A design system for RFIC: Challenges and solutions

The expansion of the market for portable wireless communication devices has given a tremendous push to the development of a new generation of low-powe r radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC) products. In this fast-growing environment where time-to-market constraints force tight schedules, having a good design methodology, innovative computer-aided design (CAD) tools, an d a well-integrated design system are key factors to success. In tis paper, we describe a design system developed to provide the designer with everyth ing necessary to accurately predict the behaviour of RFIC devices, includin g layout and package parasitic effects. We show how important a well-define d and integrated system is to manufacturing a design that meets specificati ons at a minimum cost, in the minimum time. A close link between schematic, models, and layout is of paramount importance to ensure the accuracy neede d for low-power RF design. We give an overview of the advanced methods and tools currently available for simulation and noise analysis of RF devices. Finally, we show a design example that obtained first-silicon success.