The Advanced Science and Technology Institute (ASTI) and the Virtual Center for Technological Innovation in Microelectronics (VCTI-Micro) under the Department of Science and Technology, has recently conducted the OpenLab Training Series course entitled Data Conversion Fundamentals.

The training was conducted last February 23-24, 2005 at the ASTI Building, C.P. Garcia Avenue, UP Diliman, Quezon City. It was attended by nine participants from both the academe and the industry. Seven participants were faculty members from the following universities: University of San Jose Recoletos, University of South Eastern Philippines, Xavier University, St. Louis University, Mariano Marcos State University and Samar State University. Two participants were from Sanyo Semiconductor Philippines.

The training covered topics on data converter operation, DAC/ADC architectures, DAC/ADC characterization, and converter testing. Laboratory exercises were also performed using Scilab. Participants acquired knowledge on the basics of data conversion, converter characterization, and the distinctions between the different converter architectures as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each. The training also provided them with an opportunity to test the static and dynamic characteristics of data converters using a system simulator.

The VCTI-Micro is a flagship program of the Philippine Government established to strengthen the microelectronics base in the country. The ASTI-VCTI Open Laboratory project maintains an IC design laboratory equipped with EDA tools for digital and analog IC design. In view of its mission to catalyze advancements in microelectronics research in the Philippines, the laboratory is made open to the public for use in applied research. Aside from that, it also has a team of highly capable trainors conducting trainings and seminars in digital and analog IC design.