We propose a Built-In Self-Test (BIST) paradigm for analog and mixed-signal (A/M-S) Integrated Circuits (ICs), called symmetry-based BIST (SymBIST). SymBIST exploits inherent symmetries in an A/M-S IC to construct signals that are invariant by default, and subsequently checks those signals against a tolerance window. Violation of invariant properties points to the occurrence of a defect or abnormal operation. SymBIST is designed to serve as a functional safety mechanism. It is reusable ranging from post-manufacturing test, where it targets defect detection, to on-line test in the field of operation, where it targets low-latency detection of transient failures and degradation due to aging. We demonstrate SymBIST on a Successive Approximation Register (SAR) Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC). SymBIST features high defect coverage, short test time, low overhead, zero performance penalty, and has a fully digital interface making it compatible with modern digital test access mechanisms. Index Terms-Analog and mixed-signal integrated circuit testing, built-in self-test, design-for-test, defect-oriented test, defect simulation, on-line test, concurrent error detection.

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In this paper, we propose a defect-oriented Built-In Self-Test (BIST) paradigm for analog and mixed-signal (A/M-S) Integrated Circuits (ICs), called symmetry-based BIST (Sym-BIST). SymBIST exploits inherent symmetries into the design to generate invariances that should hold true only in defectfree operation. Violation of any of these invariances points to defect detection. We demonstrate SymBIST on a 65nm 10bit Successive Approximation Register (SAR) Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) IP by ST Microelectronics.

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As the transistor size approaches nano dimension, short channel effects become dominant in micro devices, leading to an incessant struggle to keep pace with Moore's law. This paved way to development of newer technologies like molecular electronics. The self-assembled bottom-up approach makes molecular switches more prone to defects than micro devices. The widely studied molecular switches are mechanically coupled and this paper deals with bistable rotaxane. Feasibility of using bistable rotaxane as a molecular electronic device is analysed in terms of total molecular energy, energy band gap, ionisation energy and distance between ring and dumbbell. Total molecular energy is the vital criteria that decides the feasibility of using a self-assembled rotaxane as a switch. Rotaxane has a band gap of 1.44 eV at Ground State CoConformer (GSCC) and hence acting as a semiconductor. Ionisation energy and position of ring are also important in deciding the switching activity. Due to process variations during self-assembly, ring can localise anywhere over the dumbbell and it may leads to a faulty switch. This work describes a method to verify the switching action of bistable rotaxane through simulation. Testing method described here is carried out before the actual manufacturing of nano crossbar and hence cost effective.

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