Abstract: A static content addressable memory (CAM) cell. The CAM cell includes a latch having complementary data nodes capacitively coupled to ground, first and second access transistors, each coupled between a data node of the latch and a respective data line. The gates of each access transistor is coupled to a word line such that when activated, the respective data node and data line are coupled. The CAM cell further includes a match circuit coupled to one of the complementary data nodes of the latch. The match circuit discharges a match line in response to a data value stored at the data node to which the match circuit is coupled and compare data present on the respective data line mismatching. Two of the CAM cells can be used to implement a full ternary CAM cell.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for performing automatic exposure and gain control while minimizing oscillations as well as providing a good response time, for example, a lag time or a settling time of about one frame. The automatic exposure and gain controls are performed not only on the image as a whole but on a weighted region of interest. If the contrast in the image exceeds the dynamic range of the sensor array, then the image in the region of interest will improve at the expense of the remainder of the image. A region of interest is a selected subset of tiles upon which automatic exposure and gain control will be based. The tiles are defined by a grid system having grid coordinates, which are programmable. Image sensors have to receive feedback with regular updates of exposure and gain settings based on ever changing light conditions.