Communication cable, method of supplying power to communication cable, computer program, recording medium, communication system, and USB plug

Abstract

To provide a technique adapted to have less restriction based on power supply specifications of a device connected to a communication cable, in supplying power to a circuit in the communication cable.SOLUTION: A communication cable 500 includes a first plug 100, a second plug 200, one or more circuits 470, and a first electric path 401. The first electric path 401 includes a first terminal 111 and a second terminal 211. The first terminal 111 is located in the first plug 100. The second terminal 211 is located in the second plug 200. The first electric path 401 is used for transmitting electricity between the first terminal 111 and the second terminal 211. The one or more circuits 470 can be supplied with electricity through the first electric path 401.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a communication cable, a power supply method for the communication cable, a computer program, a recording medium, a communication system, and a USB plug.

Background Art

[0002] Various communication cables are known. An example of a communication cable is an optical communication cable. An example of an optical communication cable is an active optical cable. Patent Document 1 describes an example of an active optical cable.

[0003] Some communication cables have a power transmission function. A power supply device is connected to one plug of the communication cable, a power receiving device is connected to the other plug of the communication cable, and power is transmitted from the power supply device to the power receiving device via the communication cable. Also, the communication cable may have a circuit that consumes power to operate.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The power supply specifications of devices connected to a communication cable vary, and it is not always easy to supply power from the devices to the circuits in the communication cable. The present invention provides a technique suitable for making it difficult for the power supply to the circuits in the communication cable to be restricted based on the power supply specifications of the devices connected to the communication cable.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The present invention is a first plug, a second plug, One or more circuits, including a first terminal located at the first plug and a second terminal located at the second plug, and a first electrical path used for power transmission between the first terminal and the second terminal. is capable of supplying power from the first electrical path to the one or more circuits. provides a communication cable.

Advantages of the Invention

[0007] The technology according to the present invention is suitable for making it difficult to be restricted by the power supply specifications of devices connected to the communication cable in power supply to circuits in the communication cable.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the following are merely examples of the embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0010] [Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of a communication system 900 according to an embodiment. The communication system 900 includes a communication cable 500, a power supply device 700, and a power receiving device 800.

[0011] The term "communication system 900" will be described. A combination in which the power supply device 700 and the power receiving device 800 are connected to each other via the communication cable 500 (hereinafter, the connected state) can be referred to as the communication system 900. Also, a combination in which the power supply device 700 and the power receiving device 800 are not connected to each other via the communication cable 500 can be referred to as the communication system 900.

[0012] In the example of FIG. 1, the power supply device 700 is an information processing device. The information processing device is, for example, a smartphone, a personal computer, a tablet, a mobile phone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), or the like. The power receiving device 800 is an information acquisition device. The information acquisition device includes, for example, a camera and / or a microphone. However, the examples of the power supply device 700 and the power receiving device 800 are not limited to the above. A configuration in which the power supply device 700 is an information acquisition device and the power receiving device 800 is an information processing device can also be adopted. Hereinafter, an example in which the power supply device 700 is a personal computer and the power receiving device 800 is a camera will be described.

[0013] In the embodiment, the communication cable 500 is an optical communication cable. Specifically, the communication cable 500 is an active optical cable.

[0014] Hereinafter, a natural number N will be used. N is the number of communication channels in the communication cable 500. In the embodiment, N is 2 or more, and in the example of FIG. 1, it is 4. However, N may be 1.

[0015] The communication cable 500 includes a plug 100, a plug 200, and a cable portion 300. The plug 100 and the plug 200 are connected by the cable portion 300. The plug 100 and the plug 200 are plugs for power transmission. Power transmission is performed between the plug 100 and the plug 200 via the cable portion 300.

[0016] FIG. 2 is a circuit diagram of a communication cable 500 according to an embodiment. The plug 100 includes a connector 110 and a module 120. The plug 200 includes a connector 210 and a module 220. In a connected state, the power supply device 700 is connected to the connector 110, and the power receiving device 800 is connected to the connector 210.

[0017] In the embodiment, each of the connector 110 and the connector 210 is a USB (Universal Serial Bus) connector. Specifically, each of the connector 110 and the connector 210 is a USB Type-C connector.

[0018] In the embodiment, a plug including a USB connector is referred to as a USB plug. A plug including a USB Type-C connector is referred to as a USB Type-C plug. In the embodiment, each of the plug 100 and the plug 200 is a USB plug. Specifically, each of the plug 100 and the plug 200 is a USB Type-C plug.

[0019] The connector 110 includes a terminal 111, a terminal 112, a terminal portion 113, a terminal portion 114, a terminal portion 115, a terminal portion 116, and a terminal 117. The connector 210 includes a terminal 211, a terminal 212, a terminal portion 213, a terminal portion 214, a terminal portion 215, a terminal portion 216, and a terminal 217. In the embodiment, these comply with the USB standard and are described as follows: · The terminals 111 and 211 are Vbus terminals. · The terminals 112 and 212 are Vconn terminals. · The terminal portions 115 and 213 are Tx1 terminal portions. · The terminal portions 116 and 214 are Tx2 terminal portions. · The terminal portions 113 and 215 are Rx1 terminal portions. · The terminal portions 114 and 216 are Rx2 terminal portions. · The terminals 117 and 217 are GND terminals.

[0020] In each of the connector 110 and the connector 210, · The Tx1 terminal portion includes a Tx1+ terminal and a Tx1- terminal, · The Tx2 terminal portion includes a Tx2+ terminal and a Tx2- terminal, · The Rx1 terminal portion includes an Rx1+ terminal and an Rx1- terminal, · The Rx2 terminal portion includes an Rx2+ terminal and an Rx2- terminal.

[0021] The terminal 111, the terminal 112, the terminal portion 113, the terminal portion 114, the terminal portion 115, the terminal portion 116, and the terminal 117 are located on the plug 100. The terminal 211, the terminal 212, the terminal portion 213, the terminal portion 214, the terminal portion 215, the terminal portion 216, and the terminal 217 are located on the plug 200. The terminal 111, the terminal 112, the terminal portion 113, the terminal portion 114, the terminal portion 115, the terminal portion 116, and the terminal 117 and the terminal 211, the terminal 212, the terminal portion 213, the terminal portion 214, the terminal portion 215, the terminal portion 216, and the terminal 217 are respectively connected. Through these connections, the exchange of power and information between the power supply device 700 connected to the plug 100 and the power receiving device 800 connected to the plug 200 is made possible.

[0022] In FIG. 2, some of the components of the communication cable 500 are not shown. For example, the connector 110 includes three Vbus terminals in addition to the terminal 111. The connector 210 includes three Vbus terminals in addition to the terminal 211. The connector 110 includes three GND terminals in addition to the terminal 117. The connector 210 includes three GND terminals in addition to the terminal 217. Each of the connector 110 and the connector 210 includes a D+ terminal and a D- terminal used for electrical communication. Specifically, the D+ terminal and the D- terminal are used for electrical communication compliant with USB2.0.

[0023] In the embodiment, module 120 is a receiving module. Module 220 is a transmitting module. Information is transmitted from module 220 to module 120. Specifically, each of module 120 and module 220 is configured using a Printed Circuit Board.

