Multi-Rate ONU Receiver Circuit for 10 Gbps on 2.5 Gbps Components
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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 TIA and DFE, along with an upstream laser circuit having an output impedance differing from the system's characteristic impedance, allows for data rates exceeding the specified operating range of components by using selectable feedback resistors and pre-set tap weights to ensure convergence, enabling higher data rates without hardware swaps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If network components are replaced to increase data rates, then data rate is improved, but network downtime and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operating parameters of existing optical components by adjusting the feedback resistor values in the TIA and tap weights in the DFE to extend the operating bandwidth beyond the component's specified range, enabling higher data rates without physical replacement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes existing optical components multi-functional by enabling them to operate at multiple data rates (2.5 Gbps, 5 Gbps, 10 Gbps) through software-controlled parameter adjustments rather than requiring different hardware for each rate
2Speed
If network components are replaced to increase data rates, then data rate is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends component capability by changing electrical parameters (feedback resistor values, DFE tap weights) rather than replacing hardware, avoiding the costs associated with new component procurement, installation, and testing
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically adjusts its own parameters through the multi-rate receiver that selects appropriate feedback resistors and DFE configurations based on the operating conditions, eliminating the need for manual intervention or expensive professional services
3Speed
If selectable feedback resistors are used to extend operating bandwidth, then data rate capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic switching between different feedback resistors based on the operating data rate requirements, allowing the receiver to adapt its bandwidth characteristics dynamically rather than being fixed at one configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a switch as an intermediary component to select between different feedback resistors, adding minimal complexity while enabling significant functionality expansion through software control
4Reliability
If DFE tap weights are pre-set to ensure convergence, then reliability is improved, but adaptability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different fixed tap weight configurations for different operating conditions or signal types, optimizing performance for each specific scenario while maintaining overall system reliability through condition-specific customization
Data Source
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.