Ethernet Phy, communication system and method for Ethernet Phy
By introducing a wake-up interface and wake-up signal mechanism into Ethernet nodes, the problem of long sleep mode transition time of Ethernet nodes in tree systems is solved, achieving energy saving and improved communication efficiency.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-08-28
- Publication Date
- 2026-03-27
AI Technical Summary
In the communication process between Ethernet nodes, especially in tree systems, the time required for a node to switch from sleep mode to active mode is long, resulting in wasted power and low communication efficiency.
A wake-up interface and wake-up signal mechanism are introduced to control the sleep and activity mode switching of Ethernet Phy through a wake-up identifier. Ethernet Phy is activated only when necessary to reduce unnecessary power consumption, and fast and selective mode switching is achieved through the encoding and modulation of the wake-up signal.
It effectively reduces power consumption, improves the communication efficiency of Ethernet nodes and the scalability of the system, can quickly respond to wake-up requests, and reduces the switching time between nodes.
Smart Images
Figure CN121750385A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This disclosure relates to Ethernet Phys, communication systems including multiple Ethernet Phys, and methods for using Ethernet Phys. Background Technology
[0002] Modern automobiles include various electronic control units (ECUs) that implement, for example, engine control, powertrain control, airbag systems, anti-lock braking systems, cruise control, electric power steering, audio systems, window control systems, door control systems, rearview mirror adjustment systems, and battery and recharging systems for hybrid / electric vehicles. ECUs communicate with each other within the vehicle via in-vehicle network (IVN) technologies such as Ethernet.
[0003] Ethernet is a well-known technology, and the IEEE 802.3 working group is a set of standards that define the physical layer and data link layer media access control (MAC) for wired Ethernet.
[0004] One emerging IEEE standard that may be particularly suitable for vehicular networks is IEEE 802.3cg, a protocol for 10Mb / s single-pair twisted-pair Ethernet, also known as 10BASE-T1S. 10BASE-T1S allows multiple Ethernet nodes to connect to the same twisted-pair cable (also known as "shared medium"). The IEEE 802.3cg physical layer (PHY) does not utilize Carrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision Detection (CSMA / CD), but instead introduces Physical Layer Collision Avoidance ("PLCA") for media access control.
[0005] Another emerging IEEE standard that may be particularly suitable for vehicular networks is IEEE 802.3bw, a protocol for 100Mb / s full-duplex Ethernet communication over a single pair of twisted-pair cables, also known as 100BASE-T1. 100BASE-T1 supports point-to-point connections. In cases where more than two nodes want to communicate via a 100BASE-T1 communication link, the latter node may need to use an Ethernet switch.
[0006] The following explanation may apply to Ethernet nodes configured for 10BASE-T1S or 100BASE-T1.
[0007] Each Ethernet node may include a first part assigned to the physical layer according to the OSI model. This first part of the Ethernet node may also be referred to as the Ethernet Phy. The Ethernet Phy includes an analog interface that can be coupled to a cable (in certain cases, a shared medium). The Ethernet Phy also includes a digital interface. This interface may also be referred to and / or configured as a media-independent interface (MII). The Ethernet Phy can be formed by the circuitry of the Ethernet node. In this example, the Ethernet Phy can be configured as a standalone device. In this case, the Ethernet Phy can be implemented by the circuitry. The Ethernet Phy can also be configured as a device. The Ethernet Phy can be configured to receive analog signals at the analog interface and transmit data represented by analog signals at the digital interface. Furthermore, the Ethernet Phy can be configured to receive digital data at the digital interface and generate analog signals representing the received digital data at the analog interface based on the received digital data.
[0008] Each Ethernet node may include a second part assigned to the data link layer according to the OSI model. This second part of the Ethernet node may also be referred to as the Ethernet controller. The Ethernet controller may include a MAC unit for controlling media access. The Ethernet controller may have (another) digital interface. The Ethernet controller may be coupled to the digital interface of the Ethernet Physics via an associated digital interface. The digital interface of the Ethernet controller may also be a media-independent interface.
[0009] Not every Ethernet node (and especially not every Ethernet Phy) is continuously active. There may be pauses between two active communication phases, during which no active communication occurs via the Ethernet node and / or Ethernet Phy, and in this case, not even idle signals are sent. During pauses, the Ethernet Phy may be driven into sleep mode to conserve power. Changing from sleep mode to active mode can take a certain amount of time, during which the Ethernet Phy regains the ability to send digital data through the digital interface. If multiple Ethernet nodes are arranged in a tree-like system, such that multiple Ethernet nodes are coupled along a path in the tree system, the transition time may increase. This path can be a linear path in the tree system or can be understood as a tree subsystem. Summary of the Invention
[0010] An Ethernet Phy is disclosed, comprising: an analog interface for connecting to a communication medium, a digital interface, and a wake-up interface. The Ethernet Phy is configured to change from a sleep mode to an active mode, or from an active mode to a sleep mode. The Ethernet Phy is configured to receive a first analog signal via the analog interface, the first analog signal representing an Ethernet frame. The Ethernet Phy is configured to transmit Ethernet frames only in active mode via the digital interface, and is configured to receive a first wake-up signal representing a first wake-up identifier or a second wake-up identifier via the wake-up interface in sleep mode. The Ethernet Phy is configured to change from sleep mode to active mode in response to the first wake-up signal representing one of the first or second wake-up identifiers, and is configured to remain in sleep mode in response to the first wake-up signal representing the other of the first or second wake-up identifiers. A method for using the Ethernet Phy is also disclosed.
[0011] This summary is provided to introduce, in a simplified form, a series of concepts further described below in the detailed embodiments. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.
[0012] The appended claims define all aspects of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description
[0013] Embodiments of this 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 this disclosure and should therefore not be considered as limiting the scope of this disclosure, allowing for the implementation of other equally effective embodiments. 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 similar reference numerals are used to denote similar elements, in which:
[0014] Figure 1 A simplified block diagram of the communication system is shown.
[0015] Figure 2 A simplified block diagram of EthernetPhy is shown.