[0024] Module 120 includes a regulator 121, an amplifier circuit 122, a light receiving circuit 123, a DCDC converter 125, a diode 126, and a regulator 128. The DCDC converter 125 is, for example, an IC (Integrated Circuit). The diode 126 includes an anode 126a and a cathode 126b. Module 220 includes a regulator 221, a driver circuit 222, a light emitting circuit 223, and a diode 227. The diode 227 includes an anode 227a and a cathode 227b. The amplifier circuit 122 and the light receiving circuit 123 are provided on an optoelectronic hybrid substrate 129. The driver circuit 222 and the light emitting circuit 223 are provided on an optoelectronic hybrid substrate 229.

[0025] The amplifier circuit 122 includes N amplifiers. The light receiving circuit 123 includes N light receiving elements. The N light receiving elements form a light receiving element array. The driver circuit 222 includes N drivers. The light emitting circuit 223 includes N light emitting elements. The N light emitting elements form a light emitting element array.

[0026] In the example of FIG. 2, the N amplifiers are four amplifiers: amplifier 122a, amplifier 122b, amplifier 122c, and amplifier 122d. The N light receiving elements are four light receiving elements: light receiving element 123a, light receiving element 123b, light receiving element 123c, and light receiving element 123d. The N drivers are four drivers: driver 222a, driver 222b, driver 222c, and driver 222d. The N light emitting elements are four light emitting elements: light emitting element 223a, light emitting element 223b, light emitting element 223c, and light emitting element 223d.

[0027] In the embodiment, each of the regulators 121 and 221 is an LDO (Low Dropout). Each of the amplifier circuit 122 and the driver circuit 222 is an IC. The amplifier circuit 122 is a transimpedance amplifier (TIA). The light receiving element is a photodiode. The light emitting element is a semiconductor laser, specifically an LD (Laser Diode), and more specifically a VCSEL (Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting LASER).

[0028] Here, the term "circuit 470" is used. The communication cable 500 includes one or more circuits 470. The required current of the circuit 470 when the number of circuits 470 is one or the total required current of the plurality of circuits 470 when the number of circuits 470 is plural is, for example, 50 mA or more. In the example of FIG. 2, the communication cable 500 includes a plurality of circuits 470. Specifically, the plurality of circuits 470 includes the amplifier circuit 122 and the driver circuit 222.

[0029] In the embodiment, the cable part 300 is a hybrid cable including a plurality of types of cables. In the example of FIG. 1, the cable part 300 includes the electric wire 311, the electric wire 312, the communication lines 313, 314, 315, 316, and the electric wire 317. The electric wire 311 is thicker than the electric wire 312.

[0030] In the embodiment, the communication lines 313, 314, 315, and 316 are plastic optical fibers (POF). However, the communication lines 313, 314, 315, and 316 may be glass optical fibers (GOF).

[0031] As shown in FIG. 2, in the communication cable 500, an electric path 401, an electric path 402, an electric path 403, an electric path 404, and a communication path 450 are formed. The voltage applied to the electric path 401 is higher than the voltage applied to the electric path 402.

[0032] The electrical path 401 includes a pair of terminals 111 and 211 located on opposite sides of the electrical path 401, and an electric wire 311 located between the terminals 111 and 211. The terminal 111, the electric wire 311, and the terminal 211 are electrically connected in this order. The electrical path 401 is used to connect the plug 100 and the plug 200. Specifically, the electrical path 401 is used to connect the terminal 111 and the terminal 211.

[0033] The electrical path 401 is used for power transmission between the terminal 111 of the plug 100 and the terminal 211 of the plug 200. Specifically, the electrical path 401 is used for power transmission from the terminal 111 to the terminal 211. In the connected state, the electrical path 401 is used for power transmission from the power supply device 700 to the power receiving device 800. The power receiving device 800 operates with the power obtained by power transmission.

[0034] The electrical path 402 includes a terminal 212, an electric wire 312, and a diode 227. The terminal 212, the anode 227a, the cathode 227b, the electric wire 312, the electrical path 403, and the terminal 111 are connected in this order. The electrical path 402 is used to connect the terminal 112 and / or the terminal 212 and one or more circuits 470. In the example of FIG. 2, the electrical path 402 is used to connect the terminal 212 and one or more circuits 470. Also, the electrical path 402 is used to connect the electrical path 401 and one or more circuits 470.

[0035] The electrical path 402 is used to supply power from the terminal 112 and / or the terminal 212 to one or more circuits 470. Power supplied to one or more circuits 470 is input to the terminal 112 and / or the terminal 212. In the connected state, the electrical path 402 is used to supply power from the power supply device 700 and / or the power receiving device 800 to one or more circuits 470. In the example of FIG. 2, the electrical path 402 is used to supply power from the terminal 212 to one or more circuits 470. Power supplied to one or more circuits 470 is input to the terminal 212. In the connected state, the electrical path 402 is used to supply power from the power receiving device 800 to one or more circuits 470.

[0036] The electrical path 403 is used to connect the electrical path 401 and one or more circuits 470. Specifically, the electrical path 403 is used to connect the electrical path 401 and the electrical path 402. In the example of FIG. 2, the electrical path 403 is connected to the electrical path 401 at the position 481 and is connected to the electrical path 402 at the position 482. The electrical path 403 includes a DC-DC converter 125, a diode 126, and a regulator 128.

[0037] The electrical path 404 includes terminals 117 and 217 located on opposite sides of the electrical path 404, and a wire 317 located between the terminals 117 and 217. The terminal 117, the wire 317, and the terminal 217 are electrically connected in this order. The electrical path 404 is used to connect the terminal 117 of the plug 100 and the terminal 217 of the plug 200.

[0038] The communication path 450 is used to connect the terminal portions 113, 114, 115, and 116 of the plug 100 and the terminal portions 213, 214, 215, and 216 of the plug 200, respectively. The communication path 450 includes one or more circuits 470. The communication path 450 includes an amplifier circuit 122, a light receiving circuit 123, a driver circuit 222, and a light emitting circuit 223. The connector 210, the driver circuit 222, the light emitting circuit 223, the light receiving circuit 123, the amplifier circuit 122, and the connector 110 are connected in this order.

[0039] The communication path 450 is used for communication between the plug 100 and the plug 200. In the example of FIG. 2, the communication path 450 is used for communication from the plug 200 to the plug 100. In the connected state, the communication path 450 is used for communication between the power supply device 700 and the power receiving device 800. In the example of FIG. 1, the communication path 450 is used for communication from the power receiving device 800 to the power supply device 700. The communication borne by the communication path 450 is optical communication. The communication path 450 can be referred to as an optical communication path. For example, video is transmitted by the communication.

[0040] Power can be supplied from the electrical path 401 to one or more circuits 470. This configuration is suitable for making it difficult to receive constraints based on the power supply specifications of the devices connected to the communication cable 500 in supplying power to one or more circuits 470 in the communication cable 500. This will be described below.

[0041] In the configuration of FIG. 2, if the power receiving device 800 is connected to the terminal 212 and has a specification that it can input sufficient power to the terminal 212, then power can be supplied from the power receiving device 800 to one or more circuits 470 via the terminal 212. However, the power receiving device 800 does not necessarily have such a specification. There may be cases where the power that the power receiving device 800 can input to the terminal 212 is limited, or where the power receiving device 800 cannot input power to the terminal 212. Also, in the configuration of FIG. 5 described later, if the power supply device 700 is connected to the terminal 112 and has a specification that it can input sufficient power to the terminal 112, then power can be supplied from the power supply device 700 to one or more circuits 470 via the terminal 112. However, the power supply device 700 does not necessarily have such a specification. There may be cases where the power that the power supply device 700 can input to the terminal 112 is limited, or where the power supply device 700 cannot input power to the terminal 112. In this regard, according to the configuration capable of supplying power from the electrical path 401 to one or more circuits 470, even when it is difficult to supply power from the terminal 112 and / or the terminal 212 to one or more circuits 470, it is possible to supply power to one or more circuits 470. Therefore, this configuration is suitable for making it difficult to be restricted by the power supply specifications of the devices connected to the communication cable 500 in supplying power to one or more circuits 470 in the communication cable 500.

