Modem Processor Scanning Idle Periods for Packet Forwarding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Downstream scan operations by cable modems are time-consuming and resource-intensive, leading to inefficiencies and potential packet loss when attempting to perform other processor tasks like ping tests simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A modem with a processor that performs downstream scans in alternating scanning idle periods, allowing for packet forwarding operations, including responding to ping packets, during these idle times without affecting the scanning process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the processor performs downstream scan operation continuously to scan all network channels, then the channel scanning completeness is improved, but the packet forwarding responsiveness deteriorates due to processor unavailability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the channel scanning process by introducing idle periods between scanning operations. The processor scans channels in discrete segments rather than continuously, allowing packet forwarding operations to occur during the gaps. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by dividing the scanning task into manageable portions that coexist with packet processing requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic action by alternating between downstream scan operations and scanning idle periods. The processor periodically performs channel scanning followed by idle periods where packet forwarding can occur. This periodic pattern ensures both complete channel scanning over time and responsive packet forwarding, resolving the contradiction between scanning completeness and forwarding responsiveness.
2Area of stationary object
If the processor performs downstream scan operation for a long period to cover all channels, then the scanning coverage is improved, but the processor efficiency deteriorates due to inability to handle multiple operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by breaking the continuous scanning process into discrete scan operations separated by idle periods. This allows the processor to handle multiple operations (scanning and packet forwarding) by segmenting its workload, thereby maintaining scanning coverage while improving overall processor efficiency through multi-tasking capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses preliminary action by completing full channel scanning before system operations begin. Once scanning is complete, the processor can efficiently handle packet forwarding operations without interruption. This preliminary scanning approach ensures comprehensive coverage while maximizing subsequent processor productivity.
3Reliability
If the processor responds to packets during channel scanning, then the packet loss is reduced, but the scanning operation is interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by creating a cyclical pattern of scan operations followed by idle periods dedicated to packet processing. During idle periods, the processor responds to packets without interrupting scanning, as the next scan cycle automatically resumes after the idle period. This periodic structure maintains both packet delivery reliability and scan operation continuity over time.
Data Source
Figure 1~2A
Figure 2B~3
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AI summary
The present disclosure provides a modem and a communication method. The modem includes a processor. The processor scans a first network channel of a plurality of network channels provided by the modem. The processor enters an idle scan time period and performs a packet forwarding operation during the idle scan period upon completion of scanning the first network channel. The processor scans a second network channel of the plurality of the network channels after the scanning idle period.