Network node for multi-point single-pair Ethernet and corresponding method

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a network node comprising a transceiver coupled to a network end of the network node in an electrically isolated manner, where the network node further comprises a test unit electrically connected to the network node, the test unit may be configured to detect a network end such that the test unit may apply a predefined common mode voltage at the network end and may also be configured to detect a structural fault of a network that may be connected to the network end. The disclosure also relates to a corresponding system and method.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a network node for a multi-point single pair Ethernet network and a corresponding method. Background Art

[0002] Ethernet is a well-known network technology, and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.3 Working Group is a series of standards that define the physical layer and data link layer media access control (MAC) of wired Ethernet. For example, modern automobiles include various electronic communication devices, also known as network nodes, that communicate with each other in the car via in-vehicle network (IVN) technologies such as Ethernet. An emerging IEEE standard that may be particularly suitable for in-vehicle networks is IEEE 802.3cg, which is a specification for achieving 10 megabits per second (Mb / s) over a single twisted pair cable, which enables multiple network nodes to be connected to the same twisted pair cable, also known as a "shared medium." The ability to connect several network nodes in a cost-effective manner is the driving force behind the use of IEEE 802.3cg (10BASE-T1). The goal of IEEE802.3cg is to define point-to-point and multipoint short-range standards with a maximum length of 25 meters, as well as long-range point-to-point standards that support distances up to 1,000 meters. The resulting IEEE 802.3cg specification includes two link layer standards: 10BASE-T1S and 10BASE-T1L.

[0003] The 10BASE-T1S short-distance standard is mainly targeted at automotive and industrial applications. Multiple network nodes on a 10BASE-T1S Ethernet network can share a twisted pair cable in half-duplex shared media mode (multipoint mode) using the standard Ethernet Carrier Sense Multiple Access and Collision Detection (CSMA / CD) access method, or operate using PHY-level collision avoidance (PLCA). The cable is an unshielded twisted pair (UTP) to which multiple media-dependent interfaces (MDIs) can be attached. Each MDI can be assigned to a dedicated network node. Thus, 10BASE-T1S can also be called Multipoint Single Pair Ethernet (MSPE). Summary of the invention

[0004] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0005] Aspects of the disclosure are defined in the following claims.

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a network node is provided, wherein the network node comprises: a network interface for connecting to a two-wire network line; a transceiver; and a test unit, wherein the network interface comprises a first network end for connecting to a first of two network lines and a second network end for connecting to a second of the two network lines, wherein the transceiver is coupled to the network end, wherein the transceiver is configured to generate a transmission signal representing an Ethernet packet at the network interface, wherein the test unit is electrically coupled to the network end, and wherein the test unit is configured to detect a short circuit between the network ends, a short circuit between the network lines and / or a short circuit between one of the network lines and a supply voltage of the network node, and / or to detect a break in at least one of the network lines.

[0007] In one or more embodiments, the transceiver is coupled to the network end in an electrically isolated manner.

[0008] In one or more embodiments, the transceiver is capacitively coupled to the network end.

[0009] In one or more embodiments, the transceiver is electrically coupled to the network end.

[0010] In one or more embodiments, the test unit is electrically coupled to the network end via the transceiver.

[0011] In one or more embodiments, the test unit includes a driver unit configured to generate a reference common-mode voltage at the network end, wherein the test unit includes a first sensor unit electrically connected to two network ends, wherein the first sensor unit is configured to detect an actual common-mode voltage at the network end, and wherein the test unit is configured to detect a first short circuit between one of the network lines and a supply voltage of the network node based on a voltage difference between the reference common-mode voltage and the actual common-mode voltage.

[0012] In one or more embodiments, the test unit includes a driver unit configured to generate a reference common-mode voltage at the network end, wherein the test unit includes a second sensor unit electrically connected to the two network ends, wherein the second sensor unit is configured to directly or indirectly detect an impedance between the network ends, referred to as end impedance, wherein the test unit is configured to detect based on the end impedance: a second short circuit between the network lines, and / or a first open circuit in one of the network lines, and / or a termination error at the network line and / or the network end.

[0013] In one or more embodiments, the test unit is configured to detect the second short circuit if the end impedance is less than a first reference impedance, and / or wherein the test unit is configured to detect the first open circuit if the end impedance is greater than a second reference impedance and specifically less than a third reference impedance, wherein the second reference impedance is greater than the first reference impedance, and / or wherein the test unit is configured to detect the termination error if the end impedance is greater than the third reference impedance.

[0014] In one or more embodiments, the test unit includes a driver unit configured to generate a reference common-mode voltage at the network end, wherein the test unit includes a third sensor unit electrically connected to the first network end, wherein the third sensor unit is configured to detect a voltage at the first network end, referred to as the first measurement voltage, and the test unit is configured to detect based on the first measurement voltage: a first short circuit between one of the network lines and a supply voltage of the network node, and / or a second short circuit between the network lines, and / or a first open circuit in one of the network lines, and / or a termination error at the network line and / or the network end.

[0015] In one or more embodiments, the test unit includes a driver unit configured to generate a reference common-mode voltage at the network end, wherein the test unit includes a third sensor unit electrically connected to the first network end, wherein the third sensor unit is configured to detect a voltage at the first network end, referred to as the first measured voltage, wherein the test unit is configured to compare the first measured voltage with a reference voltage to generate a first comparison result, and the test unit is configured to detect based on the first comparison result: a first short circuit between one of the network lines and a supply voltage of the network node, and / or a second short circuit between the network lines, and / or a first open circuit in one of the network lines, and / or a termination error at the network line and / or the network end.

[0016] In one or more embodiments, the test unit is configured to detect the second short circuit if the first measured voltage is less than a first reference voltage, and / or wherein the test unit is configured to detect the first open circuit if the first measured voltage is greater than a second reference voltage and specifically less than a third reference voltage, wherein the second reference voltage is greater than the first reference voltage, and / or wherein the test unit is configured to detect the termination error if the first measured voltage is greater than the third reference voltage.

[0017] In one or more embodiments, the test unit includes a first comparator for comparing the first measurement voltage with the first reference voltage, wherein the test unit includes a second comparator for comparing the first measurement voltage with the second reference voltage, and wherein the test unit includes a third comparator for comparing the first measurement voltage with the third reference voltage.

[0018] In one or more embodiments, the test cell is configured to drive the reference voltage to each of the first reference voltage, the second reference voltage, and the third reference voltage, and wherein the test cell includes a comparator for comparing the first measurement voltage with the reference voltage at each level driven by the test cell.

[0019] In one or more embodiments, a part of the driver unit is formed by the transceiver and / or wherein the sensor unit is coupled to the network interface via the transceiver.

[0020] In one or more embodiments, the test unit includes a driver unit, which is configured to generate a first reference voltage at the first network end and a second reference voltage smaller than the first reference voltage at the second network end, wherein the test unit includes a sensor unit configured to detect a voltage called the first measurement voltage at the first network end, the sensor unit is configured to detect a voltage called the second measurement voltage at the second network end, and the test unit is configured to detect based on the first measurement voltage and the second measurement voltage: a first short circuit between one of the network lines and a supply voltage of the network node, a second short circuit between the network lines, a first break in one of the network lines, and / or a first break in one of the network lines and a second break in the other network line.

[0021] In one or more embodiments, the test unit includes a driver unit, which is configured to generate a first reference voltage at the first network end and a second reference voltage smaller than the first reference voltage at the second network end, wherein the test unit includes a sensor unit configured to detect a voltage called the first measurement voltage at the first network end, and the sensor unit is configured to detect a voltage called the second measurement voltage at the second network end, wherein the test unit is configured to compare the first measurement voltage with the first reference voltage, thereby generating a first comparison result, wherein the test unit is configured to compare the second measurement voltage with the second reference voltage, thereby generating a second comparison result, wherein the test unit is configured to detect based on the first comparison result and the second comparison result: a first short circuit between one of the network lines and a supply voltage of the network node, a second short circuit between the network lines, a first break in one of the network lines, and / or a first break in one of the network lines and a second break in the other network line.

[0022] In one or more embodiments, the test unit is configured to incrementally increase the first reference voltage, wherein the test unit is configured to compare the first measured voltage with each first reference voltage to generate a corresponding associated first comparison result, wherein the test unit is configured to incrementally decrease the second reference voltage, wherein the test unit is configured to compare the second measured voltage with each second reference voltage to generate a corresponding second comparison result, wherein the test unit is configured to detect based on the first comparison result and the second comparison result: a first short circuit between one of the network lines and the supply voltage of the network node, a second short circuit between the network lines, a first break in one of the network lines, and / or a first break in one of the network lines and a second break in the other network line.

[0023] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, a system is provided, comprising: a network node according to any of the preceding claims, which is referred to as a primary network node; at least one other different network node, which is referred to as a secondary network node; and a two-wire network, wherein each secondary network node comprises a transceiver, wherein each secondary network node comprises a network interface for connecting to the network line of the two-wire network, wherein the network interface of each secondary network node comprises a first network end for connecting to the first of the two network lines and a second network end for connecting to the second of the two network lines, wherein the transceiver of each secondary network node is coupled to the network end of the corresponding network node in an electrically isolated manner, wherein the transceiver of each secondary network node is configured to generate a transmission signal representing an Ethernet packet at the network interface, and wherein each network node is electrically coupled to the network line via an associated network interface.

[0024] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, a method for a network node is disclosed, the network node comprising: a network interface for connecting to a two-wire network; a transceiver; and a test unit, wherein the network interface comprises a first network end for connecting to a first of two network lines and a second network end for connecting to a second of the two network lines, wherein the transceiver is coupled to the network end, wherein the transceiver is configured to generate a transmission signal representing an Ethernet packet at the network interface, wherein the test unit is electrically coupled to the network end, and wherein the method comprises the following steps: detecting, via the test unit, a short circuit between the network ends, a short circuit between the network lines, and / or a short circuit between one of the network lines and a supply voltage of the network node.

