Fiber-Coaxial Amplifier Relay Bypass for Test Point Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hybrid fiber-coaxial amplifiers face technical limitations due to signal losses at test points, which become significant when re-configured for Extended Spectrum DOCSIS, necessitating increased power consumption to compensate for these losses.
Innovation Solution
A fiber-coaxial amplifier device with a switching mechanism that bypasses the test point during normal operation and connects it only when testing is required, using a relay and alternative signal paths to minimize signal loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a test point is provided at the output port to enable signal measurements and modification, then technicians can test and modify signals, but signal losses at the test point increase power consumption requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The test point and coupler are extracted from the main signal path and placed in a separate branch that can be selectively activated. During normal operation, the test point is disconnected from the signal path, eliminating its impact on signal loss and power consumption. When testing is required, the test point is temporarily connected through the switching element.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static configuration where the test point is permanently connected to a dynamic configuration where the test point connection is controlled by a switching element. The switching element responds to actuation signals to connect or disconnect the test point from the signal path, making the system adaptable to different operational requirements.
2Ease of operation
If the test point is permanently connected to the output, then signal measurements can always be performed, but signal loss of 1.8 dB or more continuously affects network performance
Solution Approach 1:
The switching element is pre-configured to connect the test point only when needed. The system prepares the test point connection in advance through the switching mechanism, allowing technicians to activate the test point temporarily when measurements are required, rather than having it permanently connected and continuously degrading signal quality.
3Power
If amplifier power is increased to compensate for test point losses in Extended Spectrum DOCSIS configuration, then output power requirements are met, but power consumption doubles
Solution Approach 1:
The test point and its associated coupler are extracted from the main signal path and placed in a separate branch that can be selectively activated. During normal operation, the test point is disconnected from the signal path, eliminating its impact on signal loss and power consumption. When testing is required, the test point is temporarily connected through the switching element.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static configuration where the test point is permanently connected to a dynamic configuration where the test point connection is controlled by a switching element. The switching element responds to actuation signals to connect or disconnect the test point from the signal path, making the system adaptable to different operational requirements.
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
Reduces signal loss by 1.8 dB, allowing the amplifier to operate efficiently within suitable power ranges without constant compensation, thus optimizing performance for Extended Spectrum DOCSIS.
Implementation Method 1
The switching element may comprise a relay, preferably an electrical relay and the relay may comprise mechanical parts
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided fiber-coaxial amplifier device (10) comprising at least one output (14) and a test point (26) associated with the at least one output (14), wherein alternative first and second electrical paths (36, 38) are connectable to the at least one output (14), the first path (36) connectable to the at least one output (14) whilst bypassing the test point, the second path (38) connectable to both the at least one output (14) and the test point (26), and a relay (30) operable to connect one of the first path or the second path to the at least one output (14). The fiber-coaxial amplifier device (10) is configured for signals complying with Extended Spectrum DOCSIS.