[0042] Specifically, the electrical path 401 and one or more circuits 470 are connected via the anode 126a, the cathode 126b, the DCDC converter 125, and the regulator 128 in this order. Power can be supplied from the electrical path 401 to one or more circuits 470 via the anode 126a, the cathode 126b, the DCDC converter 125, and the regulator 128 in this order.

[0043] Also, an electrical path 401 and an amplifier circuit 122 are connected via an anode 126a, a cathode 126b, a DCDC converter 125, and a regulator 121 in this order. Power can be supplied from the electrical path 401 to the amplifier circuit 122 via the anode 126a, the cathode 126b, the DCDC converter 125, and the regulator 121 in this order. The DCDC converter 125 converts a first voltage V1 input from the electrical path 401 into a second voltage V2 (specifically, steps it down) and outputs it to the electrical path 402. The regulator 121 converts the second voltage V2 obtained by the DCDC converter 125 into a third voltage V3 (specifically, steps it down) and outputs it to the amplifier circuit 122. Also, the electrical path 401 and a driver circuit 222 are connected via the anode 126a, the cathode 126b, the DCDC converter 125, and a regulator 221 in this order. Power can be supplied from the electrical path 401 to the driver circuit 222 via the anode 126a, the cathode 126b, the DCDC converter 125, and the regulator 221 in this order. The DCDC converter 125 converts the first voltage V1 input from the electrical path 401 into the second voltage V2 (specifically, steps it down) and outputs it to the electrical path 402. The regulator 221 converts the second voltage V2 obtained by the DCDC converter 125 into the third voltage V3 (specifically, steps it down) and outputs it to the driver circuit 222.

[0044] Power can be supplied from terminal 212 to one or more circuits 470. Specifically, terminal 212 and amplifier circuit 122 are connected via anode 227a, cathode 227b, and regulator 121 in this order. Power can be supplied from electrical path 401 to amplifier circuit 122 via anode 227a, cathode 227b, and regulator 121 in this order. Regulator 121 converts the second voltage V2 input from terminal 212 to a third voltage V3 (specifically, steps it down) and outputs it to amplifier circuit 122. Terminal 212 and driver circuit 222 are connected via anode 227a, cathode 227b, and regulator 221 in this order. Power can be supplied from electrical path 401 to driver circuit 222 via anode 227a, cathode 227b, and regulator 221 in this order. Regulator 221 converts the second voltage V2 input from terminal 212 to a third voltage V3 (specifically, steps it down) and outputs it to driver circuit 222.

[0045] Regulator 128 adjusts the magnitude of the power supplied from electrical path 401 to one or more circuits 470. Regulator 128 adjusts the ratio between the power supplied from electrical path 401 to one or more circuits 470 and the power supplied from electrical path 402 to one or more circuits 470 without using electrical path 401. Specifically, the power supplied from electrical path 402 to one or more circuits 470 without using electrical path 401 is the sum of the power supplied from terminal 112 to one or more circuits 470 and the power supplied from terminal 212 to one or more circuits 470. In the example of FIG. 2, the power supplied from electrical path 402 to one or more circuits 470 without using electrical path 401 is the power supplied from terminal 212 to one or more circuits 470.

[0046] For example, the regulator 128 executes the above adjustment based on a control signal supplied to the communication cable 500. The control signal is supplied from, for example, the power supply device 700 or the power receiving device 800. Also, for example, the regulator 128 executes the above adjustment based on at least one selected from the group consisting of the voltage of the electrical path 401 and the voltage of the electrical path 402. The voltage of the electrical path 401 and the voltage of the electrical path 402 can be detected by, for example, a voltage sensor. The regulator 128 is, for example, an IC.

[0047] As understood from the above description, the electrical path 402 includes at least one diode. In the example of FIG. 2, the at least one diode includes the diode 227.

[0048] In an embodiment, the voltage applied to the electrical path 401 is the first voltage V1. The voltage applied to the electrical path 402 is the second voltage V2. The voltage applied to the one or more circuits 470 is the third voltage V3. The second voltage V2 is lower than the first voltage V1. The third voltage V3 is lower than the second voltage V2. The DCDC converter 125 steps down the first voltage V1 to the second voltage V2. The regulators 121 and 221 step down the first voltage V1 to the second voltage V2. In a numerical example, the first voltage V1 is 21V. The second voltage V2 is 5V. The third voltage V3 is 3.3V. The first voltage V1, the second voltage V2, and the third voltage V3 may be fixed values. They may also be variable values.

[0049] The communication path 450 includes N communication channels. In the example of FIG. 2, the N communication channels are four communication channels: the communication channel 450a, the communication channel 450b, the communication channel 450c, and the communication channel 450d.

[0050] Communication path 450a includes terminal portions 113 and 213 located on opposite sides of communication path 450a. Further, communication path 450a includes driver 222a, light emitting element 223a, communication line 313, light receiving element 123a, and amplifier 122a. In communication path 450a, terminal portion 213, driver 222a, light emitting element 223a, communication line 313, light receiving element 123a, amplifier 122a, and terminal portion 113 are arranged in this order.

[0051] In communication path 450a, a signal having information is communicated between the Tx1+ terminal and Tx1- terminal of terminal portion 213 and the Rx1+ terminal and Rx1- terminal of terminal portion 113. Specifically, in this information communication, the Tx1+ terminal and Tx1- terminal of terminal portion 213 are terminals for transmitting a differential signal, and the Rx1+ terminal and Rx1- terminal of terminal portion 113 are terminals for receiving a differential signal.

[0052] Communication path 450b includes terminal portions 114 and 214 located on opposite sides of communication path 450b. Further, communication path 450b includes driver 222b, light emitting element 223b, communication line 314, light receiving element 123b, and amplifier 122b. In communication path 450b, terminal portion 214, driver 222b, light emitting element 223b, communication line 314, light receiving element 123b, amplifier 122b, and terminal portion 114 are arranged in this order.

[0053] In communication path 450b, a signal having information is communicated between the Tx2+ terminal and Tx2- terminal of terminal portion 214 and the Rx2+ terminal and Rx2- terminal of terminal portion 114. Specifically, in this information communication, the Tx2+ terminal and Tx2- terminal of terminal portion 214 are terminals for transmitting a differential signal, and the Rx2+ terminal and Rx2- terminal of terminal portion 114 are terminals for receiving a differential signal.

[0054] Communication path 450c includes terminal portions 115 and 215 located on opposite sides in communication path 450c. Further, communication path 450c includes driver 222c, light-emitting element 223c, communication line 315, light-receiving element 123c, and amplifier 122c. In communication path 450c, terminal portion 215, driver 222c, light-emitting element 223c, communication line 315, light-receiving element 123c, amplifier 122c, and terminal portion 115 are arranged in this order.

