This thesis provides a thorough noise analysis for conventional CIS readout chains, while also presenting and discussing a variety of noise reduction techniques that allow the read noise in standard processes to be optimized. Two physical implementations featuring sub-0.5-electron RMS are subsequently presented to verify the proposed noise reduction techniques and provide a full characterization of a VGA imager. Based on the verified noise calculation, the impact of the technology downscal...

The contributors to this book examine the conceptual issues relating to the link between conflict and poverty as well as presenting case studies of countries often regarded as ‘hot spots’ for conflict in Africa. They also explore the roles of regional and sub-regional bodies and institutions in addressing the causes of poverty and mitigating the impacts of conflict on vulnerable and marginalized groups.Africa is often regarded as the epicentre of conflicts worldwide. Virtually ever...