Form Factor Adapter Module for SFP to X2 Protocol Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a solution that allows for seamless compatibility and data conversion between different form factor fiber optic transceivers, specifically between small form factor (SFF) modules and X2 or XENPAK modules, which operate under different electrical protocols such as SGMII/SFI and XAUI, respectively, to facilitate interoperability in fiber optic communications.
Innovation Solution
A form factor adapter module that includes a SFF host connector, an X2 or XENPAK edge finger connector, and a serial to XAUI transceiver, enabling the conversion of data between SGMII/SFI and XAUI protocols, and allowing SFF modules to mate with X2 or XENPAK sockets, thereby facilitating data transmission and reception across different protocols.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If SFP or SFP+ modules are used, then the physical size is reduced, but the electrical protocol compatibility with X2 or XENPAK slots is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an adapter module as an intermediary device that physically accepts SFP or SFP+ modules and provides an X2 or XENPAK interface to the host slot. This adapter contains protocol conversion circuitry that translates between the serial protocols (SGMII/SFI) used by SFP modules and the parallel XAUI protocol used by X2/XENPAK interfaces, enabling compatibility between otherwise incompatible form factors and protocols.
2Adaptability or versatility
If X2 or XENPAK modules are used, then compatibility with legacy systems is maintained, but the physical size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The solution segments the transceiver functionality into two separate components: a compact SFP or SFP+ module containing the optical interface and serial protocol handling, and an adapter module that provides the X2 or XENPAK mechanical interface and parallel protocol conversion. This segmentation allows the small-form-factor optical module to be used while maintaining compatibility with legacy X2/XENPAK slots through the adapter.
3Adaptability or versatility
If protocol conversion is implemented, then interoperability between different form factors is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter module merges multiple functions into a single integrated device: it provides the mechanical interface for X2/XENPAK slots, houses the SFP/SFP+ module socket, contains the protocol conversion circuitry, and manages power distribution. This consolidation of functions into a single adapter module simplifies the overall system architecture compared to having separate components for each function.
Data Source
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AI summary
Various example embodiments are disclosed. According to one example embodiment, a form factor adapter module (100) may include a small form factor (SFF) host connector (102), an X2 or XENPAK edge finger connector (106), and a serial to XAUI transceiver (110). The SFF host connector (102) may be configured receive a small form factor pluggable (SFP or SFP+) module (104) and to transmit and receive data according to a Serial Gigabit Media Independent Interface (SGMII) or Senalizer-deserializer Framer Interface (SFI) protocol. The X2 or XENPAK edge finger connector (106) may be configured to mate with an X2 or XENPAK edge finger socket (108) and to transmit and receive data according to a Ten Gigabit Ethernet Attachment Unit Interface (XAUI) protoco.l The sepal to XAUI transceiver (110) may be coupled to both the SFF host connector (102) and the X2 or XENPAK edge finger connector (106).