Voltage Amplifier for a Programmable Voltage Range

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This patent describes a voltage amplifier designed for a programmable voltage range. The amplifier is able to split the input voltage signal into different ranges and amplify each range linearly using distinct operating points. This allows parts of the signal that may otherwise be outside the linear amplification range to be correctly amplified. The resulting linearly amplified outputs can then be accurately digitized using one or more analog-to-digital converters (ADCs), enhancing the quality and reliability of digital conversion over a wide input range.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Analog-to-digital conversion systems that require precise amplification of signals with wide or variable voltage ranges, such as in pipeline ADC architectures.
• Measurement and data acquisition equipment where input signals may exceed standard amplifier linear range, e.g., test and measurement devices.
• Signal processing in sensors (industrial, automotive, medical) needing accurate and reliable transformation to digital values regardless of signal strength.
• Communication equipment handling high dynamic range signals prior to digitization.
• Electronic instrumentation requiring flexible amplification settings for different signal conditions.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Enables linear amplification of wide-range input signals, improving measurement accuracy and digital conversion.
• Programmable and adjustable operating points allow the system to adapt to different signal requirements or application needs.
• Reduces the need for complex and time-consuming calibration, especially compared to conventional pipeline ADCs.
• Allows for modular extension (multiple amplifiers/ADCs) to cover even larger dynamic ranges or overlapping signal sections for redundancy and error correction.
• Enhances reliability and quality of analog-to-digital conversion, supporting advanced electronic and measurement systems.

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Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a voltage amplifier (100, 300) which puts defined ranges (12, 14) of an input voltage signal (10) into different ratios in relation to the input voltage signal (10) at one or more operating points of an amplifier circuit (130). If the ranges (12, 14) of the input voltage signal (10) are split adequately, it is possible to linearly amplify each range (12, 14). Output signals (191, 192, 193, 194) that are linearly amplified in said manner can then be converted into digital signals (531) by a plurality of analog to digital converters (510), for example.