Wired communication network extension device for security monitoring networks

Abstract

Systems and methods related to electronic communication system extender devices are disclosed. The device includes a control input / output interface, a first bus interface, a second bus interface, and an electronic processor. The processor is configured to, when operating in an extender mode, receive, at the control input / output interface, first communications according to a first communication protocol from a control panel and output, from both the first serial communication bus interface and the second serial communication bus interface, the first communications according to a second communication protocol, the second communication protocol being a wired communication protocol. The processor is further configured to, when operating in an extender mode, receive, at the first bus interface, second communications according to the second communication protocol from a first electronic communication device and output, via the second bus interface, the second communications according to the second communication protocol to a second electronic communication device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application generally relates to the field of wired serial communication networks, and in particular to security monitoring systems. Background Technology

[0002] A security monitoring system can be implemented as a serial communication network, which includes control panels communicatively coupled to various peripheral devices. Such peripheral devices may include sensor modules (e.g., surveillance cameras, infrared sensors, RFID / card scanners, etc.), human-machine interface modules (e.g., keyboards, touchscreen displays, etc.), and output modules (e.g., audible alarms, visual alarm systems, etc.). The control panel can communicate with each of these peripheral devices via wired half-duplex communication. Attached Figure Description

[0003] The same reference numerals in the accompanying drawings refer to the same or functionally similar elements in the various views. The drawings, together with the following detailed description, are incorporated in and form part of the specification, and are used to further illustrate aspects, examples, aspects and features of the concepts including the claimed subject matter, and to explain the various principles and advantages of such aspects, examples and features.

[0004] Figure 1 It is a block diagram illustrating a communication system based on various examples.

[0005] Figure 2 The illustrations show various examples. Figure 1 Electronic communication extension equipment for the system.

[0006] Figure 3 The illustrations show various examples. Figure 1 The system's control panel.

[0007] Figure 4 It is based on various examples. Figure 2 A flowchart illustrating the method for implementing extended network communication using a device.

[0008] Figure 5A The illustrations are based on various examples, including Figure 2 A block diagram of the communication system of the device.

[0009] Figure 5B The illustrations are based on various examples, including Figure 2 A block diagram of the communication system of the device.

[0010] Figure 5C The illustrations are based on various examples, including Figure 2 A block diagram of the communication system of the device.

[0011] Those skilled in the art will understand that the elements in the accompanying drawings are shown for simplicity and clarity and are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some elements in the drawings may be exaggerated relative to other elements to aid in understanding the examples, aspects, and features illustrated.

[0012] In some instances, apparatus and method components are indicated by conventional symbols in the accompanying drawings where appropriate, showing only those specific details relevant to understanding the various aspects, examples, and features, so as not to obscure this disclosure by details that would be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art who benefit from the description herein. Detailed Implementation

[0013] Security monitoring systems utilizing wired communication may be limited to the physical area effectively covered by the network. For example, in large venues (e.g., airports, super warehouses, shopping malls, exhibition centers, etc.), longer connections (and additional peripheral devices) may be required between peripheral devices (i.e., devices at the network edge) and the central control panel. However, long connections (e.g., approximately 1000 ft) are susceptible to higher wire resistance, which can introduce voltage drops that are too large for the operating voltage range of the peripheral devices at both ends of the connection. Additionally, long connections are susceptible to higher capacitive loads. Any device added to the connection will introduce an additional capacitive load, which can cause distortion of the communication signals transmitted through the connection. Therefore, the network may be limited by the distance between the peripheral devices and the control panel, and the number of peripheral devices on a given connection.

[0014] One solution for implementing wired networks over a wide area is to install multiple independent systems in the required area. However, implementing and managing such systems can be complex and expensive. Another solution is to have a "master" control panel manage several "slave" control panels, each managing a corresponding number of peripheral devices. However, again, such systems can be expensive because the software and processing power required for both the master and slave control panels can be quite substantial.

[0015] To address these issues, this paper presents an example of an electronic communication extension device for implementation in a wired serial communication network. The extension device is configured to operate in either extender mode or extender mode. As described in more detail below, both modes allow more devices to be added to the same network and allow the network to cover a wider physical / geographical area.

