Abstract: Large interfering signals (interferers) with spectra near a desired signal can cause distortion in a wireless receiver due to a non-linear signal path. It is typically a performance advantage to attenuate these interferers earlier in the signal path, rather than later in the signal path, because these interferers can cause saturation of amplifying stages. In certain situations, the frequency offset of an interfering signal, with respect to the desired signal, can be on the order of 10 megahertz (MHz), whereas the center frequencies can be on the order of several gigahertz (GHz). Thus, a filter with “baseband” precision would be needed at radio frequency to notch out the interferer, which is relatively difficult to do. Disclosed is a technique to estimate the relative strength and center frequency of the interferer and to place the center frequency of a notch filter adaptively and precisely at the interferer location.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for reducing, and preferably substantially eliminating, data-pattern autocorrelations found in digital communication systems. The method employed is referred to as Data Subset Selection (DSS) and is implemented in the form of DSS engine. Autocorrelations in the data-pattern can cause many digital adaptive systems to converge to an incorrect solution. For example, the LMS method, which is often used in adaptive filtering applications, can converge to an incorrect set of filter coefficients in the presence of data-pattern autocorrelations. Digital timing recovery methods are also susceptible. Other impairments that result from data-pattern autocorrelations include increased convergence time and increased steady-state chatter.

Abstract: A phase detector customized for Clock Synthesis Unit (CSU) is disclosed. The phase detector improves jitter performance by providing minimal activity on VCO control lines and pushing ripple frequency to one octave higher, while maintaining wide linear characteristic. Moreover, it provides a frequency-scalable circuit that unlike a conventional phase-and-frequency detector (PFD), does not rely on asynchronous elements.

Abstract: A transport package for containing sample tubes and similar materials prone to leakage comprises a rigid, crush resistant tube e.g. wound from cardboard and having an integrally formed super-absorbent lining, the ends of the tube being closed by end caps. The transport package may be placed into a protective envelope comprising a closely fitting pouch for the package and a further pouch for accompanying documentation. Several such packages or packages in envelopes may be placed in a tertiary container comprising a tube forming a main body of the tertiary container. This tube may be divided into two sections, held together by a shrink fit band or outer covering. One end of the tube is formed with a permanent closure and the other end is closable by a lid having an inner rim with a lip that engages between the two sections of the tube.

Abstract: A method and system to facilitate secure personal identification of an individual where a user key device is employed to access data stored on a remote system. All relevant data is stored only on that remote system and that data is accessed only by proprietary equipment at a point of operation. The data is temporarily uploaded to and displayed if required on an operator's equipment for verification. The system disclosed can be used to manage and/or enable secure remote funds transfer. A user key device is employed to permit local point of sale equipment and/or the operator of that equipment to verify the ID of a user by accessing personal identification data stored only on a remote facility. No form of personal ID is visible on or stored on the user's key device at any time.

Abstract: A phase detector customized for Clock Synthesis Unit (CSU) is disclosed. The phase detector improves jitter performance by providing minimal activity on VCO control lines and pushing ripple frequency to one octave higher, while maintaining wide linear characteristic. Moreover, it provides a frequency-scalable circuit that unlike a conventional phase-and-frequency detector (PFD), does not rely on asynchronous elements.

Abstract: A transport package for containing sample tubes and similar materials prone to leakage comprises a rigid, crush resistant tube e.g. wound from cardboard and having an integrally formed super-absorbent lining, the ends of the tube being closed by end caps. The transport package may be placed into a protective envelope comprising a closely fitting pouch for the package and a further pouch for accompanying documentation. Several such packages or packages in envelopes may be placed in a tertiary container comprising a tube forming a main body of the tertiary container. This tube may be divided into two sections, held together by a shrink fit band or outer covering. One end of the tube is formed with a permanent closure and the other end is closable by a lid having an inner rim with a lip that engages between the two sections of the tube.