Antenna Identification Module for Network Device Gain Adjustment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Network devices, such as access points or routers, are unable to determine the specific antenna and gain value attached, leading to restricted functionality as they operate based on the highest gain antenna, limiting the use of lower gain antennas.

Innovation Solution

An identification system that includes an identification module and connector, which communicates with the network device to determine antenna characteristics like approved gain values, allowing the device to adjust its operation accordingly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the network device operates based on the highest gain antenna, then the approved gain value is satisfied, but the functionality of lower gain antennas is restricted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveapproved gain value complianceVSAvoidantenna functionality
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The network device queries the identification module to obtain the actual antenna gain value, then adjusts its operating parameters based on this feedback. This closed-loop approach allows the device to comply with regulatory requirements while optimizing performance for the specific antenna installed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The network device dynamically changes its operating parameters (such as output power) based on the detected antenna gain value. When a lower gain antenna is detected, the device adjusts parameters to match the actual antenna capabilities rather than assuming the highest gain configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If the network device uses an identification module to determine antenna characteristics, then the actual antenna gain value is detected, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveantenna gain detection accuracyVSAvoididentification system structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

An identification module is introduced as an intermediary component that stores and provides antenna identification information. This separate module simplifies the overall system architecture by isolating the identification function from the main network device, making the system more modular and maintainable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The identification module contains a copy of antenna identification information that can be read by the network device. This copying approach allows the device to obtain necessary information without complex sensing or measurement systems, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining detection accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Data Source

PatentUS8108020B2Identification of an antenna
Publication Date: 2012.01.31 CISCO TECHNOLOGY INC
  • US8108020B2 patent drawing
  • US8108020B2 patent drawing
  • US8108020B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system that is operable to adjust operation of a network device is provided. The system includes an identification module that is coupled with an antenna connector that couples the antenna with a network device. The identification module includes an identification characteristic that may be used to determine an antenna characteristic that defines operation of the antenna. The operation of the network device may be adjusted based on the antenna characteristic.