A finite-memory discrete-time convolution approach for the nonlinear dynamic modelling of S/H-ADC devices

A non-linear dynamic black-box model for Sample-Hold and Analog to Digital Conversion devices (S/HADC) is proposed in this paper. It derives from the expansion of a Volterra-like series previously introduced by authors and it is based on a discrete convolution in the time domain which describes the non-linear dynamics of the system. The model allows a functional description of the S/HADC non-linear behaviour as the sum of two blocks which take separately into account the static and the purelydynamic contributions. The model characterization can be carried out by means of a simple and reliable measurement procedure and the model analytical representation allows an easy implementation in the framework of commercial available CAD tools for circuit analysis and design. Preliminary experimental results which validate the proposed approach are presented in the paper, together with some examples which show model capabilities in predicting device behaviour under non-linear operating conditions.