[0025] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, a computer program is provided, which includes executable instructions, and when the executable instructions are executed by a processing unit of the network node, the processing unit is configured to implement the method of the third aspect and / or one or more embodiments thereof. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, it should be noted that the drawings illustrate only typical embodiments of the present disclosure and therefore should not be considered to limit the scope of the present disclosure, such that other equally effective embodiments may be implemented. The advantages of the claimed subject matter will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading this specification in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals are used to designate like elements, and in which:

[0027] Figure 1 A simplified block diagram of an embodiment of a system is shown.

[0028] Figure 2 A simplified block diagram of a secondary network node is shown.

[0029] Figure 3 A simplified block diagram of an embodiment of a system is shown.

[0030] Figures 4 to 6 An embodiment of a simplified block diagram of a primary network node is shown.

[0031] Figures 7 to 10 An embodiment of a simplified block diagram of an embodiment of a test unit is shown.

[0032] Fig.11 A simplified flow chart is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] Figure 1 An embodiment of a system 138 is schematically shown. The system 138 may also be referred to as an Ethernet communication system 138. The system 138 includes a plurality of network nodes 142. Each network node 142 may be a device, in particular a communication device. In addition, the system 138 includes a two-wire network cable 111, which may also be referred to as a two-wire network cable 111. The two-wire network cable 111 includes a first conductor, which may also be referred to as a first network line 112. In addition, the two-wire network cable 111 includes a second conductor, which may also be referred to as a second network line 114. The first network line 112 and the second network line 114 are twisted.

[0034] Each network node 142 of the system 138 includes an interface 102, which may be referred to as a network interface 102. Each network node 142 is connected to a two-wire network cable 111 via an associated network interface 102. Thus, the network nodes 142 may be connected in parallel to the two-wire network cables 111. This arrangement is also referred to as a multi-point system. The system 138 may include a plurality of network nodes 142, each coupled in parallel via a two-wire network cable 111. The two-wire network cable 111 may act as a bus coupling the network nodes 142 together.

[0035] Figure 2 An embodiment of a network node 142 is schematically shown. The network node 142 of the system 138 includes a transceiver 104 capacitively coupled to a network interface 102 of the network node 142. The transceiver 104 is configured to generate a transmission signal representing an Ethernet packet at the network interface 102. The Ethernet packet is preferably an Ethernet packet according to the 10Base-T1s standard. The 10Base-T1s standard is documented in IEEE 802.3cg.

[0036] The transceivers 104 of the network nodes 142 are only capacitively connected to the network interface 102 of the corresponding network node 142. As a result, the transceivers 104 of the network nodes 142 are electrically isolated from the network interface 102 of the network node 142. In an example, the network node 142 includes at least two capacitors 120, 122 integrated into the connection 180, 182 between the transceiver 104 and the network interface 102, so that no galvanic connection is formed, but only a capacitive coupling. In an example, the choke 150 can be integrated into the connection 180, 182. In an example, the choke 150 can be a common mode choke 150.

[0037] In one example, the first signal connection 180 can extend from the first transceiver end 176 of the transceiver 104 to the first end 108 of the network interface 102. The first end 108 can also be referred to as the first network end 108 of the network interface 102. In one example, the second signal connection 182 can extend from the second transceiver end 178 to the second end 110 of the network interface 102. The end 110 can also be referred to as the second network end 110 of the network interface 102.

[0038] In one example, the first signal connection 180 and the second signal connection 182 may extend in parallel from the transceiver 104 to the network interface 102. The choke 150 may be integrated into the first signal connection 180 and the second signal connection 182. The first signal connection 180 may integrate the first capacitor 120. The second signal connection 182 may integrate the second capacitor 122.

[0039] The common mode choke 150 can be used to filter interfering common mode signals. In one example, the common mode choke 150 can be used to suppress common mode interference.

[0040] The first capacitor 120 and the second capacitor 122 may each include a capacitance of, for example, 100 nF, and / or have an isolation voltage of at least 50 V. The first capacitor and the second capacitor 120 are inexpensive. The first capacitor and the second capacitor 120 protect the transceiver 104 from overvoltages that may occur during a short circuit with an external DC voltage.

[0041] Each network node 142 may further include a terminal network 152. The terminal network 152 may be an H-shaped network. A first arm of the terminal network 152 may include a first resistor 184, a second arm of the terminal network 152 may include a second resistor 186, a third arm of the terminal network 152 may include a third resistor 190, and a fourth arm of the terminal network 152 may include a capacitor 188. The first arm may further be coupled to a first signal connection 180, and the second arm may be coupled to a second signal connection 182. The third arm and the fourth arm may each be coupled to a second voltage supply terminal 118 of the network node 142. The first arm, the second arm, the third arm, and the fourth arm may further be coupled together in a star configuration.

[0042] The first resistor 184 and the second resistor 186 can each include a 50-ohm resistance. If the network node 142 is used as the network node 142 at the end of the network cable 111, a 50-ohm resistance is usually used. If the network node 142 is connected to the network cable between the ends of the network cable 11, the network node may not include the terminal network 152, or if it includes the terminal network 152, the first resistor 184 and the second resistor 186 can each include a 1.5-kilo-ohm resistance. The third resistor 186 can include a 100-ohm resistance. The capacitor 188 can include a 100nF capacitance. The first resistor 184 and the second resistor 186 can terminate the first network terminal 108 and the second network terminal 110. The first resistor 184 and the second resistor 186 each include the same resistance. The node between the two resistors 184 , 186 is coupled to the second voltage supply terminal 118 via a parallel circuit formed by a third resistor 190 and a capacitor 188 , so that the common mode voltage at the node can be balanced with the voltage at the second voltage supply terminal 118 .

[0043] In an example, the network node 142 includes a controller 154. The controller 154 may also be referred to as a digital physical layer (PHY) 154. The transceiver 104 may also be referred to as an analog PHY or analog front end (AFE) 104. The controller 154 may be coupled to an interface 148 of the network node 142. In an example, the controller 154 may receive digital data and / or send digital data via the interface 148. The controller 154 may be coupled to the transceiver 104 via a transmission data TX signal connection 164. The controller 154 may send transmission data to the transceiver 104 via the TX signal connection 164. The transceiver 104 may include a transmitter unit 170, which may also be referred to as a transmitter 170. The transceiver 104 may be configured to generate a transmission signal at the transceiver end 176, 178 via the transmitter unit 170 and based on the received transmission data, such that the transmission signal represents the transmission data. The transmission signal may be a differential voltage signal between the two transceiver terminals 176, 178. The transceiver 104 may further include a receiver unit 172, which may also be referred to as a receiver 172. The receiver unit 172 is connected to the two transceiver terminals 176, 178. The receiver unit 172 may receive a signal, also referred to as a reception signal, which represents reception data, in particular an Ethernet packet, via the transceiver terminals 176, 178. The receiver unit 172 may be coupled to the controller 154 via a reception data RX signal connection 166. The receiver unit 172 may be configured to transmit the reception data, in particular the received Ethernet packet, to the controller 154 via the RX signal connection 166. The transceiver 104 may further include a detection unit 174 coupled to the transceiver terminals 176, 178. The detection unit 174 may be configured to detect a data transmission via the transceiver terminals 176 , 178 and, upon positive detection, transmit a detection signal to the controller 154 via the further signal connection 168 , the detection signal indicating positive detection of the data transmission.

[0044] The network node 142 may include a first voltage supply terminal 116 and a second voltage supply terminal 118. The first voltage supply terminal 116 may supply a first voltage potential to the network node 142, and the second voltage supply terminal 118 may supply a second voltage potential to the network node 142. The first voltage potential may also be referred to as a first supply voltage. The second voltage potential may also be referred to as a second voltage supply.

[0045] In one example, the controller 154 includes a physical medium connection (PMA) unit 160, a physical coding sublayer (PCS) unit 158, and a physical layer collision avoidance (PLCA) unit 156. The controller 154, the PMA unit 160, the PCS unit 158, and / or the PLCA unit 156 can be configured according to the 10BaseT1s standard. The PMA unit 160 can be configured to send data via the TX signal connection 164, receive data via the RX signal connection 166, perform collision detection, perform clock recovery, and / or perform delay compensation. The PCS unit 158 ​​can be configured to encode data bits for transmission via the PMA unit 160, and / or decode data bits from signals received via the PMA unit 160. The PLCA unit 156 can be configured to schedule time slots for transmitting transmission data packets so that only one network node occupies the bus. The PLCA unit 158 ​​can be configured to receive and / or transmit data via the interface 148. The PLCA unit 158 ​​can provide efficient data throughput at the interface 148.

[0046] exist Figure 2 In the example network node 142, the capacitors 120, 122 are integrated between the common mode choke 150 and the transceiver 104 in the first signal connection 180 and the second signal connection 182. The arrangement of the common mode choke 150 and the capacitors 120, 122 can also be interchanged. In an example, the common mode choke 150 is arranged on the "left side" of the two capacitors 120, 122. The common mode choke 150 can be integrated between the transceiver 104 and the capacitors 120, 122 in the first signal connection 180 and the second signal connection 182.

[0047] Figure 3 An example of another embodiment of a system 138 is schematically shown. Figure 3 System 138 is similar to Figure 1 The system 138 of FIG. 1 is shown in FIG. 1 , except that the network node 100 located on the left is different from the two other network nodes 142 located in the center and on the right. The network node 100 may be referred to as the primary network node 100. Each of the additional network nodes 142 may be referred to as the secondary network node 142. For the system 138, and in particular for the network nodes 142, reference is made to the aforementioned explanations, preferred features, technical effects and advantages in a similar manner as previously explained for the system 138 and / or the network nodes 142.

[0048] Figure 4An embodiment of a network node 100 is schematically shown. In an example, the network node 100 may form a primary network node 100. The network node 100 includes an interface 102 referred to as a network interface 102. The network interface 102 includes a first end 108 and a second end 110. The first end 108 may be referred to as a first network end 108, and the second end 110 may be referred to as a second network end 110. The network interface 102 is for connecting to a two-wire network cable 111. The two-wire network cable 111 may include a first conductor 112 and a second conductor 114 that are at least partially twisted. The first conductor 112 may be referred to as a first network line 112, and the second conductor 114 may be referred to as a second network line 114. The first network end 108 may be configured to be electrically connected to the first network line 112. The second network end 110 may be configured to be electrically connected to the second network line 114.

