Recent developments and trends in bipolar analog arrays

Recent developments in bipolar analog arrays are reviewed. The use of tiles, their characteristics, and impact on design is evaluated. The progression from breadboarding to computer-aided simulation of array circuits with sophisticated transistor models is discussed. Design layout tools and functional libraries for the user are also reviewed in terms of their importance to analog array design. The increased use of arrays has revealed new problems and responses to them are discussed. Limitations of analog arrays with respect to full custom IC design are delineated. The paper concludes with a short discussion of future trends.