Designing a Ring Oscillator Using Nanotechnology through Cadence Virtuoso

Abstract

This paper presents the design and simulation of a ring oscillator using nanotechnology and the Cadence Virtuoso platform. As feature sizes continue to shrink, new design methodologies are required to account for quantum effects that become prominent at the nanoscale. This paper utilizes predictive technology models for a 45nm process to design a three-stage ring oscillator with minimum channel lengths. The ring oscillator design is optimized through careful selection of transistor characteristics and layout considerations. Post-layout simulations demonstrate functionality with oscillation frequency and phase noise matching expected theoretical values. The completed design provides a demonstration of a basic analog circuit block implemented with nanoscale technology.