[0016] Figure 3 A simplified flowchart of the method for Ethernet Phy is shown. Detailed Implementation
[0017] Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of an example of a communication system 180. The communication system 180 may include a switch unit 154. The switch unit 154 may also be referred to as switch 154 or Ethernet switch 154. Additionally, the communication system 180 may include a host unit 156. The host unit 156 may also be referred to as host 156. The switch unit 154 may be coupled to the host unit 156. The communication system 180 may also include multiple Ethernet PHIS 120, 122, 124, and 126.
[0018] Figure 2 An example of Ethernet Phy 100 is schematically shown. Ethernet Phy 100 can be designed as a device. Each of Ethernet Phy 120, 122, 124, and 126 of communication system 180 can be formed by Ethernet Phy 100.
[0019] The following text is about Figure 2 The explanations, features, technical effects, and advantages of the Ethernet Phy 100 example can be similarly applied to each of the Ethernet Phy 120, 122, 124, and 126 of the communication system 180. This relationship can also be similarly applied in the opposite direction. The explanations, features, technical effects, and advantages of at least one of the Ethernet Phy 120, 122, 124, and 126 of the communication system 180 below can be similarly applied to... Figure 2 This is related to the example of the Ethernet Phy 100.
[0020] In this example, Ethernet Phy 100 may include an analog interface 102, a digital interface 104, and another interface 106, which is also referred to as the wake-up interface 106. The analog interface 102, the digital interface 104, and the wake-up interface 106 can be understood as different interfaces 102, 104, and 106.
[0021] The analog interface 102 of the Ethernet Phy 100 can be configured to couple to a communication medium, specifically to at least one conductive track on a twisted pair or PCB. The communication medium can be used to establish a direct connection to the analog interface 102 of another Ethernet Phy 100. In another example, the communication medium can be configured as a shared medium. Multiple Ethernet Phy 100s can be coupled to the same shared medium via their associated analog interfaces 102. This type of coupling can also be referred to as multi-drop access. The analog interface 102 can be configured to transmit or receive analog signals representing digital data.
[0022] The digital interface 104 of the Ethernet Phy 100 can be configured to transmit digital data. In this example, multiple bits of digital data can be transmitted in parallel via the digital interface 104. In this example, the digital interface 104 can be configured as a media-independent interface. The digital interface 104 of the Ethernet Phy 100 can be configured to transmit data to (another) digital interfaces 158, 160, 162, and 164 of the switch unit 154. The digital interface 104 of the Ethernet Phy 100 can be configured to receive digital data, particularly from the digital interface 158 of the switch unit 154.
[0023] The wake-up interface 106 can be configured as an analog or digital interface. The wake-up interface 106 can be configured to be coupled to a signal line 146. The signal line 146 can be formed by at least one conductor, particularly a twisted pair. In another example, the signal line 146 can be formed by at least one conductive track, particularly two conductive tracks, on a printed circuit board (PCB). In this example, multiple Ethernet Phy 100s can be coupled to the same signal line 146 via their respective wake-up interfaces 106. The signal line 146 can also be referred to as the wake-up signal line 146 or the wake-up medium 146.
[0024] In this example, Ethernet Phy 100 may include a Phy unit 150. The Phy unit 150 may be coupled between a digital interface 104 and an analog interface 102. The Phy unit 150 may be configured to receive digital data via the digital interface 104. Additionally, the Phy unit 150 may be configured to generate an analog signal representing the digital data at the analog interface 102. If data is received via the digital interface 104 and an analog signal representing the digital data is generated at the analog interface 102 via the Phy unit 150, the corresponding direction of data transmission may be referred to as the transmitting direction. Different analog signals representing (different) digital data may be received via the analog interface 102 of Ethernet Phy 100. The Phy unit 150 of Ethernet Phy 100 may be configured to transmit digital data corresponding to the data represented by the analog signal via the digital interface 104 based on the received analog signal. The direction of data processing may be referred to as the receiving direction.
[0025] Phy unit 150 can be formed by the circuit system of Ethernet Phy 100. Phy unit 150 may include several sub-units, such as PCS unit 174, PMA unit 176 and PMD unit 178.
[0026] In this example, each Phy unit 150 may include a unit in the Physical Coding Sublayer, also referred to as a PCS unit 174. In this example, the PCS unit 174 may be formed from the circuit units of the corresponding Ethernet Phy 100. The PCS unit 174 can be configured according to the 10BASE-T1S standard or the 100BASE-T1 standard. In this example, each Phy unit 150 may include a Physical Media Connection unit, also referred to as a PMA unit 176. The PMA unit 176 may be formed from the circuit units of the corresponding Ethernet Phy 100. The PMA unit 176 can be configured according to the 10BASE-T1S standard or the 100BASE-T1 standard. In this example, each Phy unit 150 may include a unit in the Physical Media Dependent Layer, also referred to as a PMD unit 178. In this example, the PMD unit 178 may be formed from the circuit units of the corresponding Ethernet Phy 100. The PMD unit 178 can be configured according to the 10BASE-T1S standard or the 100BASE-T1 standard.
[0027] Each PCS unit 174 can be configured to perform data scrambling and re-encoding, particularly 4B5B re-encoding. Each PCS unit 174 may include a PCS transmitting unit, a PCS receiving unit, and a collision detection unit. The PCS transmitting unit may include a scrambler and a unit for 4-bit to 5-bit encoding. Each PCS receiving unit may include a descrambler and a unit for 4-bit to 5-bit decoding. In the transmitting direction, each PCS unit 174 can be configured to convert each 4-bit data word into a 5-bit data word. The 5-bit word can be sent to the PMA unit 176. In the opposite direction, i.e., the receiving direction, the PCS unit 174 can receive each 5-bit data word. In the receiving direction, the PCS unit 174 can be configured to convert a 5-bit data word into a 4-bit data word.
[0028] Each PMA unit 176 can be configured to receive data from the PCS unit 174 in the transmission direction and generate an analog output signal representing the data received by the PCS unit 174 based on the received data. The data received by the PCS unit 174 can be represented by the analog output signal according to a predefined encoding such as differential Manchester encoding. Each PMA unit 176 can also be configured to receive an analog signal representing data in the reception direction. Data received via the analog signal can be converted into words by the PMA unit 176, each word consisting of 5 bits. A word can represent the data of the analog signal.
[0029] Each PMD unit 178 can be configured to adapt the analog signal in the transmission direction, particularly with respect to the pulse length or the steepness of the pulse edge. Each PMD unit 178 can be configured to sample the analog signal in the reception direction. Each PMD unit 178 can be coupled to the MDI interface 102 of the corresponding Ethernet Phy 100.
