Continuous time analog filter test using signature analysis

This paper discusses the importance and difficulties associated with testing analog circuits in general and those residing within mixed-signal circuits in particular. It proposes a tested method that is not oriented towards specification testing. The method is based on the excitation of the circuit-under-test with a pseudo random binary sequence and the subsequent analysis of the captured response. The fault detection capabilities of the test and data analysis methods are demonstrated by applying them to a continuous time filter circuit operating in the midband frequency range. The study analyses the confidence in the detection with respect to the analysis method applied and circuit node being accessed.