Analog circuit optimization using adjoint network based sensitivity analysis

Performance optimization as per the desired specifications is a major requirement of analog and mixed signal circuit design process. Rapid scaling of the semiconductor technology demands efficient optimization techniques with minimal manual efforts. In this paper, a gradient based method for analog circuit optimization using adjoint network based sensitivity analysis is presented. The sensitivity of circuit response with respect to the different parameters is computed by using analog circuit and its adjoint transformation. The proposed method is applied to optimize performance of a two stage operational amplifier (OpAmp). Subsequently, the OpAmp circuit is simulated using Cadence Virtuoso for optimized parameters and the results are validated with post fabrication measurement results.