[0030] As explained, Phy unit 150 can be coupled between digital interface 104 and analog interface 102. The PCS unit 174 of Phy unit 150 can be coupled to the digital interface 104 of Ethernet Phy 100. The PMD unit 178 of Phy unit 150 can be coupled to the analog interface 102 of Ethernet Phy 100. In this example, Phy unit 150 is not coupled to wake-up interface 106. Specifically, wake-up interface 106 is not used to transmit Ethernet data. For example, Phy unit 150 can be coupled for transmitting Ethernet data, such as Ethernet frame data, using only digital interface 104 and analog interface 102.
[0031] Ethernet Phy 100 is configured to change from sleep mode to active mode. Furthermore, Ethernet Phy 100 is configured to change from active mode to sleep mode. In this example, Ethernet Phy 100 is configured such that it can only transmit and / or receive digital data via digital interface 104 in active mode. In active mode, for example, Phy unit 150 can be supplied with power and a clock signal to process data, particularly in the receive and / or transmit directions. Ethernet Phy 100 can be configured to control the power supply to Phy unit 150 in active mode. Ethernet Phy 100 can be configured to block the power supply to Phy unit 150 in sleep mode (via control). The effect is that Phy unit 150 can be supplied with power in active mode but not in sleep mode. Another effect is that PHY unit 150 can only operate in active mode and not in sleep mode.
[0032] In this example, Ethernet Phy 100 may include a wake-up unit 152. The wake-up unit 152 may be configured to initiate and / or control a change from a sleep mode to an active mode of Ethernet Phy 100, or from an active mode to a sleep mode of Ethernet Phy 100. The wake-up unit 152 may be configured to operate in both sleep and / or active modes. In this example, the wake-up unit 152 is operable in both active and sleep modes. In this example, the wake-up unit 152 may be configured to enable power supply to Phy unit 150 in active mode and disable power supply to Phy unit 150 in sleep mode. In this example, the wake-up unit 152 may be configured to generate a control signal. The wake-up unit 152 may be configured to send a control signal to a power supply unit 184 via a control signal connection 182. The power supply unit 184 may be configured to supply power to Phy unit 150 via a first power supply connection 186. Additionally, power supply unit 184 can supply power to wake-up unit 152 via another, second power supply connection 188. In this example, power supply unit 184 can be configured to supply power to wake-up unit 152 in both active and sleep modes. Wake-up unit 152 can be configured to generate a sleep mode control signal, such that the control signal indicates an instruction not to supply power to Phy unit 150. In response to the control signal, power supply unit 184 can interrupt the power supply to Phy unit 150 via first power supply connection 186. The effect is that Phy unit 150 is not supplied with power in sleep mode. Wake-up unit 152 can be configured to generate a control signal for active mode, such that the control signal indicates a (different) instruction to (re)supply power to Phy unit 150. In response to the control signal, power supply unit 184 can be configured to re-enable the power supply to Phy unit 150 via first power supply connection 186, such that Phy unit 150 is supplied with power in active mode.
[0033] Ethernet Phy 100, and particularly Phy unit 150 of Ethernet Phy 100, is configured to receive a first analog signal via analog interface 102. The first analog signal represents an Ethernet frame. An Ethernet frame can consist of multiple predefined fields, each including bits. The Ethernet frame can be configured according to the 10BASE-T1S or 100Base-TX protocol. In this example, Ethernet Phy 100, and particularly Phy unit 150 of Ethernet Phy 100, is configured to receive the first analog signal via analog interface 102 only in active mode. As a result, in this example, Ethernet Phy 100, and particularly the associated Phy unit 150, cannot receive the first analog signal via analog interface 102 in sleep mode.
[0034] Ethernet Phy 100, and particularly its Phy unit 150, is configured to transmit Ethernet frames previously received via a first analog signal only via digital interface 104 in active mode. Before Ethernet frames can be transmitted via digital interface 104, Ethernet Phy 100, and particularly its associated Phy unit 150, must be in active mode or already in active mode. If Ethernet Phy 100, and particularly its associated Phy unit 150, is in sleep mode, then Ethernet Phy 100, and particularly its associated Phy unit 150, may be unable to transmit Ethernet frames via digital interface 104.
[0035] The Ethernet Phy 100 is configured to change from sleep mode to active mode, or from active mode to sleep mode. The core idea of this publication is that the Ethernet Phy 100 should not change from sleep mode to active mode in every situation, but only in certain circumstances. In some situations, it may be useful for the Ethernet Phy 100 to remain in sleep mode. In other situations, it may be useful for the Ethernet Phy 100 to change to active mode.
[0036] Ethernet Phy 100 includes a wake-up interface 106. Ethernet Phy 100 is configured to receive a first wake-up signal via wake-up interface 106 while in sleep mode. The first wake-up signal represents a first identifier or a second identifier. The first identifier may also be referred to as a first wake-up identifier. The second identifier may also be referred to as a second wake-up identifier. These two wake-up identifiers enable Ethernet Phy 100 to determine whether Ethernet Phy 100 is changing from sleep mode to active mode or alternatively remaining in sleep mode, and at which wake-up identifier the change occurs. The first wake-up identifier is different from the second wake-up identifier. In this example, it is desired that Ethernet Phy 100 changes from sleep mode to active mode only in response to receiving the first wake-up identifier.
[0037] Ethernet Phy 100 is configured to change from sleep mode to active mode if the first wake-up signal indicates one of two wake-up identifiers, specifically the first wake-up identifier. Furthermore, Ethernet Phy 100 is configured to remain in sleep mode if the first wake-up signal indicates the other of the two wake-up identifiers, specifically the second wake-up identifier. In both cases, it can be assumed in the example that Ethernet Phy 100 was previously in sleep mode.
[0038] Since the first wake-up signal can also be received via the wake-up interface 106 of the Ethernet Phy 100 in sleep mode, the Ethernet Phy 100 can change from sleep mode to active mode or remain in sleep mode depending on whether the first wake-up signal represents a first wake-up identifier or a second wake-up identifier. The advantage of the first wake-up signal and / or two wake-up identifiers is that the first wake-up signal can be sent to multiple Ethernet Phy 100s, where each individual Ethernet Phy 100 can determine whether to remain in sleep mode or change from sleep mode to active mode based on the first wake-up signal. As a result, power can be saved because only some Ethernet Phy 100s in system 180 change from sleep mode to active mode.
