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66 DESIGN007 MAGAZINE I AUGUST 2023 Modelithics has partnered with a variety of EDA companies. How does this all work? Modelithics has long-standing partnerships with many EDA soware companies. rough these partnerships, we provide model "plug-n- plan" libraries for several different EDA so- ware tools. Customers can obtain these librar- ies, which can be considered an add-on to the soware tool itself. We work closely with the EDA companies to ensure the models stay compatible with the latest EDA soware ver- sions as well as new model features and capa- bilities. For example, new library versions are typically released immediately aer a new EDA soware version is released so that the EDA soware companies and mutual custom- ers can use the most recent EDA soware ver- sions with our libraries. Chris, you say that you have the "world's best RF and microwave simulation models." What are some of the modeling challenges that you help your RF and microwave customers to address? When Modelithics first started in 2001, the company's goal was to address a need in the industry for quality models for RF/microwave components held to a high accuracy standard. While some vendors have good models, we are unique in the industry for providing accurate models with standardized features for over 70 vendors. We pioneered the idea of a model information datasheet for microwave device models. Whereas all vendors have datasheets for their devices, we have extensive datasheets on the models we have developed for those devices, giving many details of the models' ranges of validity, scalability, and much more information benefitting designers. What we have accomplished is we have brought the type of first pass design success required for semiconductor-based ICs to the discrete PCB and thin-film board-based design space. What was true when we started 22 years ago is true now. When simulations are performed with inadequate models, the simulated results will likely fall short of accurately predict- ing real-life performance. is discrepancy oen results in multiple printed-circuit-board (PCB) iterations and/or a great deal of bench tuning, lengthened time to market, and con- siderable real and opportunity costs and inef- ficiencies. On the other hand, these models make it possible to accurately predict real-life per- formance on the first attempt. is first-pass design success not only lets companies reduce costs but it shortens schedules and improves overall productivity. In addition to providing simulation models, you offer characterization and modeling services. Walk us through these services. We have a large amount of test-and-measure- ment equipment at our disposal. For instance, in terms of S-parameter measurement capabil- ity, multiple vector-network-analyzer (VNA) test platforms cover frequencies ranging from 5 Hz to 170 GHz. Load-pull and noise-param- eter measurements can be performed all the way to mmWave frequencies. We can also perform DC and pulsed IV measurements for diodes and transistors. In terms of modeling services, some of these capabilities were mentioned earlier. For RLC Chris DeMartino