Abstract: An improved multi-bit memory cell includes a storage capacitor and a switching element coupled to one of the terminals of the capacitor. The switching element includes a first switching component having a positive threshold, and a complementary switching component having a negative threshold. Because the switching element is constructed in this manner, noise generation caused by activation of the switching components is significantly reduced, and cut-off effects are eliminated. Both of these factors contribute to the memory cell's ability to store more bits of information than prior art memory cells.

Abstract: A monolithic CMOS phase-lock loop (PLL) circuit provides a high frequency of operation suitable for RF applications. The PLL produces an output clock with high spectral purity and very low jitter. The output clock has a low static phase error relative to a reference input, making the PLL also useful for clock synchronizing applications, such as clock recovery elements in transmission/recording channels. The PLL provides in-phase and quadrature signals from a VCO which has two differential transconductor stages having negative output conductance. The PLL also includes a charge pump using transistors driven by high speed switching drivers.

Abstract: A closed caption processing system processes a television signal having caption data therein. A detector receives the television signal. A decoder coupled to the detector receives the television signal, and removes the caption data from the signal to form a stripped video signal and a caption data signal. The stripped video signal is provided to a television. The closed caption data is displayed as text on a screen. A microcontroller receives the caption data from the decoder and provides the caption text to the screen. The caption text is updated unless the microcontroller receives a user selected command for freezing the displayed text. The user enters user selected commands for selecting a portion of the displayed text. A memory stores a dictionary that includes either definitions or translations of text or both. The microcontroller retrieves either the definition or translation of a selected portion of the text responsive to a user request, and then displays the definition or translation.