[0049] The network node 100 further includes a transceiver 104. The transceiver 104 may also be referred to and / or configured as an analog transceiver 104 or an analog phy. The transceiver 104 is coupled to two network ends 108, 110. Furthermore, the transceiver 104 is configured to generate a transmission signal at the network interface 102 (or at the two network ends 108, 110), wherein the transmission signal represents an Ethernet packet.

[0050] It should be noted that the network node 100 may also be configured independently of the system 138. The network node 100 may be configured as an apparatus. The network node 100 may be configured separately or may be integrated into another larger apparatus. For the network node 100, reference is made to advantageous explanations, preferred features, technical effects and advantages in a similar manner as previously explained for the network node 142.

[0051] The network node 100 further comprises a testing unit 106 . Figure 4 Schematically shown in FIG. 1 is a test unit 106. The test unit 106 is electrically coupled to the network terminals 108, 110. The electrical coupling may be configured as a galvanic electrical connection. Preferably, the electrical coupling does not include an electrically insulating element, such as a capacitor, an optical coupler and / or a transformer. In an example, the electrical coupling may be formed by an uninterrupted wire or an uninterrupted wire of other metal or an intermittent wire. The uninterrupted wire may be configured to permanently conduct a direct current.

[0052] The test unit 106 is configured to detect a short circuit between the network terminals 108, 110, and / or detect a short circuit between the network lines 112, 114, and / or detect a short circuit between one of the network lines 112, 114 and a supply voltage 116, 118 of the network node 100, and / or detect a short circuit between one of the network terminals 108, 110 and the supply voltage 116, 118 of the network node 100, and / or detect a break in at least one of the network lines 112, 114.

[0053] A short circuit may refer to a connection with an extremely low resistance (not expected). A short circuit may be classified into two types, namely a hard short circuit and a soft short circuit. A soft short circuit may also be referred to as a weak short circuit. A hard short circuit may refer to an (unexpected) connection comprising a resistance less than a first threshold resistance, for example, 10 ohms, 5 ohms, or 2 ohms. A soft short circuit may refer to an (unexpected) connection comprising a resistance greater than a first threshold resistance and less than a second threshold resistance, for example, 500 ohms, 400 ohms, 300 ohms, 200 ohms, or 100 ohms.

[0054] The test unit 106 may be configured to detect a soft short and / or a hard short as a short. Of particular interest is the use of the test unit 106 to detect a soft short as a short. If a short is mentioned below (and above), in one example, the short may be a soft short.

[0055] A break may refer to a defective portion of a connection with an extremely high resistance (not expected). Breaks may be classified into two types, hard breaks and soft breaks. A soft break may also be referred to as an "open" portion or an "open" connection. A hard break may refer to an (unexpected) defective portion of a connection including a resistance higher than a third threshold resistance, such as 10 megohms, 5 megohms, or 2 megohms. A soft break may refer to an (unexpected) defective portion of a connection including a resistance higher than a fourth threshold resistance and less than a fifth threshold resistance, such as 10 ohms, 5 ohms, or 2 ohms, and such as 500 ohms, 400 ohms, 300 ohms, 200 ohms, or 100 ohms.

[0056] The test unit 106 may be configured to detect a circuit break as a soft circuit break and / or a hard circuit break. Of particular interest is the use of the test unit 106 to detect a circuit break as a soft circuit break. If a circuit break is mentioned below (and above), in one example, the circuit break may be a soft circuit break.

[0057] The voltage supply of the network node may depend on another supply voltage of a higher-level unit and / or may be directly or indirectly supplied by another supply voltage of the higher-level unit. The network node may be part of a higher-level system. In addition, due to the dependence of the voltage supply of the network node on the voltage supply of the higher-level system, a short circuit between a network line and a supply voltage of a higher-level unit corresponds to a short circuit between the same network line and the supply voltage of the higher-level system. Therefore, in one example, the detection of a short circuit between the voltage supply of a network node and a network line may also cover a short circuit between the voltage supply of the network line and the higher-level system. The higher-level system may be an ECU or other communication or control device.

[0058] If reference is made to a structural failure, the structural failure may refer to at least one of the following:

[0059] ● a short circuit between the network terminals 108, 110, and / or

[0060] ● a short circuit between network lines 112, 114, and / or

[0061] a short circuit between one of the network lines 112 , 114 and the supply voltage 116 , 118 of the network node 100 , and / or

[0062] a short circuit between one of the network terminals 108 , 110 and the supply voltage 116 , 118 of the network node 100 , and / or

[0063] • An interruption in at least one of the network lines 112 , 114 .

[0064] In one example, the structural fault may be one of the aforementioned short circuits. In another example, the structural fault may be an interruption. The test unit 106 may be configured to detect at least one of the structural faults.

[0065] If a structural fault occurs, the structural fault may cause a change in the first voltage at the first network terminal 108 and / or a change in the second voltage at the second network terminal 110. The test unit 106 is electrically coupled to the network terminals 108, 110. With regard to the respective electrical coupling, reference is made to the respective explanations previously given. In an example, the test unit 106 is configured to measure the first voltage and / or the second voltage. The first voltage (first electrical voltage) may also be referred to as the first voltage (first voltage). The second voltage (second electrical voltage) may also be referred to as the second voltage (second voltage). The difference between the first voltage and the second voltage may form a differential voltage, which is also referred to as a differential terminal voltage. The differential terminal voltage is therefore applied between the first network terminal 108 and the second network terminal 110. The test unit 106 may be configured to measure the differential terminal voltage.

[0066] In an example, if a short circuit occurs between the first network terminal 108 and the first voltage supply terminal 116 (to which the first supply voltage is applied), the first voltage at the first network terminal 108 is pulled to the first supply voltage. In other words, in this example, there may be a short circuit between the first network terminal 108 and the first supply voltage. In an example, due to the fact that the test unit 106 is electrically coupled to the first network terminal 108, the test unit 106 can detect whether the first voltage at the first network terminal 108 is pulled to the first supply voltage and / or whether there is a short circuit between the first network terminal 108 and the first supply voltage. Similarly, in an example, the test unit 106 can be configured to detect additional structural faults.

[0067] A network node including a transceiver 104 and a test unit 106 allows for cost-effective and reliable wiring harness defect detection for a multi-point bus system such as 10BASE-T1S. In one example, only one of several network nodes 100, 142 may include a test unit 106, but the primary network node 100 is still able to detect structural faults. Other network nodes 142 that may not include a test unit 106 do not adversely affect the functionality of the test unit 106, since their transceivers 104 are preferably coupled to the network ends of the corresponding network nodes 142 in an electrically isolated manner. Since the test unit 106 is not capacitively coupled to the network ends 108, 110 of the primary network node 100, the test unit 106 allows for accurate and stable detection of structural faults. This also enables simple and cost-effective implementation of wiring harness defect detection functionality.

[0068] In one example, the test unit 106 is configured separately from the transceiver 104. Figure 4In the example shown in , the transceiver 104 and the test unit 106 are schematically shown as separate entities. A first signal connection 180 extends from the first transceiver end 176 of the transceiver 104 to the first network end 108 of the network node 100, and a second signal connection 182 extends from the second transceiver end 178 of the transceiver 104 to the second network end 110. In an example, the first capacitor 120 is integrated into the first signal connection 180. The integration of the first capacitor 120 enables the first transceiver end 176 to be electrically isolated and / or only capacitively coupled to the first network end 108. In addition, the second capacitor 122 can be integrated into the second signal connection 182. The integration of the second capacitor 122 enables the second transceiver end 178 to be electrically isolated and / or only capacitively coupled to the second network end 110. As a result, the transceiver 104 can be electrically isolated and / or only capacitively coupled to the network interface 102 and / or the network ends 108, 110.

[0069] Figure 3 Schematically, an embodiment of a system 138 is shown, wherein a primary network node 100 comprises a transceiver 104 coupled to its network terminals 108, 110 in electrical isolation and / or only capacitively, and wherein each secondary network node 142 comprises a transceiver 104 coupled to its network terminals 108, 110 in electrical isolation and / or only capacitively. Each network node 100, 142 of the system 138 is coupled in parallel with a first network line 112 and a second network line 114. As a result, the transceivers 104 of the network nodes 100, 142 are coupled to the network lines 112, 114 in electrical isolation and / or only capacitively. However, each transceiver 104 may generate a differential voltage across the respective associated first transceiver terminal 176 and second transceiver terminal 178, such that a corresponding differential voltage is generated between the first network line 112 and the second network line 114. Due to electrical isolation and / or capacitive coupling, the transceiver 104 cannot generate a predefined common mode voltage on the first network line 112 and the second network line 114. In this context, in one example, the common mode voltage on the first network line 112 and the second network line 114 can be understood as a voltage (or voltage component) that exists simultaneously in the first network line 112 and the second network line 114 with the same phase.

[0070] The fact that none of the transceivers 104 provided in connection with the previous examples may cause a predefined common mode voltage to be applied to the associated transceiver terminals 176, 178 or network lines 112, 114 provides an advantage for the test unit 106. The test unit 106 of the primary network node 100 is electrically coupled to the network terminals 108, 110 of the primary network node 100. In this regard, reference is again made to Figure 4 An embodiment of a primary network node 100 is schematically shown in FIG.

[0071] In one example, the test unit 106 is connected to the first signal connection 180 via the signal connection 194. The connection between the signal connection 194 and the first signal connection 180 is configured at a location on the signal connection 180, and the first signal connection 180 provides a current connection from the location to the first network terminal 108. As a result, the signal connection 194 and the section between the aforementioned location of the first signal connection 180 and the first network terminal 108 provide a current connection between the test unit 106 and the first network terminal 108, which is referred to as the first test connection 300. Preferably, the aforementioned section does not include any insulating components, such as capacitors or optocouplers.

