NGFF Interface Hot Plug Current Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 3G/4G communication modules have issues with large volume, data loss during hot plugging/unplugging due to USB interface data corruption, and large instantaneous current during power supply, which affect system stability and flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A communication module with an NGFF interface, where USB data transmission pins are shorter than power supply pins, incorporating a switch unit, charge protection unit, and delay unit to manage power connection/disconnection, preventing data loss and instantaneous current spikes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If USB data transmission pins have the same length as power supply pins, then the PCB design is simple, but data loss occurs during hot plugging due to simultaneous disconnection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the pins into two distinct groups: power supply pins and USB data transmission pins, with different lengths. This segmentation allows independent control of power and data connections during hot plugging, preventing data loss while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through standardized pin assignments.
Solution Approach 2:
The shorter USB data pins are designed to disconnect before the power supply pins during hot plugging. This preliminary disconnection of data lines before power lines ensures that data transmission is already terminated when power is removed, preventing data corruption and loss during the hot plugging process.
2Speed
If power supply voltage is immediately applied during hot plugging, then power connection is fast, but large instantaneous current burns power module elements
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply pins are designed to connect before USB data transmission pins during hot plugging. This preliminary power connection allows the power module and associated circuits to be fully powered up and ready before data transmission begins, ensuring fast and stable power delivery without instantaneous current spikes that could damage components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a controlled power connection sequence that acts as a cushioning mechanism. By establishing power connections in a predetermined sequence before data connections, the system prevents sudden current surges from damaging the power module elements, while still achieving fast overall connection speed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If Mini-PCIe interface is used, then connection mode is established, but module volume is too large for portable terminals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the interface standard from Mini-PCIe to NGFF (Next Generation Form Factor). This parameter change in the interface specification reduces the module volume to meet portable terminal requirements while maintaining hot plugging capability and connection versatility through the standardized NGFF interface design.
Data Source
AI summary
A communication module and corresponding portable terminal are provided. The communication module includes an NGFF interface, a switch unit, a charge protection unit, and a delay unit. The switch unit is for controlling connection and disconnection of a power supply between a power supply end of the communication module and the power supply pins. The charge protection unit is for power charging when the switch unit is turned off, and for eliminating an impact current generated at the instant when the switch unit is turning on. The delay unit is for controlling the switch unit's delay turning on. The communication module and corresponding portable terminal are able to ensure the integrality and stability of data.