eUSB2 Repeater Multiplexer for UART Bi-directional Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing eUSB2 repeaters face challenges in facilitating two-way communication between application processor units (APUs) and Universal Asynchronous Receiver Transmitters (UART) due to varying voltage levels and inconsistent terminal designations for data transmission and reception, which is not adequately supported by UTMI+Low Pin Interface (ULPI) that only allows single-direction and single-polarity communication.
Innovation Solution
An embedded USB2 repeater with a multiplexer that receives a control signal to selectively establish connections between eD+ and eD− terminals of the eUSB2 port and D+ and D− terminals of the USB port, enabling two-way communication by identifying designated terminals for data transmission and reception, thus accommodating different manufacturer configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If ULPI interface is used for UART mode, then single-direction communication is supported, but two-way communication between APU and UART device cannot be facilitated
Solution Approach 1:
The repeater device is designed to support multiple communication modes (UART mode and standard USB mode) through a single interface, enabling it to function as both a UART communication bridge and a standard USB device. The multiplexer allows the same physical interface to be configured for different communication protocols and directions based on control signals, making the device universally adaptable to various communication needs without requiring separate dedicated interfaces for each mode.
2Reliability
If eUSB2 repeater translates voltage levels between eUSB2 and legacy USB, then communication between different voltage systems is enabled, but terminal designation inconsistency remains unresolved
Solution Approach 1:
The repeater incorporates a multiplexer that dynamically reconfigures terminal connections based on control signals. The multiplexer can switch between different terminal designations (eD+ to D+, eD+ to D−, eD− to D+, eD− to D−) depending on the communication mode and manufacturer-specific terminal assignments. This dynamic reconfiguration capability allows the device to adapt to inconsistent terminal designations across different manufacturers while maintaining reliable voltage level translation, resolving the contradiction between reliability and adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
An embedded USB2 (eUSB2) repeater includes an eUSB2 port having first and second terminals. The eUSB2 port facilitates two-way communication between the repeater and an application processor unit (APU) according to voltage level specifications for eUSB2. The repeater includes a USB port having first and second terminals. The USB port facilitates two-way communication between the repeater and a Universal Asynchronous Receiver Transmitter (UART) according to voltage level specifications for US. The repeater includes a multiplexer having an input coupled to receive a control signal. The multiplexer selectively establishes connections between the first and second terminals of the eUSB2 port and the first and second terminals of the USB port.