[0055] In communication path 450c, a signal having information is communicated between the Tx1+ terminal and Tx1- terminal of terminal portion 115 and the Rx1+ terminal and Rx1- terminal of terminal portion 215. Specifically, in this information communication, the Tx1+ terminal and Tx1- terminal of terminal portion 115 are terminals for receiving a differential signal, and the Rx1+ terminal and Rx1- terminal of terminal portion 215 are terminals for transmitting a differential signal.

[0056] Communication path 450d includes terminal portions 116 and 216 located on opposite sides in communication path 450d. Further, communication path 450d includes driver 222d, light-emitting element 223d, communication line 316, light-receiving element 123d, and amplifier 122d. In communication path 450d, terminal portion 216, driver 222d, light-emitting element 223d, communication line 316, light-receiving element 123d, amplifier 122d, and terminal portion 116 are arranged in this order.

[0057] In communication path 450d, a signal having information is communicated between the Tx2+ terminal and Tx2- terminal of terminal portion 116 and the Rx2+ terminal and Rx2- terminal of terminal portion 216. Specifically, in this information communication, the Tx2+ terminal and Tx2- terminal of terminal portion 116 are terminals for receiving a differential signal, and the Rx2+ terminal and Rx2- terminal of terminal portion 216 are terminals for transmitting a differential signal.

[0058] A signal having information is communicated in the N communication paths of communication path 450. Thereby, a signal having information is communicated from the power receiving device 800 to the power supply device 700.

[0059] In the above information communication, the driver circuit 222 supplies an input having information to the light-emitting circuit 223. The input is specifically N current signals. The amplifier circuit 122 amplifies an output having information from the light-receiving circuit 123. The output is specifically N current signals.

[0060] In the example of FIG. 2, the terminal 112 is not included in the electrical path 402. The terminal 112 is terminated by the resistor 751 and the ground portion 752.

[0061] With reference to FIGS. 3 to 5, a communication system according to a modified example will be described. In the description of the modified example, elements common to the embodiment may be denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof may be omitted. The descriptions regarding the embodiment and the modified example may be mutually applied as long as they are not technically contradictory. As long as they are not technically contradictory, the embodiment and the modified example may be combined with each other.

[0062] FIG. 3 is a circuit diagram of a communication cable 500 according to a first modified example. In the first modified example, the terminal 212 is not included in the electrical path 402. The terminal 212 is terminated by the resistor 851 and the ground portion 852.

[0063] In the first modified example, power is not supplied from the terminal 112 or the terminal 212 to one or more circuits 470. Power supply to one or more circuits 470 is performed via the electrical path 401 and the electrical path 402.

[0064] FIG. 4 is a circuit diagram of a communication cable 500 according to a second modified example. In the second modified example, the module 120 includes a diode 127. The diode 127 includes an anode 127a and a cathode 127b. The electrical path 402 includes the terminal 112 and the diode 127. The terminal 212, the anode 227a, the cathode 227b, the electric wire 312, the cathode 127b, the anode 127a, and the terminal 112 are connected in this order. The electrical path 402 can be used to connect the terminal 212 and the terminal 112 to one or more circuits 470.

[0065] In the second modification example, the electrical path 402 can be used to supply power from the terminal 212 and the terminal 112 to one or more circuits 470. In the connected state, the electrical path 402 can be used to supply power from the power receiving device 800 and the power supply device 700 to one or more circuits 470.

[0066] In the second modification example, it is possible to supply power from the terminal 212 to one or more circuits 470. In the second modification example, it is further possible to supply power from the terminal 112 to one or more circuits 470. Specifically, the terminal 112 and the amplifier circuit 122 are connected via the anode 127a, the cathode 127b, and the regulator 121 in this order. The regulator 121 converts the second voltage V2 input from the terminal 112 into the third voltage V3 (specifically, steps it down) and outputs it to the amplifier circuit 122. The terminal 112 and the driver circuit 222 are connected via the anode 127a, the cathode 127b, and the regulator 221 in this order. The regulator 221 converts the second voltage V2 input from the terminal 112 into the third voltage V3 (specifically, steps it down) and outputs it to the driver circuit 222.

[0067] In the second modification example, the power supplied from the electrical path 402 to one or more circuits 470 without using the electrical path 401 is the sum of the power supplied from the terminal 112 to one or more circuits 470 and the power supplied from the terminal 212 to one or more circuits 470. At least one diode included in the electrical path 402 includes the diode 127 and the diode 227.

[0068] FIG. 5 is a circuit diagram of a communication cable 500 according to a third modification example. The third modification example is a modification of the second modification example. In the third modification example, similar to the first modification example, the terminal 212 is not included in the electrical path 402. The terminal 212 is terminated by the resistor 851 and the ground portion 852.

[0069] In the third modification example, the power supplied from the electrical path 402 to one or more circuits 470 without using the electrical path 401 is the power supplied from the terminal 112 to one or more circuits 470. At least one diode included in the electrical path 402 includes the diode 127.

[0070] As can be understood from FIGS. 2 to 5, a configuration capable of supplying power from the terminal 111 to one or more circuits 470 can be realized. A configuration capable of supplying power from the terminal 112 and / or the terminal 212 to one or more circuits 470 can be realized. Specifically, in the configurations of FIGS. 2 and 4, power can be supplied from the terminal 212 to one or more circuits 470. In the configurations of FIGS. 4 and 5, power can be supplied from the terminal 112 to one or more circuits 470.

[0071] Also, as can be understood from FIGS. 2 to 5, a configuration capable of supplying power from the terminal 111 to the first at least one circuit can be realized. A configuration capable of supplying power from the terminal 111 to the second at least one circuit can be realized. As can be understood from FIGS. 4 and 5, a configuration capable of supplying power from the terminal 112 to the first at least one circuit can be realized. As can be understood from FIGS. 4 and 5, a configuration capable of supplying power from the terminal 112 to the second at least one circuit can be realized. As can be understood from FIGS. 2 and 4, a configuration capable of supplying power from the terminal 212 to the first at least one circuit can be realized. As can be understood from FIGS. 2 and 4, a configuration capable of supplying power from the terminal 212 to the second at least one circuit can be realized. The first at least one circuit is included in the plug 100 among one or more circuits 470. The first at least one circuit may include the amplifier circuit 122. The second at least one circuit is included in the plug 200 among one or more circuits 470. The second at least one circuit may include the driver circuit 222.

[0072] Hereinafter, power supply to the communication cable 500 will be further described.

[0073] In the first example, the power supply device 700 has a specification of being connected to the terminal 111 of the electrical path 401 to apply a voltage. Neither the power supply device 700 nor the power receiving device 800 has a specification of being connected to the terminal 112 of the electrical path 402 to apply a voltage, nor a specification of being connected to the terminal 212 of the electrical path 402 to apply a voltage. The power supply device 700 supplies power to one or more circuits 470 via the terminal 111 of the electrical path 401.

[0074] In the second example, the power supply device 700 has a specification of being connected to the terminal 111 of the electrical path 401 to apply a voltage. The power supply device 700 has a specification of being connected to the terminal 112 of the electrical path 402 to apply a voltage, and / or the power receiving device 800 has a specification of being connected to the terminal 212 of the electrical path 402 to apply a voltage. The communication system 900 determines whether to perform the second power supply without performing the first power supply, perform the first power supply without performing the second power supply, or perform the second power supply while performing the first power supply. Specifically, this determination is made by the power supply device 700 or the power receiving device 800. In the first power supply, the power supply device 700 supplies power to one or more circuits 470 via the terminal 111 of the electrical path 401. In the second power supply, the power supply device 700 supplies power to one or more circuits 470 via the terminal 112, and / or the power receiving device 800 supplies power to one or more circuits 470 via the terminal 212.

