Adaptive switching extension circuit and computer motherboard

Abstract

The utility model provides a kind of adaptive switching expansion circuit and computer mainboard, adaptive switching expansion circuit includes: signal expansion module, detection identification module, signal conversion module, the equipment interface slot of first quantity;Signal conversion module is used to convert the first type signal output by central processing unit into second type signal;Detection identification module is used to output identification electric signal to the gate end of signal expansion module;Signal expansion module is used to forward data frame between the input end and the first output end of signal expansion module in the case where second type equipment is inserted in equipment interface slot;In the case where first type equipment is inserted in equipment interface slot, forward data frame between the input end of signal expansion module and the output end corresponding connection with equipment interface slot;The difference between second quantity and first quantity is greater than or equal to 1.The utility model completes data interaction between different types of equipment by signal conversion module, realizes one-way signal expansion access multiple types of equipment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of computer technology, and in particular to an adaptive switching expansion circuit and a computer motherboard. Background Technology

[0002] As user demands for I / O interfaces on industrial control motherboards increase, motherboard designers are required to accommodate more I / O expansion slots within limited resources. While USB expansion can be easily achieved using USB expansion chips, PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) is one of the most important high-speed expansion interfaces in modern computers, primarily used to connect various hardware devices and achieve high-speed data transmission. Using PCIe interface expansion can provide motherboards with more expansion resources. Existing technology allows expanding a single PCIe signal into multiple PCIe signals using expansion chips, but this only supports PCIe devices and not other types of devices. To ensure compatibility with a wider range of expansion devices, a solution is urgently needed to expand a single signal interface to support multiple types of devices. Utility Model Content

[0003] The main purpose of this invention is to provide an adaptive switching expansion circuit and a computer motherboard, aiming to provide a solution for using a single signal interface to expand access to multiple types of devices.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention proposes an adaptive switching extension circuit, which includes:

[0005] Signal expansion module, detection and identification module, signal conversion module, and a first number of device interface slots;

[0006] The input terminal of the signal expansion module is connected to the central processing unit, and the signal expansion module has a second number of output terminals; the first output terminal of the signal expansion module is connected to the input terminal of the signal conversion module; the first number of device interface slots are connected one-to-one to the first number of output terminals in the signal expansion module; the output terminal of the signal conversion module is connected to the first number of device interface slots.

[0007] The signal conversion module is used to convert the first type of signal output by the central processing unit into a second type of signal;

[0008] The detection and identification module is used to output an identification electrical signal to the selection terminal of the signal expansion module when the device interface slot is connected to the device, and the identification electrical signal corresponds to the type of the device;

[0009] The signal expansion module is used to forward data frames between the input terminal and the first output terminal when a second type of device is inserted into the device interface slot; the signal expansion module is also used to forward data frames between the input terminal and the output terminal corresponding to the device interface slot when a first type of device is inserted into the device interface slot.

[0010] The difference between the second quantity and the first quantity is greater than or equal to 1.

[0011] Optionally, the signal expansion module includes: a multiplexing circuit;

[0012] The input terminal of the multiplexing circuit is connected to the central processing unit; the multiplexing circuit has a second number of output terminals; the signal conversion module is connected to the first output terminal of the signal expansion module, and the first number of device interface slots are connected one-to-one to the first number of output terminals in the multiplexing circuit;

[0013] The detection and identification module is connected to the selection terminal of the multiplexing circuit and is used to output the identification electrical signal to the selection terminal.

[0014] Optionally, the signal expansion module further includes: a clock buffer;

[0015] The clock buffer has a third number of output terminals; the clock terminal of the signal conversion module is connected to the first output terminal of the clock buffer; the clock terminals of the first number of device interface slots are connected one-to-one to the first number of output terminals in the clock buffer;

[0016] The detection and recognition module is connected to the gating terminal of the clock buffer and is used to output the recognition electrical signal to the clock buffer;

[0017] The clock buffer is used to output a clock signal to the signal conversion module when the second type of device is inserted into the device interface slot; the signal expansion module is also used to output the clock signal through an output terminal corresponding to the device interface slot when the first type of device is inserted into the device interface slot.

[0018] The clock buffer is connected to the multiplexer and is also used to output the clock signal to the multiplexing circuit;

[0019] The difference between the third quantity and the first quantity is greater than or equal to 1.

[0020] Optionally, the device interface slot is provided with a first type of limiting hole, which is electrically connected to the detection and identification module; the first type of limiting hole is used to connect the ground potential of the adaptive switching expansion circuit when the device interface slot is connected to the second type of device;

[0021] When the device interface slot is connected to the second type of device, the conductive fastener fixes the connection relationship between the second type of device and the device interface slot through the first type of limiting hole.

[0022] Optionally, the detection and recognition module includes:

[0023] A second number of resistors and a second number of unidirectional conducting devices; the resistors and the unidirectional conducting devices are connected to form a unidirectional conducting circuit; the second number of unidirectional conducting circuits are connected in parallel between the power supply and the signal expansion module; wherein, one end of the resistor is connected to the power supply, the other end is connected to the cathode of the unidirectional conducting device, and the anode of the unidirectional conducting device is connected to the selection terminal of the signal expansion module.

[0024] The cathodes of the second number of single-phase conducting devices are electrically connected one-to-one with the first type of limiting holes of the second number of device interface slots.

