We introduce the TACS‑RF framework, where a large‑language‑model coding agent (Claude Opus 4.8) directly controls industry‑standard EDA tools such as Cadence Virtuoso/Spectre, Calibre, Cadence EMX, and Ansys HFSS to synthesize RF and mmWave modules.
The framework is validated by the agentic design of a 240‑251 GHz sub‑THz transmitter fabricated in a 90 nm SiGe BiCMOS process. The agent semi‑autonomously generated the critical sub‑blocks: a 60 GHz push‑push Colpitts VCO with second‑harmonic extraction, multistage differential cascode power drivers, a push‑push frequency doubler, a differential bowtie antenna, and all interstage matching networks.
Using parasitic‑extracted device models and EM‑verified passives, the complete transmitter chain delivers +5.1 to +6.3 dBm across an 11 GHz varactor‑only tuning range, phase noise of $-80\sim-88\,\text{dBc/Hz}$ at 1 MHz offset, and consumes 361 mW of DC power.
We describe the agent‑driven design flow and the resulting division of labor between human and agent, taking a step toward a “text‑to‑ASIC” future for RF/mmWave hardware.
Review