Multi-Identity Optics Module Auto-Rate Adaptation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current multi-rate optics modules are not compatible with single-rate host modules without software driver support, limiting their compatibility and requiring changes to host module software.

Innovation Solution

A multi-identity multi-rate optics module that sends a pin signal indicating its data rates and determines compatibility by checking for clock and data recovery loss of lock, initializing at an alternate rate if necessary, and using 'break-and-make' techniques to set the correct data rate without requiring software driver changes on the host module.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multi-rate optics modules are designed to support multiple data rates, then versatility and adaptability are improved, but compatibility with single-rate host modules deteriorates due to lack of software driver support

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata rate compatibilityVSAvoidsoftware driver requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The optics module performs self-identification and self-configuration by automatically detecting the host module's data rate capability through pin signal detection and internal register configuration, eliminating the need for external software driver intervention to enable compatibility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The optics module dynamically changes its operational parameters (data rate, identity registers) based on detected host module characteristics, allowing it to adapt its identity presentation and operational mode to match the connected host module's capabilities

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If single-rate optics modules are used with single-rate host modules, then compatibility is maintained, but versatility is limited to a single data rate

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovecompatibilityVSAvoiddata rate support
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The optics module is designed with multi-functionality to operate with both single-rate and multi-rate host modules by detecting the host type and configuring its identity and operational parameters accordingly, making a single module design universal across different host module types

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The optics module dynamically adjusts its operational characteristics including data rate selection and identity register values based on the detected host module type, transitioning between different operational states to maintain compatibility while supporting multiple data rates

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Device complexity

If dual-rate optics modules are designed without self-identification capability, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation deteriorates due to manual configuration requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration mechanismVSAvoidautomatic recognition
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The optics module automatically performs identification and configuration by detecting host module characteristics through pin signals and autonomously setting its identity registers and operational parameters without requiring manual intervention

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The optics module uses feedback from host module detection (pin signal states, data rate capability) to automatically configure its identity and operational parameters, creating a closed-loop system that adapts to the connected host module

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentEP3586239B1Multi-identity optics modules
Publication Date: 2021.01.27 CISCO TECHNOLOGY INC
  • EP3586239B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3586239B1 patent drawingFigure 2A
  • EP3586239B1 patent drawingFigure 2B

AI summary

An optics module sends, to a host module, a pin signal indicating that an optics module is plugged into the host module, wherein the optics module is configured to operate at least a first data rate and a second data rate. The optics module receives, from the host module, an indication of a host data rate. The optics module determines whether there is clock and data recovery loss of lock between the first data rate and a host data rate. If it is determined that there is clock and data recovery loss of lock between the first data rate and the host data rate, the optics module initializes at the second data rate if the second data rate matches the host data rate.