Optical Module Emulator Multiplexing Signals via Multi-Frame Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for emulating optical modules do not effectively address the challenge of emulating control interfaces and control signals for timing monitoring and timing emulation, particularly in scenarios where physical access to the optical module is limited or impractical.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for emulating an optical module using a communication protocol that multiplexes upstream and downstream signals into a single serial data stream, utilizing a multi-frame alignment word (MFAW) to de-multiplex the signals and enable accurate timing emulation and control interface emulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a STEM is used to replicate the memory map of a real optical module, then memory map emulation is provided, but control interface emulation and timing monitoring are not addressed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines memory map emulation with control interface emulation and timing monitoring into a single integrated STEM device. The STEM now includes both the memory map replication functionality and the control signal emulation capabilities, allowing comprehensive testing of optical modules without requiring separate devices for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The STEM is designed to perform multiple functions: it emulates the memory map of optical modules, emulates control interface signals, and provides timing monitoring capabilities. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for multiple separate devices and simplifies the overall testing system.
2Measurement precision
If physical access to the control interface is required for timing monitoring, then accurate timing analysis is possible, but board dismounting is required which is difficult in field conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary connection between the STEM and the optical module's control interface. Instead of requiring direct physical access to the control interface on the board, the STEM connects through a standardized interface that provides timing monitoring capabilities without needing to dismount or physically access the control interface components.
Solution Approach 2:
The STEM creates a virtual copy or emulation of the control interface signals and timing characteristics. By replicating the control interface behavior in the STEM, the system can analyze timing parameters without requiring physical access to the actual control interface on the optical module board.
3Measurement precision
If specific instruments like oscilloscope with I2C protocol analyzer are used, then control interface analysis is possible, but instrument availability and cost are limiting factors
Solution Approach 1:
The STEM is designed as a self-contained testing device that includes all necessary functionality for control interface analysis and timing monitoring built-in. Instead of requiring external specialized instruments like oscilloscopes with protocol analyzers, the STEM performs these functions independently, reducing dependency on expensive and unavailable external equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple testing functions including control interface analysis, timing monitoring, and memory map emulation into a single STEM device. This consolidation eliminates the need for multiple separate specialized instruments and reduces overall system complexity and cost.
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments described herein provide methods and apparatus for emulating optical modules. A method in an emulator controller for obtaining a plurality of upstream signals for transmission to an optical module comprises receiving, from an optical module emulator, a first serial data stream comprising the plurality of upstream signals multiplexed into a plurality of bits; wherein the first data stream comprises a plurality of frames, each frame comprising a multi-frame alignment bit; and de-multiplexing the plurality of upstream signals based on each multi-frame alignment bit within each respective frame. A method an optical module emulator for obtaining a plurality of downstream signals transmitted by an emulator controller comprises receiving, from the emulator controller, a second serial data stream comprising the plurality of downstream signals multiplexed into a plurality of bits; wherein the second serial data stream comprises a plurality of frames, each frame comprising a multi-frame alignment bit; and de-multiplexing the plurality of downstream signals based on each multi-frame alignment bit within each respective frame.