[0025] Optionally, the adaptive switching extension circuit further includes: a power supply switching module;

[0026] The first end of the power supply switching module is connected to the power supply, the second end is connected to the power supply terminal of the signal conversion module, and the controlled end is connected to the selection terminal of the signal expansion module; the power supply switching module is used to connect the power supply and the power supply terminal when the second type of device is inserted into the device interface slot; the power supply switching module is also used to disconnect the power supply and the power supply terminal when the second type of device is not inserted into the device interface slot.

[0027] Optionally, the power supply switching module includes: a PMOS transistor and a first capacitor;

[0028] The gate of the PMOS transistor is connected to the selection terminal of the signal expansion module and the first terminal of the first capacitor, the source is connected to the second terminal of the first capacitor and connected to the power supply, and the drain is connected to the power supply terminal of the signal conversion module.

[0029] Optionally, the first quantity is 3;

[0030] The multiplexing circuit includes: a first multiplexer and a second multiplexer;

[0031] The input terminal of the first multiplexer is connected to the central processing unit; the first output terminal of the first multiplexer is connected to the input terminal of the signal conversion module; the second output terminal of the first multiplexer is connected to the input terminal of the second multiplexer; and the gating terminal of the first multiplexer is connected to the output terminal of the detection and identification module. The first output terminal of the second multiplexer is connected to the first device interface slot, and the second output terminal of the second multiplexer is connected to the second device interface slot.

[0032] The device interface slot is provided with a second type of limiting hole, which is electrically connected to the selection terminal of the second multiplexer; the second type of limiting hole is used to connect to the ground potential of the adaptive switching expansion circuit when the first type of device is connected to the first device interface slot; the selection terminal of the second multiplexer is also connected to the power supply through a current limiting resistor;

[0033] When the device interface slot is connected to the first type of device, the conductive fastener fixes the connection relationship between the first type of device and the device interface slot through the second type of limiting hole.

[0034] Optionally, the first device interface slot is an M.2KEY M interface, and the second device interface slot is a MiniPCIE interface or an MSATA interface.

[0035] This utility model also proposes a computer motherboard, the power motherboard including a central processing unit and the aforementioned adaptive switching expansion circuit.

[0036] This invention proposes an adaptive switching expansion circuit and a computer motherboard. The adaptive switching expansion circuit includes: a signal expansion module, a detection and identification module, a signal conversion module, and a first number of device interface slots. The input terminal of the signal expansion module is connected to a central processing unit (CPU), and the signal expansion module has a second number of output terminals. The first output terminal of the signal expansion module is connected to the input terminal of the signal conversion module. The first number of device interface slots are connected one-to-one to the first number of output terminals in the signal expansion module. The output terminal of the signal conversion module is connected to the first number of device interface slots. The signal conversion module is used to convert a first type of signal output by the CPU. The second type of signal is used. The detection and identification module is used to output an identification electrical signal to the selection terminal of the signal expansion module when a device is connected to the device interface slot. The identification electrical signal corresponds to the type of the device. The signal expansion module is used to forward data frames between the input terminal and the first output terminal when a second type of device is inserted into the device interface slot. The signal expansion module is also used to forward data frames between the input terminal of the signal expansion module and the output terminal corresponding to the device interface slot when a first type of device is inserted into the device interface slot. The difference between the second quantity and the first quantity is greater than or equal to 1. This invention uses a detection and identification module to determine whether a device is connected to the device interface slot and the type of device connected. When a second type of device is inserted, data interaction between the processor and the device is performed through a signal conversion module. When a first type of device is inserted, data interaction between the central processing unit and the device is directly realized, achieving a solution for using one signal expansion module to access multiple types of devices. Attached Figure Description

[0037] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.

[0038] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the adaptive switching extension circuit of this utility model;

[0039] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the adaptive switching extension circuit of this utility model;

[0040] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the adaptive switching extension circuit of this utility model;

[0041] Figure 4This is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the adaptive switching extension circuit of this utility model;

[0042] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the adaptive switching extension circuit of this utility model;

[0043] Figure 6 This is a connection diagram of an embodiment of the adaptive switching expansion circuit of this utility model;

[0044] Figure 7 This is a functional schematic diagram of an embodiment of the adaptive switching extension circuit of this utility model;

[0045] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the adaptive switching extension circuit of this utility model.

[0046] Explanation of icon numbers:

[0047] label name label name 1 Signal expansion module 11 First Multiplexer 2 Signal conversion module 12 Second multiplexer 3 Equipment interface slot 31 First device interface slot 4 Detection and recognition module 32 Second device interface slot C1 First capacitor

[0048] The realization of the purpose, functional features and advantages of this utility model will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0049] The technical solutions of the present utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present utility model, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of the present utility model.

[0050] It should be noted that all directional indicators (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.) in this utility model embodiment are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of each component in a certain specific posture (as shown in the figure). If the specific posture changes, the directional indicator will also change accordingly.

[0051] In this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connection," "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, "fixing" can mean a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; it can mean a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can mean a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; it can mean the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise explicitly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model according to the specific circumstances.

[0052] Furthermore, in this utility model, descriptions involving "first," "second," etc., are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. Additionally, the technical solutions of the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but only on the basis of being achievable by those skilled in the art. When the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or impossible to implement, such a combination of technical solutions should be considered non-existent and not within the scope of protection claimed by this utility model.

[0053] PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) is one of the most important high-speed expansion interfaces in modern computers, primarily used to connect various hardware devices and achieve high-speed data transmission. The number of PCIe interfaces on the motherboard processor is limited, restricting the connection of multiple devices, and the connected devices must conform to the PCIe standard. Traditional expansion methods using expansion chips can only expand to multiple PCIe interfaces, limiting the types of connections. In practice, the applicant considered how to utilize a limited number of interfaces to expand to a greater number and variety of interface types to connect various types of devices, overcoming the limitations of traditional expansion solutions regarding connection types.

