Programmable transversal filter

Abstract

A programmable transversal filter utilizes a plurality of programmable multiplying means. The result of each multiplication is summed by a summing circuit, thus providing an output signal. The delay network comprises a plurality of signal sample and hold circuits which are selectively connected to the input bus in sequence, in order that one sample and hold circuit may store an analog signal sampled during the present time instant, with other sample and hold circuits storing a plurality of analog signals each of which has been sampled during a corresponding one of a plurality of preceding sample periods. The filter also includes a plurality of reference sample and hold circuits which store error voltages equal to the error voltage component of the voltages provided by the signal sample and hold circuits. A first analog cross-point switch is utilized wherein each of said plurality of time delayed analog signals may be selectively applied to a selected multiplying means. The filter tap weights remain fixed in the multipliers until reprogrammed, without the need for rotating the tap weights. A second analog cross-point switch is utilized to selectively connect the output voltage from the reference sample and hold circuits to the multiplier means, thereby eliminating the effect of the error voltages on the output voltage of the transversal filter.