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Researchers at NASA’s Johnson Space Center (JSC) have patented a compact circuit design that does not require the use of external components. The design allows for the construction of multi-pole low pass filters for multiple instrument channels on a single complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) chip. The system does not require external components, such as capacitors, which add bulk and noise. In addition, the high performance circuit improves upon several challenges posed by conventional circuits, which often have significant power drain and cumbersome design. This type of compact system with many sensors could be used in space-constrained applications such as a small spacecraft or robot. JSC has received patent number 6,943,619 for this technology.

Benefits

• High performance: Allows for large numbers of channels and mixed voltages
• Compact: Reduces bulk by eliminating external components, including external capacitors
• Efficient: Reduces power drain by eliminating the use of digital signal processing
• Versatile: Accommodates a range of sensors

Applications

Compact systems with many sensors:

• Small spacecraft
• Automobiles
• Robots

Patent

Johnson Space Center has received patent protection (U.S. 6,943,619→) for this technology.

Licensing and Partnering Opportunity

This technology is being made available through JSC’s Technology Transfer and Commercialization Office, which seeks to transfer technology into and out of NASA to benefit the space program and U.S. industry. NASA invites companies to consider licensing this technology for commercial applications.

Contact Information

If you would like more information about this technology or about NASA’s technology transfer program, please contact:

Technology Transfer and Commercialization Office
NASA’s Johnson Space Center
Phone: 281-483-3809
E-mail: jsc-techtran@mail.nasa.gov