C. Baena

Measurement of the Switching Activity of CMOS Digital Circuits at the Gate Level

Accurate estimation of switching activity is very important in digital circuits. In this paper we present a comparison between the evaluation of the switching activity calculated using logic (Verilog) and electrical (HSPICE) simulators. We also study how the variation on the delay model (min, typ, max) and parasitic effects affect the number of transitions in the circuit. Results show a variable and significant overestimation of this measurement using logic simulators even when including postlayout effects. Furthermore, we show the contribution of glitches to the overall switching activity, giving that the treatment of glitches in conventional logic simulators is the main cause of switching activity overestimation.

Innovative learning and teaching methodology in electronic technology area: A case of study in Computer Science University degrees

This paper describes an experience that has been carried out by several professors in different subjects. Our experience is framed within the First Plan in Teaching of the University of Seville. All involved subjects belong to the electronic technology area and from three Computer Science degrees. We propose to use, in a combined way, some learning techniques: cooperative learning as complement to traditional learning, role-playing technique and jigsaw technique. We have considered a base methodology but in each subject a variant of it has been accomplished. We have used several evaluation techniques, such as reciprocal evaluation, electronic portfolio and check lists. Applying our methodology helps us to detect learning problems before the term ends. Also, in tune with the framework of the European Higher Education Area (EHEA), our methology gives a boost to develop transversal competences as important as work (or study) management, empathy and understanding of other members in a workgroup, conflict resolution, capacity to make decisions as well as coordinate and communicate with other members in a workgroup and also with the professor.

AUTODDM: automatic characterization tool for the delay degradation model

As delay models used in logic timing simulation become more and more complex, the problem of model parameter values extraction arise as an important issue, which it is necessary to face in order to achieve a practical implementation of the model. In this way, this paper describes the characterization process associated with the previously developed delay degradation model for CMOS logic gates (DDM) and the implementation of an automatic characterization tool that automates the process and allows easy and fast model parameter extraction.

Educational applications of a pico-processor design

Knowledge of the internal structure and operating mechanism of microprocessors is a very important part in for engineers in electronics and computer science. This knowledge can be deepened with experiences of processor design, which also meet many aspects linked to other basic skills. However, due to its complexity, the design of commercial processors is not effective from an educational point of view. In this communication we present a VHDL design experience of a very simple processor that shows multiple learning posed to the student.

Creating helping posters for electronic labs

A Project is presented whose aim was to develop a set of posters that, as small tutorials, shows in a very visual way what are the basic task to do in a laboratory of electronic. These posters are directed to students of several subjects and degrees. Poster has been selected as didactic material because it is a low cost, friendly and easy method to recall information and to present the contents with explanations. Eight posters have been made with topics like the use of electronic instruments, circuit assembly, circuit verification, measurement and troubleshooting.

A message transmission system with lightweight encryption as a project in a Master subject

Master subjects should ideally be very practical, to allow students to apply the knowledge they have acquired to the solving of specific problems. This paper proposes the design of a secure communications system using an SPI bus as a Master subject. The system designed uses a stream cipher to encrypt and decrypt data and allows transmission of random length messages. It also uses CRCs to check message integrity.