[0075] In a specific example of the second example, based on the information possessed by the power supply device 700, the ratio between the power supplied to one or more circuits 470 by the first power supply (hereinafter referred to as the first supply power) and the power supplied to one or more circuits 470 by the second power supply (hereinafter referred to as the second supply power) is changed. The information possessed by the power supply device 700 includes at least one selected from the group consisting of, for example, information on the voltage of the communication cable 500, information on the required current of the power receiving device 800, and information on the rated output current of the power supply device 700. For example, when the required current of the power receiving device 800 is excessively large with respect to the power supply capacity of the power supply device 700, if the power supply device 700 tries to unreasonably supply the required current, the output voltage of the power supply device 700 may unintentionally decrease. Therefore, in this case, in order to stabilize the power supply from the power supply device 700 to the power receiving device 800 via the electrical path 401, the voltage applied from the power supply device 700 to the electrical path 401 is decreased under the control of the power supply device 700. In this case, it is conceivable to supply the required power of one or more circuits 470 by increasing the ratio of the second supply power to the total of the first supply power and the second supply power. As can be understood from this explanation, the larger the required current of the power receiving device 800, the more possible it is to increase the ratio of the second supply power to the total of the first supply power and the second supply power. In this specific example, the ratio may be changed so that the first supply power and the second supply power are non-zero. The ratio may be changed so that the first supply power is zero and the second supply power is non-zero. The ratio may be changed so that the first supply power is non-zero and the second supply power is zero.

[0076] In a specific example of the second example, in response to a voltage drop in the electrical path 402 during the execution of the second power supply, the second power supply is stopped and the first power supply is started. This configuration is advantageous from the viewpoint of stabilizing the power supply to one or more circuits 470. The behavior according to this specific example occurs, for example, as follows. That is, when the supplyable current by the second power supply is insufficient with respect to the required current of one or more circuits 470, the voltage of the electrical path 402 unintentionally decreases. In response to this voltage drop, the second power supply is stopped and the first power supply is started. By doing so, it is easy to avoid a situation where the power supply to one or more circuits 470 becomes unstable due to the continuation of the second power supply.

[0077] In a specific example of the second example, when the required current of the power receiving device 800 is greater than the threshold value, the second power supply is executed without executing the first power supply. The threshold value is set to a sufficiently low value so that, for example, power supply from the power supply device 700 to the power receiving device 800 via the electrical path 401 is not hindered due to power supply from the electrical path 401 to one or a plurality of circuits 470.

[0078] Regarding the configuration examples described above with reference to FIGS. 2 to 5, various modifications can be applied.

[0079] For example, in the configuration example described above, the electrical path 403 is provided in the module 120, but the electrical path 403 may be provided in the module 220. Specifically, in the configuration example described above, the DC-DC converter 125, the diode 126, the regulator 128, etc. are provided in the module 120, but the DC-DC converter 125, the diode 126, the regulator 128, etc. may be provided in the module 220. Also, the regulator 128 may not be provided.

[0080] Also, for example, in the configuration example described above, in the module 120, an electrical circuit and an optical circuit are configured using the optoelectronic hybrid substrate 129. In the module 220, an electrical circuit and an optical circuit are configured using the optoelectronic hybrid substrate 229. However, in the module 120 and / or 220, the electrical circuit and the optical circuit may be configured without using the optoelectronic hybrid substrate.

[0081] In a modified example, the electrical circuit and the optical circuit are configured using a lens without using the optoelectronic hybrid substrate. Specifically, a first lens portion is provided in the module 120, and a second lens portion is provided in the module 220. The configuration of the modified example can be referred to as a lens type configuration.

[0082] The second lens unit includes N second lenses. The N light-emitting elements in the light-emitting circuit 223 and the N second lenses in the second lens unit are paired one-to-one. Also, the N second lenses in the second lens unit and the N communication paths in the communication path 450 of the cable unit 300 are paired one-to-one. The light emitted by each light-emitting element is input into the communication path associated with the second lens through the second lens associated with the light-emitting element. The second lens unit acts to enhance the coupling between the light-emitting circuit 223 and the cable unit 300.

[0083] The first lens unit includes N first lenses. The N communication paths in the communication path 450 of the cable unit 300 and the N first lenses in the first lens unit are paired one-to-one. Also, the N first lenses in the first lens unit and the N light-receiving elements in the light-receiving circuit 123 are paired one-to-one. The light propagating through each communication path is input into the light-receiving element associated with the first lens through the first lens associated with the communication path. The first lens unit acts to enhance the coupling between the cable unit 300 and the light-receiving circuit 123.

[0084] (Appendix) The following technologies are disclosed according to the present disclosure.

[0085] (Technology 1) A first plug, A second plug, One or more circuits, including a first terminal located at the first plug and a second terminal located at the second plug, and a first electrical path used for power transmission between the first terminal and the second terminal. Power can be supplied from the first electrical path to the one or more circuits. A communication cable.

[0086] Technology 1 is suitable for making it difficult to be restricted by the power supply specifications of the devices connected to the communication cable in power supply to the circuits in the communication cable.

[0087] (Technology 2) The communication cable includes a DC-DC converter, and is capable of supplying power from the first electrical path to the one or more circuits via the DC-DC converter. The communication cable according to Technology 1.

[0088] According to the DC-DC converter of Technology 2, it is easy to generate a voltage to be applied to one or more circuits based on the voltage of the first electrical path.

[0089] (Technology 3) The communication cable includes a first diode including a first anode and a first cathode, and is capable of supplying power from the first electrical path to the one or more circuits via the first anode, the first cathode, and the DC-DC converter in this order. The communication cable according to Technology 2.

[0090] According to Technology 3, current can flow through the diode and the DC-DC converter in this order. In this way, compared with the case where current flows through the DC-DC converter and the diode in this order, it is easy to suppress power consumption and heat generation due to the voltage drop of the diode.

[0091] (Technology 4) The communication cable includes a light-emitting circuit, the one or more circuits include a driver circuit, and the driver circuit supplies an input to the light-emitting circuit. The communication cable according to any one of Technologies 1 to 3.

[0092] Technology 4 is suitable for making it difficult to receive restrictions based on the power supply specifications of the device connected to the communication cable in power supply to the driver circuit in the communication cable.

[0093] (Technology 5) The communication cable includes a light-receiving circuit, the one or more circuits include an amplifier circuit, The amplification circuit amplifies the output from the light receiving circuit. The communication cable according to any one of Technologies 1 to 4.

[0094] Technology 5 is suitable for making it difficult to receive restrictions based on the power supply specifications of the device connected to the communication cable when powering the amplification circuit in the communication cable.

[0095] (Technology 6) The communication cable includes a second electrical path including a terminal to which power supplied to the one or more circuits is input. The communication cable according to any one of Technologies 1 to 5.

[0096] The second electrical path of Technology 6 includes a terminal to which power supplied to one or more circuits is input. If a device capable of supplying sufficient power to the terminal is connected to the terminal, power can be supplied from the terminal to the one or more circuits to operate the one or more circuits.

[0097] (Technology 7) It includes a regulator that adjusts the ratio between the power supplied from the first electrical path to the one or more circuits and the power supplied from the second electrical path to the one or more circuits without using the first electrical path. The communication cable according to Technology 6.

