Multimode PHY Module for HDMI and BDMMP Signal Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing home networks are not designed to support the delivery of high-speed uncompressed multimedia data, such as high-definition video, and lack the capability to concurrently provide multiple high-speed services over a single link, making it difficult to achieve efficient multimedia distribution and device connectivity across a home network.
Innovation Solution
A multimode physical (MMP) layer circuit and module that enables the handling of signals over HDMI cables, supporting both HDMI and bi-directional multimedia PHY (BDMMP) modes, allowing for concurrent and bi-directional transport of high-speed data services, including uncompressed video, Ethernet, and USB data, through a single twisted-pair cable, with a switch connecting source and sink nodes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If existing home network architectures are used, then device connectivity and basic multimedia services can be provided, but high-speed uncompressed multimedia data delivery is not supported
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a physical layer module that can handle multiple types of signals (HDMI, DisplayPort, USB 3.0, Ethernet) through a single interface. The module includes multiple transceivers that can be configured to support different PHY layer modes, enabling the same hardware to provide both high-speed uncompressed multimedia delivery and other network services, thus resolving the contradiction between speed support and adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple high-speed services are provided concurrently over a single link, then service versatility is improved, but switching complexity increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the physical layer module into multiple independent transceivers, each capable of handling a specific service type (video, audio, data). Each transceiver can be independently configured and controlled, allowing the system to multiplex multiple high-speed services over a single link without requiring complex switching mechanisms. The controller manages these segmented transceivers to route different services appropriately, reducing overall system complexity.
3Ease of operation
If wireless networks are used to achieve flexible device placement, then ease of operation is improved, but connection reliability and distance are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by creating a hybrid network architecture that can dynamically switch between wired and wireless connection modes. The physical layer module is designed to work with both wired connections (providing high reliability and speed) and wireless connections (providing placement flexibility). The system can adapt the connection type based on the operational requirements, allowing devices to be placed flexibly while maintaining connection reliability through wired backhaul connections when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A multimode physical (MMP) layer circuit for physical (PHY) layer handling of signals transported over a high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI) cable in a home multimedia network, wherein the signals are compliant with at least two different PHY layer modes. The MMP layer circuits comprises a plurality of PHY transceivers respectively coupled to a plurality of TP channels of the HDMI cable through a HDMI connector, wherein each PHY transceiver of the plurality of PHY transceivers handles signals transported over its respective TP channel according to a PHY layer mode of the transported signals; and a controller is coupled to the HDMI connector and to each of the plurality of PHY transceivers, the controller recognizes the PHY layer mode of signals transported over each of the plurality of TP channels and sets each of the plurality of PHY transceivers according to the recognized PHY layer mode.