[0054] It should be noted that the applicant uses the PCIe interface as an example only for the purpose of explanation and clarification, and does not mean that this solution can only be applied to PCIe interface expansion.

[0055] This utility model proposes an adaptive switching extension circuit, which includes:

[0056] Signal expansion module 1, detection and identification module 4, signal conversion module 2, and a first number of device interface slots 3;

[0057] The input terminal of the signal expansion module 1 is connected to the central processing unit, and the signal expansion module 1 has a second number of output terminals; the first output terminal of the signal expansion module 1 is connected to the input terminal of the signal conversion module 2; the first number of device interface slots 3 are connected one-to-one with the first number of output terminals in the signal expansion module 1; the output terminal of the signal conversion module 2 is connected to the first number of device interface slots 3.

[0058] The signal conversion module 2 is used to convert the first type of signal output by the central processing unit into a second type of signal;

[0059] The detection and identification module 4 is used to output an identification electrical signal to the selection terminal of the signal expansion module 1 when the device is connected to the device interface slot 3. The identification electrical signal corresponds to the type of the device.

[0060] The signal expansion module 1 is used to forward data frames between the input terminal and the first output terminal when a second type of device is inserted into the device interface slot 3; the signal expansion module 1 is also used to forward data frames between the input terminal of the signal expansion module 1 and the output terminal correspondingly connected to the device interface slot 3 when a first type of device is inserted into the device interface slot 3.

[0061] The difference between the second quantity and the first quantity is greater than or equal to 1.

[0062] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 1 The diagram illustrates the connection topology between the signal extension module 1, the detection and identification module 4, the signal conversion module 2, and the device interface slots 3. The device interface slots 3 are used to connect devices. It is easy to understand that, since this solution allows for the connection of different types of devices, the types of the individual device interface slots 3 in the first number of device interface slots 3 may differ. Specifically, some of the first number of device interface slots 3 may be used to connect first-type devices, while others may connect to second-type devices. It is easy to understand that, in one example, different types of devices may correspond to different device interface slots 3. In practical application, each specific device interface slot 3 in the first number of device interface slots 3 is related to the devices that the R&D personnel plan to connect based on the design. When the designed connected devices change, the corresponding connected device interface slots 3 may also change accordingly, or the modified device may use a different type of device interface slot 3. In another example, the device interface slots 3 can be reused, allowing the connection of both first-type and second-type devices.

[0063] The input terminal of the signal expansion module 1 is connected to the central processing unit (CPU). Classified according to transmission protocols, the CPU may have at least the following interfaces: PCIe interface, DDR memory interface, SATA interface, NVMe interface, Thunderbolt interface, and / or USB interface. The input terminal of the signal expansion module 1 is connected to one of the CPU's interfaces to expand that interface. It is easy to understand that the type of signal expanded by the signal expansion module 1 corresponds to the specific signal interface to which the signal expansion module 1 is connected. For example, if the signal expansion module 1 is connected to the CPU's PCIe interface, it expands that PCIe interface into a second number of PCIe interfaces, each corresponding to a second number of output terminals. The signal expansion module 1 may include a multiplexer to expand the CPU's interface into a second number of output terminals.

[0064] Additionally, it should be noted that the signal expansion module 1 has a second number of output terminals, and the device interface slots 3 have a first number. The input terminal of the signal conversion module 2 is connected to one of the first number of device interface slots 3, and the device interface slot connected to the input terminal of the signal conversion module 2 is considered as the first output terminal of the signal expansion module 1. It is easy to understand that the first output terminal of the signal expansion module 1 is not limited in this utility model, and it is determined by the output terminal specifically connected to the signal conversion module 2. The first number and the second number have the following quantitative relationship, explained as follows: From a practical perspective, it is easy to understand that the output terminals of the signal expansion module 1 are used to connect devices, and the signal expansion module 1 can connect to a maximum number of devices equal to the number of its output terminals; that is, it can connect to a maximum of the second number of devices. However, since the signal conversion module 2 occupies one output port, the difference between the second number and the first number is at least 1. It is also possible that the output terminals of the signal expansion module 1 are unused; therefore, the difference between the second number and the first number can be greater than 1.

[0065] The signal conversion module 2 is used to convert the first type of signal output by the central processing unit (CPU) into a second type of signal. It is easy to understand that the signal conversion module 2 is related to both the first and second type of signals. The first type of signal is related to the interface of the CPU to which the signal expansion module 1 is specifically connected, and the second type of signal is related to the specific type of the second type of device in the access device interface slot 3. When the interface of the CPU connected to the signal expansion module 1 changes, and / or the second type of device in the access device interface slot 3 changes, the type and function of the signal conversion module 2 should also change accordingly (specifically, the signal conversion module 2 is selected based on the CPU interface type and the second type of device type). For example, if the signal expansion module 1 is connected to the CPU's PCIe interface and the device interface slot 3 is connected to a SATA device, the signal conversion module 2 is used to convert the PCIe signal into a SATA signal before outputting it. Researchers need to determine the signal conversion module 2 based on the CPU interface used in the specific design and the specific type of the preset second type of signal. In one example, the signal conversion module 2 may include a JMB582.

