Abstract: A multistage converter and method for converting a sampled analog signal to a corresponding digital representation. Each stage of the converter receives an analog input signal and produces a partial digital output. A first stage receives the sampled analog signal as the analog input signal. Each stage provides a residue output, which is the analog input signal to a subsequent stage. The residue is the analog input signal to the stage, less the analog equivalent of the partial digital output from the stage, possibly with a gain change. A voltage range over which a sample of an analog signal can vary is defined by a lower limit and an upper limit. A lower comparator threshold is established within the voltage range. An upper comparator threshold is established within the voltage range, between the lower comparator threshold and the upper limit. The analog input to the stage is quantized based on the lower and upper comparator thresholds to generate a quantized sampled analog signal.

Abstract: A current source includes a first current mirror and a second current mirror that share a common current path. The current in the common current path mirrors a current of a current reference connected to the first current mirror. A current in an output current path of the second current mirror mirrors the current of the common current path. A first feedback loop controls the current in the common current path and a second feedback loop matches a voltage of the common current path with an output voltage. The cooperation of the first and second feedback loops ensures that the output current replicates the current of the current reference even when an voltage of the current source is close to the supply voltage. Thus, the voltage swing of the current source output voltage is increased and a precision current source is provided even when the output voltage is close to the supply voltage.

Abstract: Briefly, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention, a circuit comprises: a sigma-delta modulator including an input signal port, an output signal port, and a signal path. The signal path includes a feedforward signal path and a feedback signal path. The signal path is adapted to be coupled to a dither signal and the circuit is adapted to adjust the dither signal substantially in accordance with a signal applied to the input signal port. In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, a method of improving the stability of a sigma-delta modulator, the modulator employing dither, comprises the steps of: applying a signal to the input port of the sigma-delta modulator; applying a dither signal to the signal path of the sigma-delta modulator; and adjusting the dither signal applied substantially in accordance with the signal applied to the input port.

Abstract: In accordance with one aspect of the invention, a liquid crystal display driver for driving liquid crystal display electrodes, comprises: a voltage signal generator adapted to provide a predetermined voltage signal to the liquid crystal display electrodes, the voltage signal generator being further adapted to be activated when the voltage signal level of said electrodes is outside a predetermined dead zone region, the voltage signal generator being deactivated when the voltage signal level of the electrodes is substantially within the predetermined dead zone region; and a switch adapted to couple the voltage signal generator to at least one of said liquid crystal display electrodes.

Abstract: Briefly, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention, a current source comprises: a first and a second current path, the current paths being coupled so as to provide, during circuit operation, first and second currents through the respective current paths in a substantially predetermined direct proportion. The current source further includes an operational amplifier having its respective input terminals coupled to the first and second current paths, the operational amplifier being coupled in a feedback configuration so as to maintain substantially equal voltages between a first and second predetermined point respectively located along the first and second current paths. Furthermore, the respective first and second currents are related to the respective first and second voltages substantially in accordance with the junction diode equation.