Evolvable analog LSIs: Adaptation to process variations via genetic algorithms

We propose a concept of evolvable analog LSIs and apply it to Intermediate Frequency (IF) filters, which are widely used in cellular phones. The developed chip can correct discrepancies in the values of analog circuit components by genetic algorithms (GAs), which have attained (1) a yield rate of 97%, (2) a 60% reduction of the filter area, and (3) a 38% reduction of power dissipation, compared with AKM commercial products. When analog Integrated Circuits (ICs) and Large-Scale Integrated Circuits (LSIs) are manufactured, the values of the analog circuit components, such as resistors or capacitors, often vary from the precise design specifications. Analog LSIs with such defective components cannot perform at required levels and thus have to be discarded. However, our technique can improve yield rates of analog LSIs and has two additional advantages, namely, smaller circuits and less power dissipation, which can lead to cost reductions and efficient implementation of analog LSIs. This approach could be applied to a wide variety of analog LSIs. (C) 2001 Scripta Technica.