[0098] According to Technology 7, the degree of freedom in power supply to one or more circuits can be improved.

[0099] (Technology 8) The regulator executes the adjustment based on a control signal supplied to the communication cable. The communication cable according to Technology 7.

[0100] According to Technology 8, the ratio of Technology 7 can be controlled from outside the communication cable.

[0101] (Technology 9) The regulator executes the adjustment based on at least one selected from the group consisting of the voltage of the first electrical path and the voltage of the second electrical path. The communication cable according to Technique 7 or 8.

[0102] According to Technique 9, the ratio of Technique 7 can be adjusted according to the voltage of the first electrical path and / or the second electrical path.

[0103] (Technique 10) In a state where a power supply device is connected to the first plug and a power receiving device is connected to the second plug, the first electrical path is used for power transmission from the power supply device to the power receiving device. The communication cable according to any one of Techniques 1 to 9.

[0104] According to Technique 10, power transmission from a power supply device to a power receiving device is possible.

[0105] (Technique 11) A power supply method for the communication cable according to Technique 10, The communication cable includes a second electrical path including a terminal to which power supplied to the one or more circuits is input. The power supply device has a specification of being connected to the first terminal and applying a voltage. Neither the power supply device nor the power receiving device has a specification of being connected to the terminal of the second electrical path and applying a voltage. The power supply method includes the power supply device supplying power to the one or more circuits via the first terminal. Power supply method.

[0106] According to Technique 11, even when neither the power supply device nor the power receiving device has a specification of being connected to the terminal of the second electrical path and applying a voltage, power can be supplied to one or more circuits.

[0107] (Technique 12) A power supply method for the communication cable according to Technique 10, The communication cable includes a second electrical path including a third terminal and / or a fourth terminal to which power supplied to the one or more circuits is input. The power supply device has a specification of being connected to the first terminal and applying a voltage. The power supply device has a specification of being connected to the third terminal and applying a voltage, and / or the power receiving device has a specification of being connected to the fourth terminal and applying a voltage. The power supply method includes determining whether to perform the second power supply without performing the first power supply, perform the first power supply without performing the second power supply, or perform the second power supply while performing the first power supply. In the first power supply, the power supply device supplies power to the one or more circuits via the first terminal. In the second power supply, the power supply device supplies power to the one or more circuits via the third terminal, and / or the power receiving device supplies power to the one or more circuits via the fourth terminal. Power supply method.

[0108] According to Technique 12, the degree of freedom of power supply to one or more circuits can be improved.

[0109] (Technique 13) Including changing the ratio between the power supplied to the one or more circuits by the first power supply and the power supplied to the one or more circuits by the second power supply based on the information possessed by the power supply device. The power supply method according to Technique 12.

[0110] According to Technique 13, adjustment of the ratio according to information is possible.

[0111] (Technique 14) Including stopping the second power supply and starting the first power supply in response to a voltage drop in the second electrical path during the execution of the second power supply. The power supply method according to Technique 12 or 13.

[0112] Technique 14 is advantageous from the viewpoint of stabilizing power supply to one or more circuits.

[0113] (Technique 15) When the required current of the power receiving device is greater than a threshold value, executing the second power supply without executing the first power supply, The power supply method according to any one of Techniques 12 to 14.

[0114] Technique 15 is advantageous from the viewpoint of avoiding an obstacle to current supply from a power supply device to a power receiving device via a first electrical path.

[0115] (Technique 16) The determination is made by the power supply device or the power receiving device, The power supply method according to any one of Techniques 12 to 15.

[0116] According to Technique 16, the determination of Technique 12 can be controlled from outside the communication cable.

[0117] (Technique 17) When executed by a computer, having an instruction to cause the computer to execute the power supply method according to any one of Techniques 11 to 16, A computer program.

[0118] (Technique 18) Mounted on the power supply device or the power receiving device, The computer program according to Technique 17.

[0119] (Technique 19) In which the computer program according to Technique 17 or 18 is recorded, A computer-readable non-transitory recording medium.

[0120] The recording medium of Technology 19 is, for example, a semiconductor recording medium, a magnetic recording medium, a magneto-optical recording medium, an optical recording medium, etc. The semiconductor recording medium is, for example, an SD (Secure Digital) card, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory, an SSD (Solid State Drive), etc. The magnetic recording medium is, for example, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), a flexible disk, etc. The magneto-optical recording medium is, for example, an MO (Magneto Optical Disk), etc. The optical recording medium is, for example, a CD (Compact Disc), a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), etc.

[0121] (Technology 20) The communication cable described in Technology 10, the power supply device, the power receiving device, and a communication system comprising: The communication cable includes a second electrical path including a terminal to which power supplied to the one or more circuits is input. In a state where the power supply device is connected to the first plug and the power receiving device is connected to the second plug, The first electrical path is used for power transmission from the power supply device to the power receiving device. The power supply device has a specification of being connected to the first terminal and applying a voltage. Neither the power supply device nor the power receiving device has a specification of being connected to the terminal of the second electrical path and applying a voltage. The power supply device supplies power to the one or more circuits via the first terminal. Communication system.

[0122] According to Technology 20, even when neither the power supply device nor the power receiving device has a specification of being connected to the terminal of the second electrical path and applying a voltage, power can be supplied to one or more circuits.

[0123] (Technology 21) The communication cable described in Technology 10, the power supply device, A communication system including the power receiving device The communication cable includes a second electrical path including a third terminal and / or a fourth terminal to which power supplied to the one or more circuits is input. In a state where a power supply device is connected to the first plug and a power receiving device is connected to the second plug The first electrical path is used for power transmission from the power supply device to the power receiving device. The power supply device has a specification of being connected to the first terminal and applying a voltage. The power supply device has a specification of being connected to the third terminal and applying a voltage, and / or the power receiving device has a specification of being connected to the fourth terminal and applying a voltage. The communication system determines whether to perform the second power supply without performing the first power supply, perform the first power supply without performing the second power supply, or perform the second power supply while performing the first power supply. In the first power supply, the power supply device supplies power to the one or more circuits via the first terminal. In the second power supply, the power supply device supplies power to the one or more circuits via the third terminal, and / or the power receiving device supplies power to the one or more circuits via the fourth terminal. Communication system

[0124] According to Technique 21, the degree of freedom in power supply to one or more circuits can be improved.

[0125] (Technique 22) A first plug A second plug One or more circuits A first electrical path including a first terminal located on the first plug and a second terminal located on the second plug, the first terminal and the second terminal being electrically connected to each other And a specific electrical path used to connect the first electrical path and the one or more circuits Communication cable

[0126] Technique 22 is suitable for making it difficult to receive constraints based on the power supply specifications of devices connected to the communication cable when powering the circuits in the communication cable.

[0127] (Technique 23) The communication cable includes a second electrical path including terminals connected to the one or more circuits. The communication cable according to Technique 22.

[0128] The second electrical path of Technique 23 includes terminals connected to one or more circuits. If a device capable of supplying sufficient power to the terminal is connected to the terminal, power can be supplied from the terminal to the one or more circuits to operate the one or more circuits.

[0129] (Technique 24) The specific electrical path is used to connect the first electrical path and the second electrical path. The communication cable according to Technique 23.

[0130] According to the specific electrical path of Technique 24, power can flow from the first electrical path to the second electrical path.

[0131] (Technique 25) The second electrical path includes at least one diode. The communication cable according to Technique 23 or 24.

