Achieving Convergence for High-Q XTAL Oscillators

When using Cadence's Virtuoso Periodic Steady State (PSS) analysis for high Q crystal oscillator simulations, it is often difficult to achieve convergence and thus impossible to model phase noise, even with options specifically designed to improve convergence. In this paper, we will discuss a method that greatly improves the probability of convergence and enables the simulation to be completed in a short period of time. This technique proved its effectiveness when the oscillator was embedded in a hierarchy of hundreds of other circuit modules.

EmilyDecember 12, 2024