Abstract
This paper addresses a modeling and simulation methodology for analog circuit design with amorphous-GIZO thin-film transistors (TFTs). To reach an effective circuit design flow, with commercially available tools, a TFT model has been first developed with an artificial neural network (ANN). Multilayer perceptron with backpropagation algorithm has been adopted to model the static behavior of the TFT devices, for different aspect ratios. The model was then implemented in Verilog-A, to allow a quick instantiation in circuit. Simulations using Cadence Spectre are performed to validate the model. On a second phase, simulation results of basic analog circuits, with this ANN model, are verified against the actual functional results, namely an adder, subtractor, and current mirror circuit. Results demonstrate not only the ANN model accuracy and compatibility with dc and transient analysis, but also show the a-GIZO TFT capability to perform analog operations. © 2012 IEEE.

Abstract
This paper presents an initiative to involve ECE undergraduate students in the design and deployment of a network infrastructure for an academic laboratory. The project aims at attaining a reliable and secure network for an IC CAD environment. The students focused on employing secure authentication, accounting and storage with single sign-on, based on enterprise-grade, open-source protocols. This initiative proved to be highly motivating and allowed the students to develop knowledge and hands-on experience on the area of network security. The resulting network design and core infrastructure is herein described as well as its deployment in a real microelectronics design environment. © 2011 IEEE.

Abstract
This paper presents a predictive current control algorithm for a synchronous buck converter using an extended Kalman filter (EKF) algorithm. The predictive approach avoids the need of current-sensing circuitry and provides insensitivity to Gaussian noise sources at the output of the buck converter, which is the same as the control loop input. The method requires a model for the buck converter, the EKF design, and current loop tuning. All these prerequisites are described in this work along with the implementation of the algorithm in a state of the art microcontroller. Simulation and experimental results show that while maintaining a good step response, the proposed method provides better results than standard methods when Gaussian noise is present at the output voltage. © 2017 Inderscience Enterprises Ltd.