Ethernet Interface Power Reduction via Dual-Layer Inactivity Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current energy detection functionality in Ethernet interfaces is ineffective in reducing power consumption when devices are on standby, as they continue to exchange idle frames, leading to residual electrical energy usage, and cannot activate remote interfaces without local actions.
Innovation Solution
Introducing a transient HIBERNATE mode that disables frame transmission upon detecting inactivity on both the physical and MAC layers for predetermined durations, allowing interfaces to switch to low-power modes and enabling remote activation by higher-layer events.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If energy detection functionality is implemented to switch Ethernet interface to inactive mode upon detecting physical layer inactivity, then power consumption is reduced during link breaks or device shutdowns, but residual power consumption persists during standby periods when idle frames are exchanged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the inactivity detection into two distinct layers: physical layer inactivity detection (existing technology) and MAC layer inactivity detection (new contribution). By dividing the detection scope, the system can identify standby states where physical layer remains active but MAC layer shows no actual data traffic, enabling targeted power reduction without affecting link maintenance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic mode switching between active mode and low-power mode based on MAC layer activity detection. The Ethernet interface dynamically adjusts its operational state: remaining active when MAC layer traffic exists, and transitioning to low-power mode when MAC layer inactivity is detected for a predetermined duration, thereby optimizing power consumption in real-time
2Reliability
If Ethernet interface remains in active mode to maintain link during standby, then link responsiveness is maintained, but unnecessary power consumption occurs due to continuous idle frame exchange
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the Ethernet interface to self-determine its operational state by monitoring MAC layer activity independently. The interface autonomously transitions between active and low-power modes based on detected MAC layer inactivity, eliminating the need for external control signals while optimizing power consumption during standby periods
3Use of energy by moving object
If Ethernet interface switches to low-power mode upon physical layer inactivity, then power consumption is reduced, but activation requires local actions and cannot be remotely triggered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent prepares the Ethernet interface for remote activation by maintaining MAC layer monitoring capability even in low-power mode. When a wake-up frame is detected at the MAC layer, the interface is already positioned to quickly transition back to active mode, enabling remote devices to trigger activation without requiring complex handshaking or prolonged waiting periods
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for reducing the electricity consumption of an Ethernet interface involving switching to a low power mode when no activity is detected on the physical layer thereof for a first predetermined duration (T_L1_INACTIVE). The method is characterised in that the interface also switches to a low power mode when no activity is detected on the MAC layer thereof for a second predetermined duration (T_L2L).