A methodology for rapid prototyping of analog systems

We present a methodology for rapid prototyping of linear time-invariant analog systems. The prototyping hardware is composed of field-programmable analog arrays (FPAAs) to enable rapid evaluation and validation of analog designs. Starting with a signal flow graph description of the system, a library-based technology mapping phase produces FPAA designs optimized for area. The technology mapper then explores the design space by performing gain distribution. Technology mapping is followed by the placement and routing phase that generated the physical layout on the target single-segment array-based FPAA architecture. We employ an integrated place and route approach in order to guarantee routability and performance