518 results about "Low gain" patented technology

An electrosurgical generator which provides a constant power output particularly suited for cutting arc formation at an active electrode which exhibits a dynamic active surface area of varying geometry. Essentially constant power-based control is achieved through the utilization of a d.c. link voltage the level of which functions to establish the amplitude of the output of an RF resonant inverter. A dual loop feedback control is described wherein output power based control signals are slowly introduced at low gain, while link voltage based controls are comparatively rapidly applied. Enhanced development of a controlling d.c. link voltage is achieved through the utilization of an input network incorporating a power factor correction stage.

The present invention provides a device design and method for forming the same that results in Fin Field Effect Transistors having different gains without negatively impacting device density. The present invention forms relatively low gain FinFET transistors in a low carrier mobility plane and relatively high gain FinFET transistors in a high carrier mobility plane. Thus formed, the FinFETs formed in the high mobility plane have a relatively higher gain than the FinFETs formed in the low mobility plane. The embodiments are of particular application to the design and fabrication of a Static Random Access Memory (SRAM) cell. In this application, the bodies of the n-type FinFETs used as transfer devices are formed along the {110} plane. The bodies of the n-type FinFETs and p-type FinFETs used as the storage latch are formed along the {100}. Thus formed, the transfer devices will have a gain approximately half that of the n-type storage latch devices, facilitating proper SRAM operation

A hybrid image sensor includes an infrared detector array and a CMOS readout integrated circuit (ROIC). The CMOS ROIC is coupled to at least one detector of the IR detector array, e.g., via indium bump bonding. Each pixel of the CMOS ROIC includes a first, relatively lower gain, wide dynamic range amplifier circuit which is optimized for a linear response to high light level input signals from the IR detector. Each pixel also includes a second, relatively higher gain, lower dynamic range amplifier circuit which is optimized to provide a high signal to noise ratio for low light level input signals from the IR detector (or from a second IR detector). A first output select circuit is provided for directing the output of the first circuit to a first output multiplexer. A second output select circuit is provided for directing the output of the second circuit to a second output multiplexer. Thus, separate outputs of the first and second circuits are provided for each of the individual pixel sensors of the CMOS imaging array.

The present invention provides a device design and method for forming the same that results in Fin Field Effect Transistors having different gains without negatively impacting device density. The present invention forms relatively low gain FinFET transistors in a low carrier mobility plane and relatively high gain FinFET transistors in a high carrier mobility plane. Thus formed, the FinFETs formed in the high mobility plane have a relatively higher gain than the FinFETs formed in the low mobility plane. The embodiments are of particular application to the design and fabrication of a Static Random Access Memory (SRAM) cell. In this application, the bodies of the n-type FinFETs used as transfer devices are formed along the {110} plane. The bodies of the n-type FinFETs and p-type FinFETs used as the storage latch are formed along the {100}. Thus formed, the transfer devices will have a gain approximately half that of the n-type storage latch devices, facilitating proper SRAM operation.

A horizontally polarized antenna array allows for the efficient distribution of RF energy into a communications environment through selectable antenna elements and redirectors that create a particular radiation pattern such as a substantially omnidirectional radiation pattern. In conjunction with a vertically polarized array, a particular high-gain wireless environment may be created such that one environment does not interfere with other nearby wireless environments and avoids interference created by those other environments. Lower gain patterns may also be created by using particular configurations of a horizontal and / or vertical antenna array. In a preferred embodiment, the antenna systems disclosed herein are utilized in a multiple-input, multiple-output (MIMO) wireless environment.

A hybrid image sensor includes an infrared detector array and a CMOS readout integrated circuit (ROIC). The CMOS ROIC is coupled to at least one detector of the IR detector array, e.g., via indium bump bonding. Each pixel of the CMOS ROIC includes a first, relatively lower gain, wide dynamic range amplifier circuit which is optimized for a linear response to high light level input signals from the IR detector. Each pixel also includes a second, relatively higher gain, lower dynamic range amplifier circuit which is optimized to provide a high signal to noise ratio for low light level input signals from the IR detector (or from a second IR detector). A first output select circuit is provided for directing the output of the first circuit to a first output multiplexer. A second output select circuit is provided for directing the output of the second circuit to a second output multiplexer. Thus, separate outputs of the first and second circuits are provided for each of the individual pixel sensors of the CMOS imaging array.