[0066] Since the output of the signal conversion module 2 is connected to the first number of device interface slots 3, the signal conversion module 2 outputs the converted first-type signal to the first number of device interface slots 3. Furthermore, the first number of device interface slots 3 are connected one-to-one to the first number of outputs of the signal expansion module 1; the first number of device interface slots 3 are respectively connected to either a first-type device or a second-type device. Correspondingly, the signal expansion module 1 expands the first-type signal output by the central processing unit and outputs it to the interface connected to the first-type device, or the signal expansion module 1 expands the first-type signal output by the central processing unit, converts it to a second-type signal through the signal conversion module 2, and outputs it to the interface connected to the second-type device. Since the first-type device and the second-type device can receive and recognize different signal types—that is, the first-type device recognizes the first-type signal, and the second-type device recognizes the second-type signal—there is no need to worry about the first-type signal affecting the normal operation of the second-type device, or vice versa. In addition, the addressing mechanism in the protocol also ensures accurate data transmission between devices.

[0067] The signal extension module 1 can realize the signal interaction between the extended central processing unit and various devices through a time-division multiplexing mechanism.

[0068] In this scheme, the first number of device interface slots 3 can obtain data from either the signal expansion module 1 or the signal conversion module 2. Preferably, when a first type of device is connected, the device interface slot 3 receives data output from the signal expansion module 1; when a second type of device is connected, the device interface slot 3 receives data output from the signal conversion module 2. The signal expansion module 1 implements its expansion function through time-division multiplexing. Based on this, this scheme uses a detection and identification module 4 to determine whether each device interface slot 3 is connected to a device and the type of the connected device. This provides a basis for the time-division multiplexing of the signal expansion module 1 when a device interface slot 3 is connected to a device, based on the type of the connected device. The signal expansion module 1 directly interacts with the device interface slot 3 connected to the first type of device in a time-division manner, and determines whether to interact with the signal conversion module 2 based on the type of connected device. Compared to sequentially time-division multiplexing all device interface slots 3, this improves processing efficiency.

[0069] The detection and identification module 4 is used to output an identification electrical signal to the selection terminal of the signal expansion module 1 when the device is connected to the device interface slot 3. The identification electrical signal corresponds to the type of the device.

[0070] Therefore, in the first embodiment of this utility model, the device interface slot 3 is not reused. Because the types of connected devices differ, the number and type of data lines used for signal transmission in the corresponding device interface slot 3 also vary. Whether a device is connected to the device interface slot 3 can be determined by identifying the level changes of a specific data line.

[0071] In the second embodiment of this utility model, the device interface slot 3 is reused. It should be noted that the application scenario of this utility model includes a computer motherboard, where devices connected to the motherboard need to be fixed. The fixing methods and positions for the first type of device and the second type of device are different. The detection and identification module 4 can determine whether a device is connected to the device interface slot 3 and the type of device by checking the changes in electrical signals caused by the different fixing methods and positions. The device interface slot 3 can be an M.2KEY M interface.

[0072] The signal expansion module 1 is used to forward data frames between the input terminal and the first output terminal when a second type of device is inserted into the device interface slot 3; the signal expansion module 1 is also used to forward data frames between the output terminal corresponding to the device interface slot 3 and the input terminal of the signal expansion module 1 when a first type of device is inserted into the device interface slot 3.

[0073] Because the input port of the signal expansion module 1 connected to the central processing unit in this invention interacts with data via a first type of signal, when a second type of device is inserted into the device interface slot 3, the signal expansion module 1 forwards data frames between its input and first output ports, allowing data interaction between the central processing unit and the signal conversion module 2. It is easily understood that if multiple device interface slots 3 are connected to second type devices, the signal conversion module 2 integrates, encapsulates, and encodes the data output from the corresponding second type devices connected to the multiple device interface slots 3 before outputting it. When a first type of device is inserted into the device interface slot 3, the signal expansion module 1 interacts with the device interface slot 3 connected to the first type of device.

[0074] It should be noted that the first type and the second type mentioned in this utility model can be specifically determined by the R&D personnel according to the design requirements.

[0075] This invention proposes an adaptive switching expansion circuit, comprising: a signal expansion module 1, a detection and identification module 4, a signal conversion module 2, and a first number of device interface slots 3; the input terminal of the signal expansion module 1 is connected to a central processing unit (CPU), and the signal expansion module 1 has a second number of output terminals; the first output terminal of the signal expansion module 1 is connected to the input terminal of the signal conversion module 2; the first number of device interface slots 3 are connected one-to-one with the first number of output terminals in the signal expansion module 1; the output terminal of the signal conversion module 2 is connected to the first number of device interface slots 3; the signal conversion module 2 is used to convert a first type of signal output by the CPU into... The second type of signal; the detection and identification module 4 is used to output an identification electrical signal to the selection terminal of the signal expansion module 1 when a device is connected to the device interface slot 3, and the identification electrical signal corresponds to the type of the device; the signal expansion module 1 is used to forward data frames between the input terminal and the first output terminal when a second type of device is inserted into the device interface slot 3; the signal expansion module 1 is also used to forward data frames between the input terminal of the signal expansion module 1 and the output terminal corresponding to the device interface slot 3 when a first type of device is inserted into the device interface slot 3; the difference between the second quantity and the first quantity is greater than or equal to 1. This utility model obtains whether a device is connected to the device interface slot 3 and the type of device by the detection and identification module 4. When a second type of device is inserted, the data interaction between the processor and the device is performed by the signal conversion module 2; when a first type of device is inserted, the data interaction between the central processing unit and the device is directly realized, realizing a solution of using one signal expansion to access multiple types of devices.

