Optical Amplifier Online Update with DAC State Holdover
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical amplifiers in optical communication networks experience service interruptions during program upgrades, affecting the stability and reliability of the communication system.
Innovation Solution
The method involves using a microcontroller unit (MCU) and a programmable logic device (FPGA) to save the current working state and parameters, allowing the digital-to-analog converter to stop updating, and then switch back to the saved state after loading a new program, ensuring continuous operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the optical amplifier program is upgraded by updating the MCU and FPGA, then the program functionality is improved, but the optical communication service is interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by saving the current working state and parameters to a storage device before the program upgrade begins. This ensures that if the upgrade fails or causes service interruption, the system can restore the previous working state. The working state is saved in advance, allowing the system to maintain service continuity during the upgrade process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by switching between different working states (old program state and new program state) during the upgrade process. The system changes the operational parameters by loading the new program while maintaining the ability to revert to the old program's parameters if needed, thus ensuring service continuity while enabling program upgrades.
2Productivity
If the digital-to-analog converter continues updating during program upgrade, then the conversion function is maintained, but the system stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the taking out principle by separating the digital-to-analog conversion function from the program upgrade process. The converter's working state is extracted and saved independently before the upgrade, allowing the conversion function to be paused or maintained in a stable state during the program update without interfering with the upgrade process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing a state management mechanism that mediates between the digital-to-analog converter and the program upgrade process. The working state parameters act as intermediaries, allowing the converter to maintain its function while the program is being upgraded, thus ensuring both productivity and stability.
Data Source
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AI summary
An online program update method for an optical amplifier comprises: when a program update instruction is sent, a Microcontroller Unit MCU (1) receiving update programs of the MCU (1) and a programmable logic device (2) at the same time, storing the same in a program memory device (3), and sending an update instruction to the programmable logic device (2); the programmable logic device (2) terminating, according to a corresponding instruction, operations of a digital-to-analog converter (4) and a current state remaining unchanged, wherein the MCU (1) loading new code of the MCU (1) and the programmable logic device (2) while the digital-to-analog converter (4) is maintained in state in which refreshing halts; and after the MCU (1) and the programmable logic device (2) run the new code, reading previously stored data, and starting a switch from a previous operation state to enter a normal operation state. Further provided is a device for executing the online program update method for an optical amplifier. The invention combines, on basis of conventional optical amplifier control, characteristics of the MCU (1) and the programmable logic device (2), and ensures uninterrupted service of optical amplifiers, thereby achieving a smooth transition of services, and accordingly improving the overall stability and reliability of optical communications systems.