Digital Subscriber Link Unit Media Conversion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing communication systems incur higher costs and complexity due to the need for dedicated media converters, which are often not used or require additional expenses for future modifications, as they cannot anticipate all user requirements.

Innovation Solution

A digital subscriber link unit is utilized as a media converter, capable of switching between different port types and configurations, including G.SHDSL, Ethernet, and G.703, using a central processing unit and field programmable gate-array to dynamically couple ports and perform signal conversions without a dedicated media converter box.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If dedicated media converters are inserted into communication links, then signal conversion capability is provided, but system cost increases and device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal conversion capabilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The DSLAM is designed to perform multiple functions including both DSL signal processing and media conversion functions. By integrating the media conversion capability directly into the DSLAM device, the system eliminates the need for separate dedicated media converter devices, thereby reducing system complexity while maintaining full signal conversion capability between twisted pair and optical fiber media

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines the media conversion function with the DSLAM device into a single integrated unit. The media conversion module is incorporated within the DSLAM, merging what were previously separate functions (DSL processing and media conversion) into one unified device, which reduces the total number of components and simplifies the overall system architecture

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

If media converters are inserted into communication links, then future media conversion needs are met, but system cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefuture media conversion capabilityVSAvoidsystem cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The DSLAM is designed with universal functionality that encompasses both current DSL operations and future media conversion requirements. By building in multi-functionality from the outset, the system eliminates the need for additional media converter purchases and installations later, providing both present and future needs in a single integrated platform

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The media conversion capability is preliminarily built into the DSLAM during its initial design and deployment, rather than being added later as an afterthought. This preliminary inclusion of future-oriented functionality ensures that the system is prepared for media conversion needs before they arise, avoiding the costs and complexities of retroactive modifications

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS7953108B2Media converter
Publication Date: 2011.05.31 COMMSCOPE DSL SYSTEMS LLC
  • US7953108B2 patent drawing
  • US7953108B2 patent drawing
  • US7953108B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method of using a digital subscriber link unit as a media converter, the method comprising coupling a first signal of a first type to a first port of the digital subscriber link unit, converting the first signal of the first type to a second signal of the second type with the digital subscriber link unit and outputting the second signal of the second type from a second port of the digital subscriber link unit. The first port and the second port are not G.SHDSL ports.