Multimode Optical Module Power Control for Lower Conversion Losses
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Solution Overview
Problem
Network devices face inefficiencies in power management due to the use of multiple DC-DC converters and power distribution losses when accommodating different types of optical modules, which consume varying supply voltages, leading to increased power consumption and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A multimode power control architecture that selectively operates in different power modes to provide compatible supply voltages to optical modules, reducing DC-DC conversion losses and optimizing power efficiency by directly supplying voltages like 3.3 V, 3-5 V, or 12 V, depending on the module type.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the host provides a fixed supply voltage (e.g., 3.3V) to all optical modules, then legacy optical modules can be supported, but newer optical modules that require higher voltages (e.g., 12V) cannot operate efficiently
Solution Approach 1:
The host assembly dynamically selects between different power modes (first power mode with fixed 3.3V output, second power mode with adjustable voltage output) based on the type of optical module detected. This dynamic switching allows the system to adapt to different module requirements while optimizing power efficiency by using the appropriate voltage level for each module type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the supply voltage parameter from a fixed value (3.3V) to a variable parameter that can be adjusted between different levels (3.3V, 5V, 12V, or other voltages within a range) based on the optical module type. This parameter change enables both legacy and newer optical modules to operate efficiently with their required voltage levels.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the host includes additional DC-DC converters to provide higher voltages, then newer optical modules can be powered, but power conversion efficiency decreases and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The host assembly's power supply circuit is designed to perform multiple functions: it can operate in a first mode providing a fixed 3.3V output for legacy modules, and in a second mode providing adjustable voltage outputs (5V, 12V, or other voltages) for newer modules. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate DC-DC converters for different voltage requirements, reducing device complexity while maintaining versatility.
3Power
If the host uses DC-DC converters to step down voltage, then power can be provided to optical modules, but power conversion losses increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply circuit dynamically switches between operating modes based on the optical module type detected. When a newer optical module requiring higher voltage is detected, the host operates in the second power mode that directly provides the required voltage (5V, 12V, or other voltages) without unnecessary DC-DC conversion steps, thereby minimizing power conversion losses while maintaining adequate power delivery capability.
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 approach reduces power consumption, minimizes ohmic losses, decreases the number of power components, and enhances thermal management by optimizing power distribution and reducing redundant conversions, thereby improving overall efficiency and compatibility with various optical modules.
Implementation Method 1
The optical module typically employs many power converters, e.g., direct current (DC)-to-DC (DC-DC) converters, which step down the supply voltage provided by the host to lower voltages used to power internal components of the optical module.
Data Source
AI summary
A method is performed by a host assembly including a controller, a power supply circuit, and a host connector to be connected to an optical module of a particular type among different types of optical modules respectively configured to accept different types of supply voltages. The method includes: when the optical module is connected to the host assembly, identifying a particular type of supply voltage, among the different types of the supply voltages, that the optical module is configured to accept; selecting, among different power modes available to the host assembly that are respectively compatible with the different types of the supply voltages, a particular power mode that is compatible with the particular type of the supply voltage; and operating in the particular power mode to provide the particular type of the supply voltage to the optical module.