Key Responsibilities:
1. Circuit Architecture & Design.
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Design high-speed (>100MS/s) Successive Approximation Register (SAR) ADCs for applications like 5G, radar, and data converters.
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Optimize critical blocks: capacitor DAC arrays, high-speed comparators, bootstrapped switches, and digital control logic.
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Achieve target specifications: ENOB (Effective Number of Bits), SFDR (Spurious-Free Dynamic Range), power efficiency (FOM < 10 fJ/step).
2. Performance Optimization.
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Mitigate nonlinearity via capacitor matching techniques (common-centroid, dummy units).
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Reduce kickback noise, clock jitter, and metastability in comparators.
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Develop calibration algorithms (e.g., background LMS for capacitor mismatch).
3. Process & Technology Integration.
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Implement designs in advanced nodes (FinFET 7nm/5nm, 28nm CMOS).
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Model parasitics, device mismatch, and PVT (Process-Voltage-Temperature) variations.
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Collaborate with layout teams on matched routing, shielding, and EM/IR reliability.
4. Validation & Testing.
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Develop test plans for lab characterization (e.g., using high-speed oscilloscopes, BERTs).
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Perform post-silicon validation: INL/DNL, dynamic performance, jitter tolerance.
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Support ATE (Automated Test Equipment) program development for production.
5. Cross-Functional Collaboration.
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Work with systems team on ADC integration (e.g., in RF transceivers or SoCs).
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Document design specs, simulation reports, and silicon performance.
Required Qualifications:
1. With more than 8 years relevant experience in similar filed in semiconductor industry.
2. Technical Skills:
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Proficiency in EDA tools: Cadence Virtuoso, Spectre, HSPICE, MATLAB/Python for modeling.
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Deep understanding of ADC fundamentals: sampling theory, quantization noise, metastability.
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Experience with high-speed challenges: clock distribution, comparator offset cancellation, charge injection.
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Familiarity with mixed-signal verification (AMS, Verilog-A).
3. Preferred Expertise:
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Tape-out experience with SAR ADCs >500MS/s (e.g., 8–12 bits).
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Knowledge of hybrid architectures (e.g., SAR-assisted pipelined, time-interleaved SAR).
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Scripting for automation (Python, Tcl).