[0039] In the example, each wake-up identifier can directly or indirectly identify at least one Ethernet Phy 100. Regardless of whether the wake-up identifier directly or indirectly identifies at least one Ethernet Phy 100, the corresponding Ethernet Phy 100 itself can determine whether to remain in sleep mode or change from sleep mode to active mode based on the corresponding wake-up identifier. The corresponding Ethernet Phy 100 can be configured to make such a determination. This approach makes it possible for the same first wake-up signal to be sent to multiple Ethernet Phy 100s, and for each Ethernet Phy 100 to determine whether to remain in sleep mode or change from sleep mode to active mode based on the wake-up identifier. The effect is that the communication system can be easily extended, whereby the aforementioned concepts can be implemented by each Ethernet Phy 100.
[0040] Figure 1 An example of an Ethernet communication system 180 is schematically illustrated. The Ethernet communication system 180 includes multiple Ethernet Phys 120, 122, 124, and 126. In this example, the communication system 180 may include at least a first Ethernet Phy 120, a second Ethernet Phy 122, a third Ethernet Phy 124, and a fourth Ethernet Phy 126. Each of the Ethernet Phys 120, 122, 124, and 126 can be configured according to Ethernet Phy 100. For each of the Ethernet Phys 120, 122, 124, and 126, reference can be made to the foregoing explanations, features, technical effects, and advantages in a manner similar to that explained above for Ethernet Phys 100, 120, 122, 124, and 126.
[0041] The Ethernet communication system 180 may also include a switch unit 154. For each Ethernet Phy 120, 122, 124, 126, the switch unit 154 may include assigned MAC units 166, 168, 170, 172, respectively.
[0042] In this example, switch unit 154 may include a first MAC unit 166. The first MAC unit 166 may be associated with a first Ethernet Phy 120. Switch unit 154 may include a first switch interface 158 coupled to the first MAC unit 166. The first switch interface 158 may be a digital interface. In this example, the first MAC unit 166 may be coupled to a first digital interface 104 of the first Ethernet Phy 120 via the first switch interface 158. In this example, switch unit 154 may include a second MAC unit 168. The second MAC unit 168 may be associated with a second Ethernet Phy 122. Switch unit 154 may include a second switch interface 160 coupled to the second MAC unit 168. The second switch interface 160 may be a digital interface. In this example, the second MAC unit 168 may be coupled to the digital interface 104 of the second Ethernet Phy 122 via the second switch interface 160. In this example, switch unit 154 may include a third MAC unit 170. The third MAC unit 170 may be associated with a third Ethernet Phy 124. Switching unit 154 may include a switch interface 162 coupled to a third MAC unit 170. The third switch interface 162 may be a digital interface. In this example, the third MAC unit 170 may be coupled to a digital interface 104 of a third Ethernet Phy 122 via the third switch interface 162. The foregoing explanations, features, technical effects, and advantages can be similarly applied to the fourth MAC unit 172, the fourth switch interface 164, and the fourth Phy unit 126.
[0043] Multiple Ethernet Phy interfaces 120, 122, 124, and 126 with wake-up interfaces 106 can be coupled via a signal connection 146, also referred to as wake-up medium 146. In this example, if a second Ethernet Phy interface 122 generates a wake-up signal at its associated wake-up interface 106, the wake-up signal can be transmitted via wake-up medium 146 to other wake-up interfaces 106 of the other Ethernet Phy interfaces 120, 124, and 126. The wake-up signal can represent a first wake-up identifier or a second wake-up identifier.
[0044] If a wake-up signal is received via the wake-up interface 106 of Ethernet Phy 120, 124, 126, the received wake-up signal may be referred to as the first wake-up signal.
[0045] In the example, if the first wake-up signal represents a first wake-up identifier, then the first Ethernet Phy 120 and the third Ethernet Phy 124 can each be configured to change from sleep mode to active mode. If the first wake-up signal represents a second wake-up identifier, then the first Ethernet Phy 120 and the third Ethernet Phy 124 can each be configured to remain in sleep mode.
[0046] In another example, and particularly not involving the examples described above, if the first wake-up signal represents a second wake-up identifier, then the second Ethernet Phy 122 and the fourth Ethernet Phy 126 can each be configured to change from sleep mode to active mode. If the first wake-up signal represents a first wake-up identifier, then the second Ethernet Phy 122 and the fourth Ethernet Phy 126 can each be configured to remain in sleep mode.
[0047] In this example, assume that the first Ethernet Phy 120, the third Ethernet Phy 124, and the fourth Ethernet Phy 126 are each in sleep mode. The second Ethernet Phy 122 may be in active mode. Further assuming that the second Ethernet Phy 122 generates a wake-up signal and sends it via the associated wake-up interface 106, where the wake-up signal represents only a first wake-up identifier. The wake-up signal can be sent via wake-up medium 146 to the wake-up interfaces 106 of the other Ethernet Phy 120, 124, and 126, where the received wake-up signal is referred to as the first wake-up signal for Ethernet Phy 120, 124, and 126. Since the first wake-up signal represents the first wake-up identifier, the fourth Ethernet Phy 126 will remain in sleep mode. Based on the current situation, i.e., the first wake-up signal represents the first wake-up identifier, the first Ethernet Phy 120 and the third Ethernet Phy 124 will each change from sleep mode to active mode. The advantage of using a wake-up signal representing a first or second wake-up identifier is that it allows determination of which of at least one Ethernet Phy 120, 124 will switch from sleep mode to active mode by selecting which wake-up identifier the wake-up signal represents. Simultaneously, it allows determination of which of at least one Ethernet Phy 126 remains in sleep mode by selecting which wake-up identifier the wake-up signal represents. The effect is that the selection of which wake-up identifier the wake-up signal represents can be used to quickly and easily determine which of at least one Ethernet Phy 126 remains in sleep mode, and which of at least one Ethernet Phy 120, 124 changes from sleep mode to active mode. An additional effect is that energy can be saved simply and efficiently in this way. Furthermore, using a wake-up signal makes it possible for several Ethernet Phy 120, 124 to switch from sleep mode to active mode with minimal time delay or simultaneously.