A CMOS imaging array includes a plurality of individual pixels arranged in rows and columns. Each pixel is constructed the same and includes a photodetector (e.g., photodiode) receiving incident light and generating an output. A first, relatively lower gain, wide dynamic range amplifier circuit is provided responsive to the output of the photodetector. The first circuit is optimized for a linear response to high light level input signals. A second, relatively higher gain, lower dynamic range amplifier circuit is also provided which is responsive to the output of the photodetector. The second circuit is optimized to provide a high signal to noise ratio for low light level input signals. A first output select circuit is provided for directing the output of the first circuit to a first output multiplexer. A second output select circuit is provided for directing the output of the second circuit to a second output multiplexer. Thus, separate outputs of the first and second circuits are provided for each of the individual pixel sensors of the CMOS imaging array. Alternative embodiments incorporate two ore more photodetectors and two or more amplifier circuits and output select circuits. Three photodetectors and three amplifier circuits are useful for an embodiment where the sensor includes a three-color filter matrix.

A compact LADAR transmitting and receiving apparatus includes a pulse laser generating pulses of light; a transmitter collimating and directing the pulses of light toward a target; a receiver collecting reflected pulses of light, the reflected pulses of light having been reflected from the target, the receiver comprising a tapered fiber bundle; a sensor operatively connected to the tapered fiber bundle, where the sensor comprises a photosensitive region and outputs a photocurrent; an amplifier amplifying the photocurrent; and a power divider splitting the amplified photocurrent between a high gain channel and a low gain channel; a RF interface accepting the high gain channel, the low gain channel, and an undelayed sample of a pulse of light generated from the pulse laser as input; a processing unit accepting output from the RF interface; and a display unit displaying output from the processing unit.

In a variable gain amplifier controlling a gain by using differential amplifiers with a gain control signal, a gain switchover differential amplifier or a bias circuit which composes a current mirror with the gain switchover differential amplifier is connected between a high and a low gain differential amplifier for the same bias current which are mutually connected to share load resistances for the same output polarity and a bias current source common to both of the differential amplifiers, to perform switchover operations of the high and the low differential amplifier by a gain control signal, and a current source which flows a fixed offset current through at least the low one of the high and the low differential amplifier is provided.

An integrated circuit provides a complete electronic ballast control with power factor correction for fluorescent lamps. The integrated circuit contains a simplified power factor correction (PFC) circuit to reduce component count and supply voltage requirements to reduce manufacturing costs while providing a robust control. The PFC circuit has a variable gain for fast response at high gain and optimized power factor control at low gain. An increased on time for the PFC switch when the input line voltage approaches zero dynamically reduces crossover distortion, thereby reducing total harmonic distortion. The integrated circuit incorporates a number of fault protections.

A CMOS imaging array includes a plurality of individual pixels arranged in rows and columns. Each pixel is constructed the same and includes a photodetector (e.g., photodiode) receiving incident light and generating an output. A first, relatively lower gain, wide dynamic range amplifier circuit is provided responsive to the output of the photodetector. The first circuit is optimized for a linear response to high light level input signals. A second, relatively higher gain, lower dynamic range amplifier circuit is also provided which is responsive to the output of the photodetector. The second circuit is optimized to provide a high signal to noise ratio for low light level input signals. A first output select circuit is provided for directing the output of the first circuit to a first output multiplexer. A second output select circuit is provided for directing the output of the second circuit to a second output multiplexer. Thus, separate outputs of the first and second circuits are provided for each of the individual pixel sensors of the CMOS imaging array. Alternative embodiments incorporate two ore more photodetectors and two or more amplifier circuits and output select circuits. Three photodetectors and three amplifier circuits are useful for an embodiment where the sensor includes a three-color filter matrix.

Method and apparatus for reducing radio frequency interference (RFI) using a dual-element patch antenna [10]. The antenna possesses two antenna elements [13, 14] having distinct radiation patterns. Either element may be independently selected using a DC bias voltage. Diodes [20] connected to the elements serve to disable one element when the other is selected. In one selected mode, a nominal radiation pattern provides a broad, hemispherical shaped sensitivity that is designed for acquiring and tracking all navigation satellites above the horizon. This nominal radiation pattern, however, is susceptible to interference that is present near or below the horizon. The second selectable radiation pattern of the dual-element antenna has comparatively higher gain toward zenith, and lower gain at and below the horizon to mitigate interference. This combination of features is packaged in a single antenna unit that can be a direct replacement for existing antennas. The dual-element antenna unit has a low vertical profile and is suitable for mounting on high-speed moving vehicles.

A radio frequency device has an input transistor from which a capacitance is seen, and a fast charging circuit for charging the capacitance. The input transistor receives a radio frequency signal. The capacitance is quickly charged when the device is switched from off to on and / or from low gain to high gain, thereby reducing the switching-on time of the device.

