Master-Slave Detection Circuit for Single-Pair Ethernet Auto-Negotiation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional Ethernet systems using single un-shielded twisted pairs face challenges in auto-negotiation due to collision issues, preventing effective allocation of devices as master or slave in single-pair systems.
Innovation Solution
A master-slave detection method involving the transmission and reception of specific pulse signals and pseudo-random codes to determine device roles, utilizing transmission control, reception control, and control circuits to configure devices as master or slave based on signal reception timing and comparison operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional auto-negotiation mechanism is applied in single-pair Ethernet system, then device allocation can be achieved, but collision problem occurs when cable is connected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having devices transmit detection signals (pulse signals or pseudo-random codes) before formal data transmission begins. The master-slave detection circuit performs role allocation through preliminary signal exchange and comparison operations, ensuring that only one device transmits at a time during the detection phase, thereby preventing collisions that would occur with conventional auto-negotiation mechanisms.
2Speed
If two un-shield twisted pairs are used for data transmission and receiving, then transmission distance and speed can be improved, but cost and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies merging by combining data transmission and data receiving functions into a single un-shield twisted pair. Instead of dedicating separate pairs for transmission and reception, the system enables full-duplex communication over one pair by implementing master-slave role allocation where the master device transmits and the slave device receives, allowing bidirectional communication through time-division or echo-cancellation techniques.
3Device complexity
If single un-shield twisted pair is used to reduce cost and weight, then cable complexity is reduced, but auto-negotiation mechanism cannot be applied due to collision problem
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism - the master-slave detection circuit with specific detection signals (pulse signals or pseudo-random codes) - that mediates the role allocation process between two devices. This intermediary detection phase allows devices to determine their roles (master or slave) before formal data transmission begins, enabling auto-negotiation functionality on single-pair systems without the collision problems that plague conventional mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A master-slave detection method includes: every single time period, utilizing a random manner for determining whether a first device is used to transmit a specific pulse signal to a second device; every single time period, utilizing a random manner for determining whether the second device is used to transmit the specific pulse signal to the first device; when the first device receives at least one portion of the specific pulse signal earlier than the second device, setting the first device as a master device, stopping the master device from sending the specific pulse signal and utilizing the master device to start transmitting a specific sequence; and setting the second device as a slave device when the second device receives the specific sequence. The at least one portion of the specific pulse signal includes continuous single pulses.