[0048] In the example, the wake-up identifier represented by the wake-up signal can be encoded by the wake-up signal. The encoding can be based on a predefined encoding scheme. The encoding can be defined according to a protocol. In the example, each wake-up identifier can be defined by multiple bits represented by the wake-up signal. The value and / or order of the bits can be predefined for each wake-up identifier. Due to the predefined bit combinations, each wake-up identifier may have a unique and / or exclusive combination of bits. Each Ethernet Phy 120, 122, 124, 126 can be configured to detect the bits represented by the wake-up signal. Each Ethernet Phy 120, 122, 124, 126 can be configured to detect the wake-up identifier based on the detected bits. The effect is that, for example, the first Ethernet Phy 120 and the third Ethernet Phy 124 can be configured to detect the predefined bits for the first wake-up identifier if, in particular, the bits are represented by the first wake-up signal in a predefined order.
[0049] In the example, the wake-up identifier represented by the wake-up signal can be modulated by the wake-up signal. In this example, the modulation can be based on a predefined modulation scheme. As explained in conjunction with the encoding, the above explanations, features, technical effects, and advantages can be applied to modulation in a similar manner.
[0050] In another example, wake-up signals may include start, stop, synchronization, and conflict avoidance signals.
[0051] In the example, the first wake-up identifier can be addressed to either an Ethernet Phy 120 or the first group of Ethernet Phy 120, 124. (Refer to previous examples.) Figure 1 In the example mentioned, the first wake-up identifier can address, for example, a first Ethernet Phy120 and a third Ethernet Phy124. The first wake-up identifier can, for example, include the address of the first Ethernet Phy120 and the address of the third Ethernet Phy124. The addresses of Ethernet Phy120 and 124 can be predefined unique numbers.
[0052] In this example, the second wake-up identifier can address exactly one (other) Ethernet Phy 126 or a second set of Ethernet Phy 122, 126. In this example, the second wake-up identifier addresses a different Ethernet Phy 122, 126 than the first wake-up identifier. In this example, the first and second wake-up identifiers do not represent duplicate addresses for Ethernet Phy 120-126.
[0053] Each Ethernet Phy 120-126 can store a corresponding associated address. Furthermore, each Ethernet Phy 120, 126 can be configured to detect whether a received wake-up signal represents a stored address. If an Ethernet Phy 120-126 receives a first wake-up signal, where the wake-up identifier represented by the first wake-up signal represents an address stored by the corresponding Ethernet Phy 120-126, then in this example, the wake-up identifier can be understood as a first wake-up identifier. If an Ethernet Phy 120-126 receives a wake-up signal, where the wake-up identifier represented by the wake-up signal does not represent an address stored by the corresponding Ethernet Phy 120-126, then in this example, the wake-up identifier can be understood as a second wake-up identifier.
[0054] In the examples, it can be envisioned that the wake-up identifier does not represent a single Ethernet Phy 120-126 address or a set of Ethernet Phy 120-126 addresses. Instead, the wake-up identifier can be used to represent a predefined wake-up scenario. A wake-up scenario can also be understood as a codeword. In the examples, the first wake-up identifier can represent the first wake-up scenario. The second wake-up identifier can represent the second wake-up scenario. These two wake-up scenarios can be different. In the examples, these two wake-up scenarios can be different codewords. In the examples, the first wake-up scenario can be the "engine". In the examples, the second wake-up scenario can be the "gearbox". These two examples demonstrate words for scenarios. However, wake-up scenarios are not limited to words. In the examples, a unique codeword and / or a unique combination of bits can be used for each wake-up scenario.
[0055] In the example, each Ethernet Phy 120-126 is configured to store at least one wake-up scenario, specifically a first or second wake-up scenario. Specifically, only under the stored wake-up scenario, the stored wake-up scenario allows the corresponding Ethernet Phy 120-126 to have information about which wake-up scenario the corresponding Ethernet Phy 120-126 must use to change from sleep mode to active mode. For example, the Ethernet Phy 120-126 can be configured to change from sleep mode to active mode if a received wake-up signal represents a wake-up identifier, which in turn represents and / or is one of at least one wake-up scenario stored by the corresponding Ethernet Phy 120-126.
[0056] In the example, the first wake-up identifier can be formed by the first wake-up scenario, or the first wake-up scenario can be formed by the first wake-up identifier. The effect is that the first wake-up identifier and the first wake-up scenario can be the same. However, the first wake-up identifier can also include or represent the first wake-up scenario. In the example, the second wake-up identifier can be formed by the second wake-up scenario, or the second wake-up scenario can be formed by the second wake-up identifier. The effect is that the second wake-up identifier and the second wake-up scenario can be the same. However, the second wake-up identifier can also include or represent the second wake-up scenario.
[0057] As previously explained, in this example, a wake-up scenario should be understood as a codeword. A codeword can be, for example, "motor," "gearbox," another word, or a combination of characters. A codeword can also be composed of predefined bit combinations. Each Ethernet Phy 120-126 can store at least one wake-up scenario associated with that specific Ethernet Phy 120-126. The effect is that each Ethernet Phy 120-126 can determine whether a wake-up scenario is associated with and / or stored for that specific Ethernet Phy 120-126 based on a wake-up scenario that can be directly or indirectly represented by a wake-up signal. For example, if an Ethernet Phy 120-126 stores the codeword "motor" as a wake-up scenario, then the Ethernet Phy 120-126 can determine, after receiving a first wake-up signal, whether the wake-up identifier represented by the wake-up signal matches the stored wake-up scenario. If the wake-up identifier represented by the wake-up signal directly or indirectly indicates the wake-up scenario stored in the corresponding Ethernet Phy 120-126, which in the above example is the codeword "motor", then a match can cause the corresponding Ethernet Phy 120-126 to change from sleep mode to active mode. Otherwise, the Ethernet Phy 120-126 can remain in sleep mode.
[0058] In the example, each Ethernet Phy 120-126 is configured to change from sleep mode to active mode only if the wake-up identifier represented by the received first wake-up signal indicates a wake-up scenario stored by the corresponding Ethernet Phy 120-126. For example, the first Ethernet Phy 120 can be configured to change from sleep mode to active mode only if the wake-up identifier represented by the first wake-up signal indicates a first wake-up scenario. In the example, the first wake-up identifier can be the same as the first wake-up scenario. However, if the first wake-up signal represents a second wake-up identifier, and the second wake-up identifier represents a second wake-up scenario, then the first Ethernet Phy 120 can remain in sleep mode.
