Circuit Simulation Error Detection via Segmented Analog-Digital Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current circuit simulation tools, such as SPICE, face challenges in accurately checking circuit errors before integrated circuit production, particularly in identifying unintended DC paths and floating nodes, which can lead to inefficient designs and unnecessary current consumption.
Innovation Solution
A method that generates a netlist from a schematic circuit, simulates the circuit operation, and checks for errors using waveforms with discrete values to identify DC paths and floating nodes, thereby enhancing the speed and accuracy of error detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional SPICE simulation tools are used to simulate circuit operation, then circuit operation can be analyzed, but the ability to accurately detect DC paths and floating nodes is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The simulation process is segmented into two distinct phases: analog simulation using SPICE for operational analysis and digital simulation for error detection. This segmentation allows each simulation type to specialize in its strengths, with the digital phase specifically targeting DC path and floating node detection while the analog phase handles operational characteristics analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
A waveform file serves as an intermediary data structure between the analog SPICE simulation and the digital simulation phase. The waveform file contains node information and voltage data that bridges the two simulation approaches, enabling the digital simulation to detect errors without requiring direct integration with the analog simulator.
2Speed
If conventional SPICE simulation tools are used, then circuit operation analysis is possible, but detection speed is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The simulation process is segmented into two distinct phases: analog simulation using SPICE for operational analysis and digital simulation for error detection. This segmentation allows each simulation type to specialize in its strengths, with the digital phase specifically targeting DC path and floating node detection while the analog phase handles operational characteristics analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical/analog SPICE simulation approach with a digital simulation method for error detection. By substituting the continuous analog analysis with discrete digital waveform analysis, the system achieves faster detection speeds while maintaining adequate precision for identifying DC paths and floating nodes.
3Reliability
If only analog SPICE simulation is performed, then operational characteristics can be analyzed, but unintended DC paths and floating nodes cannot be effectively identified
Solution Approach 1:
The simulation process is segmented into two distinct phases: analog simulation using SPICE for operational analysis and digital simulation for error detection. This segmentation allows each simulation type to specialize in its strengths, with the digital phase specifically targeting DC path and floating node detection while the analog phase handles operational characteristics analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The dual simulation approach provides multi-functionality: the first simulation handles analog operational characteristics, while the second simulation handles digital error detection. This universal approach allows a single simulation workflow to perform multiple functions that would be difficult to achieve with a single simulation type.
Data Source
AI summary
A circuit simulation method for checking a circuit error is disclosed. The method may include generating a netlist with respect to a designed circuit, simulating an operation of the designed circuit using the generated netlist, and checking an error of the designed circuit using the generated netlist and using a waveform generated when performing the simulation.