The design of sigma-delta modulation analog-to-digital converters

The author examines the practical design criteria for implementing oversampled analog/digital converters based on second-order sigma-delta (ΣΔ) modulation. Behavioral models that include representation of various circuit impairments are established for each of the functional building blocks comprising a second-order Σ2gD modulator. Extensive simulations based on these models are then used to establish the major design criteria for each of the building blocks. As an example, these criteria are applied to the design of a modulator that has been integrated in a 3-μm CMOS technology. An experimental prototype operates from a single 5-V supply, dissipates 12 mW, occupies an area of 0.77 mm², and has achieved a measured dynamic range of 89 dB