Final thesis: Analog Design and Validation of High-Voltage-DAC for Electro-Optic Devices

Developing innovative technology solutions and bringing them to application - that is our goal at the Fraunhofer Institute for Photonic Microsystems IPMS. With our expertise in the development of photonic microsystems, related technologies including nanoelectronics and wireless communication solutions, we create - in flexible and interdisciplinary teams - technologies for innovative products in a wide range of markets such as automotive, industrial and aerospace.

Electro-optic modulators (EOMs) play an important role in influencing photons in opto-integrated systems. Electro-optic modulators work on the basis of Pockels effect which modifies the refractive index of certain optical waveguides thereby influencing the photon carried by it. As a part of the data acquisition and control unit of a mixed signal electro-optical integrated circuit (IC) a High Voltage-Digital Analog Converter (HV-DAC) is required. The high voltage, high speed and scalability are key challenges to control an EOM array. Fraunhofer IPMS has been developing IP cores as well as complete digital and analog ASICs for many years. In this work, HV-DAC architectures will be explored and compared to an existing high speed HV-DAC topology. The selected architecture will be designed as schematic and validated in Virtuoso. In the next step, the DAC layout will be done in a selected target technology and the Digital-To-Analog-Converter (DAC) is characterized by post-layout simulation.

What you will do

• DAC and amplifier architecture exploration and literature survey
• Analog design and validation in Cadence Virtuoso
• Layout design
• Post-Layout Simulation
• Documentation of results

These tasks can be implemented as a topic for a master thesis or diploma thesis.

What you bring to the table

• Studies in electrical engineering, computer science or a related field
• Basics of analog integrated design
• First experiences with working in Cadence Virtuoso environment and associated simulation tools
• Know-how of analog layout design
• Experience in Layout in modern ASIC nodes will be an added advantage
• Good English and basic German skills

What you can expect

We offer you an exciting topic and individual support in the preparation of your thesis by experienced employees. A motivated and dynamic team awaits you in a very well equipped, research and development environment. In addition, we offer you connecting points within the framework of your studies or your career entry, e.g. a following PhD, the beginning of your scientific career as a junior scientist at Fraunhofer IPMS or becoming an engineer. We support you in this process!

The scientific work will be carried out in the research group Data Communication & Computing at Fraunhofer IPMS in Dresden. The examination takes place via affiliation with a German university of applied sciences and is governed by the respective state university law.

We value and promote the diversity of our employees' skills and therefore welcome all applications - regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, ideology, disability, sexual orientation and identity. Severely disabled persons are given preference in the event of equal suitability.

The weekly working time is to be agreed individually. The position is temporary for the time of the scientific work. The duration is flexible according to agreement and possible study guidelines. 

With its focus on developing key technologies that are vital for the future and enabling the commercial utilization of this work by business and industry. Fraunhofer plays a central role in the innovation process. As a pioneer and catalyst for groundbreaking developments and scientific excellence, Fraunhofer helps shape society now and in the future.

Interested? Apply online now with your significant application documents, transcript of records and enrollment certificate. We look forward to getting to know you!  

Contact

Mrs. Sabrina Weimert
Human Resource
Phone: +49 (0)351 8823 415

Mr. Dr. Michael Faulwaßer
Specialty Department
Phone: +49 (0)351 8823 214

Fraunhofer-Institut für Photonische Mikrosysteme IPMS 

www.ipms.fraunhofer.de 

Kennziffer: 69041