Multi-Frequency Transmitter Clock Switching for Hitless Traffic
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Solution Overview
Problem
Communication networks face challenges in rapidly switching between different frequencies without interrupting traffic, as reconfiguration of oscillators requires significant time, leading to service disruptions.
Innovation Solution
A transmitter system utilizing multiple reconfigurable oscillators and fast switching devices that switch frequencies during interpacket gaps, potentially using an intermediate frequency to minimize disruption, and includes a buffer and digital-to-analog converter for seamless signal conversion and modulation format changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a reconfigurable oscillator is used to generate different frequencies, then frequency adaptability is improved, but reconfiguration time increases causing traffic interruption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-configures multiple oscillators (first oscillator for first frequency, second oscillator for second frequency) before switching is needed. When frequency switching is required, the system simply switches between pre-configured oscillators rather than reconfiguring a single oscillator, eliminating reconfiguration time and enabling hitless frequency switching.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the frequency generation function into multiple independent oscillators, each dedicated to a specific frequency. This segmentation allows independent operation of each oscillator and enables instantaneous switching between frequencies without requiring one oscillator to be reconfigured, thus resolving the contradiction between frequency adaptability and reconfiguration time.
2Productivity
If frequency switching is performed during data transmission, then service continuity is improved, but signal stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a switching device as an intermediary between the oscillators and the data transmission path. This switching device enables frequency changes by selecting different pre-configured oscillators during interpacket gaps, isolating the frequency switching action from the data stream and maintaining signal stability while achieving service continuity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs frequency switching periodically during interpacket gaps rather than during active data transmission. This periodic action during natural pauses in data flow allows frequency changes without disrupting the data stream, maintaining both service continuity and signal stability.
3Loss of time
If multiple oscillators are used for frequency switching, then reconfiguration time is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes each oscillator universal by designing them to be pre-configurable for specific frequencies before deployment. Each oscillator can serve multiple frequency requirements over time through preconfiguration, reducing the need for an excessive number of oscillators while maintaining fast switching capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of oscillators through preconfiguration rather than dynamic reconfiguration. By setting oscillators to specific frequencies in advance, the system achieves fast switching without requiring complex real-time adjustment mechanisms, thus reducing overall device complexity while maintaining low reconfiguration time.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention refers to a transmitter (1) comprising: - a serializer (3) comprising a plurality of inputs (3a) configured for receiving incoming data signals comprising successive data packets corresponding to a plurality of channels, the serializer being configured for serializing the said incoming data signals in an output signal, wherein the transmitter (1) also comprises: - a first oscillator (5a) configured for providing a first clock signal associated to a first frequency to the serializer (3), -a second oscillator (5b) configured for providing a second clock signal associated to a second frequency different from the first frequency to the serializer (3), - a first fast switching device (7) having a first input (7a) linked to the first oscillator (5a), a second input (7b) linked to the second oscillator (5b) and an output (7d) linked to the serializer (3), the first fast switching device (7) being configured for switching between a first switching state wherein the first input (7a) is linked to the output (7d) and a second switching state wherein the second input (7b) is linked to the output (7d), and wherein the transmitter (1) is configured, upon receipt of a clock signal change signal, for switching the first fast switching device (7) from the first to the second switching state.