Importance

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Abstract

An apparatus for measuring at least one selected physical condition of an animate subject is disclosed. The apparatus comprises: (a) a light source; (b) a light receiver that receives resultant light from the light source via the subject; and (c) an information processor connected with the light receiver. The processor receives indication of the resultant light from the light receiver and evaluates the indication to effect the measuring. The processor is implemented in a unitary structure with the light source and light detector that is borne upon a single silicon substrate. The apparatus may further comprise a first interface element coupled with the processor to facilitate communication with the light receiver, and a second interface element coupled with the processor that includes communication means for conveying messages to remote loci. The first and second interface elements are implemented in the unitary structure. The method of the present invention comprises the steps of: (a) providing an apparatus implemented in a unitary structure borne upon a single silicon substrate; and (b) evaluating the indication provided by the apparatus to effect the measuring. The unitary structure is comprised of a monolithic structure having a first portion implemented in silicon, and having a second portion implemented in at least one compound semiconductor material.

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First Claim