[0072] In an example, the test unit 106 is connected to the second signal connection 182 via the signal connection 196. The connection between the signal connection 196 and the second signal connection 182 can be configured at the location of the second signal connection 182, and the second signal connection provides a current connection from the location to the second network terminal 110. As a result, the signal connection 196 and the section between the aforementioned location of the second signal connection 182 and the second network terminal provide a current connection between the test unit 106 and the second network terminal 110, and the current connection is called the second test connection 302. Preferably, the aforementioned section does not include any insulating components, such as capacitors or optocouplers.

[0073] exist Figure 5 In FIG. 1 , an example of a network node 100 is schematically shown. For the network node 100, Figure 4 Reference is made to advantageous explanations, preferred features, technical effects and advantages in a similar manner to that explained for the network node 100 .

[0074] Figure 5 The network node 100 and Figure 4 The network node 100 is different in that Figure 5 The network node 100 does not include the first capacitor 120 and further does not include the second capacitor 122. As a result, the transceiver 104 can be electrically coupled to the network interface 102 and / or the first network terminal 108 and the second network terminal 110. In an example, the first signal connection 180 and the second signal connection 182 can extend from the network terminals 108, 102 to the transceiver terminals 176, 178, and the common mode choke 150 can be integrated into the two signal connections 180, 182. Removing the first capacitor 120 and the second capacitor 122 can enable a high voltage to be applied to the transceiver 104. Therefore, it is advantageous if the transceiver 104 is stable against high voltages.

[0075] Figure 6 An example of a network node 100 is schematically shown. For the network node 100, the Figure 4 and 5 Reference is made to advantageous explanations, preferred features, technical effects and advantages in a similar manner to those explained for the network nodes of FIG.

[0076] In one example, Figure 6 The network node 100 and Figure 5 The network node 100 is different in that, Figure 6 In the network node 100 of FIG. 1 , the arrangement of the test unit 106 and the common mode choke 150 is interchanged. In an example, the test unit 106 can be electrically coupled to the first signal connection 180 and the second signal connection 182 in a section, and the section is located between the common mode choke 150 and the transceiver terminals 176 and 178. As a result, the test unit 106 is electrically coupled to the network interface 102 and / or the first network terminal 108 and the second network terminal 110 via the signal connections 180 and 182 and the common mode choke 150.

[0077] In one example, the transceiver 104 and the test unit 106 may be configured as separate units of the network node 100. In another example, the transceiver 104 and the test unit 106 may each be configured as part of a common unit 107. The unit 107 may be referred to as a transceiver-test unit 107. In another example, the test unit 106 may be integrated into the transceiver 104, or vice versa. The common embodiment and / or integration may result in a particularly compact design.

[0078] exist Figure 7 , an embodiment of the test unit 106 is schematically shown. Figure 7 Selected individual parts of the primary network node 100 are also schematically shown. These parts include, for example, schematic representations of the first network terminal 108 and the second network terminal 110. The test unit 106 is coupled to the first network terminal 108 via a first test connection 300. The first test connection 300 is a current conducting connection. In addition, the test unit 106 is coupled to the second network terminal 110 via a second test connection 302. The second test connection 300 is a current conducting connection. In an example, the first test connection 300 and the second test connection 302 may include a common mode choke 150, wherein a first coil of the common mode choke 150 is integrated in the first test connection 300, and wherein a second coil of the common mode choke 150 is integrated in the second test connection 302.

[0079] The test unit 106 may include a driver unit 124. The driver unit 124 may be electrically coupled to the network terminals 108, 110 via the first test connection 300 and the second test connection 302. The driver unit 124 may be configured to generate a reference common mode voltage at the two network terminals 108, 110. The reference common mode voltage may be a predefined common mode voltage. Additionally or alternatively, the driver unit 124 may be configured to generate a reference differential voltage at the two network terminals 108, 110. The reference differential voltage may be a predefined differential voltage.

[0080] In one example, the test unit 106 includes a signal connection 304 referred to as a first end connection 304. In addition, the test unit 106 may include a second signal connection 306 referred to as a second end connection 306. The first end connection 304 may extend from the first test connection 300 to the driver unit 124. The second end connection 306 may extend from the second test connection 302 to the driver unit 124. The first end connection 304 and the first test connection 300 may be configured integrally. The second end connection 306 and the second test connection 302 may be configured integrally.

[0081] The driver unit 124 may include a first circuit strand including a first switch 210, also referred to as a first driver switch 210, and an impedance 206, also referred to as a first driver impedance 206. The first circuit strand may extend between a first terminal connection 304 and a first voltage supply terminal 116. The first voltage supply terminal 116 may receive a first supply voltage of the network node 104.

[0082] The driver unit 124 may further include a second circuit strand including a second switch 212, also referred to as a second driver switch 212, and an impedance 208, also referred to as a second driver impedance 208. The second circuit strand may extend between a second terminal connection 306 and a second voltage supply terminal 118. The second voltage supply terminal 118 may receive a second supply voltage of the network node 104.

[0083] In one example, the driver unit 124 can change between an enabled state and a disabled state. In the enabled state of the driver unit 124, both the driver switches 210, 212 are closed. In the disabled state, both the driver switches 210, 212 of the driver unit 124 are disconnected. If the driver unit 124 is in the active state, a first reference voltage is generated at the first end connection 304, and a second reference voltage is generated at the second end connection 306. Each of the first reference voltage and the second reference voltage can be a DC voltage, wherein the second reference voltage is preferably less than the first reference voltage. As a result, when the driver unit 124 is in the active state, a reference differential voltage and / or a reference common mode voltage are generated at the first end connection 304 and the second end connection 306. Due to the first test connection 300 and the second test connection 302, a reference differential voltage and / or a reference common mode voltage are also generated at the first network terminal 108 and the second network terminal 110. Furthermore, if the driver unit 124 is in the active state, the test unit 106 may be configured to detect a structural fault.

[0084] In one example, the primary network node 100 includes a terminal network 152 . Figures 4 to 6 In each of the examples of the terminal network 152 are schematically shown. Specifically, if the driver unit 124 is in the active state, the first resistor 184 and the second resistor 186 of the terminal network 152 can cause the voltage across the two resistors 184, 186 to drop. As a result, the first reference voltage (at the first network end 108) is different from the second reference voltage (at the second network end 110). Assuming that there is no structural fault, and if in e.g. Figure 3 In the system 138 schematically shown in the example of FIG. 1 , a plurality of network nodes 100, 142 are connected in parallel via the first network line 112 and the second network line 114, then a non-zero impedance continues to exist between the first network terminal 108 of the primary network node 100 and the second network terminal 110 of the primary network node 100. As a result, assuming that there is no structural fault, when the driver unit 124 is in the active state, the driver unit 124 can generate a desired reference differential voltage and / or a desired reference common mode voltage at the network terminals 108, 110 of the primary network node 100. Because the transceiver 104 of the primary network node 100 is only capacitively coupled to the network terminals 108, 110 of the primary network node 100 and because the transceiver 104 of each secondary network node 142 is only capacitively coupled to the network terminals 108, 110 of the corresponding secondary network node 142, all transceivers 104 do not prevent the driver unit 124 from generating a desired reference differential voltage and / or a desired reference common-mode voltage at the network terminals 108, 110 of the primary network node 100 and / or at the network lines 112, 114 when in the active state.

[0085] exist Figure 7 , an area 198 is marked, wherein a possible path of a short circuit is schematically shown. The schematically indicated impedances 200, 202, 204 can each alternatively represent a short circuit. Impedance 200 can also be referred to as a first short circuit resistor 200. Impedance 202 can also be referred to as a second short circuit resistor 202. Impedance 204 can also be referred to as a third short circuit resistor 204. In an example, each short circuit resistor 200, 202, 204 is less than 10 ohms, less than 5 ohms, or less than 2 ohms.

[0086] It should be noted that the first short-circuit resistor 200 only appears as a replacement if a short circuit occurs between the two network terminals 108, 110 of the primary network node 100 or if a short circuit occurs between the two network lines 112, 114. In an example, a potential short circuit between the network terminals 108, 110 of the primary network node 100 and / or a potential short circuit between the network lines 112, 114 can be represented via the first short-circuit resistor 200.

[0087] It should be noted that the second short-circuit resistor 202 only appears as a replacement if a short circuit occurs between the first network line 112 and the first voltage supply terminal 116 or if a short circuit occurs between the first network terminal 108 and the first voltage supply terminal 116 of the primary network node 100. In an example, a potential short circuit between the first network terminal 108 of the primary network node 100 and the first supply voltage at the first voltage supply terminal 116 can be represented via the second short-circuit resistor 202. In an example, a potential short circuit between the first network line 112 and the first supply voltage at the first voltage supply terminal 116 can be represented via the second short-circuit resistor 202.

[0088] It should be noted that the third short-circuit resistor 204 only appears as a replacement if a short circuit occurs between the second network line 114 and the second voltage supply terminal 118 or if a short circuit occurs between the second network terminal 110 and the second voltage supply terminal 118 of the primary network node 100. In an example, a potential short circuit between the second network terminal 110 of the primary network node 100 and the second supply voltage at the second voltage supply terminal 118 can be represented via the third short-circuit resistor 204. In an example, a potential short circuit between the second network line 114 and the second supply voltage at the second voltage supply terminal 118 can be represented via the third short-circuit resistor 204.

[0089] It was previously explained that the driver unit 124 can be enabled to generate a predefined reference differential voltage and / or a reference common mode voltage at the network terminals 108, 110 of the primary network node 100. In practice, if there is no structural fault, the driver unit 124 generates the reference differential voltage and / or the reference common mode voltage at the network terminals 108, 110. However, if a short circuit occurs as a structural fault between the first network terminal 108 and the first voltage supply terminal 116 of the primary network node 100, the actual common mode voltage at the network terminals 108, 110 is pulled from the reference common mode voltage to a different, higher voltage potential, even if the driver unit 124 is in an active state, so that the actual common mode voltage is greater than the reference common mode voltage. If a short circuit occurs as a structural fault between the first network line 112 and the first voltage supply terminal 116, a similar effect occurs. In another case, if a short circuit between the second network terminal 110 and the second voltage supply terminal 118 of the primary network node 100 instead of the aforementioned short circuit occurs as a structural fault, even if the driver unit is in an active state, the actual common mode voltage at the network terminals 108, 110 will be pulled from the reference common mode voltage to a different smaller voltage potential, so that the actual common mode voltage is less than the reference common mode voltage. If the short circuit occurs between the second network line 114 and the second voltage supply terminal 118 as a structural fault, a similar effect will occur.

