FPGA Realtime Spectrum Analyzer

The purpose of this project is to explore the design of a realtime spectrum analyzer using an FPGA and custom designed PCB with the high speed ADCs and any analog control circuitry. This project will involve mixed signal system design work, implementation of the digital parts of the spectrum analyzer in an FPGA and design and implementation of a custom PCB. The project could also involve some IC design investigation work but there wouldn’t be time to fabricate an IC design.

Some of the main tasks for the project include:

1. High level systems design and analysis (using Matlab)

2. FPGA design and implementation of the digital blocks including controllers, I/O interfaces, digital filters etc.

3. Hardware design and implementation of the ADCs and analog control circuitry PCB.

4. Design of a custom digital IC in cadence 65nm CMOS process (optional)

Note: Each of the tasks could have one or two students.