Digital to analog converter with thermometer coding and methods for use therewith

Abstract

A digital to analog converter (DAC) includes a thermometer coder that processes a digital input based on a thermometer coding, and generates a plurality of micro-current source inputs and a plurality of micro-current source analog controls. A plurality of micro-current sources generate a corresponding plurality of micro-current source outputs in response to the plurality of micro-current source inputs, wherein first selected ones of the plurality of micro-current sources are powered-off in response to the plurality of micro-current source analog controls. A summing circuit generates an analog output based on a sum of the corresponding plurality of micro-current source outputs.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENTS / PATENT APPLICATIONS[0001]The present U.S. Utility Patent Application claims priority pursuant to 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61 / 937,936, entitled “DIGITAL TO ANALOG CONVERTER WITH THERMOMETER CODING AND METHODS FOR USE THEREWITH”, filed Feb. 10, 2014, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and made part of the present U.S. Utility Patent Application for all purposes.BACKGROUND[0002]1. Technical Field[0003]The various embodiments relate generally to communication systems including point-to-multipoint communication systems such as cable modem systems and digital to analog converters used therein.[0004]2. Description of Related Art[0005]In conventional point-to-multipoint communication systems, a network supports bidirectional data communication between a central entity and multiple customer premises equipment (CPE). Example point-to-multipoint communication systems include cable modem systems, fixed...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent text describes various embodiments of a communication system, particularly a cable modem system, and methods for improving its performance. The technical effects of the patent include proposing a digital to analog converter with thermometer coding and methods for using it, as well as addressing issues with channel capacity and downstream transmissions. The patent also describes various techniques for transmitting data over cable systems, such as analog spectrum reclamation and advanced video coding techniques. Overall, the patent aims to provide solutions for enhancing the efficiency and performance of cable modem systems.

Problems solved by technology

Advances in communication technology are requiring increasingly more bandwidth, which can lead to deficiencies in channel capacity, especially with respect to these downstream transmissions.

For example, even cable plants operating at a frequency of 750 MHz are being challenged with capacity shortages, due to increased demand for video on demand (VOD), high-definition television (HDTV), digital services, and expanding analog channel lineups.

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