D-Parameters: A Novel Framework for Characterization and Behavioral Modeling of Mixed-Signal Systems

Recent advances in software-defined radio (SDR) technology have been pushing mixed-signal circuits to higher frequencies and forcing system integration in a single chip. These new mixed-signal devices have the capability to replace part of what was hitherto the analog side of the radio circuit, and simultaneously add several advantages. This imposes on radio engineers the need to understand and cope with these new developments. In this paper, a new framework for mixed-signal behavioral modeling is presented and discussed. It is an extension of the well-known scattering parameters, termed as D-parameters. Both linear and nonlinear methodologies are considered and analyzed. Also, application examples of this framework are presented as a way to model, characterize, and thus improve mixed-signal systems.