Abstract: A dielectric-isolated PNP transistor with Schottky protection, either alone or as one of an integrated pair of complementary bipolar transistors has complete dielectric isolation from neighboring devices and from the substrate by means of a topside anisotropic etch. This leaves the devices in mesa form, thinner versions having the facility of lateral terminations, e.g. for the collector. The method is advantageously adapted to provide single type or complementary bipolars with integrated Schottky barrier protection.

Abstract: A current driver circuit using a two-level current source for switching PIN diodes. The driver is responsive to a binary signal control voltage for providing a respective forward-bias current or reverse-bias voltage. The two-level current source, responsive to output voltage, is included in the driver circuit to supply one of two current levels when the driver is conditioned to forward-bias the diode. When the output voltage is below a predetermined threshold value, a first level of current is supplied; when the output voltage is above the predetermined value, a second level of current, generally larger than the first current, is provided. The disclosed technique reduces peak instantaneous power dissipation in the driver by avoiding the simultaneous condition of high voltage and high current.

Abstract: A dielectric-isolated PNP transistor with Schottky protection, either alone or as one of an integrated pair of complementary bipolar transistors has complete dielectric isolation from neighboring devices and from the substrate by means of a topside anisotropic etch. This leaves the devices in mesa form, thinner versions having the facility of lateral terminations, e.g. for the collector. The method is advantageously adapted to provide single type or complementary bipolars with integrated Schottky barrier protection.

Abstract: A current source circuit selectively supplying at least one regulated output current. A reset pulse is provided concurrently with current source inhibit. The current source is adapted to low voltage circuits and dissipates minimal power for all modes of operation.

Abstract: Binary coded signals present on N input lines are decoded by means of N differential current switches. Each current switch is connected to a different one of the input lines and produces a group of 2.sup.(N-1) outputs in-phase with its input and a group of 2.sup.(N-1) outputs out-of-phase with its input. 2.sup.N conductors interconnect the outputs of the N switches to produce 2.sup.N decoded outputs, each of which represents a unique combination of the binary signals on the N input lines.

Abstract: A PNP bipolar transistor is protected by a Schottky barrier, in which an N- base of the device forms a Schottky diode with a metallizing which is used as the collector. No separate P- semiconductor region is provided as the collector. Such transistors may be combined with NPN transistors having integrated but distinct Schottky and collector electrodes.

Abstract: The circuit includes a band selector which in one state controls the passage of a first band of frequencies (e.g. UHF signals) via a counter to a first input port of an Amplifier-Multiplexer (AMP/MUX) and which in another state controls the passage and amplification of a second band of frequencies (e.g. VHF signals) applied to a second input port of the AMP/MUX. When the band selector is in the one state, the stages of the counter are activated and only signals in the first band are coupled through the counter and through the AMP/MUX to additional count down stages connected to the output(s) of the AMP/MUX. In the other state, the stages of the counter are inactivated to prevent oscillations and feed through, and only signals in the second band are coupled through the AMP/MUX to the additional countdown stages.