Ethernet Signal Amplitude Control for Short Cable Power Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Ethernet systems consume excessive power due to standard output amplitudes designed for longer connections, which are often shorter in office environments, leading to inefficient energy use.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a network device with a cable tester to determine the length of the network connection and an amplitude controller to adjust the output signal amplitude based on the connection length, reducing power consumption while maintaining acceptable reception quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If standardized output amplitudes are used for all Ethernet connections, then reliable communication is ensured, but power consumption increases unnecessarily for shorter connections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the output amplitude adjustable rather than fixed. The system dynamically adapts the signal amplitude based on the measured cable length, using higher amplitudes for longer cables and lower amplitudes for shorter cables, thereby optimizing power consumption while maintaining communication reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameter of output signal amplitude based on cable length measurements. By measuring the actual cable length and adjusting the amplitude parameter accordingly, the system avoids using excessive power for short connections while ensuring sufficient signal strength for longer connections
2Use of energy by moving object
If output amplitude is reduced for shorter connections, then power consumption decreases, but signal quality may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by measuring the cable length first, then using this measurement information to determine the appropriate output amplitude. This feedback loop ensures that the signal amplitude is optimized for each specific connection length, maintaining signal quality while reducing power consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary measurement of the cable length before establishing the communication signal. By knowing the cable length in advance, the system can pre-adjust the output amplitude to the optimal level, preventing both excessive power consumption and signal quality deterioration
Data Source
AI summary
Reduced power transmission is described. In embodiments, networked devices communicate via a network connection. A characteristic of the network connection between the networked devices can be determined, and an output amplitude of a signal that is indicative of the communications between the network devices can be adjusted based on the characteristic of the network connection. Power consumption that is utilized for the communications between the network devices is reduced based on the adjustment of the output amplitude of the signal.