Abstract. A simple, inexpensive circuit for the accurate logarithmic compression of LIDAR signals is presented. The logarithmic amplifier features an automatic bias control that removes the effect of varying background signals produced by different sky brightnesses, thus allowing the backscattered LIDAR signal to be digitised more effectively. The bandwidth varies with the input current, and increases from 2.5 MHz for currents of 30 mu A to 6 MHz for currents greater than 500 mu A.

Print publication: Issue 4 (April 1987)