A horizontally polarized antenna array allows for the efficient distribution of RF energy into a communications environment through selectable antenna elements and redirectors that create a particular radiation pattern such as a substantially omnidirectional radiation pattern. In conjunction with a vertically polarized array, a particular high-gain wireless environment may be created such that one environment does not interfere with other nearby wireless environments and avoids interference created by those other environments. Lower gain patterns may also be created by using particular configurations of a horizontal and / or vertical antenna array. In a preferred embodiment, the antenna systems disclosed herein are utilized in a multiple-input, multiple-output (MIMO) wireless environment.

A method and system are disclosed for operating a controller of and a RKE system to provide for short distance functions that are actuatable from a key fob at a shorter distance from the vehicle than other long distance functions. This may include receiving a desired type of radio frequency signal; actuating a high gain mode of a receiver of the controller; detecting a message from an acceptable remote keyless entry transmitter; decoding a function code portion of the message; changing the receiver from the high gain mode to a lower gain mode if the function code is not a long distance function; decoding a remaining portion of the message; determining if the remaining portion of the message was decoded properly; and performing the requested function if the remaining portion of the message was decoded properly.

The invention discloses a wave beam alignment method, device and system for a millimeter wave communication system. The wave beam alignment device is provided with a high-gain narrow-wave-beam directional antenna and a low-gain wide-wave-beam directional antenna, and comprises a link establishment module and a wave beam alignment module, wherein the link establishment module for establishing a control signaling link with an opposite terminal through the low-gain wide-wave-beam directional antenna, and the wave beam alignment module is used for interacting channel quality information in the different narrow-wave-beam directions with the opposite terminal through the control signaling link and performing wave beam alignment of the high-gain narrow-wave-beam directional antenna with the opposite terminal. If the device serves as a transmitting device, the opposite terminal serves as a receiving device; or if the device serves as the receiving device, the opposite terminal serves as the transmitting device. The system comprises the transmitting device and the receiving device. The wave beam alignment method, device and system can ensure continuity of a link between the transmitting device and the receiving device during wave beam direction scanning, meanwhile the total scanning times is decreased from N2 to 2N, and the time for establishing data transmission connection is greatly shortened.

A multi-mode RF amplifier is described having at least a higher and a lower power path coupling an input to an output. At a pre-selected output power level, the higher power path is enabled while the lower power path is disabled when more output power is required. The process is reversed when less power is needed. The present invention matches the power gain variation over temperature characteristic of each path such that, especially at the cross over point, the gain delta (the difference in power gain between the two paths) has minimal variation over temperature. Such power gain characteristic is required for meeting the test requirements, specifically the inner loop power control, for third generation (3G) cellular handsets.

There are provided, as a low noise amplifier (70) a low noise amplifier (71) with a low gain and a low noise amplifier (72) with a high gain, selectively operable under control of a bias current, and an output from the low noise amplifier (72) and a quadrature demodulator (80) are connected with a serial capacitance (73) and also an output from the low noise amplifier (71) and the quadrature demodulator (80) are serially connected. A control section (66) controls a reception circuit so that the low noise amplifier (71) operates when a reception signal level is high and the low noise amplifier (72) operates when the reception signal level is low. When the low noise amplifier (72) operates, a DC bias current thereof is made flow separately from a DC bias current of the quadrature demodulator (80), and, when the low noise amplifier (71) operates, a DC bias current thereof is shared with the quadrature demodulator.

A combined laser and charged particle beam system. A pulsed laser enables milling of a sample at material removal rates several orders of magnitude larger than possible for a focused ion beam. In some embodiments, a scanning electron microscope enables high resolution imaging of the sample during laser processing. In some embodiments, a focused ion beam enables more precise milling of the sample. A method and structure for deactivating the imaging detectors during laser milling enables the removal of imaging artifacts arising from saturation of the detector due to a plasma plume generated by the laser beam. In some embodiments, two types of detectors are employed: type-1 detectors provide high gain imaging during scanning of the sample with an electron or ion beam, while type-2 detectors enable lower gain imaging and endpoint detection during laser milling.

The present invention is a dual mode LNA that can operate in either normal mode or low-gain mode, which has been designed to maintain a constant input impedance when switching between the two modes of operation. Maintaining constant input impedance is called a dynamic match. The LNA has been designed to maintain a constant bandwidth when switching between normal and low-gain modes of operation. Also, the LNA has been designed to consume much less average current when operating in the low-gain mode.