[0132] According to at least one diode of Technique 25, it is possible to avoid the flow of current in an unintended direction in the second electrical path.

[0133] (Technique 26) The first electrical path includes a first electric wire. The second electrical path includes a second electric wire. The first electric wire is thicker than the second electric wire. The communication cable according to any one of Techniques 23 to 25.

[0134] The fact that the first electric wire is thick is advantageous from the viewpoint of avoiding a large current flowing through the first electric wire and damaging the first electric wire. For this reason, Technique 26 is suitable for power transmission.

[0135] (Technique 27) The voltage applied to the first electrical path is higher than the voltage applied to the second electrical path. The communication cable according to any one of Techniques 23 to 26.

[0136] In Technique 27, a high voltage is applied to the first electrical path. This is advantageous from the viewpoint of ensuring the power transmission capacity of the first electrical path.

[0137] (Technique 28) A first USB plug, A second USB plug, One or more circuits, A cable part connecting the first USB plug and the second USB plug, and Power can be supplied from the Vbus terminal of the first USB plug to the one or more circuits. Communication cable.

[0138] Technique 28 is suitable for making it difficult for the communication cable to be restricted based on the power supply specifications of the device connected to the communication cable in power supply to the circuits in the communication cable.

[0139] (Technique 29) Power can be supplied from at least one Vconn terminal selected from the group consisting of the first USB plug and the second USB plug to the one or more circuits. The communication cable according to Technique 28.

[0140] If a device capable of supplying sufficient power to the Vconn terminal of Technique 29 is connected to the Vconn terminal, power can be supplied from the terminal to the one or more circuits to operate the one or more circuits.

[0141] (Technique 30) A USB plug for being incorporated into a communication cable, a Vbus terminal, and at least one first circuit, and is capable of supplying power from the Vbus terminal to the at least one first circuit. The USB plug.

[0142] Technology 30 is suitable for making it difficult to receive restrictions based on the power supply specifications of a device connected to the communication cable in power supply to a circuit in the communication cable.

[0143] (Technology 31) A Vconn terminal is provided, and power can be supplied from the Vconn terminal to the at least one first circuit. The USB plug according to Technology 30.

[0144] If a device capable of supplying sufficient power to the Vconn terminal of Technology 31 is connected to the terminal, power can be supplied from the terminal to at least one first circuit to operate at least one first circuit.

[0145] Unless there is a particular contradiction, Technologies 1 to 31 can be combined as appropriate. For example, the technology of the communication cable from Technology 22 to Technology 29 can be combined with the technology of the power supply method from Technology 11 to Technology 16. The technology of the communication cable from Technology 22 to Technology 29 can be combined with the technology of the computer program of Technology 17 and 18. The technology of the communication cable from Technology 22 to Technology 29 can be combined with the technology of the recording medium of Technology 19. The technology of the communication cable from Technology 22 to Technology 29 can be combined with the technology of the power supply system of Technology 20 and Technology 21.

Industrial Applicability

[0146] The technology according to the present invention can be used for an active optical cable or the like.

Explanation of Signs

[0147] ​​100 and 200 plugs 110 and 210 connectors 111, 112, 117, 211, 212, and 217 terminals 113, 114, 115, 116, 213, 214, 215, and 216 terminal parts (- terminals and + terminals) 120 and 220 modules 121 and 221 regulators 122 amplifier circuit 122a, 122b, 122c, and 122d amplifiers 123 light receiving circuit 123a, 123b, 123c, and 123d light receiving elements 125 DC - DC converter 126, 127, and 227 diodes 126a, 127a, and 227a anodes 126b, 127b, and 227b cathodes 128 regulator 129 and 229 optoelectronic hybrid substrates 222 driver circuit 222a, 222b, 222c, and 222d drivers 223 light emitting circuit 223a, 223b, 223c, and 223d light emitting elements 300 cable part 311, 312, and 317 electric wires 313, 314, 315, and 316 communication lines 401, 402, 403, and 404 electrical paths 450 communication path 450a, 450b, 450c, and 450d communication channels 470 circuit 481 and 482 connection positions 500 communication cable 700 power supply equipment 751 and 851 resistors 752 and 852 grounding parts 800 power receiving equipment 900 communication system Sa1, Sb1, Sc1, Sd1, Sa5, Sb5, Sc5, and Sd5 differential voltage signals Sa2, Sb2, Sc2, Sd2, Sa4, Sb4, Sc4, Sd4 current signals Sa3, Sb3, Sc3, Sd3 optical signals V1, V2, V3 voltages

Claims

1. A first plug, a second plug, one or more circuits, a first terminal located on the first plug and a second terminal located on the second plug, and a first electrical path used for power transmission between the first terminal and the second terminal, capable of supplying power from the first electrical path to the one or more circuits, a communication cable.

2. The communication cable includes a DC-DC converter, capable of supplying power from the first electrical path to the one or more circuits via the DC-DC converter, The communication cable according to claim 1.

3. The communication cable includes a first diode including a first anode and a first cathode, capable of supplying power from the first electrical path to the one or more circuits via the first anode, the first cathode, and the DC-DC converter in this order, The communication cable according to claim 2.

4. The communication cable includes a light-emitting circuit, the one or more circuits include a driver circuit, the driver circuit supplies an input to the light-emitting circuit, The communication cable according to claim 1.

5. The communication cable includes a light-receiving circuit, the one or more circuits include an amplifier circuit, the amplifier circuit amplifies the output from the light-receiving circuit, The communication cable according to claim 1.

6. The communication cable includes a second electrical path including a terminal to which the power supplied to the one or more circuits is input, The communication cable according to claim 1.

7. The communication cable includes a regulator that adjusts the ratio between the power supplied from the first electrical path to the one or more circuits and the power supplied from the second electrical path to the one or more circuits without using the first electrical path, The communication cable according to claim 6.

8. The regulator executes the adjustment based on a control signal supplied to the communication cable, The communication cable according to claim 7.

9. The regulator executes the adjustment based on at least one selected from the group consisting of the voltage of the first electrical path and the voltage of the second electrical path, The communication cable according to claim 7.

10. In a state where a power supply device is connected to the first plug and a power receiving device is connected to the second plug, the first electrical path is used for power transmission from the power supply device to the power receiving device, The communication cable according to claim 1.

11. A power supply method for a communication cable according to claim 10, wherein the communication cable includes a second electrical path including a terminal to which power supplied to the one or more circuits is input; the power supply device is connected to the first terminal and has a specification to apply a voltage; neither the power supply device nor the power receiving device is connected to the terminal of the second electrical path and has a specification to apply a voltage; the power supply method includes power supply from the power supply device to the one or more circuits via the first terminal; Power supply method.

12. A power supply method for a communication cable according to claim 10, wherein the communication cable includes a second electrical path including a third terminal and / or a fourth terminal to which power supplied to the one or more circuits is input; the power supply device is connected to the first terminal and has a specification to apply a voltage; the power supply device is connected to the third terminal and has a specification to apply a voltage, and / or the power receiving device is connected to the fourth terminal and has a specification to apply a voltage; the power supply method includes determining whether to perform a second power supply without performing a first power supply, perform the first power supply without performing the second power supply, or perform the second power supply while performing the first power supply; in the first power supply, the power supply device supplies power to the one or more circuits via the first terminal; in the second power supply, the power supply device supplies power to the one or more circuits via the third terminal, and / or the power receiving device supplies power to the one or more circuits via the fourth terminal; Power supply method.