[0016] Some aspects relate to an electronic communication system expansion device. This device includes a control input / output interface, a first serial communication bus interface, a second serial communication bus interface, and an electronic processor. The electronic processor is configured to: when operating in extender mode, receive first communication according to a first communication protocol from a control panel at the control input / output interface, and output the first communication according to a second communication protocol from both the first and second serial communication bus interfaces, the second communication protocol being a wired communication protocol. The electronic processor is further configured to: when operating in extender mode, receive second communication according to the second communication protocol from a first electronic communication device at the first serial communication bus interface, and output the second communication according to the second communication protocol to a second electronic communication device via the second serial communication bus interface.

[0017] Some aspects relate to a wired communication network comprising multiple electronic communication system extension devices, each of which includes a control interface, a first serial communication bus interface, a second serial communication bus interface, and an electronic processor. The electronic processor is configured to, when operating in extender mode, receive first communication according to a first communication protocol from a control panel, and output the first communication according to a second communication protocol from both the first and second serial communication bus interfaces, the second communication protocol being a wired communication protocol. The electronic processor is further configured to, when operating in extender mode, receive the second communication according to the second communication protocol from a first electronic communication device at the first serial communication bus interface, and output the second communication according to the second communication protocol to a second electronic communication device via the second serial communication bus interface.

[0018] Some aspects relate to a method for operating an electronic communication system extension device for a wired security monitoring communication network, the electronic communication system extension device including a control interface, a first serial communication bus interface, and a second serial communication bus interface. The method includes: when operating the device in extender mode, receiving first communication according to a first communication protocol from a control panel, and outputting the first communication according to a second communication protocol from both the first and second serial communication bus interfaces, the second communication protocol being a wired communication protocol. The method further includes: when operating the device in extender mode, receiving the second communication according to the second communication protocol from a first electronic communication device at the first serial communication bus interface, and outputting the second communication according to the second communication protocol to a second electronic communication device via the second serial communication bus interface.

[0019] Before explaining any aspect, feature, or instance in detail, it should be understood that such aspect, feature, or instance in its application is not limited to the details of the construction and arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following figures. Other instances are possible and can be practiced or performed in various ways.

[0020] It should also be noted that in various embodiments, multiple hardware- and software-based devices and multiple different structural components can be utilized. Aspects, features, and examples may include hardware, software, and electronic components or modules, which, for the purposes of discussion, may be illustrated and described as if most components were implemented solely in hardware. However, those skilled in the art will recognize from reading this detailed description that, in at least one instance, the electronic-based aspects of the invention may be implemented in a manner executable by one or more processors (e.g., stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium). Therefore, it should be noted that the invention may be implemented using multiple hardware- and software-based devices and multiple different structural components. For example, the “control unit” and “controller” described in the specification may include one or more electronic processors, one or more memories including a non-transitory computer-readable medium, one or more input / output interfaces, and various connections (e.g., system buses) for connecting components.

[0021] Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the articles “a,” “an,” and “the” should not be interpreted as meaning “one” or “only one.” Instead, these articles should be interpreted as “at least one” or “one or more.” Similarly, when the terms “the” or “said” are used to refer to a noun previously introduced by the indefinite articles “a” or “an,” “the” and “said” mean “at least one” or “one or more,” unless the usage clearly indicates otherwise.

[0022] It should also be understood that although some of the accompanying drawings illustrate hardware and software located within a particular device, these descriptions are for illustrative purposes only. In some embodiments, the components shown may be combined or divided into separate software, firmware, and / or hardware. For example, logic and processing may be distributed across multiple electronic processors, rather than residing in and being executed by a single electronic processor. Regardless of how the hardware and software components are combined or divided, the hardware and software components may reside on the same computing device or may be distributed across different computing devices connected by one or more networks or other suitable connections or links.

[0023] Therefore, if an apparatus or system is claimed to include, for example, an electronic processor or other element configured in a certain way, such as to make multiple determinations, it should be interpreted as meaning one or more electronic processors (or other elements), wherein any one of the one or more electronic processors (or other elements) is configured as claimed, such as to jointly make some or all of the multiple determinations. To reiterate, these electronic processors and processes can be distributed.

