Abstract: A differential variable gain amplifier (1) comprises eight identical variable gain stages (8a to 8d) which are arranged in two groups, namely, a high gain group (19) and a low gain group (20). The first gain stage (8a) is coupled directly to a pair of positive and negative main input terminals (4,5) for receiving a differential input signal to be amplified. A pair of voltage divider impedance chains (14) comprising identical capacitors (C1a to C1g) define taps (17b to 17h) through which the input signal is applied to the corresponding gain stages (8b to 8h) in progressive steps of attenuation. Each gain stage (8) comprises a pair of identical variable gain amplifier elements (11) which amplify the respective positive and negative ends of the differential input signal. Only one of the gain stages (8a to 8h) is selected at any one time by a control circuit 10. The outputs from the gain stages (8) of the high gain group (19) are applied to positive and negative high gain output terminals (28,29).

Abstract: A cookware assembly includes an open-top vessel with diametrically opposed handles and diametrically opposed pour spouts, and a lid including an outer peripheral frame member, a central member spaced from the frame member and support structure coupled to each of the frame member and the central member closing the space therebetween. A flange depends from the frame member and has a plurality of vertically elongated apertures therethrough adjacent to a predetermined location on the frame which carries indicia to indicate the location of the apertures.

Abstract: Apparatus, systems and methods for enabling an improved portable media player are provided. The apparatus provides improved media recording, synchronization, rendering and user interface experiences for a user. In various embodiments, portable media players are provided with a closed position for substantially protecting the media screen when music is being played, and an open position which uncovers the media screen for the viewing of video, photos, movies and the like. For instance, there is provided a portable media player with a small screen with a dual-sided cover spreading outward to reveal a large screen with wings on either side. User Interface controls may be located on the wings, and the functionality may be augmented or replaced with swappable, interchangeable wings offering cartridge like replaceable functionality.

Abstract: A transmitter for directly modulating an RF carrier with a complex baseband waveform comprises a programmable device adapted to generate amplitude and phase information collectively corresponding to a complex baseband waveform, a signal generator adapted to generate an RF carrier whose phase is responsive to phase information generated by the programmable device, a plurality of delta modulators, and an amplifier coupled to the signal generator and receiving the RF carrier with phase information. Each delta modulator is operative to sample an error signal at a time period offset from all other delta modulators to thereby generate streams of pulses collectively approximating the amplitude information. The supply voltage of the amplifier is adjusted in accordance with approximated amplitude information represented by the streams of pulses generated by the delta modulators.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus or machining a workpiece include the use of a cryogenically cooled oxide containing ceramic cutting tool. The method involves cryogenic cooling of the cutting tool during a cutting operation, which cooling results in enhanced wear resistance and fracture resistance of the cutting tool. A preferred embodiment involves jetting a cryogenic fluid directly at the cutting tool.

Abstract: A lid for a cooking vessel may be placed in different rotational positions to adjust the amount of venting or provide for pouring. The lid may have different radius lengths for different edge portions. A cooking vessel rim may have corresponding radius lengths such that the lid may be placed on the cooking vessel in a venting or non-venting position.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for machining a workpiece include the use of a cryogenically cooled oxide-containing ceramic cutting tool. The method involves cryogenic cooling of the cutting tool during a cutting operation, which cooling results in enhanced wear resistance and fracture resistance of the cutting tool. A preferred embodiment involves jetting a cryogenic fluid directly at the cutting tool.

Abstract: A medication delivery pen having a magnifier for sufficiently magnify dosage numerals used by the user to set the desired dose of medication to be dispensed by the medication delivery pen. The magnifier being integral with a pocket clip on the medication delivery pen, such that the magnifier means extends over a window through which the user sees the set desired dose and at a predetermined distance such that the dose is sufficiently magnified for the user.