[0076] The signal expansion module 1 includes: a multiplexing circuit;

[0077] The input terminal of the multiplexing circuit is connected to the central processing unit; the multiplexing circuit has a second number of output terminals; the signal conversion module 2 is connected to the first output terminal of the signal expansion module, and the first number of device interface slots 3 are connected one-to-one to the first number of output terminals in the multiplexing circuit;

[0078] The detection and identification module 4 is connected to the selection terminal of the multiplexing circuit and is used to output the identification electrical signal to the selection terminal.

[0079] Specifically, the signal expansion module 1 includes a PCIe switch chip, which includes a multiplexing circuit. The specific model of the chip is not limited in this invention and can be selected by the developers according to design requirements.

[0080] The multiplexing circuit uses the electrical signal at the selection terminal to determine the connection between the input terminal and the specific output terminal via time-division multiplexing. This invention expands the interface of the central processing unit through the multiplexing circuit. In practical applications, the number of output terminals of the multiplexing circuit exceeds the number of device interface slots, thereby enabling separate connections to the device interface slots.

[0081] The signal expansion module 1 further includes: a clock buffer;

[0082] The clock buffer has a third number of output terminals; the clock terminal of the signal conversion module 2 is connected to the first output terminal of the clock buffer; the clock terminals of the first number of device interface slots 3 are connected one-to-one to the first number of output terminals in the clock buffer;

[0083] The detection and identification module 4 is connected to the selection terminal of the clock buffer and is used to output the identification electrical signal to the clock buffer when the device interface slot 3 is connected to the device. The identification electrical signal corresponds to the type of the device.

[0084] The clock buffer is used to output a clock signal to the signal conversion module 2 when the second type of device is inserted into the device interface slot 3; the signal expansion module 1 is also used to output the clock signal through the output terminal corresponding to the device interface slot 3 when the first type of device is inserted into the device interface slot 3.

[0085] The clock buffer is connected to the multiplexing circuit and is also used to output the clock signal to the multiplexing circuit;

[0086] The difference between the third quantity and the first quantity is greater than or equal to 1.

[0087] It should be noted that the clock signal is crucial during data signal transmission, providing a unified time reference for data transmission, reception, and processing, ensuring the orderly operation of the entire transmission system. Therefore, the clock terminal of the clock conversion module is connected to the first output terminal of the clock buffer; the clock terminals of the first number of device interface slots 3 are connected one-to-one to the first number of output terminals in the clock buffer; this enables the transmission of clock signals to the signal conversion module 2 and the device interface slots 3, ensuring normal data interaction between the devices connected to the signal conversion module 2 and the device interface slots 3 and the central processing unit. It is easily understood that the clock buffer and the multiplexer need to be used together during data interaction to complete normal data interaction between the devices and the central processing unit; therefore, the clock buffer and the multiplexing circuit are connected to the same device interface slot 3 or the signal conversion module 2 during data interaction. Specifically, when the output of the multiplexing circuit is connected to the device interface slot, the clock buffer provides a clock signal to both the multiplexing circuit and the device interface slot so that they interact with each other according to the same clock cycle. Similarly, when the first output of the multiplexing circuit is connected to the signal conversion module, the clock buffer provides a clock signal to both the multiplexing circuit and the device interface slot so that they interact with each other according to the same clock cycle.

[0088] The relationship between the third quantity and the first quantity is similar to the relationship between the second quantity and the first quantity, and will not be elaborated further here.

[0089] To address the issue of distinguishing the type of device connected to the device interface slot 3 when the device interface slot 3 is reused, in the third embodiment of this utility model, the device interface slot 3 is provided with a first type of limiting hole, which is electrically connected to the detection and identification module 4; the first type of limiting hole is used to connect to the ground potential of the adaptive switching expansion circuit when the second type of device is connected to the device interface slot 3.

[0090] When the device interface slot 3 is connected to the second type of device, the conductive fastener fixes the connection relationship between the second type of device and the device interface slot 3 through the first type of limiting hole.

[0091] It should be noted that when the second type of device is installed (assembled), the first type of limiting hole needs to be fixed with a fastener to secure the connection between the second type of device and the device interface slot 3, preventing the connection between the second type of device and the device interface slot 3 from being unstable or detached. For example, when installing memory modules or hard drives on a computer motherboard, metal screws are usually used to secure the memory modules or hard drives inserted into the corresponding interfaces. The detection and identification module 4 is connected to the first type of limiting hole to obtain the potential of the first type of limiting hole. Since the second type of device needs to be fixed with a fastener during installation, in this embodiment, the fastener is a conductive fastener. When the second type of device is fixed by the conductive fastener, the first type of limiting hole is connected to the ground potential of the adaptive switching expansion circuit through the conductive fastener. When the device interface slot 3 is connected to the second type of device, the detection and identification module 4 identifies the ground potential; the detection and identification module 4 determines whether the device interface slot 3 is connected to the second type of device based on the potential of the first type of limiting hole. The first type of limiting hole is specifically used to fix the second type of device; when the device interface slot 3 is connected to the first type of device, it is not necessary to fix it with the first type of limiting hole. Whether a device interface slot 3 is connected to a first-type device is determined by the level change of the signal line. Additionally, the device interface slot 3 may also be provided with a second type of limiting hole, which connects to the detection and identification module 4. This second type of limiting hole is used to connect to the ground potential of the adaptive switching expansion circuit when a first-type device is connected to the device interface slot 3. It should be noted that the ports connected to the first and second type of limiting holes of the detection and identification module 4 are different. The detection and identification module 4 can determine whether a device is connected to the device interface slot 3, and the type of device connected, by the level change of a specific port.

