[2023] Configurable LDOs in Advanced CMOS Technology for RF SoC

Linear Low Drop out （LDO）regulators ​play a significant role in ​overall System on Chips(SoCs) performance. Because there are different voltage domains and load currents, SoCs ​have multiple LDOs with different requirements. ​Even for the same voltage domain, multiple LDOs are typically used for isolation purposes. On the other hand,  the low supply voltages, high load currents, ​and challenging PSRR requirements in advanced CMOS technology and modern SOCs are making the LDO design more and more challenging. Moreover, because an LDO is generally designed to serve a defined spec, any spec change, for future projects or spec changes in later stages of the project itself, can be quite costly. Such change would require a lot of extra redesign and simulation work and potentially hurt the schedule.

In this project, we are going to develop an LDO in ​an advanced CMOS process targeting RF SoC ​applications. The input voltage is 3.3V. Both the output voltage （e.g. 1.8V, 1.5V）and the output current capacity(e.g. upto 500mA) can be tuned or configured such that only part of the circuitry needs modification or redesign in order to meet different requirements while still achieving the optimal silicon area and performance. Because there are multiple LDOs in the SoC, the isolation between the loads and supplies (PSRR) ​as well as isolation between ​different LDOs can be another challenge. Also, since some LDOs are used for sensitive circuits like VCOs, noise performance can be challenging.    

This project comes with a monthly stipend lasting for ~1 year.

Assignment

1. Literature review of DC/DC converters, LDOs, and associated power management circuits.
2. Design of a highly efficient LDO with 28nm technology. Tape-out is possible depending on the design and available time.

Requirements

You should be familiar with analog IC design and Cadence environment. If you are interested, please send your CV, BSc transcripts, and MSc grades (obtained to date) to Sijun Du at email: Sijun.Du@tudelft.nl

Contact

Last modified: 2023-09-21