[0090] In one example, the test unit 106 includes a sensor unit 126. The sensor unit 126 may also be referred to as a first sensor unit 126. The first sensor unit 126 is electrically coupled to the two network terminals 108, 110 of the primary network node 100. Figure 7 , an embodiment of the first sensor unit 126 is schematically shown. The first sensor unit 126 can be configured to measure the common mode voltage actually present at the network end 108, 110. The sensed common mode voltage can also be referred to as the actual common mode voltage. As discussed previously in view of possible structural faults, the actual common mode voltage may be different from the reference common mode voltage. If the actual common mode voltage is greater than the reference common mode voltage, this relationship indicates that a short circuit occurs through the second short circuit resistor 202. If the actual common mode voltage is less than the reference common mode voltage, this relationship indicates that a short circuit occurs through the third short circuit resistor 204.

[0091] In one example, the sensor unit 126 is configured to detect a short circuit between the first supply terminal 116 and the first network terminal 108 or the first network line 112 of the primary network node 100 based on a voltage difference between a reference common mode voltage and a (measured) actual common mode voltage. In one example, the sensor unit 126 can positively detect the aforementioned short circuit if the voltage difference is negative and the magnitude of the voltage difference is greater than a predefined threshold.

[0092] In an example, the sensor unit 126 may (further) be configured to detect a (further) short circuit between the second supply terminal 118 and the second network terminal 110 or the second network line 114 of the primary network node 100 based on a voltage difference between the reference common mode voltage and the (measured) actual common mode voltage. In an example, the sensor unit 126 may positively detect the aforementioned short circuit if the voltage difference is positive and the magnitude of the voltage difference is greater than a predefined threshold.

[0093] In an example, the sensor unit 126 may include a first circuit 214. The first circuit 214 may be electrically coupled to the two network terminals 108, 110 of the primary network node 100. The first circuit 214 may be configured to sense and / or provide an actual common mode voltage at a sensing point 216. The sensor unit 126 may also include a capacitor 215, which is preferably connected between the sensing point 216 and the second voltage supply terminal 118. The combination of the first circuit 214 and the capacitor 215 may form a low pass filter effective at the sensing point 216. As a result, high frequency components of the signal at the sensing point 216 may be suppressed, so that preferably only a DC component is left at the signaling point 216. As a further effect, the combination also supports the EMC robustness of the sensor unit 126. In an example, the sensor unit 126 may include a second voltage divider circuit 222 extending between the first voltage supply terminal 116 and the second voltage supply terminal 118. The second voltage divider circuit 222 may generate a fourth threshold voltage 224 and a fifth threshold voltage 226. In addition, the sensor unit 126 may include a fourth comparator 218 and a fifth comparator 220. The fourth comparator 218 and the fifth comparator 220 may each be coupled to the sensing point 216 so that the fourth comparator 218 and the fifth comparator 220 are each supplied with an actual common mode voltage. The fourth comparator 218 is also supplied with a fourth threshold voltage 224. The fifth comparator is also supplied with a fifth threshold voltage 226. The fourth threshold voltage is greater than the reference common mode voltage. The fifth threshold voltage 226 is less than the reference common mode voltage. If the actual common mode voltage at the sensing point 216 is greater than the fourth threshold voltage 224, the comparator 218 is triggered, wherein the triggering of the comparator 218 indicates that a short circuit between the first voltage supply terminal 116 and the first network terminal 108 or the first network line 112 of the primary network node 100 is detected. If the actual common mode voltage at the sensing point 216 is less than the fifth threshold voltage 226 , the comparator 220 is triggered, wherein the triggering of the comparator 220 indicates that a short circuit between the second voltage supply terminal 118 and the second network terminal 110 or the second network line 114 of the primary network node 100 is detected.

[0094] In this context, in an example, the test unit 106, and preferably the first sensor unit 126, may be configured to detect a short circuit, referred to as a second short circuit, between one of the network lines 112, 114 and a supply voltage (or one of the voltage terminals 116, 118) of the primary network node 100 based on a voltage difference between a reference common mode voltage and a (detected) actual common mode voltage. When the driver unit 124 is activated, the voltage difference may be detected.

[0095] In an example, the test unit 106 includes a sensor unit 128 referred to as a second sensor unit 128. The second sensor unit 128 is electrically coupled to both network terminals 108, 110 of the primary network node 106. In an example, the second sensor unit 128 can be electrically coupled to both network terminals 108, 110 via a first terminal connector 304 and a second terminal connector 306.

[0096] In an example, the second low-pass circuit 236 is integrated into the first end connector 304 and the second end connector 306. The second low-pass circuit 236 may include two impedances and a capacitor 237. The first impedance of the second low-pass circuit 236 may be integrated into the first end connector 304, and the other second impedance of the low-pass circuit 236 may be integrated into the second end connector 306. The capacitor 237 of the second low-pass circuit 236 may be coupled between the first end connector 304 and the second end connector 306. The capacitor 237 of the second low-pass filter 236 may be arranged to provide a low-pass filtered signal to the second sensor unit 128. The second low-pass circuit 236 may be integrated into a portion of the first end connector 304 and the second end connector 306, so that only the second sensor unit 128 follows the second low-pass circuit 236 along the first end connector 304 and the second end connector 306. Specifically, only the second sensor unit 128 can benefit from the second low-pass circuit 236. In another example, the second low-pass filter circuit 236 may form part of the second sensor unit 128. As a result, high-frequency components of the voltage signal from the first network terminal 108 and the second network terminal 110 may be suppressed before reaching the second sensor unit 128. As a further consequence, the second low-pass filter circuit 236 may also support the EMC robustness of the second sensor unit 128.

[0097] In an example, the second sensor unit 128 is configured to directly or indirectly measure an impedance, referred to as a terminal impedance, between the first network terminal 108 and the second network terminal 110 of the primary network node 100. As already explained previously, the primary network node 100 may comprise a terminal network 152, wherein a series connection of a first resistor 184 and a second resistor 186 may form a terminal impedance. The first resistor 184 and the second resistor 186 may each comprise an impedance of 50 ohms. If the primary network node 100 is considered alone, the terminal impedance may be formed by connecting the two resistors 184, 186 in series. In this case, the terminal impedance may be, for example, 100 ohms. If the primary network node 100 is part of a system 138, such as, for example Figure 3 As schematically shown in FIG. 1 , the terminal impedance between the two network ends 108 , 110 of the primary network node 100 can be determined by connecting the terminal networks 152 of the plurality of network nodes 100 , 142 in parallel. In this example, the terminal impedance can be 50 ohms.

[0098] As previously explained, the test unit 106 may include a driver unit 124 configured to generate a reference differential voltage and / or a reference common mode voltage at the network terminals 108, 110 of the primary network node 100. Due to the terminal impedance between the two network terminals 108, 110 of the primary network node 100 and also due to the reference differential voltage and / or the reference common mode voltage, a differential voltage referred to as the differential terminal voltage drops across the terminal impedance. The magnitude of the differential terminal voltage may be proportional to the magnitude of the terminal impedance. In this context, the terminal impedance may be measured at least indirectly via the differential terminal voltage. In an example, the second sensor unit 128 may be configured to indirectly detect the terminal impedance by measuring the differential terminal voltage. Alternatively or in addition, the second sensor unit 128 may be configured to directly detect the terminal impedance.

[0099] Figure 7 Schematically illustrated are embodiments of the test unit 106 and / or embodiments of the second sensor unit 128. The second sensor unit 128 may include a plurality of comparators 132, 134, 136 and a plurality of reference voltage sources 228, 230, 232 each having an associated reference voltage.

[0100] In this context, the second sensor unit 128 may include a first comparator 132 and a first reference voltage (or a first reference voltage source 228). In one example, the first terminal connector 304 is coupled to the first comparator 132. In addition, the second terminal connector 306 may be coupled to the first comparator 132, wherein the first reference voltage source 228 is integrated into a section of the second terminal connector 306 that leads only to the first comparator 132. In one example, the first comparator 132 is configured to trigger if the differential terminal voltage is less than the first reference voltage. At least in this case, the second sensor unit 128 senses the differential terminal voltage by means of the first comparator 132 and the first reference voltage source 228. The differential terminal voltage is proportional to the actual terminal impedance. By measuring the differential voltage, the sensor unit 128 can also measure the terminal impedance at least indirectly. The first reference voltage may be proportional to the first reference impedance. The first reference impedance may represent a lower threshold value of the allowable value of the terminal impedance. The first reference impedance may be predefined. If the terminal impedance is less than the first reference impedance, this relationship means a short circuit between the network terminals 108, 110 of the primary network node 100 or a short circuit between the network lines 112, 114. In an example, the second sensor unit 128 can be configured to detect a short circuit between the network terminals 108, 110 of the primary network node 100 or a short circuit between the network lines 112, 114 by triggering the first comparator 132. The short circuit between the network terminals 108, 110 or between the network lines 112, 114 can be referred to as a second short circuit. In an example, the first reference impedance can include a value between 25 ohms and 45 ohms, such as 30 ohms or 40 ohms. Therefore, the first reference voltage can be predefined.