[0092] In the fourth embodiment of this utility model, the adaptive switching expansion circuit has 3 device interface slots 3, that is, the first quantity is 3;

[0093] The multiplexing circuit includes: a first multiplexing device 11 and a second multiplexer 12;

[0094] The input terminal of the first multiplexer 11 is connected to the central processing unit; the first output terminal of the first multiplexer 11 is connected to the input terminal of the signal conversion module 2; the second output terminal of the first multiplexer 11 is connected to the input terminal of the second multiplexer 12; and the gating terminal of the first multiplexer 11 is connected to the output terminal of the detection and identification module 4. The first output terminal of the second multiplexer 12 is connected to the first device interface slot 31, and the second output terminal of the second multiplexer 12 is connected to the second device interface slot 32.

[0095] The device interface slot 3 is provided with a second type of limiting hole, which is electrically connected to the selection terminal of the second multiplexer 12. The second type of limiting hole is used to connect to the ground potential of the adaptive switching expansion circuit when the first type of device is connected to the first device interface slot 31. The selection terminal of the second multiplexer 12 is also connected to the power supply through a current limiting resistor.

[0096] When the device interface slot 3 is connected to the first type of device, the conductive fastener fixes the connection relationship between the first type of device and the device interface slot 3 through the second type of limiting hole.

[0097] Reference Figure 2 It is readily understood that the multiplexing circuit consists of two multiplexing devices, each having one input terminal and two output terminals. The output terminal of the second multiplexer 12 is connected to the first device interface slot 31 and the second device interface slot 32, and the output terminal of the first multiplexer 11 is connected to the input terminals of the signal conversion module 2 and the second multiplexer 12. The first multiplexer 11 is used to forward data frames between the central processing unit and the signal conversion module 2 or the second multiplexer 12. The second multiplexer 12 is used to forward data frames between the first multiplexer 11 and the first device interface slot 31 or the second device interface slot 32.

[0098] The device interface slot 3 has a second type of limiting hole, which is used to fix the connection relationship between the first type of device and the device interface slot 3 when the first type of device is installed.

[0099] In this invention, if a second type of device is connected to the device interface slot 3, the signal conversion module 2 needs to convert the first type of signal to the second type of signal. The first multiplexer 1111 determines the data frame forwarding between the central processing unit and the signal conversion module 2. Therefore, it is easy to understand that the first type of limiting hole in the device interface slot 3 is connected to the selection terminal of the first multiplexer 11. When a second type of device is connected to the device interface slot 3, the selection terminal of the first multiplexer 11 is connected to ground potential, so that the first multiplexer 11 completes the data frame interaction between the central processing unit and the signal conversion module 2. The second type of limiting hole is electrically connected to the selection terminal of the second multiplexer 12, and the selection terminal of the second multiplexer 12 is also connected to the power supply through a current-limiting resistor. Explained, if the device interface slot 3 with the second type of limiting hole is not connected to the first type of device, the selection terminal of the second multiplexer 12 is at a high level under the action of the power supply; if the device interface slot 3 is connected to the first type of device, the selection terminal of the second multiplexer 12 is at a low potential under the action of the conductive fixing member. Thus, it distinguishes whether the device interface slot 3 is connected to the first type of device.

[0100] The power source is used to provide the power supply voltage.

[0101] It should be noted that the fourth embodiment is only one of the multiple solutions of this utility model, and does not represent a limitation on the number of multiplexing devices in the multiplexing circuit or the number of output terminals of the multiplexing devices. The specific composition of the multiplexing circuit is determined by the researchers, and this utility model does not limit it here.

[0102] In the fifth embodiment of this utility model, the detection and identification module 4 includes:

[0103] A second number of resistors and a second number of unidirectional conducting devices; the resistors and the unidirectional conducting devices are connected to form a unidirectional conducting circuit; the second number of unidirectional conducting circuits are connected in parallel between the power supply and the signal expansion module 1; wherein, one end of the resistor is connected to the power supply, the other end is connected to the cathode of the unidirectional conducting device, and the anode of the unidirectional conducting device is connected to the selection terminal of the signal expansion module 1.

[0104] The cathodes of the second number of single-phase conducting devices are electrically connected one-to-one with the first type of limiting holes of the second number of device interface slots 3.

[0105] like Figure 3As shown, in this embodiment, the limiting hole of the device interface slot 3 is connected to the cathode of the unidirectional conducting device. Since the first type of limiting hole is connected to ground potential through a conductive fixing component when the device interface slot 3 is connected to the second type of device, the cathode of the unidirectional conducting device is at ground potential when the device interface slot 3 is connected to the second type of device. The anode of the unidirectional conducting device is connected to the selection terminal of the signal expansion module 1. Assuming there is a device interface slot 3 connected to the second type of device, the cathode of the unidirectional conducting device corresponding to this device interface slot 3 is at ground potential, and the current flowing from the power supply in the unidirectional conducting circuit corresponding to this device interface slot 3 passes through a resistor to the ground potential of the adaptive switching expansion circuit. The selection terminal of the signal expansion module 1 is at a low level under the influence of the ground potential. If the cathodes of the unidirectional conducting devices in all unidirectional conducting circuits are not at ground potential, the selection terminal of the signal expansion module 1 is at a high level under the influence of the power supply. The unidirectional conducting device can be a diode.

[0106] In this embodiment, the detection and identification module 4 can identify whether the device interface slot 3 is connected to a second type of device through a unidirectional conduction device. When the device interface slot 3 is connected to a second type of device, it outputs a ground level to the selection terminal of the signal expansion module 1; otherwise, it outputs a high level to the selection terminal of the signal expansion module 1, so as to realize the function of detecting whether the device interface slot 3 is connected to a second type of device.

