Loop analysis of analog and mixed-signal discontinuous systems such as PLLs, delta-sigma converters, switched capacitor filters, PWM amplifier and switched power supplies present a unique problem. The conventional method relies on AC analysis of a network of linear models that mimic the low frequency behavior of each loop component. But the linear models don't reflect the underlying circuits of the original components. How do you know that the models are correct and that the results are meaningful? This paper will describe an alternative method that takes loop measurements directly from the transient simulation of the original discontinuous system.

Bio

Mr. Pratt has been the North American Product Specialist for Mentor AMS products since 1997. He is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin, a Member of IEEE, and a licensed Professional Engineer who has been practicing for 17 years. Mr. Pratt's career experience includes the design and design management of cardiac image processing hardware, multi-threaded image processing software, and high voltage/high current PWM amplifier systems. He has been an enthusiastic user of EDA tools for analog and digital; system, board and IC level; design and verification since 1982.