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Introduction to Functional Block Library
The functional block library is a library within the Virtuoso ADE and is used by analog designers as a high-level design tool.
The Functional Blocks contain the essential functionality of the parts they are modelling. However, the models are not fully representative of the equivalent parts. For example, an amplifier functional block has no differential pair on its input, so input biases such as CMRR (Common Mode Rejection Ratio) are not accounted for. Also, a majority of these blocks is assumed to be ideal. The amplifier amplifies with no drift, the input impedance is infinite, and the output impedance is zero. However, you can use the functional block library with all other installed analog libraries and with basic SPICE primitives so you can add complexity and effects, such as frequency response.
Each functional block consists of at least two parts: the symbol and its associated model. The models directory must be in the model path of the Environment Options form. Also, the library directory must be present in the search path of the Set Library Search Path form.
For spectre simulation, the models directory path is:
your_install_dir/tools/dfII/etc/cdslib/artist/functional/allFunc.scs
You can specify the path to the model libraries in the Model Library Setup form. To open the form, choose Setup – Model Libraries from the simulation window.
The library directory path is:
your_install_dir/tools/dfII/etc/cdslib/artist
You can specify the path to the library in the Library Path Editor window. To open the window, choose Tools – Library Path Editor from the Virtuoso Studio CIW.
Licensing Requirements
For information about licensing in the Virtuoso Studio design environment, see
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