Power distribution strategies based on current estimation and simulation of lossy transmission lines in conjunction with power isolation circuits

Investigations have shown that the layout of power lines and isolation circuits as well as the modules' circuit switching has a large influence on the behavior of the whole system. A current estimation strategy for the calculation of the module current consumption in CMOS technology is investigated. The electrical behavior of losses in signal and power lines is taken into account. An efficient current estimation is introduced with a new program-SIMCURRENT. Another program carries out analog circuit simulations including the modelling of coupled lossy transmission lines. Fast and accurate estimates of the I/sub dd/-current are carried out by SIMCURRENT. Simulations-often not possible with classical circuit analysis programs-were made with the program LISM. Regarding monolithic systems, one must include power isolation circuits in the power rail system. A proper layout of the global supply network (not using the lowest resistive layout) is proposed.<>