[0101] In one example, the second sensor unit 128 may include a second comparator 134 and a second reference voltage (or a second reference voltage source 230). The first terminal connector 304 may be coupled to the second comparator 134. In addition, the second terminal connector 306 may be coupled to the second comparator 134, wherein the second reference voltage source 230 is integrated into a section of the second terminal connector 306 that leads only to the second comparator 134. In one example, the second comparator 134 is configured so that if the differential terminal voltage is greater than the second reference voltage, the second comparator 134 will trigger. At least in this case, the second sensor unit 128 senses the differential terminal voltage through the second comparator 134 and the second reference voltage source 230. The second reference voltage may be proportional to the second reference impedance. The second reference impedance may represent an upper threshold value of an allowable value of the terminal impedance. The second reference impedance may be predefined. In one example, the second reference impedance may include a value between 60 ohms and 80 ohms, such as 70 ohms or 75 ohms. If the terminating impedance is greater than the second reference impedance, this relationship means a break in one of the network lines 112, 114 or a fault in one of the terminating networks 152. A fault in a terminating network may also be referred to as a terminating fault, a terminating fault in a network line, or a terminating fault in a network connection.

[0102] In one example, the second sensor unit 128 may include a third comparator 136 and a third reference voltage (or a third reference voltage source 232). The first terminal connector 304 may be coupled to the third comparator 136. In addition, the second terminal connector 306 may be coupled to the third comparator 136, wherein the third reference voltage source 232 is integrated into a section of the second terminal connector 306 that leads only to the third comparator 136. In one example, the third comparator 136 may be configured so that if the differential terminal voltage is greater than the third reference voltage, the third comparator 136 will trigger. At least in this case, the second sensor unit 128 senses the differential terminal voltage through the third comparator 134 and the third reference voltage source 232. The third reference voltage may be proportional to the third reference impedance. The third reference impedance may represent a threshold value of the terminal impedance used to distinguish a potential open circuit from a potential terminal fault in one of the network lines. The third reference impedance may be predefined. In one example, the third reference impedance may include a value between 180 ohms and 350 ohms, such as 200 ohms, 250 ohms, or 290 ohms. If the terminal impedance is greater than the third reference impedance, this relationship means a terminal failure. In an example, the second sensor unit 128 may be configured such that the second sensor unit 128 detects a terminal failure by triggering the third comparator 136 .

[0103] If the terminal impedance is greater than the second reference impedance and less than the third reference impedance, this relationship means a break in one of the network lines 112, 114. In an example, the second sensor unit 128 includes an evaluation unit 234, which is coupled to at least the output of the second comparator 134 and the output of the third comparator 136. In an example, the sensor unit 128 may preferably be configured via the evaluation unit 234 so that the second sensor unit 128 is configured to detect a break in one of the network lines 112, 114 by triggering the second comparator 134 if the third comparator 136 is not triggered at the same time. A break in one of the network lines 112, 114 may be referred to as a first break.

[0104] If the terminal impedance is greater than the first reference impedance and if the terminal impedance is less than the second reference impedance at the same time, this relationship means that there is no structural fault. In an example, the second sensor unit 128 can be configured so that the second sensor unit 128 detects that there is no structural fault by not triggering the first comparator 132 and not triggering the second comparator 134 at the same time.

[0105] In an example, the second sensor unit 128 includes an evaluation unit 234, wherein the outputs of the comparators 132, 134, 136 are coupled to the evaluation unit 234. At the output, the comparator 132, 134, 136 may output whether it is triggered (eg, value one) or not triggered (eg, value zero).

[0106] If the terminal impedance is less than the first reference impedance, the differential terminal voltage is also less than the first reference voltage. Therefore, in this case, only the first comparator 132 can be triggered, while the second comparator 134 and the third comparator 136 will not be triggered. The evaluation unit 234 can be configured to detect a short circuit between the two network lines 112, 114 and / or between the two network terminals 108, 110 of the primary network node 100 in response to the triggering of the first comparator 132 and the simultaneous non-tripping of the second comparator 134 and the third comparator 136. This short circuit can also be referred to as a first short circuit.

[0107] If the terminal impedance is greater than the second reference impedance and less than the third reference impedance, the differential terminal voltage is also greater than the second reference voltage and less than the third reference voltage. However, the differential terminal voltage is not less than the first reference voltage. Therefore, in this case, only the second comparator 134 will trigger, while the first comparator 132 and the third comparator 136 will not trigger at the same time. The evaluation unit 234 can be configured to detect a disconnection of one of the network lines 112, 114 in response to the triggering of the second comparator 134 and the simultaneous non-triggering of the first comparator 134 and the third comparator 136. This disconnection can be referred to as a first disconnection.

[0108] If the terminal impedance is greater than the third reference impedance (and therefore greater than the second reference impedance), the differential terminal voltage is also greater than the third reference voltage and the second reference voltage. However, the differential terminal voltage is not less than the first reference voltage. Therefore, in this case, only the second comparator 134 and the third comparator 136 can be triggered, while the first comparator 132 will not be triggered at the same time. The evaluation unit 234 can be configured to detect a terminal fault in response to the triggering of the second comparator 134 and the third comparator 136 and the simultaneous non-triggering of the first comparator 132.

[0109] Figure 8 An embodiment of the test unit 106 is schematically shown. Figure 8 The test unit 106 is used in conjunction with the test unit 106 as previously discussed (especially in conjunction with Figure 7 ) in a similar manner to the above explanations, preferred features, technical effects and advantages. Figure 7 An embodiment of the test unit 106, Figure 8 The test unit 106 includes the third sensor unit 264 instead of the first sensor unit 126 and the second sensor unit 128 .

[0110] The sensor unit 106 preferably includes a driver unit 124. The test unit 106 may also include a first end connection 304 and a second end connection 306. The first end connection 304 may extend from the first test connection 300 to the driver unit 124 and / or extend through the driver unit 124 to the third sensor unit 264. The second end connection 306 may extend from the second test connection 302 to the driver unit 124 and / or extend via the driver unit 124 to the third sensor unit 264.

[0111] With regard to the driver unit 124, reference is also made to the aforementioned explanations, preferred features, technical effects and advantages in a similar manner as discussed previously for the driver unit 124. The driver unit 124 is configured to generate a reference common mode voltage at the network ends 108,110.

[0112] The third sensor unit 264 is electrically coupled to at least the first network terminal 108. In an example, the first terminal connection 304 may extend to the third sensor unit 264, such that the third sensor unit 264 is electrically coupled to the first network node 108 via the first terminal connection 304 and the first test connection 300. At least a portion of the low pass filter circuit 266 may be integrated into the first terminal connection 304. However, the integrated portion of the filter circuit 266 still supports a galvanic connection between the third sensor unit 264 and the first network node 108.

[0113] Previously it was explained that the driver unit 124 can be activated to generate a predefined reference differential voltage and / or a reference common mode voltage at the network terminals 108, 110 of the primary network node 100. In practice, if there is no structural fault, the driver unit 124 generates the reference differential voltage and / or the reference common mode voltage at the network terminals 108, 110. However, if a short circuit occurs as a structural fault between the first network terminal 108 and the first voltage supply terminal 116 of the primary network node 100, the actual common mode voltage at the network terminals 108, 110 is pulled from the reference common mode voltage to a different, higher voltage potential, even if the driver unit 124 is in an active state, so that the actual common mode voltage is greater than the reference common mode voltage. If a short circuit occurs as a structural fault between the first network line 112 and the first voltage supply terminal 116, a simulation effect occurs.

[0114] The third sensor unit 264 may be configured to sense a voltage at the first network terminal 108 referred to as a first measured voltage. The first measured voltage sensed by the third sensor unit 264 is the actual voltage at the first network terminal 108. Assuming that there is no structural fault, and if the driver unit 124 generates a reference voltage at the network terminals 108, 110 of the primary network node 100, it may be assumed that there is an allowable voltage at the first network terminal 108 that is greater than the fourth reference voltage and less than the fifth reference voltage. The fourth reference voltage may represent the minimum allowable value of the voltage at the first network terminal 108. The fifth reference voltage may represent the maximum allowable value of the voltage at the first network terminal 108. As discussed previously in light of possible structural faults, if there is a structural fault when the driver unit 124 is enabled, the actual measured voltage may be different from the reference voltage at the network terminals 108, 110. Structural faults may also affect the actual voltage at the first network terminal 108 in a similar manner. The actual voltage at the first network terminal 108 may be measured as the first measured voltage via the third sensor unit 264.

[0115] If the driver unit 124 is enabled so that the driver unit 124 actually or attempts to drive a predefined reference voltage at the network end 108, 110, the third sensor unit 264 can compare the first measured voltage with the fourth reference voltage, the fifth reference voltage and / or the further sixth reference voltage. Based on at least one obtained comparison result, the third sensor unit 264 can detect a possible structural fault.

[0116] In one example, the third sensor unit 264 may include a fourth comparator 238 and a fourth voltage source 250. The fourth voltage source 250 may be configured to generate a fourth reference voltage. In addition, the test unit 106 (and / or the third sensor unit 264) may be configured so that the first connector 304 is coupled to the fourth comparator 238. In addition, the fourth voltage source 250 may be coupled to the fourth comparator 238. In one example, the fourth comparator 238 is configured so that if the first measured voltage is less than the fourth reference voltage, the fourth comparator 238 is triggered. At least in this case, the third sensor unit 264 senses the first measured voltage through the fourth comparator 238. If the first measured voltage is less than the fourth reference voltage, this relationship means a short circuit between the network terminals 108, 110 of the primary network node 100 or a short circuit between the network lines 112, 114. The short circuit between the network terminals 108, 110 or the short circuit between the network lines 112, 114 may be referred to as a second short circuit. In an example, the third sensor unit 264 may be configured such that the third sensor unit 264 detects the second short circuit by triggering the fourth comparator 238 .

[0117] In one example, the third sensor unit 264 may include a fifth comparator 240 and a fifth voltage source 252. The fifth voltage source 252 may be configured to generate a fifth reference voltage. In addition, the test unit 106 (and / or the third sensor unit 264) may be configured so that the first connector 304 is coupled to the fifth comparator 240. In addition, the fifth voltage source 252 may be coupled to the fifth comparator 240. In one example, the fifth comparator 240 is configured so that if the first measured voltage is greater than the fifth reference voltage, the fifth comparator 240 will trigger. At least in this case, the third sensor unit 264 senses the first measured voltage through the fifth comparator 240. If the first measured voltage is greater than the fifth reference voltage, this relationship means a disconnection in one of the network lines 112, 114, especially a disconnection in the first network line 112. The disconnection may also be referred to as a first disconnection. In one example, the third sensor unit 264 is configured so that the third sensor unit 264 detects a first disconnection by triggering the fifth comparator 240.

