The effect of device models on simulator architecture

Analogue designers and modellers have learnt to be extremely creative using the restricted simulator primitive set available in standard SPICE. This paper explores the modelling, simulation limits and restrictions imposed on designers using SPICE-based tools, and contrasts the Analogue Hardware Description Language (AHDL) approach. Of particular interest are the improvements in performance and accuracy that may be achieved by using an AHDL, and the scope for more complex device modelling