulation / post-layout verification of analog circuits.
KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING:
Students must acquire knowledge and understanding of the functioning of electronic devices and simple analog systems. The verification of knowledge and understanding takes place through a final oral examination.
APPLYING KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING:
Students must be able to identify the essential elements of a physical problem and know how to model it, defining the characteristics and functionality of the related electronic system. They must be able to apply simulation techniques to verify the expected behavior.
MAKING JUDGEMENTS:
Students must be able to independently perform experiments, calculations measurements and numerical simulations. Developing the ability to perform bibliographic and selection searches for interesting materials, in particular on the WEB. They must be able to take responsibility for both project planning and systems management.
COMMUNICATION SKILLS:
Students must be able to work in an interdisciplinary group. Being able to present their research or the bibliographic research results to an audience of both specialists and laymans.
LEARNING SKILLS:
Students must be able to face new fields through independent study. They must acquire the ability to continue their studies in a research doctorate or other graduate schools.