A system, method and apparatus for controlling boost and buck-boost converters using input-output linearization and leading-edge modulation is provided. Relative power requirements for high and low processing gain channels are stored in a LUT in memory, for a variety of data transmission rates. The manipulation part receives a manipulation action of a user’s finger, the distance sensor senses a distance of the manipulation part relative to a fixed location and generates a distance signal for characterizing the manipulation action. As examples, such data signals from the heat sink may include a temperature indication or a heat demand signal, and such data signals from the power sink may include a voltage or current measurement, an electrical power demand signal, or an electrical load. In one example, chemFET arrays facilitate DNA sequencing techniques based on monitoring changes in hydrogen ion concentration, changes in other analyte concentration, andor binding events associated with chemical processes relating to DNA synthesis.