Investigating issues of on-chip voltage regulator in nanoscale integrated circuits

Voltage regulation in system-on-chip has turned into a very critical challenge for nanoscale IC designers. It is imperative that for multi-core implementation on-chip voltage regulator offers enormous benefits. This paper discusses the advantages and disadvantages of using on-chip regulators as well as their functional operation. Furthermore, it introduces the technique of using a hot swap controller along with an N-channel MOSFET to monitor and control the inrush current in the circuit, and reduce the voltage droop. Simulations show how the controller reduces the voltage droop in the circuit. Here, an overview of current technology and different types of regulators used in the design of micro- and nano-electronic systems is presented. Specific emphasis is given to switching regulators since they are the preferred topology for on-chip integration. The primary goal of this work is to identify the issues associated with on-chip regulators.