An underwater detection apparatus comprises a transducer, a transmitter capable of generating transmitting signals of a plurality of respective frequencies and for generating a transmitting signal, a broadband trap circuit for transferring the transmitting signal fed from the transmitter to the transducer and for passing an echo signal fed from the transducer, a preamplifier for amplifying the echo signal fed from the broadband trap circuit, a mixer for converting an output of the preamplifier into a signal of a specific frequency, a filter for selectively passing the signal of only the specific frequency-band output from the mixer, a main amplifier for amplifying an output of the filter, an A / D converter for converting an output of the main amplifier into a digital form, and a display circuit for displaying the digitized output of the A / D converter on a monitor, wherein the preamplifier is of a low-gain type.

Phase-locked loop structures are provided that facilitate enhanced stability of loop-generated signals. They include an oscillator network, a feedback loop and a controller. The oscillator network generates a loop output signal with a frequency that varies in response to a control voltage and to a frequency-determining parameter, the feedback loop generates the control voltage in response to the loop output signal and a reference signal and the controller increments the frequency-determining parameter to maintain the control voltage within a predetermined control-voltage range. These structures enhance signal stability by facilitating the use of low-gain oscillator structures and they simplify and shorten loop operations because the structures operate in a closed-loop condition at all times.

The invention discloses a self-correcting phaselocked loop frequency synthesizer capable of realizing frequency band selection, composed of a phaselocked loop and a self-correction loop; wherein the phaselocked loop is formed by connecting a phase detection discriminator, a charge pump, a loop filter, a voltage-controlled oscillator and a frequency divider in sequence, the self-correcting loop is formed by connecting a phase detection discriminator, a trigger, a controller, a voltage-controlled oscillator and a frequency divider in sequence, and the phaselocked loop and the self-correcting loop share the same phase detection discriminator, the same voltage-controlled oscillator and the same frequency divider. The invention realizes center frequency correction by regulating one group of fixed capacitor of voltage-controlled oscillator, so that widen frequency tuning range can be obtained under lower gain of voltage-controlled oscillator, thus error caused by making process of integrated inductance and variable varactor can be compensated, phase noise of phaselocked loop frequency synthesizer is reduced, and implementation of single chip phaselocked loop frequency synthesizer by adopting CMOS technology can be realized.

The present invention is related to a variable gain low noise amplifier that optimizes input matching, gain and noise characteristics, and linearity. The variable gain low noise amplifier according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a first amplifying cell that operates in a high gain mode, a second amplifying cell that operates in a low gain mode, a selectively matching circuit, and a first short-circuit means. The variable gain low noise amplifier according to the present invention selects the best operation in each gain mode so that the circuit operated in high and low gain modes does not affect a load of another circuit.

A horizontally polarized antenna array allows for the efficient distribution of RF energy into a communications environment through selectable antenna elements and redirectors that create a particular radiation pattern such as a substantially omnidirectional radiation pattern. In conjunction with a vertically polarized array, a particular high-gain wireless environment may be created such that one environment does not interfere with other nearby wireless environments and avoids interference created by those other environments. Lower gain patterns may also be created by using particular configurations of a horizontal and / or vertical antenna array. In a preferred embodiment, the antenna systems disclosed herein are utilized in a multiple-input, multiple-output (MIMO) wireless environment.

The present invention is directed to a system and method which statistically determines when regularly occurring interference events of a predictable duration will occur, for example radar pulses and dynamically adjusts an automatic gain control (AGC) for RF data transmissions accordingly. The repetition rate and width of radar pulses are regular. By averaging and watching for correlations, the present AGC identifies the pulse rate and pulse widths and over a fairly short period of time predicts when the next pulse is coming. When the next pulse occurs, the AGC is adjusted to react accordingly. The AGC can raise or lower gain levels for the duration of the pulse; or ignore the pulse, if it is of a very short duration, so that the AGC level will coast through the event.

Disclosed herein is a PhotoMultiplier Tube (PMT) designed for use with a surface inspection system such as the Surfscan system, which operates at 266 nm wavelength. The inventive PMT is high efficiency, low noise, and low gain, a combination of features that is specific to the application and contrary to the features of PMT's in the art. The inventive PMT is designed to be tuned to a specific narrow band wavelength of incident light, thereby optimizing the QE at that wavelength. It is further designed to combine a small number of dynodes each having substantially higher secondary electron gain than typical dynodes. By designing the PMT in this way, the excess noise factor is dramatically reduced, yielding a much improved S / N, while still maintaining the overall PMT gain in the lower range suitable for use in a surface inspection system.