[0118] In one example, the third sensor unit 264 may include a sixth comparator 242 and a sixth voltage source 254. The sixth voltage source 254 may be configured to generate a sixth reference voltage. The sixth reference voltage may be greater than the fifth reference voltage. In addition, the test unit 106 (and / or the third sensor unit 264) may be configured so that the first connector 304 is coupled to the sixth comparator 242. In addition, the sixth voltage source 264 may be coupled to the sixth comparator 242. In one example, the sixth comparator 242 is configured so that if the first measured voltage is greater than the sixth reference voltage, the sixth comparator 242 may be triggered. At least in this case, the third sensor unit 264 senses the first measured voltage through the sixth comparator 242. If the first measured voltage is greater than the sixth reference voltage, this relationship means a terminal failure. In one example, the third sensor unit 264 is configured so that the third sensor unit 264 detects a terminal failure by triggering the sixth comparator 242.

[0119] In an example, the third sensor unit 264 includes an evaluation unit 262, which is referred to as a second evaluation unit 262. The outputs of the comparators 238, 240, 242 may be coupled to the second evaluation unit 262. At the output, the comparator 238, 240, 242 may output whether it has been triggered (e.g., a value of one) or has not been triggered (e.g., a value of zero).

[0120] If the first measured voltage is less than the fourth reference voltage (of the fourth reference voltage source 250), the first measured voltage is also less than the fifth reference voltage and less than the sixth reference voltage. Therefore, in this case, only the fourth comparator 238 can be triggered, while the fifth comparator 240 and the sixth comparator 242 will not be triggered at the same time. The evaluation unit 262 can be configured to detect a second short circuit in response to the triggering of the fourth comparator 238 and the simultaneous non-tripping of the fifth comparator 240 and the sixth comparator 242. The first short circuit can refer to a short circuit between two network lines 112, 114 and / or a short circuit between two network terminals 108, 110 of the primary network node 100.

[0121] If the first measured voltage is greater than the fifth reference voltage (of the fifth reference voltage source 252) and less than the sixth reference voltage (of the sixth reference voltage source 254), the first measured voltage is also greater than the fourth reference voltage (of the fourth reference voltage source 250). Therefore, in this case, the fifth comparator 240 can be triggered, while the fourth comparator 238 and the sixth comparator 242 are not triggered. The evaluation unit 262 can be configured to detect a break in any of the network lines 112, 114, in particular a break in the first network line 112, in response to the triggering of the fifth comparator 240 and the simultaneous non-triggering of the fourth comparator 238 and the sixth comparator 242.

[0122] If the first measured voltage is greater than the sixth reference voltage (of the sixth reference voltage source 254), the first measured voltage is also greater than the fifth reference voltage and greater than the fourth reference voltage. Therefore, in this case, the sixth comparator 242 can be triggered, while the fifth comparator 240 is triggered and the fourth comparator is not triggered. The evaluation unit 262 can be configured to detect a terminal fault in response to the triggering of the sixth comparator 242 and the simultaneous triggering of the fifth comparator 240 and the non-triggering of the fourth comparator 238.

[0123] The third sensor unit 264 may be configured to sense a voltage at the second network terminal 110, referred to as a second measured voltage. The second measured voltage detected by the third sensor unit 264 is the actual voltage at the second network terminal 110. Assuming that there is no structural fault, and if the driver unit 124 drives the reference voltage at the network terminals 108, 110 of the primary network node 100, it may be assumed that there is an allowable voltage at the second network terminal 110 that is less than the seventh reference voltage and greater than the eighth reference voltage. The seventh reference voltage may represent the maximum allowable value of the voltage at the second network terminal 110. The eighth reference voltage may represent the minimum allowable value of the voltage at the second network terminal 110. As discussed previously in light of possible structural faults, if there is a structural fault, the actual measured voltage may be different from the reference common mode voltage at the network terminals 108, 110. The structural fault may also affect the actual voltage at the second network terminal 110 in a similar manner. The actual voltage at the second network terminal 110 may be measured as the second measured voltage via the third sensor unit 264.

[0124] If the driver unit 124 is enabled so that the driver unit 124 actually or attempts to drive a predefined reference voltage at the network end 108, 110, the third sensor unit 264 can compare the second measured voltage with the seventh reference voltage, the eighth reference voltage and / or the additional ninth reference voltage. Based on at least one obtained comparison result, the third sensor unit 264 can detect a possible structural fault.

[0125] In one example, the third sensor unit 264 may include a seventh comparator 244 and a seventh voltage source 256. The seventh voltage source 256 may be configured to generate a seventh reference voltage. In addition, the test unit 106 (and / or the third sensor unit 264) may be configured so that the second terminal connection 306 is coupled to the seventh comparator 244. In addition, the seventh voltage source 256 may be coupled to the seventh comparator 244. In one example, the seventh comparator 244 is configured so that if the second measured voltage is greater than the seventh reference voltage, the seventh comparator 244 is triggered. At least in this case, the third sensor unit 264 senses the second measured voltage through the seventh comparator 244. If the second measured voltage is greater than the seventh reference voltage, this relationship means a short circuit between the network terminals 108, 110 of the primary network node 100 or a short circuit between the network lines 112, 114. The short circuit between the network terminals 108, 110 or the short circuit between the network lines 112, 114 may be referred to as a second short circuit. In an example, the third sensor unit 264 may be configured such that the third sensor unit 264 detects the second short circuit by triggering the seventh comparator 244 .

[0126] In one example, the third sensor unit 264 may include an eighth comparator 246 and an eighth voltage source 258. The eighth voltage source 258 may be configured to produce an eighth reference voltage. In addition, the test unit 106 (and / or the third sensor unit 264) may be configured so that the second end connector 306 is coupled to the eighth comparator 246. In addition, the eighth voltage source 258 may be coupled to the eighth comparator 246. In one example, the eighth comparator 246 is configured so that if the second measured voltage is less than the eighth reference voltage, the eighth comparator 246 may trigger. At least in this case, the third sensor unit 264 senses the second measured voltage via the eighth comparator 246. If the second measured voltage is less than the eighth reference voltage, this relationship means a disconnection in one of the network lines 112, 114, especially a disconnection in the second network line 114. Interruption may also be referred to as a second disconnection. In one example, the third sensor unit 264 is configured so that the third sensor unit 264 detects a second disconnection by triggering the eighth comparator 246.

[0127] In one example, the third sensor unit 264 may include a ninth comparator 248 and a ninth voltage source 260. The ninth voltage source 260 may be configured to generate a ninth reference voltage. The ninth reference voltage may be less than the eighth reference voltage. In addition, the test unit 106 (and / or the third sensor unit 264) may be configured so that the second end connector 306 is coupled to the ninth comparator 248. In addition, the ninth voltage source 264 may be coupled to the ninth comparator 248. In one example, the ninth comparator 248 is configured so that if the second measured voltage is less than the ninth reference voltage, the ninth comparator 248 may be triggered. At least in this case, the third sensor unit 264 senses the second measured voltage through the ninth comparator 248. If the second measured voltage is less than the ninth reference voltage, this relationship means a terminal failure. In one example, the third sensor unit 264 is configured so that the third sensor unit 264 detects a terminal failure by triggering the ninth comparator 248.

[0128] In an example, the outputs of the comparators 244, 246, 248 are coupled to the second evaluation unit 262. In an example, the comparators 244, 246, 248 can output whether they are triggered (eg, a value of one) or not triggered (eg, a value of zero).

[0129] If the second measured voltage is greater than the seventh reference voltage (of the seventh reference voltage source 256), the second measured voltage is also greater than the eighth reference voltage and greater than the ninth reference voltage. Therefore, in this case, only the seventh comparator 244 can be triggered, while the eighth comparator 246 and the ninth comparator 248 will not be triggered at the same time. The evaluation unit 262 can be configured to detect a second short circuit in response to the triggering of the seventh comparator 244 and the simultaneous non-triggering of the eighth comparator 246 and the ninth comparator 248. The second short circuit can refer to a short circuit between two network lines 112, 114 and / or a short circuit between two network terminals 108, 110 of the primary network node 100.

[0130] If the second measured voltage is less than the eighth reference voltage (of the eighth reference voltage source 258) and greater than the ninth reference voltage (of the ninth reference voltage source 260), the second measured voltage is also less than the seventh reference voltage (of the seventh reference voltage source 256). Therefore, in this case, the eighth comparator 246 may be triggered, while the seventh comparator 244 and the ninth comparator 248 may not be triggered. The evaluation unit 262 may be configured to detect a break in either of the network lines 112, 114, in particular the second network line 114, in response to the triggering of the eighth comparator 246 and the simultaneous non-tripping of the seventh comparator 244 and the ninth comparator 248.

[0131] If the second measured voltage is less than the ninth reference voltage (of the ninth reference voltage source 260), the second measured voltage is also less than the eighth reference voltage and less than the seventh reference voltage. Therefore, in this case, the ninth comparator 248 may be triggered, while the seventh comparator 244 will not be triggered and the eighth comparator 248 will be triggered. The evaluation unit 262 may be configured to detect a terminal fault in response to the triggering of the eighth comparator 246 and the ninth comparator 248 and the simultaneous non-triggering of the seventh comparator 244.

[0132] It was previously explained that the evaluation unit 262 may be configured to determine whether a second short circuit, an open circuit, or a terminal fault exists based on the results of the comparators 238, 240, 242. The comparators 238, 240, 242 may be referred to as a first set of comparators 238, 240, 242. The potential faults, such as a second short circuit, an open circuit, or a terminal fault, that the evaluation unit 262 may determine based on the results of the first group of comparators 238, 240, 242 are referred to as a first group of potential faults.

[0133] The evaluation unit 262 may be further configured to determine whether a third short circuit, open circuit, or terminal fault exists based on the results of the comparators 244, 246, 248. The comparators 244, 246, 248 may be referred to as a second set of comparators 244, 246, 248. The potential faults, such as the third short circuit, open circuit, or terminal fault, that the evaluation unit 262 may determine based on the results of the second group of comparators 244, 246, 248 are referred to as a second group of potential faults.