[0024] Furthermore, it should be understood that the wording and terminology used herein are for descriptive purposes and should not be considered restrictive. The terms “installation,” “connection,” and “coupling” are used broadly and include both direct and indirect installation, connection, and coupling. Further, “connection” and “coupling” are not limited to physical or mechanical connections or couplings and may include direct or indirect electrical connections or couplings. Moreover, electronic communication and notification can be performed using any known means, including wired connections, wireless connections, etc.

[0025] For ease of description, some or all of the example systems presented herein are illustrated using a single sample of each of their components. Some examples may not describe or illustrate all components of the system. Other instances may include more or fewer of each illustrated component, may combine some components, or may include additional or alternative components.

[0026] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of a security monitoring system network 100 based on some aspects. In some aspects, the security monitoring system network 100 is used to monitor individual physical building structures or areas (e.g., commercial or business buildings, shops, warehouse facilities, freight yards, etc.). Network 100 includes a control panel 102 and one or more electronic communication extension devices (referred to herein as extension devices) 200A and 200B (referred to herein separately as extension device 200). The control panel 102 is configured to communicate directly with at least one extension device 200 via wired or wireless communication (without any device in between or only via a network switch). In the illustrated example, the control panel 102 is communicatively coupled to the extension device 200A according to wired communication (e.g., Ethernet). In these aspects, the control panel 102 can communicate with the extension device 200A via a network switch 104. In some aspects, the control panel 102 is communicatively coupled to the extension device 200 via wireless communication protocols (e.g., Land Mobile Radio (LMR) networks, cellular networks (e.g., Long Term Evolution (LTE) networks), combinations or derivatives thereof, and other suitable networks, including future network architectures).

[0027] The control panel 102 can be any kind of user electronic communication device suitable for operating and processing communications on the network 100. The control panel 102 can be, or includes, for example, a desktop or laptop computer, a server, a tablet computer, etc.

[0028] Each expansion device is 200A or 200B (see below) Figure 2 (Described in more detail) includes at least two serial communication interfaces (ports), through which corresponding expansion devices 200A and 200B each exchange wired serial communication with one or more additional electronic communication devices. Depending on the specific topology of network 100, the additional devices may include one or more peripheral devices (e.g., peripheral devices 106A-106H, referred to herein solely as peripheral device 106), one or more expansion devices 200, control panel 102, or some combination thereof. Peripheral devices 106A-106B include one or more security monitoring / access control devices, which are or include sensor modules (e.g., surveillance cameras, infrared sensors, RFID / card scanners, etc.), human-machine interface modules (e.g., keyboards, touchscreen displays, etc.), and output modules (e.g., visual alarms, audible alarms, etc.). Peripheral devices 106 may include, for example, one or more sensors (e.g., biometric sensors, RFID tag sensors, surveillance cameras, motion sensors, etc.), human-machine interfaces (e.g., keyboards, buttons, etc.), access control modules for entry channels (e.g., electronic door locks or window locks, etc.), sound / visual alarms (e.g., sirens, warning lights, etc.), etc.

[0029] In the illustrated example, expansion device 200A communicates with peripheral devices 106A and 106B via serial communication bus 108A. Expansion device 200A also communicates with peripheral devices 106C-106E and expansion device 200B via serial communication bus 108B. Expansion device 200B shares serial communication bus 108B with expansion device 200A and communicates with devices 106F-106H via serial communication bus 108C. In some aspects, expansion device 200 can be configured to provide power to one or more devices connected downstream of expansion device 200 (e.g., via corresponding serial communication buses 108A, 108B, and 108C or via separate connections). In these aspects, devices downstream of expansion device 200 may include one or more of peripheral device 106, another expansion device 200, or some combination thereof. For example, in Figure 1 In the illustrated example, expansion device 200A can be configured to provide power to peripheral devices 106A-106E and expansion device 200B (e.g., from the reference below). Figure 2 The battery 240 is described. Additionally, see references. Figure 1In the example illustrated, extension device 200B can be configured to provide power to peripheral devices 106F-106H.

[0030] As described in more detail below, each expansion device 200 is configured to operate in either expander mode or extender mode. This specific mode alters the manner in which communication is manipulated at the serial communication bus interface of the respective expansion device 200 (see below). Figure 2 (To be described in more detail). In extender mode, extender device 200 receives communication from control panel 102 at a separate input / output interface according to a first communication protocol (e.g., Ethernet), converts the received communication to a second communication protocol for transmission on its corresponding serial communication bus, and outputs the communication according to the second communication protocol to its serial communication bus interface. In extender mode, extender device 200 receives communication at one of its serial communication bus interfaces and outputs (forwards) the communication from another serial communication bus interface (unless the communication is addressed to extender device 200 itself).

