Sturdy-MASH Delta-Sigma Modulator with Improved Resolution Using Noise-coupling Multi-bit Quantizer

This paper presents several enhancements to the sturdy multi-stage noise-shaping delta-sigma modulators. The proposed topology improves the resolution and allows faster conversion speed without losing the dynamic range by employing noise-coupling and multi-bit quantizer at the second stage. Furthermore, a unity signal transfer function loop architecture presented in previous work is included to cancel the quantization noise of the first loop and improve the overall dynamic range. Simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed delta-sigma modulator and its suitability for high-resolution sensor systems. Up to 30 dB Signal-to-quantization noise ratio (SQNR) improvement and more than 20 dB SQNR with 1% deviation is achieved with the proposed architecture without compromising from the maximum stable amplitude.