[0134] In one example, the evaluation unit 262 can be configured to determine the second short circuit as a fault if the evaluation unit 262 determines the second short circuit of the first group of potential faults and if at the same time the evaluation unit 262 does not determine any fault in the second group of potential faults or does not determine the third short circuit of the second group of potential faults.

[0135] In one example, the evaluation unit 262 can be configured to determine the third short circuit as a fault if the evaluation unit 262 determines the third short circuit of the second group of potential faults and if at the same time the evaluation unit 262 does not determine any fault in the first group of potential faults or does not determine the second short circuit of the first group of potential faults.

[0136] In one example, the evaluation unit 262 can be configured to determine the first short circuit as a fault if the evaluation unit 262 determines the second short circuit of the first group of potential faults and simultaneously determines the third short circuit of the second group of potential faults. In this case, the determination of the first short circuit takes precedence over the determination of the second short circuit and the third short circuit.

[0137] Fig. 9An example of another embodiment of the test unit 106 is schematically shown. Fig. 9 The test unit 106 is used to Figure 8 Reference is made to the foregoing explanations, preferred features, technical effects and / or advantages in a similar manner as explained for the test unit 106 of the present invention and / or the test unit 106 of the present invention. However, it should be noted that the fourth comparator 238, the fifth comparator 240 and the sixth comparator 242 have been replaced by a combination of a multiplexer 268 and an additional comparator 276, which performs the same functions as previously explained in conjunction with the fourth comparator 238, the fifth comparator 240 and the sixth comparator 242. It should also be noted that the seventh comparator 244, the eighth comparator 246 and the ninth comparator 248 have been replaced by a combination of an additional multiplexer 270 and an additional comparator 278, which performs the same functions as previously explained in conjunction with the seventh comparator 244, the eighth comparator 246 and the ninth comparator 248.

[0138] Fig.10 A further embodiment of the test unit 106 is schematically shown. Fig.10 The test unit 106 is used as for Figure 7 , 8 Reference is made to the foregoing explanations, preferred features, technical effects and / or advantages in a similar manner as explained for the test unit 106 of FIG9. However, it should be noted that the two multiplexers 268, 270 are replaced by a multiplexer 284. Also, the two comparators 276, 278 are replaced by a combination of a switch 286 and a comparator 292, which perform the same functions as the two comparators 276, 278.

[0139] Fig.11 Schematically illustrated is a method 308 of a primary network node 100. The method comprises the following steps: detecting via the test unit 106 a short circuit between the network ends 108, 110, a short circuit between the network lines 112, 114 and / or a short circuit between one of the network lines 108, 110 and a supply voltage 116, 118 of the network node 100. For the method 308, reference is made to advantageous explanations, preferred features, technical effects and advantages in a similar manner as explained previously for the network node 100.

[0140] Although the described exemplary embodiments disclosed herein focus on devices, systems, and methods of using the same, the present disclosure is not necessarily limited to the example embodiments shown herein.

[0141] The systems and methods described herein may be implemented, at least in part, by a computer program or multiple computer programs, which may exist in a single computer system or across multiple computer systems in multiple forms in both activated and inactivated states. For example, these computer programs may exist as software programs in source code, object code, executable code, or other formats consisting of program instructions for performing some steps. Any of the above formats may be embodied in compressed or uncompressed form on a computer-readable medium, which may include a storage device and a signal.

[0142] As used herein, the term "computer" refers to any electronic device that includes a processor, such as a general-purpose central processing unit (CPU), a special-purpose processor, or a microcontroller. A computer is capable of receiving data (input), performing a series of predetermined operations on the data, and producing results therefrom in the form of information or signals (output). Depending on the context, the term "computer" will mean (specifically) a processor or (more generally) a processor associated with a combination of related elements contained within a single chassis or housing.

[0143] The term "processor" or "processing unit" refers to a data processing circuit, which may be a microprocessor, a coprocessor, a microcontroller, a microcomputer, a central processing unit, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a programmable logic circuit, and / or any circuit that manipulates signals (analog or digital) based on operable instructions stored in a memory. The term "memory" refers to a storage circuit or multiple storage circuits, such as a read-only memory, a random access memory, a volatile memory, a non-volatile memory, a static memory, a dynamic memory, a flash memory, a cache memory, and / or any circuit that stores digital information.

[0144] As used herein, a "computer-readable medium" or "storage medium" may be any component that can contain, store, communicate, propagate, or transport a computer program for use by or in conjunction with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. A computer-readable medium may be, for example, but not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, device, or propagation medium. More specific examples of computer-readable media (a non-exhaustive list) may include the following: an electrical connector having one or more wires, a portable computer disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or flash memory), optical fiber, a portable compact disc read-only memory (CDROM), a digital versatile disc (DVD), a Blu-ray disc (BD), and a memory card.

[0145] It should be noted that the above embodiments have been described with reference to different subject matters. Specifically, some embodiments may have been described with reference to method claims, while other embodiments may have been described with reference to apparatus claims. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate from the above that, unless otherwise stated, any combination of features relating to different subject matters, specifically combinations of features of method claims and features of apparatus claims, in addition to any combination of features belonging to one type of subject matter, are also considered disclosed with this document.

[0146] In addition, it should be noted that the drawings are schematic. In different drawings, similar or identical elements have the same reference numerals. In addition, it should be noted that in order to provide a concise description of the illustrative embodiments, the implementation details that belong to the customary practices of the technicians may not be described. It should be understood that in the development of any such implementation scheme, as in any engineering or design project, a large number of implementation scheme-specific decisions must be made in order to achieve the specific goals of the developers, such as complying with system-related and business-related constraints, which may be different in different implementation schemes. In addition, it should be understood that such development work may be complex and time-consuming, but it is still a routine task for those skilled in the art to design, manufacture and produce.

[0147] Finally, it should be noted that those skilled in the art will be able to design many alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In the claims, any reference numerals placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claims. The word "comprise(s) / comprising" does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those listed in the claim. The word "a / an" before an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements. The measures recited in the claims may be implemented by means of hardware comprising several different elements and / or by means of a suitably programmed processor. In a device claim listing several components, several of these components may be embodied by the same hardware item. The fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.

[0148] Unless otherwise stated, terms such as "first" and "second" are used to arbitrarily distinguish between the elements such terms describe. Therefore, these terms are not necessarily intended to indicate temporal or other prioritization of such elements.

Claims

1. A network node, characterized in that: include: A network interface for connecting to a two-wire network line; Transceiver; and a test unit, wherein the network interface comprises a first network end for connecting to a first of two network lines and a second network end for connecting to a second of the two network lines, wherein the transceiver is coupled to the network ends, wherein the transceiver is configured to generate a transmission signal representing an Ethernet packet at the network interface, wherein the test unit is electrically coupled to the network ends, and wherein the test unit is configured to detect a short circuit between the network ends, a short circuit between the network lines and / or a short circuit between one of the network lines and a supply voltage of the network node, and / or to detect a break in at least one of the network lines.

2. The network node according to the preceding claim, characterized in that The transceiver is coupled to the network end in an electrically isolated manner.

3. A network node according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The transceiver is capacitively coupled to the network end.

4. The network node according to claim 1, characterized in that: The transceiver is electrically coupled to the network end.

5. A network node according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that The test unit is electrically coupled to the network end via the transceiver.

6. A network node according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that The test unit comprises a driver unit configured to generate a reference common-mode voltage at the network end, wherein the test unit comprises a first sensor unit electrically connected to two network ends, wherein the first sensor unit is configured to detect an actual common-mode voltage at the network end, wherein the test unit is configured to detect a first short circuit between one of the network lines and a supply voltage of the network node based on a voltage difference between the reference common-mode voltage and the actual common-mode voltage.

7. A network node according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that The test unit comprises a driver unit configured to generate a reference differential voltage and / or a reference common mode voltage at the network end, wherein the test unit comprises a second sensor unit electrically connected to the two network ends, wherein the second sensor unit is configured to directly or indirectly detect an impedance between the network ends, referred to as end impedance, wherein the test unit is configured to detect based on the end impedance: a second short circuit between the network lines, and / or a first open circuit in one of the network lines, and / or a termination error at the network line and / or the network end.

8. The network node according to the preceding claim, characterized in that The test unit is configured to detect the second short circuit if the end impedance is less than a first reference impedance, and / or wherein the test unit is configured to detect the first open circuit if the end impedance is greater than a second reference impedance and specifically less than a third reference impedance, wherein the second reference impedance is greater than the first reference impedance, and / or wherein the test unit is configured to detect the termination error if the end impedance is greater than the third reference impedance.

9. A system, characterized in that: include: A network node according to any of the preceding claims, which is referred to as a primary network node; at least one further different network node, which is referred to as a secondary network node; and a two-wire network, wherein each secondary network node comprises a transceiver, wherein each secondary network node comprises a network interface for connecting to the network line of the two-wire network, wherein the network interface of each secondary network node comprises a first network end for connecting to a first of the two network lines and a second network end for connecting to a second of the two network lines, wherein the transceiver of each secondary network node is coupled to the network end of the corresponding network node in an electrically isolated manner, wherein the transceiver of each secondary network node is configured to generate a transmission signal representing an Ethernet packet at the network interface, and wherein each network node is electrically coupled to the network line via an associated network interface.

10. A method for a network node, characterized in that: The network node comprises: a network interface for connecting to a two-wire network; a transceiver; and a test unit, wherein the network interface comprises a first network terminal for connecting to a first of two network lines and a second network terminal for connecting to a second of the two network lines, wherein the transceiver is coupled to the network terminal, wherein the transceiver is configured to generate a transmission signal representing an Ethernet packet at the network interface, wherein the test unit is electrically coupled to the network terminal, and wherein the method comprises the following steps: A short circuit between the network ends, a short circuit between the network lines and / or a short circuit between one of the network lines and a supply voltage of the network node is detected via the test unit.

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