Module Title:Microelectronic Design
Language of Instruction:English
Credits: 10
NFQ Level:8
Module Delivered In No Programmes
Teaching & Learning Strategies: Teaching will take the form of problem-based learning during tutorials and practical classes. An emphasis will be placed on relating individual circuits and devices to useful practical applications both in theory and practical classes. Circuit simulation software will be used extensively in the problem-solving sessions to validate student’s solutions.
Module Aim: To provide: Detailed analyses of semiconductor devices and their CAD models; Knowledge of circuit-level simulation tools; Methodologies for digital and analogue IC analysis and design.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner should be able to:
LO1 Derive and utilise semiconductor device models in circuit design simulations.
LO2 Layout and verify integrated circuit designs.
LO3 Design and analyse analogue IC building blocks such as current mirrors and differential amplifiers.
LO4 Design and analyse static and dynamic CMOS gates at a transistor level.
Pre-requisite learning
Module Recommendations

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is recommended before enrolment in this module.
No recommendations listed
Incompatible Modules
These are modules which have learning outcomes that are too similar to the learning outcomes of this module.
No incompatible modules listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Requirements
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is mandatory before enrolment in this module is allowed.
Students should have completed a module equivalent to the following from CW527: Analysis of Analogue Circuits (yr3).
 

Module Content & Assessment

Indicative Content
1. Circuit Simulation
SPICE Device Elements; Semiconductor Devices; Analysis Modes and Techniques; Convergence Issues.
2. Semiconductor Fabrication
Wafer Preparation and Mask-making; Layering, Patterning and Doping; Electrical Tests and Die Packaging.
3. Semiconductor Device Modelling
Semiconductor Materials and their Properties; PN Junction and BJT Modelling; MOSFET Modelling; Amplifier Configuration.
4. Cascode Stages and Current Mirrors
MOS and bipolar Current Mirroring; Cascode Configurations; Temperature and Sensitivity Analysis; Voltage and Current Referencing.
5. Differential Amplifiers
Qualitative Analysis and Bipolar/MOSFET Differences; Small-Signal and Large-Signal Analysis; Cascode Differential Amplifiers; Common-Mode Rejection; Use of Active Loads.
6. Frequency Response
High-Frequency Device Modelling; Frequency Response of CE and CS Stages; Frequency Response of CC and CD Stages; Frequency Response of Cascode and Differential Stages.
7. Feedback
Properties of Negative Feedback; Feedback Topologies; Effect of Non-ideal I/O Impedances; Stability in Feedback Systems.
9. Digital CMOS Cells
Dynamic and Static Characterisation of Gates; CMOS Inverter; Static CMOS Logic Design; Power and Delay Considerations; Static Sequential Cell Design.
8. Mixed Signal Circuits
ADC and DAC Circuits; Switched-Capacitor Comparator; PLLs.
Assessment Breakdown%
Continuous Assessment20.00%
Practical20.00%
End of Module Formal Examination60.00%
Continuous Assessment
Assessment Type Assessment Description Outcome addressed % of total Assessment Date
Examination Students will sit a series of written examinations during the module. 1,2,3 20.00 n/a
No Project
Practical
Assessment Type Assessment Description Outcome addressed % of total Assessment Date
Practical/Skills Evaluation Students will complete a series of practical assignments under supervision using circuit simulation software. 1,2,3 20.00 n/a
End of Module Formal Examination
Assessment Type Assessment Description Outcome addressed % of total Assessment Date
Formal Exam A written examination, at the end of the module, will examine the extent of the student’s achievement of the learning outcomes 1,2,3,4 60.00 End-of-Semester

SETU Carlow Campus reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment

 

Module Workload

Workload: Full Time
Workload Type Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload
Lecture Every Week 2.00
Laboratory Every Week 2.00
Tutorial Every Week 1.00
Estimated Learner Hours Every Week 2.00
Total Hours 7.00