[0059] The advantage of using different wake-up scenarios is that a single wake-up scenario can be used to simultaneously cause a large number of Ethernet Phy 120-126 devices to change from sleep mode to active mode. Furthermore, the Ethernet communication system 180 can be expanded to include additional Ethernet Phy 120-126 devices without changing the previously defined wake-up scenarios. Each additional Ethernet Phy 120-126 can have a wake-up scenario associated with the corresponding stored Ethernet Phy 120-126. Therefore, the previously defined wake-up scenarios can also be used for other Ethernet Phy devices.
[0060] The first wake-up signal can be interpreted as representing either a first wake-up identifier or a second wake-up identifier. In one example, no additional wake-up identifier may be provided, allowing the first wake-up signal to represent either the first or second wake-up identifier. In another example, the first wake-up signal can also represent a different wake-up identifier. For instance, the first wake-up signal can represent a first wake-up identifier, a second wake-up identifier, or a third wake-up identifier. Figure 1 In the context of the example given above, if the received first wake-up signal represents a first wake-up identifier, then the first Ethernet Phy 120 changes from sleep mode to active mode. If the received first wake-up signal represents a second wake-up identifier, then the first Ethernet Phy 120 can remain in sleep mode. In the example, the first Ethernet physical layer 120 can also be configured to change from sleep mode to active mode if the received first wake-up signal represents a third wake-up identifier. The effect is that, in the example, the first Ethernet Phy 120 can change from sleep mode to active mode in two cases: if the received first wake-up signal represents either the first or third wake-up identifier. In the Ethernet communication system 180, different groups of Ethernet Phy 120-126 can be selectively woken from sleep mode to active mode via multiple wake-up identifiers. The first wake-up signal can be sent to all Ethernet Phy 120-126 of the Ethernet communication system 180. Each Ethernet Phy 120-126 can individually determine whether it should change from sleep mode to active mode. Therefore, using multiple wake-up identifiers also provides the advantage of enabling multiple Ethernet Phy 120-126 devices to be woken up quickly or simultaneously.
[0061] As explained above, each Ethernet Phy 120-126 is configured to receive analog signals via analog interface 102, where the first analog signal can represent an Ethernet frame. This analog signal is referred to as the first analog signal. Additionally, each Ethernet Phy 120-126 can be configured to transmit a different analog signal via analog interface 102. This analog signal to be transmitted can be referred to as the second analog signal.
[0062] In this example, each Ethernet Phy 120-126 can be configured to generate a second analog signal in response to receiving a first wake-up signal. Each Ethernet Phy 120-126 can be configured to generate a second analog signal such that the second analog signal represents a wake-up command, which may also be referred to as the first wake-up command. The first wake-up command may include or represent a wake-up identifier represented by the first wake-up signal. In this example, the first wake-up command may be the same as the wake-up identifier represented by the first wake-up signal. The effect is that the wake-up identifier represented by the first wake-up signal can be forwarded directly or indirectly via the first wake-up command. This forwarding is performed via the second analog signal. The second analog signal can then be received by another Ethernet Phy via an associated analog interface 102, allowing the corresponding Ethernet Phy to change from sleep mode to active mode based on the first wake-up command.
[0063] In this example, the wake-up unit 152 of the Ethernet Phy 120-126 can be coupled to the analog interface 102 of the corresponding Ethernet Phy 120-126. The wake-up unit 152 can be configured to generate a second analog signal at the analog interface 102. In this example, the wake-up unit 152 can be configured to generate the second analog signal at the analog interface 102 in response to receiving a first wake-up signal at the wake-up interface 106. The wake-up unit 152 can be configured to detect a wake-up identifier represented by the first wake-up signal. Furthermore, the wake-up unit 152 can be configured to generate the second analog signal such that a first wake-up command includes or represents the detected wake-up identifier, or such that the first wake-up command is formed from the detected wake-up identifier.
[0064] In this example, the first wake-up signal may represent a first wake-up identifier. If Ethernet Phy 120 receives the first wake-up signal via wake-up interface 106, Ethernet Phy 120 may change from sleep mode to active mode in response to receiving the first wake-up signal representing the first wake-up identifier. Furthermore, in response to receiving the first wake-up signal, Ethernet Phy 120 may generate a second analog signal representing a first wake-up command at analog interface 102. The first wake-up command may be formed from the first wake-up identifier, or the first wake-up command may include or represent the first wake-up identifier. The effect is that requests to wake up Ethernet Phy 120-126 can be easily and quickly forwarded via analog interface 102.
[0065] In another example, the first wake-up signal can represent a second wake-up identifier. If Ethernet Phy 120 receives the first wake-up signal via the wake-up interface, Ethernet Phy 120 can be configured to remain in sleep mode in response to receiving the first wake-up signal representing the second wake-up identifier, provided that Ethernet Phy 120 was previously in sleep mode. In this example, Ethernet Phy 120 can also be configured to generate a second analog signal representing a first wake-up command at analog interface 102 in response to receiving the first wake-up signal while in sleep mode. In this case, the first wake-up command can be formed by the second wake-up identifier, or the first wake-up command can include or represent the second wake-up identifier. In this example, wake-up unit 152 can also be configured to generate a second analog signal at analog interface 102 when Ethernet Phy 120 is in sleep mode. The effect is that requests to wake up Ethernet Phy 120-126 can be forwarded quickly and efficiently via analog interface 102.
[0066] The foregoing explanation outlines numerous advantageous features, technical effects, and benefits that can be associated with receiving a wake-up signal at the wake-up interface 106 of the Ethernet Phy 120-126. In this example, the Ethernet Phy 120-126 may also receive another analog signal, a third analog signal, via analog interface 102, where the third analog signal represents a second wake-up command. The Ethernet Phy 120-126 can be configured to change from sleep mode to active mode in response to receiving the second wake-up command represented by the third analog signal. In this example, the second wake-up command may include or represent a first wake-up identifier. In another example, the second wake-up command may be formed from the first wake-up identifier. Particularly, the change from sleep mode to active mode can be performed when the Ethernet Phy 120-126 was previously in sleep mode.
