Abstract: Continuous variable-gain low-noise amplifier. The amplifier continuously adjusts its gain between well-defined high and low values by using a cascode current-steering circuit to partition signal current between two different nodes of an output loading network. A shunt feedback network connected from an intermediate node of the loading network to the input provides negative feedback that linearizes the amplifier as its gain is decreased. The circuit degrades the noise figure at lower gains by varying the gain without directly dumping the signal current to the power supply. The circuit produces only small changes in input and output impedances and preserves an improved reverse- isolation cascode characteristic as the gain is controlled.

Abstract: Amplitude-adjustable oscillator. The oscillator includes a feedback loop to control the amplitude of an oscillator output signal. The feedback loop includes a pair of clamping transistors, wherein base terminals of the clamping transistors are coupled to an adjustable voltage signal to prevent saturation of the oscillator circuit. The feedback loop also includes a filter to monitor the current flowing through the clamping transistors. The feedback loop also includes an amplifier to compare an output of the clamping transistors to a reference signal, and a reference generator to set an operating bias for the oscillator.

Abstract: Apparatus, and an associated method, for selectably reducing the current consumption of a communication device, such as a mobile station operable in a cellular communication system. Portions of the communication device operated at desired power levels but at reduced current consumption levels, thereby to reduce power consumption of the communication device. When the communication device powered by a portable power supply, the longevity of the portable power supply is increased, as lessened amounts of power are required to operate the communication device.

Abstract: The input AGC and reference (REF) voltages are converted to currents and provided as differential inputs to a current amplifier. The current amplifier scales these currents proportional to absolute temperature. The translinear principle is used to realize the current amplifier and ensures linearity of the differential output currents. These currents are then converted to voltages by resistor elements. The result is applied to a simple differential pair that produces two AGC control currents that follow the hyperbolic tangent function. The two AGC control currents are equal when the AGC input is three-fourths the reference value. The overall gain response is well modeled by a second order function and is self-limiting at high gain values.