Composite Test Signal for Backplane Link Dispersion Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional backplane communication testing involves transmitting and comparing multiple separate test signals, which lengthens the testing process and incurs significant signal generation and processing overhead, and often fails to determine if a link can support communication protocol parameters such as maximum signal dispersion.
Innovation Solution
A single test signal is used that includes waveforms with specific portions and patterns to assess the capabilities of a backplane communication link, allowing for determination of reliable communication and support for communication protocol parameters, such as maximum signal dispersion, by comparing the received waveforms to predetermined ones.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate predetermined test signals are transmitted to test link capability, then comprehensive testing of communication parameters can be performed, but testing time and processing overhead increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate test signals into a single composite test signal that includes multiple waveforms (e.g., square wave, triangular wave, sine wave) with different frequencies and characteristics. This allows the receiver to extract and analyze multiple communication parameters simultaneously from one signal, dramatically reducing testing time while maintaining comprehensive coverage of link capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The single test signal is designed to serve multiple testing functions by incorporating diverse waveform patterns that can reveal different link characteristics. The same signal structure enables testing of signal integrity, dispersion, jitter, and other parameters, making the test system multi-functional and eliminating the need for separate dedicated test signals for each parameter.
2Reliability
If multiple separate predetermined test signals are transmitted, then comprehensive testing can be performed, but signal generation and processing overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple test signal generation and processing operations into a single integrated system. Instead of generating and processing multiple separate signals, the system generates one composite signal containing multiple waveforms and processes all parameters simultaneously through a single receiver unit, significantly reducing device complexity and processing overhead.
Solution Approach 2:
The test signal is pre-configured with multiple waveform patterns and frequency components before transmission. This preliminary structuring of the signal allows the receiver to extract multiple parameters without requiring complex real-time signal generation and processing, reducing the computational burden during actual testing.
3Productivity
If conventional test signals are used, then basic link testing can be performed, but determination of maximum signal dispersion capability is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by incorporating specific waveform segments with known dispersion characteristics into the test signal. Certain portions of the signal are designed with particular frequency content and temporal patterns that are sensitive to dispersion effects, allowing precise measurement of maximum signal dispersion capability while maintaining overall testing efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The test signal employs multiple waveforms with varying frequencies, amplitudes, and temporal patterns. By changing these parameters across different waveform segments, the system can probe the link's dispersion characteristics at different operating conditions, enabling accurate determination of maximum signal dispersion capability while maintaining high testing productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
An embodiment may include circuitry to generate and/or receive, at least in part, a signal that may include at least one waveform. The at least one waveform may include at least one portion followed by at least one other portion. The at least one portion may include a plurality of levels to be compared to data encoding levels to determine whether the plurality of levels satisfy ratios determined based at least in part upon the plurality of levels and the data encoding levels. The at least one other portion may include maximum and minimum data encoding levels to facilitate emphasis measurement. Many alternatives, variations, and modifications are possible.