Ethernet Switch Wake-Up Circuit for Fiber Optic Power Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional Ethernet switches in optic fiber networks are power-consuming due to the need for continuous operation to detect and retransmit light signals, which limits their efficiency and practicality.
Innovation Solution
A media converter switch with a wake-up circuit that activates only when necessary, using a photodetector to transform light signals into electric signals and a power supply circuit to manage power consumption by entering a standby mode when no signals are detected, reducing power usage by deactivating unnecessary components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If Ethernet switches continuously operate to detect and retransmit light signals, then network functionality is maintained, but electric power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic operation mode switching for the Ethernet switch, allowing it to transition between active and standby states based on network traffic conditions. The control unit monitors the network state and dynamically adjusts the operational status of communication ports and light emitters, enabling the system to adapt its power consumption to actual needs while maintaining network functionality when required
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic monitoring of network traffic conditions by the control unit, which regularly checks for the presence of light signals or electric signals. Based on these periodic assessments, the switch alternates between full operation and standby mode, creating a rhythmic pattern of activation and deactivation that reduces overall power consumption while ensuring network readiness when traffic is detected
2Use of energy by moving object
If Ethernet switches are activated only when needed, then power consumption is reduced, but network response time may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary monitoring capabilities where the control unit continuously or periodically checks for network traffic conditions even in standby mode. When a light signal is detected on the optic fiber or an electric signal is present on communication ports, the switch is triggered to activate before actual data transmission begins, reducing the effective response time while maintaining low power consumption during idle periods
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where the control unit monitors network traffic conditions and uses this information to control the activation state of communication ports and light emitters. The system receives feedback about the presence of signals and adjusts its operational state accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system that optimizes both response time and power consumption based on real-time network conditions
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution significantly reduces electric power consumption by activating components only when needed, optimizing data transit while maintaining network functionality, thereby enhancing the efficiency and practicality of optic fiber network switches.
Implementation Method 1
a first photodetector configured to transform a light signal coming from the optic fiber into an electric signal
Implementation Method 2
a first light emitter designed to transmit a light signal in the optic fiber
Data Source
AI summary
The Ethernet switch for an optic fiber network includes: a first light emitter designed to transmit a light signal in the optic fiber, first photodetector configured to transform a light signal coming from the optic fiber into an electric signal, at least one communication port of electric signals with a terminal, a power supply circuit configured to supply power to the light emitter and to the first photodetector, a wake-up circuit connected to the first photodetector and to the communication port configured to generate an electric wake-up signal on receipt of a light signal by the first photodetector and/or of an electric signal on the communication port, the wake-up circuit being connected to the power supply circuit to trigger power supply of the first light emitter and of the communication port.