Abstract: An linear optical sensor charged-coupled topology using single-stage inverting charge-coupled amplifier driving an analog-to-digital converter which uses the converter full-scale reference as a precharge level. Since an offset in the range of 100–200 mV is introduced in the charge amplifier, a corresponding offset is also introduced into the ADC to allow the amplifier to more quickly drive the amplifier output to a low level. The converter offset is proportional to the converter reference to ensure that it is controlled and tracks the reference.

Abstract: A technique for serially controlling an array of optical sensor chips over a pair of signal lines. After broadcasting an initializing reset command to all chips over serial lines, a determine-address command is broadcast to commence unique address determination. On subsequent clock signals, each chip locks its address into an on-board register. Following this process, each chip can be addressed individually. Subsequently, when each array chip is directed to read data out, the data is output to a single common bus line to the controller. Alternatively, individual chip outputs may be connected directly to the controller, or the outputs of odd and even chip pairs may be tied together for broadcast readout of all odd chips or all even chips.

Abstract: An optical sensor array with zone-programmable gain and offset prior to A/D conversion for reducing quantization noise. The circuit comprises a register file which contains digital words for controlling gain and offset according to multi-pixel zones.