Module Title:Microelectronic Design 1
Language of Instruction:English
Credits: 10
NFQ Level:8
Module Delivered In 2 programme(s)
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 students' solutions.
Module Aim: To provide: (a) Detailed analyses of semiconductor devices and their CAD models. (b) Knowledge of circuit-level simulation and layout tools. (c) Methodologies for digital and analogue IC analysis and design.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner should be able to:
LO1 Carry out a variety of simulations using a modern circuit simulator.
LO2 Derive and utilise semiconductor device models in circuit design simulations.
LO3 Layout and verify integrated circuit designs.
LO4 Design and analyse integrated amplifier circuits and cascodes.
LO5 Design and analyse current mirrors & reference circuits.
LO6 Design and analyse differential amplifiers.
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 & Layout
SPICE Device Elements; Semiconductor Devices; Analysis Modes and Techniques; Full-Custom IC Layout.
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 Configurations.
4. Amplifier & Cascode Configurations
BJT & MOS integrated amplifiers; Cascoded transconductors and loads.
5. Current Mirrors & References
MOS and bipolar Current Mirroring; Temperature and Sensitivity Analysis; Voltage and Current Referencing.
6. Differential Amplifiers
Qualitative Analysis and Bipolar/MOSFET Differences; Small-Signal and Large-Signal Analysis; Cascode Differential Amplifiers; Common-Mode Rejection; Use of Active Loads.
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 written examination during the module. 2,4,5,6 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. 1,2,3,4,5,6 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. 1,2,3,4,5,6 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 4.00
Practicals Every Week 3.00
Independent Learning Time Every Week 3.00
Total Hours 10.00
 

Module Delivered In

Programme Code Programme Semester Delivery
CW_EEBEE_B Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Biomedical Electronics 7 Mandatory
CW_EESYS_B Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Electronic Engineering 7 Mandatory