Abstract: An improved integrated circuit transponder device is presented comprising, in combination, a single, externally wireless package enclosing an integrated circuit semiconductor chip, a coil within the package being selectively exposed to an electromagnetic field, and a detection portion on the integrated circuit semiconductor chip and being coupled to each end of the coil for detecting when voltages at each end of the coil are approximately equal over a period of time. The detection portion includes an exclusive NOR gate coupled to each end of the coil for determining when the coil voltages are equal, and the output of the exclusive NOR gate is input to a filter before being delivered to the remainder of the device circuitry.

Abstract: A mechanically adjustable tunnelling junction includes two electrodes defining a gap supported on substrates. Spacers maintain the electrodes in spaced apart relation. At least one of substrates is mechanically deformable, whereby the application of an external force to the substrates decreases the gap to the range where tunnelling will occur.