[0031] In the illustrated example, expansion device 200A operates in expander mode, and expansion device 200B operates in extender mode. Therefore, in expander mode, expansion device 200A is configured to receive communication from control panel 102, convert the communication according to a second communication protocol, and send the communication according to the second communication protocol to devices on buses 108A and 108B. In extender mode, expansion device 200B is configured to receive communication from bus 108B and forward the communication (according to the same second protocol) to devices 106F-106H on bus 108C.

[0032] As used herein, with respect to a single expansion device 200, the term "upstream" refers to the device (and corresponding connections) between (and including) the control panel 102 and the expansion device 200. Also as used herein, with respect to a single expansion device 200, the term "downstream" refers to the device between the expansion device 200 and any peripheral devices located at the edge of the network 100. As an example, regarding... Figure 1 The expansion device 200A and the control panel 102 are upstream devices of the expansion device 200A, and the devices 106A-106H and the expansion device 200B are downstream devices of the expansion device 200A.

[0033] It should also be understood that, as further described below, the topology of Network 100 is not limited to... Figure 1 The example shown. For example, any number of expansion devices 200N (operating in extender mode) can be directly communicatively coupled to control panel 102, or communicatively coupled downstream to any number of peripheral devices 106 or expansion devices 200 (operating in extender mode) via network switch 104.

[0034] It should also be further understood that, although the examples described herein generally pertain to communication output from control panel 102 and transmitted to one or more devices downstream of control panel 102 within network 100, one or more downstream devices may also provide communication back to control panel 102. For example, peripheral device 106F may be configured to send communication from control panel 102 to extension device 200 via bus 108C, then to extension device 200A via bus 108B, and then to control panel 102 via network switch 104.

[0035] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of an example of an expansion device 200. In the aspects shown, the expansion device 200 includes an electronic processor 205, a memory 210, and an input / output interface 215. In some aspects, the expansion device 200 includes a transceiver 225. The illustrated components, along with various other modules and components (not shown), are coupled to each other via or through one or more control or data buses that enable communication therebetween.

[0036] Electronic processor 205 acquires and provides information (e.g., from memory 210 and / or input / output interface 215) and processes the information by executing one or more software instructions or modules, which can be stored, for example, in a random access memory (“RAM”) region of memory 210, or a read-only memory (“ROM”) of memory 210, or another non-transitory computer-readable medium (not shown). The software may include firmware, one or more applications, program data, filters, rules, one or more program modules, and other executable instructions. Electronic processor 205 is configured to retrieve and execute software, etc., related to the control processes and methods described herein, from memory 210.

[0037] Memory 210 may include one or more non-transitory computer-readable media and includes a program storage area and a data storage area. As described herein, the program storage area and the data storage area may include a combination of different types of memory.

[0038] Input / output interface 215 is configured to receive input and provide system output. Input / output interface 215 receives information and signals from devices inside and outside the expansion device 200, and provides information and signals to devices inside and outside the expansion device (e.g., via one or more wired and / or wireless connections). The input / output interface may include one or more wired interfaces (e.g., USB port, Ethernet port, etc.) and / or one or more wireless transceivers (e.g., transceiver 225) or interfaces (e.g., configured to send and / or receive information via one or more wireless communication protocols such as 802.11a / b / g / n, Bluetooth, Near Field Communication (NFC), ZigBee, etc.).

[0039] For example, input / output interface 215 includes a first serial communication bus interface 220A and a second serial communication bus interface 220B. As described above, expansion device 200 is configured to communicate with one or more devices of network 100 via a respective wired bus connection at each of the first serial communication bus interfaces 220A, 220B.

[0040] In some aspects, the expansion device 200 includes a control input / output interface 220C for communicatively coupling to the control panel 102 of the network 100 (e.g., when operating in extender mode). The interface 220C may be, for example, a port for wired connection (e.g., an Ethernet port).

