ABSTRACT
As one might expect, the techniques and methods available in the engineering environment to simulate system level performance are quite diverse in technique and complexity [1-3]. Techniques include mathematically simple formula-based methods based upon simplified models of electrical elements. Such methods tend to be useful in the early design phase and are applied with the intent of providing insight into performance level and trade-off issues. While such methods tend to be computationally efficient allowing simulations to be performed rapidly, accuracy is limited in large part due to the use of simplified models representing electrical elements. Other techniques tend to be computationally intensive computeraided design (CAD) based where waveforms are generated and calculated throughout the system. The waveform level technique is more versatile and can accommodate describing electrical elements to almost any level of detail required, thereby exploring the system design and performance space in fine detail. The models may be simple or complex in mathematical form. In addition, it is possible to use measured component data (e.g., scattering parameters) or results from other simulators (e.g., small-and largesignal circuit simulations using harmonic balance where the active device is represented by a large-signal electrical model). The price for the improvement in accuracy is significantly longer, perhaps much longer simulation times and the requirement to very accurately describe the characteristics of the electrical components.
