Energy efficiency Ethernet with low power active idle transmission mode

Abstract

Energy efficient Ethernet with a low power active idle transmission mode. A low power active idle transmission mode is defined for the transmission of idle signals during inter-packet gaps. The low power active idle transmission mode can provide energy savings in those instances that preclude the use of a low power idle mode and / or subrating to produce greater energy savings.

Description

technical field [0001] The present invention relates generally to energy efficient Ethernet networks, and more particularly to energy efficient Ethernet with a low power active idle transmission mode. Background technique [0002] Energy costs have continued to rise at an accelerated rate in recent years. In this context, various industries have become increasingly sensitive to these rising costs. One area that has drawn increasing attention is IT infrastructure. Many companies are currently reviewing the power usage of their IT systems to determine if they can reduce energy costs. To this end, an industry has emerged focused on energy efficient networking to address the rising cost of IT equipment usage in aggregate (ie, PCs, displays, printers, servers, network equipment, etc.). [0003] One aspect to consider in designing energy efficient solutions is the utilization of network links. For example, many network links are often idle between occasional bursts of data. D...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Here, the identification of periods of low link utilization is more difficult and the energy saving potential is reduced

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