Abstract: Two or more digital-input RF amplifiers are configured in parallel such that a combiner combines their respective outputs to generate a relatively large composite RF output signal. A feedback control architecture minimizes the phase differences between the various amplifier outputs so that the outputs can be efficiently combined. The feedback control can measure the return loss for each amplifier to determine how to adjust each amplifier's phase. In some embodiments, the feedback control can also measure the composite RF output signal for use in phase adjustment. In certain implementations, phase adjustment is implemented by an iterative coarse phase-adjustment mode (e.g., based on either the return loss or the composite output signal) followed by an iterative fine phase-adjustment mode (e.g., based on the return loss).

Abstract: The present invention discloses a method of maintaining forward and backwards compatibility between various software releases, utilizing different database information and structures. During database transfers the initiating, master, processor requests a responding, slave, process to first provide a description of the slave's database language. Next, the master processor compares the slave's database language description to that of its own. From this comparison, the master develops a working language. The working language is then sent to the slave processor, and thereafter used by both processors when transferring database information. This method supports the update and transfer of database records pursuant to the installation of new software releases. Alternatively, this technique supports the transfer of database information between processors that have dissimilar database structures.

Abstract: Disclosed is a means for testing drop wires in digital loop systems which employ optical fiber up to a distant terminal near the subscriber's premises. A test module is provided at the distant terminal to determine the presence or absence of faults on the wires to the customer premises. The results of the test are transmitted via an optical data link to the remote terminal where the results can be accessed by a loop tester at the central office.

Abstract: A method for surface treating a continuous flow of workpieces includes the steps of fluidizing a stationary bed of surface treating media, aggitating the fluidized bed of surface treating media to create a scrubbing action to the surface treating media, submerging the workpieces to be treated in the stationary, fluidized, aggitated media bed subjecting the workpieces to the scrubbing action of the media, holding the submerged workpiece stationary within the fluidized, aggitated bed of surface treating media, releasing the hold on the workpiece, and removing the workpiece from the bed of surface treating media.