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Abstract

An automatic gain control (AGC) circuit for an RF amplifier (or other type of signal-processing module) has a single, switched, RF detector that selectively detects the instantaneous power level of either the sampled RF input signal or the sampled (and optionally attenuated) RF output signal. A processor uses the detected input and output power levels to generate control signals for a variable (e.g., voltage-controlled) attenuator that attenuates the RF input signal prior to being applied to the input of the RF amplifier. The processor is designed (e.g., programmed) to control the variable attenuator to maintain a constant gain between the input and output terminals of the AGC circuit. In addition to this closed-loop mode of operation, the AGC circuit may also have a temperature sensor, where the processor controls the variable attenuator in an open-loop mode of operation based on the temperature of the RF amplifier.

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First Claim