eUSB2 Repeater Power State Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Embedded USB2 (eUSB2) repeaters face challenges in power consumption as they must maintain high power levels in both active and standby states, leading to inefficiencies due to the requirement to quickly transition between states to comply with USB2.0 protocols, which results in similar power usage in both states.
Innovation Solution
A method for operating an eUSB2 peripheral repeater that transitions its USB transmitter among idle, standby, and active states based on packet reception and transmission timing, allowing for reduced power consumption by switching to standby or idle states when no packets are expected, thereby optimizing power usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the transmitter operates in standby state with current shunted to ground to maintain internal nodes and bias loops at normal levels, then the transmitter can quickly transition to active state, but the power consumption in standby state is the same as in active state
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the power consumption characteristics changeable based on operational state. Instead of maintaining fixed bias conditions in standby state, the system dynamically adjusts internal node voltages and bias currents based on whether a packet is expected within the current HS interval, allowing low power consumption during long idle periods while maintaining quick transition capability when packets are expected.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes physical parameters (bias currents, internal node voltages) based on the operational context. The system monitors packet timing and adjusts bias loop parameters dynamically - maintaining normal bias levels when quick transition is needed, and reducing bias levels when extended idle period is anticipated, thus resolving the contradiction between quick transition capability and standby power consumption.
2Reliability
If the transmitter transitions quickly between standby and active states to comply with USB2.0 protocol requirements, then protocol compliance is maintained, but power efficiency is reduced due to similar power consumption in both states
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses preliminary action by detecting downstream packets and predicting whether upstream packets will be transmitted within the current HS interval. Based on this prediction, the system pre-adjusts bias conditions before the actual transmission occurs. If a packet is expected, the system maintains ready-state bias conditions; if no packet is expected, the system enters deep idle mode, thus avoiding unnecessary power consumption while ensuring protocol compliance when packets do occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic monitoring of packet timing and periodic adjustment of power states. The system continuously monitors the HS interval counter and packet timing, periodically transitioning between power states based on predicted packet arrival. This periodic action allows the system to maintain protocol compliance through timely transitions while minimizing power consumption during extended idle periods between packet bursts.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of operating an embedded USB2 (eUSB2) repeater includes receiving a downstream packet at a USB2 port and transitioning a USB transmitter from an idle state to a standby state responsive to receiving the downstream packet. The method further includes transitioning the USB transmitter from the standby state to an active state if an upstream packet is received at an eUSB2 port within a first time period of receiving the downstream packet and transmitting the upstream packet. The method also includes transitioning the USB transmitter from the active state to the standby state after transmission of the upstream packet. The method also includes transitioning the USB transmitter from the standby state to the idle state if more upstream packets are not received at the eUSB2 port within a second time period.