[0041] In some aspects, the extension device 200 includes a transceiver 225 (part of the input / output interface 215). The transceiver 225 is configured to transmit and receive wireless communications (e.g., receiving wireless communications from the control panel 102 when the extension device 200 is operating in extender mode). The transceiver 225 may include various digital and analog components, which are not described herein for the sake of brevity, and these components may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of both. Some aspects include separate transmitting and receiving components, such as a transmitter and a receiver, rather than a combined transceiver 225.

[0042] Optionally, in some aspects, the input / output interface 215 includes a human-machine interface (HMI) 230. The HMI 230 receives input from the user of the extension device 200 and provides output to the user. The HMI 230 may include a keyboard, switch, button, softkey, indicator light, haptic vibrator, display (e.g., touchscreen), or some combination thereof. In some aspects, the extension device 200 is configurable by the user via the HMI 230. For example, in some instances, the user can select the mode of operation of the extension device 200 (e.g., extender mode or extender mode) via the HMI 230 (e.g., via a switch or touchscreen display).

[0043] For example, in some aspects, the HMI 230 includes a rotary switch (not shown) that a user can use to set in which mode the expansion device 200 will operate (extender mode or extender mode). In some aspects, the user can use the HMI 230 to set the IP communication address of the expansion device 200 (e.g., based on the location of the switch).

[0044] In some aspects, the extension device 200 also includes a power system 235. The power system 235 includes, in particular, a battery 240. The battery 240 includes one or more batteries that provide power to one or more components of the extension device 200. In some embodiments, the battery 240 is separate from the extension device 200 (e.g., disposed within a housing separate from the extension device 200). In some aspects, as described above, the extension device 200 is further configured to provide power from the power system 235 to one or more additional devices of the network 100 (e.g., one or more peripheral devices 106 connected downstream of the extension device 200).

[0045] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a control panel 102 based on some aspects. In the provided example, the control panel 102 includes an electronic processor 305, a memory 310, and an input / output interface 315, which includes a transceiver 320 and optionally a human-machine interface (HMI) 325. The illustrated components, along with various other modules and components (not shown), are coupled to each other via one or more control or data buses that enable communication therebetween.

[0046] Electronic processor 305 acquires and provides information (e.g., from memory 310 and / or input / output interface 315), and processes the information by executing one or more software instructions or modules, which can be stored, for example, in a random access memory (“RAM”) region of memory 310, or a read-only memory (“ROM”) of memory 310, or another non-transitory computer-readable medium (not shown). The software may include firmware, one or more applications, program data, filters, rules, one or more program modules, and other executable instructions. Electronic processor 305 is configured to retrieve and execute software, etc., from memory 310 to perform the methods described herein.

[0047] Memory 310 may include a program storage area and a data storage area. As described herein, the program storage area and the data storage area may include a combination of different types of memory.

[0048] Input / output interface 315 is an electronic communication interface configured to receive input and provide system output. Input / output interface 315 receives information and signals from devices inside and outside the control panel 102, and provides information and signals to devices inside and outside the control panel (e.g., via one or more wired and / or wireless connections). Input / output interface 315 may include a wireless transmitter or transceiver for wireless communication over network 100. As an alternative or supplement to the wireless transmitter or transceiver, input / output interface 315 may include a port for receiving cables (such as Ethernet cables) for communication over network 100 or a dedicated wired connection. It should be understood that, in some aspects, control panel 102 communicates via one or more intermediate devices (such as routers, gateways, repeaters, etc., e.g., Figure 1 The network switch 104 communicates with other devices. In some embodiments, the control panel 102 includes one or more of the communication bus interfaces 323.

[0049] As described above, in some aspects, control panel 102 may include HMI 325. HMI 325 receives input from the user of control panel 102 and provides output to the user. HMI 325 may include a keyboard, switches, buttons, soft keys, indicator lights, haptic vibrators, a display configured as, for example, a touchscreen (e.g., display 330), or some combination thereof. In some aspects, control panel 102 is configurable by the user via HMI 325. In some aspects, the user can access information received from one or more devices on network 100 via HMI 325 of control panel 102.

[0050] Display 330 is a suitable display (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD) touchscreen or an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) touchscreen). In some aspects, control panel 102 implements a graphical user interface (GUI) that enables a user to interact with control panel 102 (e.g., generated by electronic processor 305 based on instructions and data stored in memory 310 and presented on display 330). In some aspects, control panel 102 enables remote display, such as a display of one or more devices using network 100 (e.g., one or more of peripheral devices 106A-106H or extension devices 200) or another suitable device communicating with control panel 102 (configured similarly to the display of HMI 220).

