To detect the peaks level of an incoming signal, the difference between
the voltage level of the incoming signal and a voltage developed across a
capacitor is amplified. The amplified difference signal is applied to a
transconductor adapted to vary its output current in response to changes
in the amplified difference signal. The variations in the current
generated by the transconductor are used to change a current flowing
through a current mirror that charges the capacitor. The voltage
developed across the capacitor represents the detected peak. The
capacitor is discharged to a predefined voltage level during the reset
periods. A second amplifier receiving the capacitor voltage is optionally
used to develop a voltage across a second capacitor that is not reset and
thus carries only the detected peak levels.