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Three Ways to Accelerate Cell Layout in DTCO

Three Ways to Accelerate Cell Layout in DTCO

The device technology co-optimization (DTCO) methodology requires generating large numbers of layouts. This article introduces a few ways of speeding up this time-consuming process using automation.


Nanoscale SCE: Electrostatic Challenges and FinFET/GAA Mitigation Solutions

Nanoscale SCE: Electrostatic Challenges and FinFET/GAA Mitigation Solutions

Learn how scaling beyond Dennard's limits triggered short-channel effects (SCE) and why transitioning from FinFET to Gate-All-Around (GAA) architectures is vital for 2 nm control.


Introduction to the Gilbert Multiplier

Introduction to the Gilbert Multiplier

This article explores the Gilbert cell, a widely used analog multiplier circuit.


Cadence Unwraps Agentic AI Super Agent for Chip Design and Verification

Cadence Unwraps Agentic AI Super Agent for Chip Design and Verification

Announced today, the new ChipStack AI Super Agent from Cadence automates front end silicon design and verification, delivering a 10X productivity increase.


News Feb 10, 2026 by Duane Benson
Second-Order Type-2 PLLs: Bode Diagrams, Bandwidth, and Overshoot

Second-Order Type-2 PLLs: Bode Diagrams, Bandwidth, and Overshoot

Learn how to select the zero frequency, damping factor, and loop bandwidth for one of the most popular PLL configurations.


Singulation—Literally Cutting Edge—Is Gaining More Importance for Wafer Fabs

Singulation—Literally Cutting Edge—Is Gaining More Importance for Wafer Fabs

Singulation (wafer dicing) is critical for IC wafer manufacturing. Laser/plasma dicing is replacing mechanical methods. Lidrotec's laser-liquid technology offers virtually zero-damage cuts.


News Feb 06, 2026 by Gordon Feller
Understanding the Time-Domain Response of PLLs With Lag-Lead Filters

Understanding the Time-Domain Response of PLLs With Lag-Lead Filters

In this article, we examine how adding a zero to the PLL loop filter affects the transient behavior and steady-state errors.


Understanding the PDK Generation Process

Understanding the PDK Generation Process

In this article, we'll walk through the steps of generating a Process Design Kit (PDK) for digital standard cell libraries.


Introducing the Lag-Lead Filter

Introducing the Lag-Lead Filter

Learn how using a pole-zero loop filter improves PLL performance and design flexibility over the simpler lag filter.


Our 2025 Top Trend: AI Assimilates

Our 2025 Top Trend: AI Assimilates

Do you remember when supercomputers were described by their processing power? That was so 2024. Today, we talk about the power for processing. Goodbye terraops, hello terrawatt-hours!


News Dec 28, 2025 by Dale Wilson
Our Top 2025 Research Stories: Rubber CMOS, Washable Electronics, and More

Our Top 2025 Research Stories: Rubber CMOS, Washable Electronics, and More

Enjoy this roundup of our favorite All About Circuits research news articles of 2025!


News Dec 26, 2025 by Jeff Child
From 124-Layer PCBs to the 555 Timer: Our Favorite Content of the Year

From 124-Layer PCBs to the 555 Timer: Our Favorite Content of the Year

Explore our editors' top picks from 2025, featuring breakthrough AI hardware, legendary chip history, behind-the-scenes insights, and exclusive industry interviews.


News Dec 25, 2025 by Dale Wilson
Understanding the Limitations of the Second-Order Type-1 PLL With a Lag Filter

Understanding the Limitations of the Second-Order Type-1 PLL With a Lag Filter

In this article, we analyze the steady-state errors and Bode plots for a second-order PLL with a simple, first-order loop filter.


FPGAs Need a New Future

FPGAs Need a New Future

FPGAs are limited by outdated proprietary software. Learn how embracing open-source tools is necessary to modernize FPGA development and unlock their full potential.


Analyzing a First-Order PLL in Acquisition Mode With a Nonlinear Model

Analyzing a First-Order PLL in Acquisition Mode With a Nonlinear Model

In this article, we'll use a nonlinear mathematical model to improve our understanding of how a first-order PLL locks to a signal.


Foundations for PLL Nonlinear Analysis: Modeling the Phase Detector and VCO

Foundations for PLL Nonlinear Analysis: Modeling the Phase Detector and VCO

The phase-locked loop (PLL) is widely used in contemporary analog and digital communication systems. In this article, we develop a nonlinear model for the analog PLL by analyzing its key components.


A New Generation of RF Switches at the Heart of 5G Systems

A New Generation of RF Switches at the Heart of 5G Systems

Learn how advanced RF MEMS switches with high linearity, low loss, and fast switching speeds are enabling modern cellular communication systems.


FM Demodulation Using a Phase-Locked Loop

FM Demodulation Using a Phase-Locked Loop

PLL demodulators are popular, easy to implement, and offer superior noise performance compared to many other FM demodulator circuits. Learn how they operate in this article.


Upbeat Technology’s RISC-V MCU Takes Flight With Near-Threshold Computing

Upbeat Technology’s RISC-V MCU Takes Flight With Near-Threshold Computing

Developed with SiFive, the dual-core SoC uses patented error correction to achieve a record 16.8 µW/MHz/DMIPS, targeting next-gen wearables, drones, and IoT sensors.


News Oct 17, 2025 by Dale Wilson
At Its Innovators Day Event, Altera Unveils Expanded Agilex FPGA Portfolio

At Its Innovators Day Event, Altera Unveils Expanded Agilex FPGA Portfolio

Today, the FPGA company revealed an array of new announcements at its annual Altera Innovators Day developer conference.


News Sep 30, 2025 by Jake Hertz