LDO Simulation

Overview

This section provides documentation for running simulations on the LDO design to evaluate its performance characteristics such as PSRR, phase margin, and open-loop gain. A Python script is used to automate the simulations and generate relevant figures.

To run the Python script, navigate to the folder containing the schematic testbench files and use the following command in your terminal:

python3 run.py

Closed-Loop Simulations

LDO close-loop simulation schematic

LDO close-loop simulation schematic

The closed-loop simulations performed on the LDO module include:

  • AC Simulation: Used to evaluate the Power Supply Rejection Ratio (PSRR).

  • DC Simulation: Used to evaluate line regulation and PSRR.

  • Load Simulation: Used to evaluate load regulation.

  • Transient Simulation: Used to evaluate the transient response of the LDO.

Each of these simulations provides insight into a specific aspect of the LDO’s performance. The following figures illustrate the results of these simulations, offering a visual representation of the LDO’s behavior under various conditions.

LDO PSRR

LDO close-loop simulations

From this simulations the following table of specs is extracted:

Parameter

Value

Dropout Voltage (mV)

246

Line Regulation (mV/V)

0.94

Load Regulation (mV/mA)

0.004

Quiscient Current (uA)

47

Open-Loop Simulations

LDO close-loop simulation schematic

LDO open-loop simulation schematic

The open-loop simulations performed on the LDO module include:

  • AC Simulation: Used to extract the open-loop gain and phase margin.

The AC simulation for open-loop analysis provides critical insights into the stability and performance of the LDO. The following figure illustrates the open-loop gain and phase margin.

LDO Open-Loop Stability

LDO Open-Loop Stability

Parameter

Value

Loop Gain (dB)

72.8

Phase Margin (degrees)

64.6

Monte Carlo Simulations

Monte Carlo simulations are used to statistically evaluate the performance variations of the LDO module. By running multiple instances of simulations with random variations in the parameters, we can understand how the LDO behaves under different conditions. This helps in assessing the robustness and reliability of the design.

In this section, we perform Monte Carlo simulations for both closed-loop and open-loop parameters. The key metrics analyzed include:

  • Closed-Loop Parameters: Such as PSRR, line regulation, load regulation, and dropout.

  • Open-Loop Parameters: Including open-loop gain and phase margin.

The following figures show the distribution of these parameters based on the Monte Carlo simulations. Each histogram provides a visual representation of the variation and spread of the respective parameter, helping to identify the statistical range and average performance.

Monte Carlo closeloop histograms

Monte Carlo closeloop histograms

Monte Carlo openloop histograms

Monte Carlo openloop histograms