Multi-Rate ONU Receiver and DFE for Higher Optical Data Rates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current optical telecommunications systems require replacement of network components to increase data rates, leading to network downtime and increased costs, as they are limited by the specified operating ranges of individual components.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a multi-rate receiver with a trans-impedance amplifier (TIA) and decision feedback equalizer (DFE) that automatically switches between different feedback resistors based on signal characteristics and quality of service information, along with an upstream laser circuit with an output impedance differing from the system's characteristic impedance, enabling data rates exceeding the specified operating range of individual components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If network components are replaced to increase data rates, then communication speed is improved, but network downtime and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic rate adaptation by enabling network components to automatically adjust their operating data rates based on real-time signal quality measurements. The system monitors physical layer characteristics and dynamically selects optimal data rates from multiple supported rates, allowing the network to maintain higher speeds without requiring physical component replacement or network downtime.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating parameter (data rate) of existing network components dynamically. By adjusting the data rate parameter based on signal quality conditions, the system can achieve higher communication speeds using existing hardware, eliminating the need for component replacement and associated network downtime.
2Speed
If higher data rates are implemented, then communication speed is improved, but component operating range limitations are exceeded
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts the operating data rate of network components based on measured signal quality. By continuously monitoring physical layer characteristics and adjusting the data rate accordingly, the system ensures that components operate within their reliable performance ranges while still achieving high communication speeds when conditions permit.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system monitors signal quality metrics (such as eye opening measurements) and uses this information to adjust the operating data rate. This closed-loop control ensures that components operate within their specified performance ranges, maintaining reliability while optimizing for higher data rates when signal conditions support them.
3Speed
If components are upgraded to support higher data rates, then communication speed is improved, but network costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables existing network components to perform multiple functions by supporting operation at multiple data rates. A single component can adaptively operate at different speeds based on signal quality, eliminating the need to deploy separate high-speed and low-speed hardware infrastructures, thereby reducing overall network equipment costs.
Solution Approach 2:
By changing the operating parameter (data rate) of existing components rather than upgrading hardware, the system achieves higher communication speeds without the capital expenditure associated with purchasing and deploying new high-speed equipment. This parameter-based adaptation approach significantly reduces network upgrade costs.
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
This solution allows for bi-directional data rates of up to 10Gbps using components rated for 2.5Gbps or 1.25Gbps, supporting multiple communication rates and enabling the same equipment to provide various service levels without hardware swaps, thus reducing downtime and costs.
Implementation Method 1
a multi-rate receiver having an operating bandwidth that is selected operationally based on physical layer characteristics of received signals
Implementation Method 2
a DFE having at least one tap weight that is fixed. According to an embodiment, the DFE is configured to have at least one tap weight that is pre-set to ensure convergence of the DFE
Implementation Method 3
an upstream laser circuit having an output impedance that differs from a characteristic impedance of a system in which the laser circuit is implemented
Data Source
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AI summary
Optical telecommunications devices, systems, and methods. In some implementations, an optical networking unit (ONU) includes a multi-rate receiver having an operating bandwidth that is selected operationally based on physical layer characteristics of received signals and information received from a MAC. The ONU can also include an upstream laser circuit having an output impedance that differs from a characteristic impedance of a system in which the laser circuit is implemented. The ONU can also include a decision feedback equalizer (DFE) having at least one tap weight that is fixed to facilitate convergence of the DFE when signals received by the DFE would otherwise fail to meet characteristics required for DFE convergence.