[0051] Figure 4 The illustration shows an example method 400 of the operation of the extended device 200 according to some aspects. Although method 400 is combined with as described herein Figure 1The example network 100 is used to describe method 400, but method 400 can be used with other network topologies. Furthermore, method 400 can be modified or implemented in a manner different from the specific example provided. As an example, method 400 is described as being implemented by extension device 200, specifically by electronic processor 205.

[0052] At box 402, electronic processor 205 determines whether expansion device 200 is in expander mode or extender mode. As described above, in some aspects, the mode of operation of expansion device 200 is set by the user via HMI 230. In some aspects, the user sets the mode of expansion device 200 at control panel 102 (e.g., via HMI 325). In some aspects, the user sets the mode of expansion device 200 via a remote device (not shown) that communicates with control panel 102 or directly with the corresponding expansion device 200.

[0053] In an example where the extension device 200 operates in extender mode, at block 404, the electronic processor 205 receives first communication from the control panel 102 of the network 100 according to a first communication protocol. The first communication protocol is a wired or wireless communication protocol. For example, in some aspects, the first communication protocol is an Ethernet communication protocol. In some aspects, the first communication protocol is a Wi-Fi communication protocol.

[0054] Subsequently, at block 406, electronic processor 205 is configured to output first communication according to a second communication protocol from both the first serial communication bus interface 220A and the second serial communication bus interface 220B. The second communication protocol is a wired communication protocol (e.g., according to the Universal Asynchronous Receiver / Transmitter (UART) protocol). In some aspects, the second communication protocol is a half-duplex communication protocol. In some aspects, the first communication protocol is the same as the second communication protocol. Alternatively, in some aspects, the first and second communication protocols are different communication modes (different wired communication modes or wireless and wired communication modes, respectively). In some aspects, electronic processor 205 is configured to convert received communication from the first communication protocol to the second communication protocol.

[0055] It should be understood that the first communication refers to communication addressed to one or more devices on network 100, other than extension device 200. In some aspects, extension device 200 receives communication addressed to itself from control panel 102. In such instances, extension device 200 processes communication addressed to itself accordingly. Otherwise, extension device 200 outputs communication from both serial communication bus interfaces 220A and 220B, as described with respect to block 406.

[0056] In some respects, the extension device 200 acts as a transparent device between the control panel 102 and downstream devices. In other words, the extension device 200 provides communication from the control panel 102 to downstream devices without modifying the original content of the communication, except for conversion to a second communication protocol. For example, in some instances, the first communication is UART communication, and the control panel 102 packages the UART communication into Internet Protocol (IP) packets. The control panel 102 then transmits the IP-encapsulated communication to the extension device 200 immediately downstream of the control panel 102 according to the IP communication protocol. Upon receiving the IP-encapsulated communication, the extension device 200 unpacks the communication, restoring it to the original UART communication. The extension device 200 then sends the UART communication (unless the UART communication is addressed to the extension device 200 itself) to any of the devices connected downstream of the device 200 via a first communication bus interface 220A and a second communication bus interface 220B.

[0057] Although the above example illustrates that the expansion device 200 is communicatively coupled to the control panel 102 upstream of the expansion device 200 to receive communication, it should be understood that the expansion device 200 is configured to provide the control panel 102 with communication received from devices downstream of the expansion device 200 (received at serial communication bus interfaces 220A, 220B). In some aspects, the electronic processor 205 will convert the communication received at the corresponding serial communication bus interfaces 220A, 220B from a second communication protocol to a first communication protocol (e.g., from UART communication to IP communication). In some aspects, the communication provided from the expansion device 200 to the control panel 102 is not modified except for repackaging according to the first communication protocol.

