Non-IEEE Ethernet Converter for Intermediate Data Rates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing Ethernet networks face challenges in upgrading data rates without replacing cables, as higher data rates require different cabling standards, making it impractical and costly to upgrade all infrastructure for intermediate data rates like 2.5 Gb/sec on existing Cat5e cables.
Innovation Solution
The technology enables the use of a non-IEEE standard 10GBASE-T interface to operate at 2.5 Gb/sec on existing Cat5e cables by employing an external converter that converts signals from a legacy gigabit Ethernet switch to a higher data rate, allowing for cost-effective deployment of higher data rate access points without changing cables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If standard IEEE Ethernet data rates (1 Gb/sec, 10 Gb/sec) are used, then compatibility with existing infrastructure is maintained, but intermediate data rates (e.g., 2.5 Gb/sec) cannot be achieved on existing cables
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the data rate parameter from standard IEEE values to non-IEEE intermediate values (e.g., 2.5 Gb/sec) by implementing a MAC layer that can operate at these intermediate rates. This allows the system to achieve higher speeds than 1 Gb/sec while maintaining compatibility with existing Cat5e cable infrastructure that cannot support full 10 Gb/sec rates.
2Speed
If cable infrastructure is upgraded to support higher data rates (e.g., 10 Gb/sec), then higher data rates are achieved, but cost and complexity of deployment increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements partial upgrading by allowing individual network interfaces to operate at intermediate data rates (e.g., 2.5 Gb/sec) without requiring complete infrastructure replacement. This partial action approach enables cost-effective deployment where only specific segments need upgrading, rather than replacing entire cable runs to achieve 10 Gb/sec everywhere.
Solution Approach 2:
The MAC layer is designed to be universal and multi-functional, supporting multiple data rates including standard IEEE rates (1 Gb/sec, 10 Gb/sec) and non-IEEE intermediate rates (2.5 Gb/sec). This universality allows the same hardware infrastructure to operate at different data rates depending on cable capabilities, eliminating the need for separate infrastructure for each data rate.
3Speed
If non-IEEE standard data rates are implemented, then intermediate data rates (e.g., 2.5 Gb/sec) are achieved on existing cables, but standard interface compatibility is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a MAC layer as an intermediary between the physical layer (PHY) and higher-layer protocols. This MAC layer handles the complexity of non-IEEE intermediate data rates while presenting standard IEEE-compatible interfaces to upper layers. The intermediary absorbs the incompatibility, allowing standard Ethernet protocols to operate over non-standard data rate links without modification.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for operating a low data-rate (LDR) link and legacy switch at a high data-rate (HDR) includes a first block and a second block. The first block receives input signals from the legacy switch and generates identical output signals. The second block receives the identical output signals and generates an HDR signal for communication over the LDR link coupled to an access point. Further, a media access control (MAC) interface communicates data at a first data rate with an Ethernet PHY block including a first-in-first-out (FIFO) module and a buffer. The FIFO receives data from the MAC interface at the first data rate and transmits data at a second data rate. The buffer receives data from the Ethernet port at the second data rate and transmits the received data at the first data rate in response to detection of an end of packet.