Optimizing Analog Filter Designs for Minimum Nonlinear Distortions Using Multisine Excitations

Nonlinear distortions in submicron analog circuits are gaining importance, especially when power constraints are imposed and when operating in moderate inversion. This paper proposes a method to optimize the design of analog filters for minimum noise and nonlinear distortions. For this purpose a technique is presented for quantifying these nonlinearities, such that their influence can be compared with that of the system noise. Having quantified the non-idealities, an optimization can be carried out which involves the tuning of design parameters