Abstract: A reflection grating device with a continuous non-reflecting dielectric adjusting layer disposed between a grating structure and one or more continuous reflecting layers is disclosed that operates in an order of interest, such as the 1st order or 3rd order of diffraction, with high efficiency and near-exclusion of unwanted orders. Such devices can be employed, for example, in telecommunication and laser applications.

Abstract: An improved pixel design for a CMOS image sensor with a small feature size is described. In conventional image sensors of this type, the quantum efficiency is typically reduced as a result of the decreased thickness of the top n-type layer of the photodiode and the presence of an intervening p-type layer which is higher doped than the substrate. In the pixel design of the invention, the higher doped p-type layer underneath the photodiode is omitted while barrier regions channel the carriers generated by the impinging radiation towards the top n-layer of the photodiode. A high quantum efficiency is thereby attained in spite of a shrinking feature size. The novel pixel design can also incorporate anti-blooming protection.

Abstract: An electrostatic discharge protection device is provided for use with a magnetic read/write transducer. The electrostatic discharge protection device electrically interconnects the conductive elements of magnetoresistive (MR) and inductive heads to provide a low-resistance conductive path placing the conductive elements at a substantially equal electrical potential, thus minimizing electrostatic discharge. The electrostatic discharge protection device provides an electrical path between the conductive elements which is manually or automatically removable upon connection to a mating element. The electrostatic protection device has a resilient inward bias to connect electrically conductive elements such that a ground is established between them and is removed automatically upon insertion of the conductive elements into a mating receptacle which is interposed between the conductive elements and the electrostatic discharge protection device.

Abstract: A photo booth for capturing an image of a subject and providing reproductions of the image is constructed from self-contained modules--an apparatus module and a background module--linked via a roof module and a floor member. The modules can be easily bundled for handling and storing and occupy, when bundled together, a substantially smaller floor space than when the modules are secured to each other for operation as a photo booth. The apparatus module includes an image capturing device, such as a photographic camera using self-developing film, an electronic camera or a combination thereof, and an image reproduction device and may further include means for illuminating the subject, for image processing and display and for receiving payment. Means for controlling the temperature and humidity inside the apparatus module may also be provided. The apparatus module may also be used as a stand-alone unit.

Abstract: A plurality of electrostatic discharge protection devices are disclosed for use with semiconductor chip packages of a type having a top surface, a bottom surface, and disposed between the top surface and the bottom surface a plurality of lateral surface with extending therefrom a plurality of connector pins disposed thereon. The electrostatic discharge protection devices disclosed herein are heat sensitive in that they automatically withdraw from electrical contact with the connecting pins upon introduction of sufficient heat such as that of soldering. In addition, disclosed herein is a electrostatic discharge protection device for manual withdrawal should the electrostatic discharge protection be required after the soldering process has been terminated.