Towards a BIST technique for noise figure evaluation

Abstract

This work presents some results regarding the development of a BIST technique capable of noise figure evaluation. Noise figure is an important parameter in the specification and design of low noise systems, such as communications systems and biomedical instrumentation. A review of published techniques for noise figure evaluation is provided. A new technique aimed to estimate noise figure in a SoC environment is then proposed. The technique is based on the use of a simple and low cost noise generator. Simulation results are provided in order to make an initial evaluation of the feasibility of the proposed approach.