[0107] The signal conversion module 2 consumes power both in standby and operation. If the device interface slot 3 is connected to only type 1 devices, the signal conversion module 2 will still consume power even in standby mode. For energy conservation, it is necessary to control the function of the signal conversion module 2. Based on the above concept, a sixth embodiment of this utility model is proposed.

[0108] In the sixth embodiment, the adaptive switching extension circuit further includes: a power supply switching module;

[0109] The first end of the power supply switching module is connected to a power source, the second end is connected to the power source of the signal conversion module 2, and the controlled end is connected to the selection end of the signal expansion module 1. The power supply switching module is used to connect the power source and the power source when a second type of device is inserted into the device interface slot 3. The power supply switching module is also used to disconnect the power source and the power source when no second type of device is inserted into the device interface slot 3.

[0110] It is readily understood that in the sixth embodiment, when the device interface slot 3 is connected to a second type of device, the signal conversion module 2 is activated; when no second type of device is connected to the device interface slot 3, the signal conversion module 2 is de-energized. The controlled terminal of the power supply switching module is connected to the selection terminal of the signal expansion module 1. Based on the above, it can be seen that if the device interface slot 3 is connected to a second type of device, the selection terminal of the signal expansion module 1 is at a low level; if the device interface slot 3 is not connected to a second type of device, the selection terminal of the signal expansion module 1 is at a high level. Under the control of the corresponding level, the power supply switching module performs conduction and de-energization of the power supply and the power supply terminal.

[0111] Reference Figure 4 The power supply switching module may include: a PMOS transistor and a first capacitor C1;

[0112] The gate of the PMOS transistor is connected to the selection terminal of the signal expansion module 1 and the first terminal of the first capacitor C1, the source is connected to the second terminal of the first capacitor C1 and connected to the power supply, and the drain is connected to the power supply terminal of the signal conversion module 2.

[0113] Specifically, the PMOS transistor conducts the path between the power supply and the power supply terminal when the voltage level is low, and turns off the path between the power supply and the power supply terminal when the voltage level is high. The first capacitor C1 is used for voltage regulation and filtering.

[0114] In one example, the first type of signal is a PCIe signal, and the second type of signal is a SATA signal. The first device interface slot 31 is an M.2KEY M interface, and the second device interface slot 32 is a MiniPCIE interface or an mSATA interface. The M.2KEY M interface can be multiplexed as both a PCIe interface and a SATA interface.

[0115] like Figure 5 As shown, the signal conversion module includes a JMB582 chip for converting PCIe and SATA signals. A first device interface slot or a second device interface slot connects to a PCIe device or a SATA device. The signal expansion module ensures data interaction between the CPU and the device connected to the first / second device interface slot through multiplexing circuitry and a clock buffer.

[0116] In one example, when the detection and identification module detects an M.2 KEY M-interface or MiniPCIE / MSATA interface connected to a SATA hard drive device, it outputs a corresponding identification electrical signal. Upon receiving the identification electrical signal, the multiplexing circuit and clock buffer switch both the PCIe signal and clock signal channels to... Figure 5The Port A port is connected to the JMB582 chip. This chip converts the PCIe signal into two SATA signals. The SATA signals are then connected to the M.2KEY M and MiniPCIE / MSATA interfaces, respectively.

[0117] In another example, when the detection and identification module detects a PCIe hard drive device on the M.2KEY M interface but no device on the MiniPCIE / mSATA interface, it outputs a corresponding identification signal. Upon receiving the identification signal, the multiplexing circuit and clock buffer switch both the PCIe signal and clock signal channels to... Figure 5 The Port B port is connected to the M.2KEY M interface.

[0118] In another example, when the detection and identification module detects a PCIe network card device on the MiniPCIE / MSATA interface and no device on the M.2KEY M interface, it outputs a corresponding identification signal. Upon receiving the identification signal, the multiplexing circuit and clock buffer switch both the PCIe signal and clock signal channels to... Figure 5 The Port C port is connected to the MiniPCIE / mSATA interface.

[0119] When the JMB582 is not in use, turn off the power supply to the JMB582 chip connected to Port A to reduce motherboard power consumption.

[0120] like Figure 6 As shown, Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection of the multiplexing circuit in one embodiment, where the multiplexing circuit includes a first multiplexing device 11 and a second multiplexing unit 12.

[0121] like Figure 7 As shown, Figure 7 This is a functional schematic diagram of the signal expansion circuit in one embodiment, which uses the 9DBL411 chip.

[0122] like Figure 8 As shown, Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of an adaptive switching extension circuit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0123] This utility model also proposes a computer motherboard, which includes a central processing unit and the aforementioned adaptive switching expansion circuit. The specific structure of the adaptive switching expansion circuit is as described in the above embodiments. Since this computer motherboard adopts all the technical solutions of all the above embodiments, it has at least all the beneficial effects brought about by the technical solutions of the above embodiments, which will not be described in detail here.

[0124] The above description is only an optional embodiment of the present utility model and does not limit the patent scope of the present utility model. All equivalent structural transformations made under the concept of the present utility model and using the contents of the present utility model specification and drawings, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included in the patent protection scope of the present utility model.

