Modelling abstraction-the highs and lows of mixed mode simulation

The paper focuses on the different types of mixed mode simulation that are available today and their use within the electronics design environment. It explains the benefits of verifying a design, which can be achieved by combining the high level abstraction of digital and analogue models using behavioural languages with lower levels of modelling abstractions like SPICE primitives or digital modelling languages. It focuses on the different problems that can be encountered whilst performing mixed mode simulation including the handling of digital unknowns, synchronisation between analogue and digital simulation engines and the handling of different digital technologies like CMOS and TTL. Today´s electronic designers need mixed mode simulation to handle varying complexities of analogue and digital circuitry. The paper suggests different solutions, through the use of analogue versions of digital models, to `C´ models of analogue components that are capable of running under a digital simulation environment