[0058] Returning to block 402, in an instance where the extension device 200 is in extender mode, at block 408, the electronic processor 205 receives communication according to the second communication protocol from the electronic communication device at a first serial communication bus interface (e.g., either serial communication bus interface 220A or 220B). At block 410, the electronic processor 205 outputs the communication according to the second communication protocol to the second electronic communication device via another serial communication bus interface (e.g., the other of the two serial communication bus interfaces 220A or 220B). In other words, in extender mode, the extension device 200 receives communication at one of the two serial communication bus interfaces 220A or 220B and outputs (forwards) communication at the other of the two serial communication bus interfaces (unless the communication is addressed to the extension device 200 itself). The extension device 200 acts as a transparent device for upstream and downstream devices of network 100 for communication other than those addressed to the extension device 200 itself. The first electronic communication device is a peripheral device 106 or another expansion device 200 located upstream or downstream of the expansion device 200. Similarly, the second electronic communication device is a peripheral device 106 or another expansion device 200 (e.g., located downstream or upstream, respectively) opposite the network flow of the first electronic communication device. In some aspects, either the first or the second electronic communication device is a control panel 102.

[0059] In some respects, as described above, network 100 can be a different topology including any number of extension devices 200, each of which operates in any mode. Figures 5A to 5C Each illustration shows an example of another topology for network 100. It should be understood that, although... Figure 5B and Figure 5C The illustration shows extension devices 200 directly coupled to each other in a communicative manner; however, in some respects, such connections may be shared with one or more additional electronic communication devices (e.g., additional extension devices 200 and / or peripheral devices 106). It should be understood that, although not shown in the examples described below, any wired serial communication bus connection between two extension devices 200 may include any number of peripheral devices 106.

[0060] exist Figure 5AIn the illustrated example, network 500A includes a control panel 102 communicatively coupled to expansion devices 504A and 506A via network switch 502A. In the illustrated example, both expansion devices 504A and 506A operate in extender mode. Each expansion device 504A and 506A exchanges communication with their upstream control panel 102 (via network switch 502A) according to a first communication protocol via corresponding control input / output interfaces 508A and 510A. Communication received from control panel 102 at each expansion device 504A and 506A is output according to a second communication protocol at corresponding communication bus interfaces 512A, 514A and 516A, 518A to each device (e.g., peripheral devices 520A and 520B) connected downstream of the respective expansion devices 504A and 506A. As illustrated above and previously described, peripheral devices 520A and 522A are security monitoring / access control devices. Each expansion device 200 operating in expander mode allows for parallel expansion (i.e., additional branching) of network 100 from a single control panel 102. (See above regarding...) Figure 4 As described, communication between control panel 102 and extension device 200 immediately downstream of control panel 102 can be based on wired or wireless communication protocols.

[0061] Figure 5B Another example topology of a network 500B including a control panel 102 (via wired connection 502B) is illustrated. This control panel is communicatively coupled to a first extension device 504B operating in extender mode. The first extension device 504B receives communication from the control panel 102 at a first serial bus communication interface 506B and outputs communication to a device (extension device 512B in the illustrated example) connected to a second serial communication bus interface 508B. Figure 5B As illustrated, a series of extension devices 200 (each operating in extender mode) can be serially connected to each other (e.g., extension devices 512B, 514B, 516B, 518B, 520B, and 522B) to physically extend communication between control panel 102 and devices downstream of control panel 102 while minimizing degradation in communication quality.

[0062] Figure 5CAn example network 500C is shown, comprising a control panel 102 (via a network switch 502C) communicatively coupled to a plurality of expansion devices 504C and 506C, all operating in extender mode. Each expansion device 504C and 506C (via control input / output interfaces 501C and 503C, respectively) is communicatively coupled to the control panel 102. Each expansion device 504C and 506C is further communicatively coupled (via serial communication interfaces 508C, 510C and 512C, 514C, respectively) to another expansion device 516C, 518C and 520C, 522C, each operating in extender mode. Each expansion device 516C, 518C, 520C and 522C can further be communicatively coupled to another expansion device operating in extender mode to physically extend communication between the control panel 102 and devices downstream of the control panel 102.

[0063] like Figures 5A to 5C As illustrated, multiple extension devices 200 operating in extender or extender mode can be integrated into network 100 to extend or extend the physical distance of wired communication within the network. For example, in some instances, the distance between extension devices 200 communicatively coupled to another device (i.e., control panel 102, another extension device 200, or peripheral device 106) via a wired connection is approximately 1000 feet (ft). As described above, this can provide an inexpensive solution for adding more devices to a security monitoring system and covering a larger physical area for monitoring.

