Quadrature signal imbalance estimation

Abstract

Devices and methods for estimation of quadrature signal imbalance are provided. A quadrature signal is coupled to a computing system. The computing system determines several points on a symmetry function of corrected quadrature signals, and identifies a symmetry point that may satisfy a threshold level. An imbalance corresponding to the identified symmetry point may be used as an imbalance estimate. The imbalance estimate can be used for imbalance correction. Multiple imbalance estimates can be combined to reduce random errors caused by noise. Triangulation can be used to identify a value of symmetry that satisfies a threshold level. Triangulation allows the determination of the location of a symmetry trough by calculating as few as four symmetry points, thereby permitting embodiments to track rapidly changing imbalance. The disclosed embodiments may be employed in optical velocimetry systems, detection and ranging systems such as radar, sonar, and lidar, ultrasonics, and communications systems.