Claims

1. An adaptive switching extension circuit, comprising: The adaptive switching extension circuit includes: Signal expansion module, detection and identification module, signal conversion module, and a first number of device interface slots; The input terminal of the signal expansion module is connected to the central processing unit, and the signal expansion module has a second number of output terminals; the first output terminal of the signal expansion module is connected to the input terminal of the signal conversion module; the first number of device interface slots are connected one-to-one to the first number of output terminals in the signal expansion module; the output terminal of the signal conversion module is connected to the first number of device interface slots. The signal conversion module is used to convert the first type of signal output by the central processing unit into a second type of signal; The detection and identification module is used to output an identification electrical signal to the selection terminal of the signal expansion module when the device interface slot is connected to the device, and the identification electrical signal corresponds to the type of the device; The signal expansion module is used to forward data frames between the input terminal and the first output terminal when a second type of device is inserted into the device interface slot; the signal expansion module is also used to forward data frames between the input terminal and the output terminal corresponding to the device interface slot when a first type of device is inserted into the device interface slot. The difference between the second quantity and the first quantity is greater than or equal to 1.

2. The adaptive switch extension circuit of claim 1, wherein, The signal expansion module includes: a multiplexing circuit; The input terminal of the multiplexing circuit is connected to the central processing unit; the multiplexing circuit has a second number of output terminals; the signal conversion module is connected to the first output terminal of the signal expansion module, and the first number of device interface slots are connected one-to-one to the first number of output terminals in the multiplexing circuit; The detection and identification module is connected to the selection terminal of the multiplexing circuit and is used to output the identification electrical signal to the selection terminal.

3. The adaptive handoff extension circuit of claim 2, wherein, The signal expansion module further includes: a clock buffer; The clock buffer has a third number of output terminals; the clock terminal of the signal conversion module is connected to the first output terminal of the clock buffer; the clock terminals of the first number of device interface slots are connected one-to-one to the first number of output terminals in the clock buffer; The detection and recognition module is connected to the gating terminal of the clock buffer and is used to output the recognition electrical signal to the clock buffer; The clock buffer is used to output a clock signal to the signal conversion module when the second type of device is inserted into the device interface slot; the signal expansion module is also used to output the clock signal through an output terminal corresponding to the device interface slot when the first type of device is inserted into the device interface slot. The clock buffer is connected to the multiplexing circuit and is also used to output the clock signal to the multiplexing circuit; The difference between the third quantity and the first quantity is greater than or equal to 1.

4. The adaptive switching extension circuit of any of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The device interface slot is provided with a first type of limiting hole, which is electrically connected to the detection and identification module; the first type of limiting hole is used to connect the ground potential of the adaptive switching expansion circuit when the second type of device is connected to the device interface slot. When the device interface slot is connected to the second type of device, the conductive fastener fixes the connection relationship between the second type of device and the device interface slot through the first type of limiting hole.

5. The adaptive handoff extension circuit of claim 4, wherein, The detection and identification module includes: A second number of resistors and a second number of unidirectional conducting devices; the resistors and the unidirectional conducting devices are connected to form a unidirectional conducting circuit; the second number of unidirectional conducting circuits are connected in parallel between the power supply and the signal expansion module; wherein, one end of the resistor is connected to the power supply, the other end is connected to the cathode of the unidirectional conducting device, and the anode of the unidirectional conducting device is connected to the selection terminal of the signal expansion module. The cathodes of the second number of single-phase conducting devices are electrically connected one-to-one with the first type of limiting holes of the second number of device interface slots.

6. The adaptive handoff extension circuit of claim 5, wherein, The adaptive switching extension circuit also includes: a power supply switching module; The first end of the power supply switching module is connected to the power supply, the second end is connected to the power supply terminal of the signal conversion module, and the controlled end is connected to the selection terminal of the signal expansion module; the power supply switching module is used to connect the power supply and the power supply terminal when the second type of device is inserted into the device interface slot; the power supply switching module is also used to disconnect the power supply and the power supply terminal when the second type of device is not inserted into the device interface slot.

7. The adaptive handoff extension circuit of claim 6, wherein, The power supply switching module includes: a PMOS transistor and a first capacitor; The gate of the PMOS transistor is connected to the selection terminal of the signal expansion module and the first terminal of the first capacitor, the source is connected to the second terminal of the first capacitor and connected to the power supply, and the drain is connected to the power supply terminal of the signal conversion module.

8. The adaptive handoff extension circuit of claim 2 or claim 3, wherein, The first quantity is 3; The multiplexing circuit includes: a first multiplexer and a second multiplexer; The input terminal of the first multiplexer is connected to the central processing unit; the first output terminal of the first multiplexer is connected to the input terminal of the signal conversion module; the second output terminal of the first multiplexer is connected to the input terminal of the second multiplexer; and the gating terminal of the first multiplexer is connected to the output terminal of the detection and identification module. The first output terminal of the second multiplexer is connected to the first device interface slot, and the second output terminal of the second multiplexer is connected to the second device interface slot. The device interface slot is provided with a second type of limiting hole, which is electrically connected to the selection terminal of the second multiplexer; the second type of limiting hole is used to connect to the ground potential of the adaptive switching expansion circuit when the first type of device is connected to the first device interface slot; the selection terminal of the second multiplexer is also connected to the power supply through a current limiting resistor; When the device interface slot is connected to the first type of device, the conductive fastener fixes the connection relationship between the first type of device and the device interface slot through the second type of limiting hole.

9. The adaptive switching extension circuit of claim 8, wherein, The first device interface slot is an M.2KEY M interface, and the second device interface slot is a MiniPCIE interface or an MSATA interface.

10. A computer motherboard, characterized by The computer motherboard includes a central processing unit and an adaptive switching expansion circuit as described in any one of claims 1 to 9.

Images