Editing Mixed-signal integrated circuit (section)

=== Variations ===
Mixed-signal devices are available as standard parts, but sometimes custom-designed [[application-specific integrated circuit]]s (ASICs) are necessary. ASICs are designed for new applications, when new standards emerge, or when new energy source(s){{Clarify|reason=What does "new energy source(s)" mean?|date=August 2022}} are implemented in the system. Due to their specialization, ASICs are usually only developed when production volumes are estimated to be high. The availability of ready-and-tested analog- and mixed-signal [[Semiconductor intellectual property core|IP]] blocks from foundries or dedicated design houses has lowered the gap to realize mixed-signal ASICs. 

There also exist mixed-signal [[FPGA|field-programmable gate array]]s (FPGAs) and [[microcontroller]]s.{{NoteTag|Mixed-signal FPGAs are an extension of [[field-programmable analog arrays]].|name=extension_of_FPAA}} In these, the same chip that handles digital logic may contain mixed-signal structures like analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog converter(s), operational amplifiers, or wireless connectivity blocks.<ref>[https://www.microsemi.com/product-directory/fpgas/1691-fusion "Microsemi Fusion mixed-signal FPGA"]</ref> These mixed-signal FPGAs and microcontrollers are bridging the gap between standard mixed-signal devices, full-custom ASICs, and embedded software; they offer a solution during product development or when product volume is too low to justify an ASIC. However, they can have performance limitations, such as the resolution of the analog-to-digital converters, the speed of digital-to-analog conversion, or a limited number of inputs and outputs. Nevertheless, they can speed up the system architecture design, prototyping, and even production (at small and medium scales). Their usage also can be supported with development boards, development community, and possibly software support.