Synchronized Ethernet Clock Forwarding via State Machine Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current two-port Ethernet devices require complex logic and configuration to manage and forward Synchronous Ethernet master clocks, increasing cost and complexity, especially when they lack a local clock or need to operate independently of protocol and signaling.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method where both ports of the Ethernet device have the same state machine, allowing automatic recognition and forwarding of the master clock without additional configuration, enabling transparent ESMC protocol handling and simplified clock synchronization, even in the absence of a local clock.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex logic and configuration are used to manage and forward Synchronous Ethernet master clocks, then clock transmission reliability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the clock management function into separate state machines for each port, allowing independent operation and simplifying the overall device logic. Each port has its own state machine that handles clock reception and forwarding autonomously, eliminating the need for complex centralized configuration and logic.
Solution Approach 2:
The state machines are designed to automatically recognize received master clocks and forward them to the other port without requiring external configuration or intervention. This self-service capability eliminates complex configuration procedures while maintaining reliable clock transmission.
2Measurement precision
If protocol and signaling are implemented for clock management, then synchronization precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The state machines automatically handle protocol and signaling operations without requiring manual configuration. When a master clock is received on one port, the corresponding state machine automatically processes the synchronization protocol and forwards the clock to the other port, maintaining precision while simplifying operation.
Solution Approach 2:
Both ports are equipped with identical state machines that operate in the same manner, making the device behavior predictable and easy to understand. This homogeneity simplifies operation while maintaining synchronization precision through consistent protocol handling at both ports.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a local clock is implemented in the Ethernet device, then synchronization flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by implementing a local clock only when specifically needed, rather than universally in all devices. The state machines can operate with or without a local clock depending on the specific application requirements, providing synchronization flexibility while avoiding unnecessary complexity in devices that don't require it.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of simplifying the implementation of Synchronous Ethernet on an Ethernet device having a first port and a second port device using a predetermined protocol and signaling, comprises delivering a master clock from a Synchronous Ethernet system to the first port of the Ethernet device; transmitting the delivered master clock to the second port of the Ethernet device independently of the protocol and signaling of the Ethernet device; and transmitting the master clock from the second port of the Ethernet device to a downstream device that supports Synchronous Ethernet. In one implementation, the Ethernet device has a local clock, and the method synchronizes the local clock to the master clock. In another implementation, the Ethernet device does not have a local clock, and the master clock is transmitted from the second port of the Ethernet device to the downstream device without any synchronizing operation at the Ethernet device.