Title:  A Software Infrastructure for Reconfigurable Mixed Signal Architectures

Committee: 

Dr. Hasler, Advisor      

Dr. Lim, Chair

Dr. Ferri

Abstract: The objective of the proposed research is to make FPAAs and its tool suite ripe for broad audiences. Digital design has prevailed in areas such as education, research, and prototyping with the aid of FPGAs and their tools. It appears some of the limiting factors prohibiting individuals from choosing to incorporate analog components in their designs are perceived difficulty, long design cycle, less exposure to hands-on analog design, and a large embracing community. With a suitable set of hardware and an accompanying software infrastructure, the benefits of using analog and mixed signal circuits for a range of applications can be explored. FPAAs are apt for this opportunity. One approach to permit FPAAs to overcome the hurdles mentioned is through education. The classroom, which embraces a small group of people, can be viewed as an extrapolation of the world. With this environment in mind, the appropriate tool specifications needed to create a user-friendly way for students to become familiar with analog design can be determined in a tangible manner. During this process, firsthand experience will be encouraged to foster a learning community without the hassle of a typical design cycle.