Network Interface Card Integrating Power and Data Ports
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing implementations of Power over Ethernet (PoE) in communication networks require separate and distinct devices for power sourcing equipment (PSE) and powered devices (PD), leading to complex configurations and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A network interface card (NIC) is designed to incorporate both PSE and PD functionalities, sharing hardware components such as an RJ45 and Ethernet transformer, and featuring a switching circuit to control power sourcing based on the source of power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate PSE and PD devices are used with distinct data ports and Ethernet transformers, then power sourcing and power receiving functions are reliably implemented, but device complexity and configuration complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines PSE and PD functionalities into a single network interface card by sharing the RJ45 connector and Ethernet transformer between power and data functions. The power jack and data port both connect to the same Ethernet transformer, eliminating the need for separate hardware components for power sourcing and data communication.
Solution Approach 2:
The RJ45 connector and Ethernet transformer are designed to serve multiple functions: they handle both power transmission (through the power jack) and data communication (through the data port). This multi-functional design reduces the number of components needed while maintaining reliable PSE and PD operations.
2Reliability
If separate PSE and PD devices with distinct hardware components are implemented, then power transmission reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost and hardware cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges power transmission and data communication pathways by sharing the Ethernet transformer and RJ45 connector. This consolidation reduces the bill of materials and manufacturing complexity while maintaining reliable power transmission through the power jack to powered devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The shared Ethernet transformer and RJ45 connector perform dual functions: power transmission through the power jack and data communication through the data port. This multi-functionality reduces component count and manufacturing cost while preserving reliable power delivery to PD devices.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a switching circuit is added to control power sourcing based on power source detection, then adaptability and power control flexibility are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic switching circuit that automatically detects the power source (power jack or data port) and redirects power flow accordingly. The switch transitions between states based on which port receives power, enabling flexible adaptation to different power configurations without manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The switching circuit incorporates feedback mechanisms to detect the presence and status of power at different ports. Based on this feedback, the circuit automatically adjusts its configuration to route power from the active source to the powered device, providing adaptive power control without increasing overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for implementing power over ethernet (“PoE”). One system includes a network interface card (“NIC”) including a first power jack configured to establish a first power connection with a power adapter. The NIC may include a first data port configured to establish a first communication link with a first external device, the first communication link enabling an exchange of data and sourcing of power with the first external device. The NIC may include a second data port configured to establish a second communication link with a second external device. The NIC may include a second power jack configured to establish a second power connection between the NIC and the second external device. The NIC may include a switching circuit configured to control sourcing of power by switching open or closed based on a source of the power.