[0067] In the example, Ethernet Phy 120-126 can be configured to send a second wake-up signal via wake-up interface 106 in response to receiving a second wake-up command. Generally, in the example, receiving a wake-up command can be understood as receiving an analog signal representing the corresponding wake-up command. Therefore, in the example, receiving a second wake-up command can be understood as receiving a third analog signal representing the second wake-up command. Additionally, in the example, receiving an identifier can be understood as receiving a wake-up signal representing a corresponding wake-up identifier. In the example, Ethernet Phy 120-126 can be configured to generate a second wake-up signal in response to receiving a second wake-up command, such that the second wake-up signal represents a first wake-up identifier. In the example, the second wake-up command includes, represents, or forms the first wake-up identifier. Ethernet Phy 120 can be configured to generate a second wake-up signal such that the second wake-up signal represents a wake-up identifier also represented by the second wake-up command. The wake-up identifier can be, for example, the first wake-up identifier. The effect is that the wake-up identifier, particularly the first wake-up identifier, can be converted from the second wake-up command into a second wake-up signal. The second wake-up signal can be sent via wake-up medium 146 to the wake-up interface 106 of other Ethernet Phy 122, 124, 126. Each of the other Ethernet Phy 122, 124, 126 can be configured to determine, based on the second wake-up signal, whether the wake-up identifier represented by the second wake-up signal triggers (or does not trigger) a change from sleep mode to active mode.
[0068] The wake-up interface 106 of the Ethernet Phy 120-126 provides the ability to trigger multiple Ethernet Phy 120-126s to change from sleep mode to active mode. For example, the Ethernet Phy 120 can receive a wake-up command via a third analog signal and, in response to receiving the third analog signal, send a second wake-up signal to other Ethernet Phy 120-126s to be selectively, quickly, and efficiently woken up.
[0069] In this example, the second wake-up command and the wake-up identifier represented by the first wake-up signal can address the same Ethernet Phy 120-126, the same group of Ethernet Phy 120-126, or the same wake-up scenario. In this example, the first Ethernet Phy 120 can receive a third analog signal via analog interface 102, where the third analog signal represents the second wake-up command. The second wake-up command can represent a predefined scenario, such as a "motor" scenario. The wake-up unit 152 of the first Ethernet Phy 120 can be coupled to analog interface 102. The wake-up unit 152 can be configured to receive the third analog signal via analog interface 102. The wake-up unit 152 of the first Ethernet Phy 120 can be configured to generate a second wake-up signal in response to receiving the second wake-up command (via the third analog signal), such that the second wake-up signal represents a wake-up identifier. The wake-up identifier represented by the second wake-up signal can represent the same scenario as the second wake-up command. In this example, the wake-up identifier represented by the second wake-up signal can represent the "motor" scenario. In this example, the wake-up unit 152 of the first Ethernet Phy 120 is coupled to the wake-up interface 106 of the first Ethernet Phy 120. The wake-up unit 152 can be configured to send a second wake-up signal via the wake-up interface 106. The wake-up interface 106 of the first Ethernet Phy 120 can be coupled to the wake-up interfaces 106 of other Ethernet Phys 122, 124, and 126 via the wake-up medium 146. Each of the other Ethernet Phys 122, 124, and 126 can receive the second wake-up signal via its associated wake-up interface 106. The received wake-up signal is referred to as the first wake-up signal for the other Ethernet Phys 122, 124, and 126. In this example, the second wake-up signal and the first wake-up signal can be the same. Each of the other Ethernet Phy 122, 124, 126 can be configured to determine whether the corresponding Ethernet Phy 122, 124, 126 changes from sleep mode to active mode or remains in sleep mode based on the scenario indicated by the first wake-up signal (or the second wake-up signal).
[0070] Figure 3 A flowchart illustrating an example of method 148 is shown schematically. Method 148 is a method for Ethernet Phy 100, 120, 122, 124, and 126. Method 148 may include the following steps:
[0071] a) In sleep mode, Ethernet Phy receives a first wake-up signal representing a first wake-up identifier or a second wake-up identifier via a first wake-up interface.
[0072] b) Ethernet Phy changes from sleep mode to active mode in response to a first wake-up signal indicating a first wake-up identifier, and
[0073] c) Ethernet Phy remains in sleep mode in response to a first wake-up signal indicating a second wake-up identifier.
[0074] In the examples, reference can be made to the foregoing explanations, advantageous features, technical effects, and benefits in a manner similar to that described above for Ethernet Phy 100, 120, 122, 124, 126, and / or Ethernet communication system 180.
[0075] Although the exemplary embodiments described herein focus on apparatuses, systems and methods of using them, this disclosure is not necessarily limited to the example embodiments shown herein.
[0076] The systems and methods described herein may be embodied, at least in part, by one or more computer programs, which may exist in various forms, either active or inactive, within a single computer system or across multiple computer systems. For example, the computer program may exist as a software program consisting of program instructions in the form of source code, object code, executable code, or other formats for performing certain steps. Any of these formats may be embodied in compressed or uncompressed form on a computer-readable medium, which may include storage devices and signals.
[0077] 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 dedicated processor, or a microcontroller. A computer is capable of receiving data (input), performing a series of predetermined operations on the data, and thereby producing results in the form of information or signals (output). Depending on the context, the term "computer" will mean (specifically) a processor or (or more generally) a processor associated with a combination of related elements housed within a single chassis or enclosure.
[0078] The term "processor" or "processing unit" refers to a data processing circuit, which can be a microprocessor, coprocessor, microcontroller, microcomputer, central processing unit, field-programmable gate array (FPGA), programmable logic circuit, and / or any circuit based on operable instruction control signals (analog or digital signals) stored in memory. The term "memory" refers to one or more storage circuits, such as read-only memory, random access memory, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, static memory, dynamic memory, flash memory, cache memory, and / or any circuit that stores digital information.
[0079] As used herein, "computer-readable medium" or "storage medium" can be any component that can contain, store, transmit, propagate, or transfer a computer program for use by or in conjunction with an instruction execution system, device, or apparatus. A computer-readable medium can be (e.g., but not limited to) electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor systems, devices, apparatuses, or propagation media. More specific examples of computer-readable media (a non-exhaustive list) may include: electrical connectors having one or more wires, portable computer disks, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or flash memory), optical fiber, portable read-only optical disc (CD-ROM), digital versatile optical disc (DVD), Blu-ray disc (BD), and memory cards.
