Abstract: A variable frequency multiplier circuit for frequency multiplying an input signal provided by an ultra-low phase noise signal source includes a tone generator configured to generate a multiple tones from the input signal; a signal separating circuit configured to separate the multiple tones into tones of interest and idler tones, where the tones of interest are separated into one or more groups and outputted from the signal separating circuit, and the idler tones are terminated; an amplification circuit configured to amplify each group of the tones of interest to optimize small and large signal responses; and a switched filter bank configured to selectively connect a selected tone from the tones of interest to a circuit output.

Abstract: A method of assembling a fully detachable microcircuit starts with obtaining a fabricated microcircuit housing with an upper surface, a lower surface, a first recess in the upper surface, a second recess in the lower surface, and a pin on the lower surface. A thermal layer is applied to the lower surface. A conductive elastomer signal pin connector and a ground pin connector are attached to a thin film circuit, and the thin film circuit with is inserted into the second recess with the conductive elastomer signal pin connector and the ground pin connector attached. A bonding target is applied to the upper surface. The bonding target and the microcircuit are connected with a bond wire. The microcircuit housing is screwed to a printed circuit assembly without bonding the microcircuit housing to the printed circuit assembly.

Abstract: A method of assembling a fully detachable microcircuit starts with obtaining a fabricated microcircuit housing with an upper surface, a lower surface, a first recess in the upper surface, a second recess in the lower surface, and a pin on the lower surface. A thermal layer is applied to the lower surface. A conductive elastomer signal pin connector and a ground pin connector are attached to a thin film circuit, and the thin film circuit with is inserted into the second recess with the conductive elastomer signal pin connector and the ground pin connector attached. A bonding target is applied to the upper surface. The bonding target and the microcircuit are connected with a bond wire. The microcircuit housing is screwed to a printed circuit assembly without bonding the microcircuit housing to the printed circuit assembly.

Abstract: A transmission system for RF signals, power and control signals over RF coaxial cables is disclosed. A coaxial cable line interconnects two devices, such as an instrument and a remote coupler. A control signal (e.g., data bit) and RF signals are multiplexed onto the coaxial cable line using a bias network at each end of the coaxial cable. In certain embodiments, power is generated at the coupler based on the state of the control bits. Each coaxial cable carries one control bit on the center conductor of the cable. A table maps the states of the one or more control bits to the desired states in the remote coupler. The all-zeroes state for the control bits is disallowed, such that at any given time, at least one of the control lines is high (e.g., at +5V). A passive network at the coupler generates the power voltage for the coupler from the control bits. In further embodiments, a power supply filter is provided at the coupler to supply power to the coupler during transitions of the passive network.

Abstract: A shielded serpentine extension, internal signal path and receptor result in a flexible shielded interface for a circuit board that can be formed consistent with efficient circuit board fabrication processes. The shielded serpentine extension, continuous with the circuit board, has a receptor at an end that is distal from the circuit board. The receptor has a signal contact and a shield contact adapted to receive a surface mount connector. A signal path internal to the serpentine extension couples the signal contact of the receptor to the circuit board. The serpentine extension has shielding disposed about the signal path that couples the shield contact to the circuit board.

Abstract: A shielded serpentine extension, internal signal path and receptor result in a flexible shielded interface for a circuit board that can be formed consistent with efficient circuit board fabrication processes. The shielded serpentine extension, continuous with the circuit board, has a receptor at an end that is distal from the circuit board. The receptor has a signal contact and a shield contact adapted to receive a surface mount connector. A signal path internal to the serpentine extension couples the signal contact of the receptor to the circuit board. The serpentine extension has shielding disposed about the signal path that couples the shield contact to the circuit board.