In conjunction with close partners, Xpedion Design Systems, Inc., a provider of RFIC and PLL simulation and verification tools, has developed a transistor-level phase-locked loop (PLL) solution for verifying complete closed loop noise and jitter. According to Xpedion, this improvement allows PLL designers to fully verify their designs prior to silicon to save design spins and reduce time to production.

Article Tools

• 

PLL loops are present in a majority of complex ICs produced today in applications ranging from microprocessors to wireless communications. They also represent one of the most challenging design hurdles to overcome and are often the reason for failing silicon, said Xpedion. The capability of GoldenGate to accurately ensure proper PLL operation is an industry first, asserted Xpedion. The developer said that it has been validated through measured silicon.

"We worked with Xpedion to successfully verify simulated results against measured data for our CMOS PLL with over 500 transistors operating at 622 MHz, including the crystal oscillator and the integer divider," stated Pierre Guebels, vice president of engineering at Phaselink Corp. "This capability is a tremendous step forward in successfully verifying PLLs prior to tape-out."

It takes advantage of Xpedion's leadership in harmonic-balance capacity, simulation speed and phase-noise analysis, according to the developer. GoldenGate allows designers to view full noise contributions from all contributors, including the crystal oscillator, allowing designers to pinpoint and fix problems. Historically, this is done through an iterative process of respins, added Xpedion.

"We are able to address a clear need in the industry to verify proper PLL operation through our advanced capabilities," said George Estep, director of applications engineering at Xpedion. "This capability will save our customers painful design iterations allowing them to get their products to market faster."

Currently, Xpedion is engaging with existing customers on this technology through partnerships and service agreements.

www.xpedion.com