Parasitic extraction (PEX) in electronic design automation (EDA) calculates parasitic effects — such as capacitances, resistances, and inductance — within integrated circuits (ICs). Parasitics are introduced during the physical manufacturing process in semiconductor foundries, affecting both IC devices and their interconnects (Figure 1). This article explores the three primary categories of parasitic effects, compares field […]
What are the different types of AI accelerators?
Whether in data centers or at the edge, artificial intelligence (AI) accelerators address the limitations of traditional von Neumann architecture by rapidly processing massive datasets. Despite the gradual slowing of Moore’s law, these accelerators efficiently enable key applications such as generative AI (GenAI), deep reinforcement learning (DRL), advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), smart edge devices, […]
How do generative AI, deep reinforcement learning, and large language models optimize EDA?
Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are playing an increasingly crucial role in optimizing electronic design automation (EDA) across the semiconductor industry. This article explores the rising complexity and costs of designing chips at advanced nodes. It highlights how generative AI (GenAI) and deep reinforcement learning (DRL) help semiconductor companies accelerate time to market […]
What is an analog front end (AFE) in a battery management system (BMS)?
Integrated into battery management systems (BMS), an analog front end (AFE) digitizes and processes key inputs to ensure safe and efficient operation. While AFEs play a crucial role in electric vehicle (EV) Lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery traction packs, they are also used in other applications, such as high-voltage data acquisition (DAQ) systems, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), […]
What are the seven basic logic gates in integrated circuits?
Logic gates efficiently process binary data to facilitate precise operations within integrated circuits (ICs). This article explains how these gates function and highlights their crucial role in digital and mixed-signal analog applications. It also reviews the seven most common logic gates, exploring key capabilities, operations, and use cases. Understanding logic gate operations and functions Logic […]
Why are analog signal conditioners important?
Signal conditioners filter, isolate, and amplify analog signals in consumer devices, measuring instruments, and industrial and automotive systems. This article highlights key applications that rely on signal conditioners and reviews their most common functions. It also explores different types of signal conditioners: universal, multi-channel, splitters, and isolators. From handheld devices to data acquisition systems Analog […]
Why use a switching regulator instead of a linear regulator for DC-to-DC conversion?
Most electronic systems rely on regulators to deliver stable direct current (DC) levels. This article explains how regulators operate and reviews the two primary types of regulators used for DC-to-DC conversion: switching and linear. It also compares their advantages and limitations, highlighting common use cases and applications for each. Regulating and refining DC voltage levels […]
What are the different types of circuit simulation?
Electronic engineers use advanced simulation tools to create virtual representations of complex electronic circuits. These “digital twins” streamline the circuit design process, accurately modeling silicon behavior and performance before physical fabrication. This article reviews the three primary circuit simulation categories: analog, digital, and mixed. It also discusses different simulation levels, such as block and chip, and […]
What is analog design for integrated circuits?
Analog design for integrated circuits (ICs) involves creating devices and systems that process continuous signals. Analog plays a crucial role in translating real-world information such as sound, light, and temperature into electrical signals and vice versa. This article discusses the primary differences between analog and digital ICs, reviews key analog applications, and explores common analog […]
