An integrated test core for mixed-signal circuits comprises a periodic waveform
generator capable of generating arbitrary band-limited waveforms for excitation
purposes and a waveform digitizer for extracting an arbitrary waveform from the
test circuit's analog response signal. The digitized response may be tested and
measured using DSP techniques. Preferably, the waveform generator and digitizer
are synchronously controlled. The core is a nearly all digital implementation with
the exception of a reconstruction filter (optional) for sending the test signal
to the circuit under test (CUT) and the comparator for extracting the digitized
waveform from the CUT's response. The periodic waveform generator may comprise
a modulator and, optionally, a reconstruction filter between the
modulator and CUT. The waveform digitizer may comprise a programmable reference
voltage generator for providing a variable voltage reference signal, a comparator
for generating a comparison signal from the CUT's analog response signal and the
reference signal and means for controlling the reference voltage generator.