For many engineers, the focus remains firmly on the technical bench. However, Preethi Ashwath, an analog integrated circuit designer at Analog Devices, has embraced a broader role by bringing technical expertise to the consumer-facing side of product development. Recognized for her work in mixed-signal circuit design, Ashwath currently focuses on the development of hearables and wearable health-monitoring devices.
The intersection of analog design and consumer needs
In her role at the Wilmington, Massachusetts-based company, Ashwath specializes in designing electrostatic discharge (ESD) pad rings. These structures are critical for protecting microchips from electrical discharges that could cause latent defects or field failures. Her work requires a deep understanding of device physics and the intricate integration of analog circuits with digital logic blocks.
Ashwath’s transition toward public-facing roles began at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), where she demonstrated new earbuds capable of tracking heart and lung health through vibrations in the ear canal. According to Ashwath, the ear provides a high-quality location for capturing vital signs, though extracting these signals from environmental and physical noise remains a fundamental challenge that relies on precise analog front-end design.
Community contribution and professional development
Beyond her contributions to consumer health technology, Ashwath is an active member of the IEEE Circuits and Systems Society. She views her participation in industry events—including presentations on A2B Automotive Audio Bus technology and smart glasses solutions—as an essential skill for modern engineers. She notes that her ability to explain technical concepts to diverse audiences has become a vital part of her contribution to the field.
In 2024, Analog Devices recognized Ashwath with an Impact Award for her cross-functional project contributions. Outside her primary duties, she serves as a peer reviewer for several IEEE conferences, including the International Symposium on Circuits and Systems. By bridging the gap between industry practice and academic research, Ashwath continues to balance her technical responsibilities with active community engagement, emphasizing that continuous learning is a requirement for professionals in the evolving semiconductor industry.
Source: IEEE Spectrum
Original article: https://spectrum.ieee.org/preethi-ashwath-chip-designer
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