Abstract: A method and system for performing swept-wavelength measurements within an optical system provides improved operation in resonator-enhanced optical measurement and data storage and retrieval systems. The system includes an illumination subsystem having a swept-wavelength mode, a detection subsystem, an interferometer or an optical resonator interposed in an optical path between the illumination subsystem and the detection subsystem and a time domain analysis subsystem. Multiple resonance points of the optical resonator are detected by the time-domain subsystem when the illumination subsystem is in the swept-wavelength mode in order to determine resonator or interferometer characteristic changes. The resulting information can be used directly as a measurement output, or cavity length information may also be used to adjust the operating wavelength of a constant wavelength mode of the illumination subsystem.

Abstract: A method an apparatus for efficiently driving a low-voltage device from a wide-range input supply uses and inductor and a diode coupled in parallel to provide a high-efficiency energy storage circuit. The parallel diode/inductor circuit is coupled to a switch for intermittently supplying a current to maintain a level of energy storage in the circuit. The switch is coupled to a control circuit for controlling the switch. The external device be a relay and the inductor may be a coil of the relay. The external device may be one or more LEDs connected in series and the diode may be the series LED circuit. The control circuit may include a fault-tolerant synchronization input for connection to multiple driver circuits, whereby audible noise produced by beat frequencies between the relays is eliminated.

Abstract: An improved voltage reference circuit relies on electrically adjustable analog devices fabricated on a common substrate. The circuit has two electrically adjustable matched transistor pairs. A first matched transistor pair includes an adjusting transistor and a differential pair transistor. A second matched transistor pair also includes an adjusting transistor and a differential pair transistor. Each of the matched transistor pairs share an insulated gate or electrically connected insulated gates. Geometrical and electrical matching occurs as between the two adjusting transistors and between the two differential pair transistors. The two differential pair transistors are electrically connected at the source terminals to form a differential circuit. A feedback loop, which includes an amplifier, a fixed resistor and a current source complete the circuit.

Abstract: An inspection/pickup tool having a casing within which a telescopically extendible rod is mounted for telescopic extension in a direction away from the casing. A quick connect-disconnect coupler is provided on the outward end of the rod for removably coupling a selected inspection/pickup head to the rod. A light is mounted within the casing to emit light in the direction in which the rod extends. A focusing mechanism is provided for focusing the light. For example, a lens can be mounted over the light for selectable advancement and retraction of the lens with respect to the light. The casing is shaped for single-handed manipulation of the inspection/pickup head and for simultaneous single-handed activation and focusing of the light.