Abstract: The data communication system includes a first control device, a second data device and a data link, including a first transmission link and a second transmission link, between the second data device and the first control device. A data driver enables data transmission from the second data device to the first control device across the data link, and a differential controller is adapted to generate a voltage differential between the first transmission link and the second transmission link. A detector detects differences in voltage levels between the first transmission link and the second transmission link. The data communication system enables bi-directional communication between integrated circuit devices over a serial communication link avoiding the necessity for clock, chip enable and control connections on the data device and is particularly useful for communication between an image sensor and coprocessor.

Abstract: The image sensor includes an array of pixels, each pixel having a photo-diode, for providing a pixel voltage, an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) operable to convert the pixel voltage to a digital value and a memory for storing the digital value. Read circuitry is included for reading out the digital values from the pixels of the array in a predetermined order. The image sensor may be configured such that a counter incorporates the memory, and the counter may be adapted to operate as a shift register. The counters of two or more pixels may be connected to form one or more chains such that digital values can be read out in a bit-serial manner.

Abstract: A current control circuit that employs a magnetic amplifier and an active feedback circuit. The feedback circuit establishes the effective operating current of the amplifier at a fixed point. The magnetic amplifier includes a pair of oppositely wound gate windings, a bias winding and a control winding. The gate windings are driven by an oscillator driver that generates a gate winding current and a gate winding voltage. A reference voltage and the gate winding voltage are applied to a feedback amplifier and the feedback circuit. When the gate winding voltage becomes equal to the reference voltage, the feedback circuit is stable and the gate winding current is set to a desired zero current operating point.

Abstract: A compass assembly including a compass mechanism mounted in supported relation on a base and covered by a transparent material shield wherein the assembly is specifically structured to be mounted on a handle element itself being a part of a support structure on the interior of an automobile type vehicle. The compass assembly is also structured so as to be movable with the handle element or like element on which it is mounted and at the same time viewable by an occupant of the vehicle to inform such occupant of the direction of travel of the vehicle.