Optical Module Power Mode Switching for Voltage Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Network devices face inefficiencies in power management due to the use of multiple DC-DC converters and power distribution losses when accommodating different types of optical modules, which require varying supply voltages, leading to increased power consumption and thermal issues.
Innovation Solution
A multimode power control architecture that selectively operates in different power modes to provide compatible supply voltages to optical modules, reducing DC-DC conversion losses and optimizing power efficiency by directly supplying voltages like 3.3 V, 3-5 V, and 12 V, depending on the module type.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple DC-DC converters are used to accommodate different optical module voltage requirements, then compatibility with various optical modules is improved, but power loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply circuit is designed to perform multiple functions by supporting different voltage output modes (3.3V fixed voltage mode and 3-5V adjustable voltage mode) within a single circuit architecture, eliminating the need for separate DC-DC converters for different optical module types
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the voltage parameter output by the power supply circuit based on the detected optical module type. The circuit can switch between fixed 3.3V output and adjustable 3-5V output, optimizing power delivery parameters to match the specific requirements of different optical modules and reducing conversion losses
2Adaptability or versatility
If DC-DC conversion is performed for each optical module type, then voltage compatibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single power supply circuit is designed to handle multiple voltage requirements through configurable operating modes. The circuit can function as a fixed voltage regulator for legacy modules and as an adjustable voltage source for newer modules, consolidating what would otherwise require multiple specialized converters
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functionality of multiple DC-DC converters into a single power supply circuit that can adapt its output characteristics. By combining fixed voltage regulation and adjustable voltage regulation capabilities in one circuit, the overall device complexity is reduced while maintaining full compatibility across different optical module types
3Loss of energy
If higher supply voltage is provided to reduce current, then power distribution loss is reduced, but compatibility with legacy modules decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply circuit operates dynamically by detecting the optical module type and adjusting its voltage output characteristics accordingly. For legacy modules requiring 3.3V, it provides fixed voltage; for newer modules, it provides adjustable voltage in the 3-5V range. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to optimize for low current (reducing distribution loss) when appropriate while maintaining backward compatibility
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the voltage parameter based on the optical module type detected. By switching between fixed 3.3V output and adjustable 3-5V output modes, the patent enables higher voltage operation (which reduces current and distribution loss) for compatible modules while maintaining legacy compatibility through the fixed 3.3V mode
Data Source
AI summary
A method is performed by a host assembly including a controller, a power supply circuit, and a host connector to be connected to an optical module of a particular type among different types of optical modules respectively configured to accept different types of supply voltages. The method includes: when the optical module is connected to the host assembly, identifying a particular type of supply voltage, among the different types of the supply voltages, that the optical module is configured to accept; selecting, among different power modes available to the host assembly that are respectively compatible with the different types of the supply voltages, a particular power mode that is compatible with the particular type of the supply voltage; and operating in the particular power mode to provide the particular type of the supply voltage to the optical module.