Abstract: Integrated circuit systems and methods using block gain expansion and compression to improve the noise of analog storage in non-volatile memory cells, particularly for small signals when noise would be most perceivable. In an exemplary embodiment, the analog samples of an audio signal are grouped and the largest sample in the group is sensed. If the amplitude of the largest sample allows, all samples in the group are amplified before being stored in an analog storage and playback system. The amplification used is also stored so that on playback, the amplitude can again be reduced to restore the original amplitude of the samples. In the exemplary embodiments, a single variable gain amplifier is used, with input and output impedances swapped for recording and playback, thereby accurately reproducing the original sample amplitude in spite of errors in the nominal expansion and compression gains used.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for adjustment and control of an iterative method of recording analog signals with on-chip trimming techniques for later playback. The invention allows setting of various parameters for the multi iterative programming technique after chip fabrication so as to allow tighter control and thus higher resolution analog signal sample storage in a given or minimum amount of time. Such parameters include, but are not limited to: the step down voltage from the coarse programming cycle to the fine programming cycle, the incremental voltage increase between each fine pulse, the pulse width of each fine pulse, the number of fine pulses, the incremental voltage increase between each coarse pulse, the pulse width of each course pulse, the number of coarse pulses, and the offset, VOS, which stops further coarse pulses and holds the last coarse level as a reference for the following fine cycle.