Design Optimization of Transistors Used for Neural Recording

Abstract EN

Neurons cultured directly over open-gate field-effect transistors result in a hybrid device, the neuron-FET.

Neuron-FET amplifier circuits reported in the literature employ the neuron-FET transducer as a current-mode device in conjunction with a transimpedance amplifier.

In this configuration, the transducer does not provide any signal gain, and characterization of the transducer out of the amplification circuit is required.

Furthermore, the circuit requires a complex biasing scheme that must be retuned to compensate for drift.

Here we present an alternative strategy based on the gm/Id design approach to optimize a single-stage common-source amplifier design.

The gm/Id design approach facilitates in circuit characterization of the neuron-FET and provides insight into approaches to improving the transistor process design for application as a neuron-FET transducer.

Simulation data for a test case demonstrates optimization of the transistor design and significant increase in gain over a current mode implementation.