Re: What is the hottest research topic in mixed signal LSI f
I do not agree with what Colbhaidh discussed about the topic in ADCs.
Of course, different area have their own hittest research topics, and I agree with other topics that Colbhaidh discussed unless for the ADCs.
In terms on mixed-signal IC system perspective, ADCs surely is the most hittest topic in this area. Of course you can design 16-bit ADC and asked the customer to chop off the last 4 bit, but I think no one will buy your 16-bit ADC (especially in analog IP) to just used in 10-bit purpose due to exponentially increase power and silicon area requirement with the increasing number of bits. The most demanding and difficulties in ADCs are SIMUTANEOUSLY obtain high-speed, medium-to-high resolution (10-16 bit), resonable power and silicon consumption. I think the future trends need at least 10-bit ADCs in severl hundard MHz range, can 16-bit ADC process such high-speed?