Multiplexed amplifier
AssigneeNorthrop Grumman Corporation
InventorsAndrew D. Smith, Barry R. Allen
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
Multiple sensor signals are used to modulate an equal number of frequency-spaced carrier signals in a directional parametric upconverting amplifier. Basically, the carrier signals are separated in a cascaded or parallel configuration of narrow frequency passbands, which also modulate the carrier signals with low-frequency sensor signals. The modulated carrier signals are multiplexed and output over a single signal path, thereby reducing power dissipation. Preferably implemented in superconducting circuitry, the multiplexed amplifier facilitates multiplexing of as many as hundreds of sensor signals and achieves both amplification and upconverting with minimal dissipation of power.
Claims10
A multiplexed amplifier for combining multiple modulated carriers on a single output path, the amplifier comprising:
- a plurality (N) of signal input paths for input of a plurality of (N) input sensor signals;
- a high frequency input path for inputting a comb of N frequency-spaced carrier signals;
- a structure having multiple narrowband filters connected in such a way as to separate the carrier signals into N distinct transmission paths;
- means for modulating each of the N carrier signals with a respective one of the N input sensor signals to provide N modulated carrier signals;
- and
- means for coupling the N modulated carrier signals onto the single output path.
A method for multiplexing, amplifying and upconverting a plurality (N) of low-frequency input signals, the method comprising:
- inputting a plurality (N) of frequency-spaced high-frequency tones along a single input path into an amplifier structure;
- separating the N high-frequency tones to propagate along N separate transmission paths, using a plurality of narrowband structures;
- inputting N low-frequency input signals into the amplifier structure;
- modulating the high-frequency tones with respective ones of the low-frequency signals, to provide N modulated high-frequency tones on the N separate transmission paths;
- and
- combining the N modulated high-frequency tones on a single output path.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.