Analog CMOS integrated circuit design: research and undergraduate teaching

The authors describe the use of software that was developed as part of a research program in analog CMOS integrated circuit design for an undergraduate course on analog VLSI design. The software includes some unusual uses of readily available, inexpensive, and easy-to-use programs available for microcomputers such as Macintosh or IBM-PC clones. Although initially intended to help with the design of CMOS operational amplifiers, the IC design method used is very general; other possible applications are described. The flexibility of these programs also allows them to be used with other CAD (computer-aided design) software, including circuit simulators and programs for schematic entry and layout. The software tools allow undergraduate students to complete analog CMOS integrated circuit designs using advanced CAD techniques but without being overwhelmed or losing touch with the underlying circuit design principles. Details of the programs and their use are presented together with the resulting analog IC designs fabricated using MOSIS (MOS Implementation Service)