[0064] Regarding the processes, systems, methods, heuristics, etc., described herein, it should be understood that although the steps of these processes are described as occurring according to a specific ordered sequence, these processes can be practiced with the described steps performed in a different order than that described herein. It should be further understood that some steps can be performed simultaneously, other steps can be added, or some steps described herein can be omitted. In other words, the descriptions of the processes herein are provided for the purpose of illustrating certain implementation methods.

[0065] Therefore, it should be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative, not restrictive. Many aspects and applications beyond the examples provided will become apparent upon reading the above description. Future developments of the techniques discussed herein can be anticipated and planned, and the disclosed systems and methods will be incorporated into these future developments. In conclusion, it should be understood that this application is subject to modification and variation.

Claims

1. An electronic communication system expansion device, comprising: Control input / output interface; First serial communication bus interface; Second serial communication bus interface; as well as Electronic processor, the electronic processor being configured to When operating in expander mode The system receives first communication from the control panel according to the first communication protocol at the control input / output interface. The first communication is output from both the first serial communication bus interface and the second serial communication bus interface according to the second communication protocol, wherein the second communication protocol is a wired communication protocol. And, when operating in extender mode, At the first serial communication bus interface, a second communication according to the second communication protocol is received from the first electronic communication device, and The second communication output, according to the second communication protocol, is sent to the second electronic communication device via the second serial communication bus interface.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the first serial communication protocol is a wireless communication protocol.

3. The device according to claim 1, wherein the first serial communication protocol is a wired communication protocol.

4. The device according to claim 3, wherein the first serial communication protocol is the same as the second communication protocol.

5. The device according to claim 1, wherein the first electronic communication device is a second electronic communication system extension device.

6. The device according to claim 1, wherein the first electronic communication device is the control panel.

7. The device according to claim 1, wherein the second electronic communication device is a peripheral device, the peripheral device comprising at least one selected from the group consisting of: biometric sensors, RFID tag sensors, surveillance cameras, motion sensors, access control modules, and alarm systems.

8. The device according to claim 1, wherein the second communication protocol is a half-duplex communication protocol.

9. A wired communication network comprising a plurality of electronic communication system extension devices, each of the plurality of electronic communication system extension devices comprising: Control interface, First serial communication bus interface. The second serial communication bus interface, and Electronic processor, wherein the electronic processor is configured to: When operating in expander mode Receive first communication from the control panel according to the first communication protocol, and The first communication is output from both the first serial communication bus interface and the second serial communication bus interface according to the second communication protocol, wherein the second communication protocol is a wired communication protocol. And, when operating in extender mode, At the first serial communication bus interface, a second communication according to the second communication protocol is received from the first electronic communication device, and The second communication output, according to the second communication protocol, is sent to the second electronic communication device via the second serial communication bus interface.

10. The system of claim 9, wherein the plurality of electronic communication system extension devices includes a first electronic communication system extension device operating in the extender mode and a second device operating in the extender mode.

11. The system of claim 9, wherein the first communication protocol is a wireless communication protocol.

12. The system of claim 9, wherein the first serial communication protocol is a wired communication protocol.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the first serial communication protocol is the same as the second communication protocol.

14. The system according to claim 9, wherein the first electronic communication device is a second electronic communication system extension device.

15. The system of claim 9, wherein the first electronic communication device is the control panel.

16. The system of claim 9, wherein the second electronic communication device is a peripheral device, the peripheral device comprising at least one selected from the group consisting of: a biometric sensor, an RFID tag sensor, a surveillance camera, a motion sensor, an access control module, and an alarm system.

17. The system of claim 9, wherein the second communication protocol is a half-duplex communication protocol.

18. A method for operating an electronic communication system extension device of a wired security monitoring communication network, the electronic communication system extension device comprising a control interface, a first serial communication bus interface, and a second serial communication bus interface, the method comprising: When operating the device in the extender mode Receive first communication from the control panel according to the first communication protocol, and The first communication is output from both the first serial communication bus interface and the second serial communication bus interface according to the second communication protocol, wherein the second communication protocol is a wired communication protocol. And, when the device is operated in the extender mode, At the first serial communication bus interface, a second communication according to the second communication protocol is received from the first electronic communication device, and The second communication output, according to the second communication protocol, is sent to the second electronic communication device via the second serial communication bus interface.

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