Analysis and design of amplifiers and comparators in CMOS 0.35 mum technology

Design techniques and CAD tools for digital systems are advancing rapidly at decreasing cost, while CMOS analog circuit design is related mostly with the individual experience and background of the designer. Therefore, the design of an analog circuit depends on several factors such as a reliable design methodology, good modeling and technology characterization. Most of this work focuses on the analysis of several analog circuits, including their functionality, using different design methodologies. Initially the determination of two key design parameters (slope factor n and early voltage VA) and the gm=ID characteristics were derived from simulations. Then, the analysis and design of three diferent analog circuits are presented. A comparison is made between two design methodology applied to an analog amplifier design. The first one is a conventional approach where transistors are in saturation. The second one is based on the gm=ID characteristic, that allows a unified synthesis methodology in all regions of operation of the transistor. The analog modules for comparison and continuous filtering, that find vast applications today, are then analyzed and designed with the parameters and methodology proposed. 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.