Importance

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Abstract

In certain embodiments, an apparatus includes a sensing element having a capacitance to a first reference voltage. The capacitance is variable as a function of a proximity of an object to the sensing element. The apparatus further includes a sample capacitor connected to the sensing element and control circuitry connected to the sample capacitor. The control circuitry is configured to supply a charge to the sample capacitor and the sensing element and discharge the sensing element. The control circuitry is further configured to provide, in response to the discharge of the sensing element, a signal indicative of the capacitance to the first reference voltage of the sensing element. The control circuitry is further configured to process the signal to detect a change in the capacitance to the first reference voltage as indicative of the proximity of the object to the sensing element.

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First Claim