Trustworthy Topology Synthesis: MOJITO Algorithm

Abstract

This is the second of two chapters describing MOJITO, a design aid for analog circuit topology selection and design [Mcc2007, Mcc2008a, Mcc2008c, Pal2009].While the previous chapter described the MOJITO search space, this chapter describes the MOJITO search algorithm which traverses the space, along with MOJITO experimental results.

Even with the well-structured search space described in the previous chapter, there is a need for a highly competent search algorithm because the space is so large, and the performance estimation time for an individual can be on the order of minutes (using SPICE [Nag1973, Nag1975] to maintain industrial relevance, accuracy, and flexibility with technology nodes). We also need multiobjective results. Some degree of parallel computing is allowed – industrial setups for global automated sizing typically have a cluster of 5–30 CPUs.

Natural selection is a mechanism for generating an exceedingly high degree of improbability.

– Ronald A. Fisher