Optical Module Host Integration Reduces Component Redundancy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optical network test access point (TAP) devices incur unnecessary costs and complexity due to redundant components in typical transceivers, where some components remain idle as they are duplicated in each transceiver, leading to increased costs and inefficiency.
Innovation Solution
The optical modules, including receiver, transmitter, and transceiver modules, are designed to vary the number of optical receivers and transmitters, with lead frames electrically connected to post amplifiers and laser drivers integrated into a host printed circuit board, eliminating the need for redundant components within the modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a typical transceiver includes both ROSA and TOSA with redundant components (microcontroller, laser driver, post amplifier) in each module, then the device can perform full bidirectional optical communication, but the cost and device complexity increase due to unused components
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the optical communication functionality into separate modular components (ROSA modules and TOSA modules) that can be independently configured and connected. This allows the system to segment redundant components across multiple modules rather than duplicating full transceiver units, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining communication versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention implements a universal host device architecture that can accommodate multiple types of optical modules (receivers, transmitters, transceivers) through standardized interfaces. This multi-functional platform eliminates the need for dedicated redundant components in each module, as the host device provides shared resources like microcontrollers and amplifiers across all module types.
2Ease of operation
If a typical TAP device includes one transceiver connected to each port, then the device provides symmetric communication capability, but the cost increases due to unused transmitter or receiver components in unidirectional ports
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies local quality by configuring different types of optical modules (ROSA, TOSA, or transceiver) at different port locations based on the specific communication requirements of each port. This allows unidirectional ports to use only the necessary component type (receiver for input ports, transmitter for output ports), eliminating wasted components while maintaining overall system communication capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention enables dynamic configuration of optical modules in the TAP device, allowing the system to adapt the type and number of active modules based on real-time communication needs. This dynamic approach permits flexible allocation of resources, where ports can be configured as input-only, output-only, or bidirectional based on actual usage patterns, thereby reducing unnecessary component quantity.
3Reliability
If each transceiver in a conventional TAP device includes a printed circuit board with mounted components, then the transceiver can function independently, but the duplication of components adds cost and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges multiple transceiver functions into a single integrated platform where shared components (microcontroller, laser driver, post amplifier) are common to multiple modules rather than being duplicated. This combining approach maintains the reliability of independent transceiver functionality through standardized interfaces while significantly reducing manufacturing cost by eliminating component duplication across multiple printed circuit boards.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration reduces the cost and complexity of host devices by allowing only necessary components to be used, optimizing resource utilization and improving signal quality by eliminating redundant printed circuit boards and electrical connectors.
Implementation Method 1
The ROSA receives a light signal with a photodiode or other light detector, which converts the light signal into an electrical signal
Implementation Method 2
The TOSA typically includes a laser that generates light that is launched into the optical network
Data Source
AI summary
Optical modules for use with a host system. In one example embodiment, a method for tapping an optical network includes connecting one or more optical modules to a host device, providing one or more post amplifiers, and controlling each of the one or more optical modules and the one or more post amplifiers with a microprocessor that is integrated with the host device. In this example method, the one or more optical modules include at least one optical module with a plurality of ROSAs and the post amplifiers amplify electrical signals generated by the ROSAs.