A unified modeling and design methodology for RFICs using parameterized sub-circuit cells

Abstract

This paper presents, for the first time, a cell-based modeling and design platform for RFICs aiming to shorten design cycle time by eliminating iterations between schematic and post-layout simulations and to minimize the risk for costly mask re-spin. Based on a pre-characterized RF sub-circuit cell library, which contains not only active devices and passive components but also routing interconnects, this methodology systematically alleviates the common RF model inaccuracy due to layout discrepancies between actual circuits and device model test structures. By exploiting the modularity in RF circuits at the sub-circuit level, the proposed design platform achieves a balance between circuit design flexibility and device model accuracy compared to the conventional approach of using pre-characterizing single transistors. This paper describes the implementation of the parameterized sub-circuit cell layout and the macro modeling techniques for a 0.13-mum CMOS RF sub-circuit cell library. Measurement results from a characterization test chip for validating the macro circuit models are presented