Media Converter Autonegotiation Line Assignment Logic

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Solution Overview

Problem

Media converters in communication networks face challenges in autonegotiation, as existing methods interpret autonegotiation periods as data link loss, leading to incorrect line assignment and disruption of signal transmission.

Innovation Solution

A method and device for a media converter that iteratively couples potential data sources to identify the correct input and output lines by monitoring for communication speed and autonegotiation periods, using a switch and logic device to determine the appropriate line assignment based on detected signals.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If existing media converter methods are used to detect data links, then line assignment can be determined, but autonegotiation periods are misinterpreted as data link loss causing incorrect line assignment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveline assignment accuracyVSAvoiddata transmission continuity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The media converter performs preliminary actions by monitoring for the presence of a data link before attempting to determine line assignment. During autonegotiation periods, the system waits for the autonegotiation to complete before making line assignment decisions, preventing misinterpretation of temporary link absence as permanent link failure. This preliminary detection and waiting period ensures accurate line assignment even during autonegotiation processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Adaptability or versatility

If the media converter continuously monitors for data links, then line assignment can be dynamically determined, but autonegotiation periods cause false line reassignment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveline assignment flexibilityVSAvoidline assignment stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The media converter implements feedback mechanisms by continuously monitoring the data link status and using this information to adjust line assignment decisions. During autonegotiation, the feedback loop detects the temporary absence of data links and suppresses line reassignment actions, maintaining stable line assignment while still adapting to legitimate link changes. This feedback control prevents false reassignment during autonegotiation periods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Measurement precision

If the media converter waits for data link detection before determining line assignment, then line assignment accuracy improves, but transmission delay increases during autonegotiation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveline assignment accuracyVSAvoidtransmission delay
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The media converter performs preliminary detection of data links and autonegotiation states before finalizing line assignment. By proactively identifying when autonegotiation is occurring and waiting for its completion, the system avoids premature line assignment decisions. This preliminary action ensures accuracy while minimizing unnecessary delays by making rapid decisions when link status is stable and reliable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS7676592B210/100 Mbs network device
Publication Date: 2010.03.09 COMMSCOPE TECHNOLOGIES LLC
  • US7676592B2 patent drawing
  • US7676592B2 patent drawing
  • US7676592B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A scheme by which a network device may be made to locate data signals from a plurality of potential data sources in the context of a network environment having devices that employ autonegotiation over an autonegotiation period. The scheme involves switching an input port on the network device between the various potential data sources on a one-by-one basis. If an idle signal indicating no ensuing autonegotiation period is detected, the switching action is terminated and the input port assignment is maintained for as long as the link is detected. Thereafter, the device returns to the switching state. If an idle signal indicating an ensuing autonegotiation period is detected, the switching action is stopped for a period equal to or longer than the autonegotiation period. Thereafter, if an idle signal is detected, the input port assignment is maintained for as long as the link is detected.