13. changing a ratio between power supplied to the one or more circuits by the first power supply and power supplied to the one or more circuits by the second power supply based on information possessed by the power supply device; The power supply method according to claim 12.

14. including stopping the second power supply and starting the first power supply in response to a voltage drop in the second electrical path during execution of the second power supply; The power supply method according to claim 12.

15. including performing the second power supply without performing the first power supply when a required current of the power receiving device is greater than a threshold value; The power supply method according to claim 12.

16. the determination is made by the power supply device or the power receiving device; The power supply method according to claim 12.

17. A computer program comprising an instruction to cause a computer to execute, during execution by the computer, the power supply method according to any one of claims 11 to 16. Computer program. **Claim 18** The computer program according to claim 17, which is mounted on the power supply device or the power receiving device. **Claim 19** A computer-readable non-transitory recording medium on which the computer program according to claim 17 is recorded. **Claim 20** A communication system comprising the communication cable according to claim 10, the power supply device, and the power receiving device, wherein the communication cable includes a second electrical path including a terminal to which power supplied to the one or more circuits is input, in a state where the power supply device is connected to the first plug and the power receiving device is connected to the second plug, the first electrical path is used for power transmission from the power supply device to the power receiving device, the power supply device has a specification of being connected to the first terminal and applying a voltage, neither the power supply device nor the power receiving device has a specification of being connected to the terminal of the second electrical path and applying a voltage, and the power supply device supplies power to the one or more circuits via the first terminal. **Claim 21** A communication system comprising the communication cable according to claim 10, the power supply device, and the power receiving device, wherein the communication cable includes a second electrical path including a third terminal and / or a fourth terminal to which power supplied to the one or more circuits is input, in a state where the power supply device is connected to the first plug and the power receiving device is connected to the second plug, the first electrical path is used for power transmission from the power supply device to the power receiving device, the power supply device has a specification of being connected to the first terminal and applying a voltage, the power supply device has a specification of being connected to the third terminal and applying a voltage, and / or the power receiving device has a specification of being connected to the fourth terminal and applying a voltage, the communication system determines whether to execute a second power supply without executing a first power supply, execute the first power supply without executing the second power supply, or execute the second power supply while executing the first power supply, and in the first power supply, the power supply device supplies power to the one or more circuits via the first terminal. **Claim 22** A communication system comprising the communication cable according to claim 10, the power supply device, and the power receiving device, wherein the communication cable includes a second electrical path including a third terminal and / or a fourth terminal to which power supplied to the one or more circuits is input, in a state where the power supply device is connected to the first plug and the power receiving device is connected to the second plug, the first electrical path is used for power transmission from the power supply device to the power receiving device, the power supply device has a specification of being connected to the first terminal and applying a voltage, the power supply device has a specification of being connected to the third terminal and applying a voltage, and / or the power receiving device has a specification of being connected to the fourth terminal and applying a voltage, the communication system determines whether to execute a second power supply without executing a first power supply, execute the first power supply without executing the second power supply, or execute the second power supply while executing the first power supply, and in the first power supply, the power supply device supplies power to the one or more circuits via the first terminal. **Claim 23** A communication system comprising the communication cable according to claim 10, the power supply device, and the power receiving device, wherein the communication cable includes a second electrical path including a third terminal and / or a fourth terminal to which power supplied to the one or more circuits is input, in a state where the power supply device is connected to the first plug and the power receiving device is connected to the second plug, the first electrical path is used for power transmission from the power supply device to the power receiving device, the power supply device has a specification of being connected to the first terminal and applying a voltage, the power supply device has a specification of being connected to the third terminal and applying a voltage, and / or the power receiving device has a specification of being connected to the fourth terminal and applying a voltage, the communication system determines whether to execute a second power supply without executing a first power supply, execute the first power supply without executing the second power supply, or execute the second power supply while executing the first power supply, and in the first power supply, the power supply device supplies power to the one or more circuits via the first terminal. **Claim 24** A communication system comprising the communication cable according to claim 10, the power supply device, and the power receiving device, wherein the communication cable includes a second electrical path including a third terminal and / or a fourth terminal to which power supplied to the one or more circuits is input, in a state where the power supply device is connected to the first plug and the power receiving device is connected to the second plug, the first electrical path is used for power transmission from the power supply device to the power receiving device, the power supply device has a specification of being connected to the first terminal and applying a voltage, the power supply device has a specification of being connected to the third terminal and applying a voltage, and / or the power receiving device has a specification of being connected to the fourth terminal and applying a voltage, the communication system determines whether to execute a second power supply without executing a first power supply, execute the first power supply without executing the second power supply, or execute the second power supply while executing the first power supply, and in the first power supply, the power supply device supplies power to the one or more circuits via the first terminal. **Claim 25** A communication system comprising the communication cable according to claim 10, the power supply device, and the power receiving device, wherein the communication cable includes a second electrical path including a third terminal and / or a fourth terminal to which power supplied to the one or more circuits is input, in a state where the power supply device is connected to the first plug and the power receiving device is connected to the second plug, the first electrical path is used for power transmission from the power supply device to the power receiving device, the power supply device has a specification of being connected to the first terminal and applying a voltage, the power supply device has a specification of being connected to the third terminal and applying a voltage, and / or the power receiving device has a specification of being connected to the fourth terminal and applying a voltage, the communication system determines whether to execute a second power supply without executing a first power supply, execute the first power supply without executing the second power supply, or execute the second power supply while executing the first power supply, and in the first power supply, the power supply device supplies power to the one or more circuits via the first terminal. **Claim 26** **Claim 27** **Claim 28** **Claim 29** **Claim 30** **Claim 31** **Claim 32** **Claim 33** **Claim 34** **Claim 35** **Claim 36** **Claim 37** In the second power supply, the power supply device supplies power to the one or more circuits via the third terminal, and / or the power receiving device supplies power to the one or more circuits via the fourth terminal. Communication system.

22. A first plug, A second plug, One or more circuits, A first terminal located on the first plug and a second terminal located on the second plug, and a first electrical path in which the first terminal and the second terminal are electrically connected to each other; And a specific electrical path used to connect the first electrical path and the one or more circuits. Communication cable.

23. The communication cable includes a second electrical path including a terminal connected to the one or more circuits. The communication cable according to claim 22.

24. The specific electrical path is used to connect the first electrical path and the second electrical path. The communication cable according to claim 23.

25. The second electrical path includes at least one diode. The communication cable according to claim 23.

26. The first electrical path includes a first electric wire, The second electrical path includes a second electric wire, The first electric wire is thicker than the second electric wire. The communication cable according to claim 23.

27. The voltage applied to the first electrical path is higher than the voltage applied to the second electrical path. The communication cable according to claim 23.

28. A first USB plug, A second USB plug, One or more circuits, And a cable part connecting the first USB plug and the second USB plug, Power can be supplied from the Vbus terminal of the first USB plug to the one or more circuits. Communication cable.

29. Power can be supplied from at least one Vconn terminal selected from the group consisting of the first USB plug and the second USB plug to the one or more circuits. The communication cable according to claim 28.

30. A USB plug for being incorporated into a communication cable, A Vbus terminal, And a first at least one circuit, Power can be supplied from the Vbus terminal to the first at least one circuit. USB plug.

31. Comprising a Vconn terminal, Power can be supplied from the Vconn terminal to the first at least one circuit. The USB plug according to claim 30.

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