The evaluation of the dynamic performances for high speed A/D converters using mathematical models and simulations

Abstract

Data converters are essential parts that enable communication between the external analog world and the digital devices. They should not compromise precision even though the hardware in which they are implemented relies on semiconductor devices known for their poor accuracy. Experimentation is essential to become fully acquainted with the converters performances. Theory is generally unable to quantitatively trace the impact of impairments due to the large amount of data that must be handled. Mathematical models and simulations provide a clean insight view. However, it may be very time consuming when performed at the component level. Using a simulation tool like Matlab, there are means to perform simulations that do not require such excessive computation times.