Patent ID: 6271726
Filing Date: 2001-08-07
Classification: H03G

Abstract:
An amplifier, comprising:an input stage configured to convert an incoming signal from a voltage to a plurality of representative currents in a plurality of current signal paths;a plurality of differential pairs of devices coupled between the input stage and a main current signal path, one of the differential pairs located in each of the respective current signal paths for controlling the amount of current provided by the respective current signal path to the main current signal path, each device of the differential pairs having a control electrode and first and second conducting electrodes supporting a current therebetween upon application of a sufficient control voltage at the control electrode; andan output stage generating an output signal that is dependent on current in the main current signal path;wherein the representative currents of the current signal paths differ, and the gain of the amplifier is continuously variable by voltages applied at the control electrodes of the differential pairs.