[0080] It should be noted that the above embodiments have been described with reference to different subjects. Specifically, some embodiments may have been described with reference to claims of the method class, while other embodiments may have been described with reference to claims of the device class. However, those skilled in the art will conclude from the foregoing that, unless otherwise indicated, any combination of features related to different subjects, particularly features of claims of the method class and features of claims of the device class, is also considered to be disclosed in this document, except for any combination of features belonging to one type of subject matter.
[0081] Furthermore, it should be noted that the drawings are schematic. Similar or identical elements are represented by the same reference numerals in different drawings. Additionally, it should be noted that, in order to provide a concise description of the illustrative embodiments, implementation details that are customary to those skilled in the art may not be described. It should be understood that in the development of any such implementation, as in any engineering or design project, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developer's specific objectives, such as complying with system-related and business-related constraints, which may vary from implementation to implementation. Furthermore, it should be understood that such development work may be complex and time-consuming, but is merely a routine task of design, manufacture, and production for those of ordinary skill in the art who benefit from this disclosure.
[0082] Finally, it should be noted that those skilled in the art should be able to devise numerous alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. Any reference numerals placed between parentheses in the claims should not be construed as limiting the claims. The words “comprise(s)” or “comprising” do not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those listed in the claims. The words “a(a)” or “an(an)” preceding an element do not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements. The measures recited in the claims can be implemented by means of hardware comprising several distinct elements and / or by means of a suitably programmed processor. In device claims enumerating several components, several of these components can be embodied by one and the same hardware. The mere fact that certain measures recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to exert an advantage.
[0083] Unless otherwise stated, terms such as “first” and “second” are used to distinguish, arbitrarily, the elements described by such terms. Therefore, these terms are not necessarily intended to indicate temporal or other priorities of such elements.
Claims
1. An Ethernet Phy, characterized by, include: An analog interface used for connecting to a communication medium. Digital interface, and Wake-up interface, The Ethernet Phy is configured to change from sleep mode to active mode, or from active mode to sleep mode. The Ethernet Phy is configured to receive a first analog signal via the analog interface, wherein the first analog signal represents an Ethernet frame. The Ethernet Phy is configured to send the Ethernet frames via the digital interface only in the active mode. The Ethernet Phy is configured to receive a first wake-up signal representing a first wake-up identifier or a second wake-up identifier via the wake-up interface in the sleep mode. The Ethernet Phy is configured to change from the sleep mode to the active mode in response to the first wake-up signal representing either the first wake-up identifier or the second wake-up identifier. The Ethernet Phy is configured to remain in the sleep mode in response to the first wake-up signal representing either the first wake-up identifier or the second wake-up identifier.
2. Ethernet Phy according to the preceding claim, characterized in that, The Ethernet Phy is configured to change from the sleep mode to the active mode in response to the first wake-up signal indicating the first wake-up identifier, and wherein the Ethernet Phy is configured to remain in the sleep mode in response to the first wake-up signal indicating the second wake-up identifier.
3. The Ethernet Phy according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The first wake-up identifier or the second wake-up identifier is encoded and / or modulated by the first wake-up signal.
4. The Ethernet Phy according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The first wake-up identifier addresses at least the Ethernet Phy or the first group of Ethernet Phies, and the second wake-up identifier addresses at least another second Ethernet Phy or, in particular, a second group of Ethernet Phies that does not include the Ethernet Phy.
5. The Ethernet Phy according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The first wake-up identifier represents a first wake-up scenario, and the second wake-up identifier represents a second wake-up scenario.
6. Ethernet Phy according to the preceding claim, if also dependent on claim 2, characterized in that, The first wake-up scenario is stored by the Ethernet Phy, and / or the second wake-up scenario is not stored by the Ethernet Phy.
7. An Ethernet Phy according to any of the preceding claims, if further dependent on claim 2, characterized in that, The Ethernet Phy is configured to change from the sleep mode to the active mode only in response to receiving a first wake-up signal representing a wake-up identifier, the wake-up identifier addressing the Ethernet Phy and / or representing a stored first scene.
8. An Ethernet Phy, characterized in that, include: An analog interface used for connecting to a communication medium. Digital interface, and Wake-up interface, The Ethernet Phy is configured to change from sleep mode to active mode, or from active mode to sleep mode. The Ethernet Phy is configured to receive a first analog signal via the analog interface, wherein the first analog signal represents an Ethernet frame. The Ethernet Phy is configured to receive a third analog signal via the analog interface, wherein the third analog signal represents a second wake-up command. The Ethernet Phy is configured to change from the sleep mode to the active mode in response to receiving the second wake-up command. wherein the Ethernet Phy is configured to transmit the Ethernet frames via the digital interface only in an active mode, and wherein the Ethernet Phy is configured to transmit a second wake-up signal representing a wake-up identifier via the wake-up interface in response to receiving the second wake-up instruction.
9. An Ethernet system, characterized by comprising: a first Ethernet Phy according to any of the preceding claims 1 to 7, a second Ethernet Phy according to the preceding claim 8, and an Ethernet switch unit, wherein the Ethernet switch unit is connected to the digital interface of each of the Ethernet Phys, wherein the Ethernet switch unit is configured to forward data from one of the digital interfaces to at least one other digital interface, and wherein the wake-up interface of the Ethernet Phy is coupled by a dedicated wake-up medium.
10. A method for an Ethernet Phy, characterized in that, The Ethernet Phy comprises an analog interface for connecting to a communication medium, a digital interface, and a wake-up interface, wherein the Ethernet Phy is configured to change from a sleep mode to an active mode, or from the active mode to the sleep mode, wherein the method comprises the following steps: a) the Ethernet Phy receives a first wake-up signal representing a first wake-up identifier or a second wake-up identifier via a first wake-up interface in the sleep mode, b) the Ethernet Phy changes from the sleep mode to the active mode in response to the first wake-up signal representing the first wake-up identifier, and c) the Ethernet Phy remains in the sleep mode in response to the first wake-up signal representing the second wake-up identifier.