System level design and optimization of single-loop CT sigma-delta modulators for high resolution wideband applications

In this paper, the main resolution limitations in single-stage continuous-time sigma-delta modulators (CT ΣΔMs) are analytically estimated as the function of system level parameters for wideband applications. The analytical results are supported by simulation results. The power consumption of CT ΣΔMs is also analytically estimated as the function of system level parameters, and then, it is validated by the reported power consumption of several state-of-the-art fabricated prototypes. Based on analytical results, for a targeted resolution and bandwidth, an algorithm is proposed to design the system level parameters of CT ΣΔMs for the minimum power consumption. The estimation of power consumption and the designed parameters match well with the design of best state-of-the-art fabricated modulators.