Gerald W Shearer

Title: Innovations of Gerald W. Shearer

Introduction

Gerald W. Shearer is a notable inventor based in Orange, California, with a remarkable portfolio of eight patents. His work primarily focuses on advancements in frequency synthesizers and phase-locked loop systems, showcasing his expertise in electronic engineering.

Latest Patents

One of his latest patents is titled "Multimode frequency synthesizer having high loop gain in frequency seek." This invention features a frequency synthesizer that operates in multiple modes, including a short-duration frequency seek mode and a long-duration normal mode. The synthesizer effectively responds to a reference frequency signal, producing a periodic signal at a frequency that is a rational number times the reference frequency. Key components of this synthesizer include a voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO), a feedforward state machine, a feedback state machine, a phase comparator, and controllable gain circuitry.

Another significant patent is the "Variable frequency system having linear combination of charge pump." This phase-locked loop system incorporates a non-linear VCO and a variable gain charge pump. The charge pump supplies a pump current to an integrating network, transforming the pump current into a frequency-modulating input voltage. This innovative design allows for a substantially constant loop gain by arranging the gain function of the variable gain charge pump in relation to the VCO's transfer function.

Career Highlights

Gerald W. Shearer is currently employed at Western Digital Corporation, where he continues to contribute to the field of electronic engineering. His extensive experience and innovative mindset have made him a valuable asset to the company.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Gerald has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Karl M. Lofgren and Kenneth W. Ouyang. These partnerships have likely enhanced his work and contributed to the development of his patents.

Conclusion

Gerald W. Shearer is a distinguished inventor whose contributions to frequency synthesizers and phase-locked loop systems have significantly impacted the field of electronic engineering. His innovative patents and collaborations reflect his dedication to advancing technology.