Optical Transceiver Channel Gating for Clock-Synced Low-Power Links
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Solution Overview
Problem
Managing bandwidth and energy consumption effectively in data center networks is challenging due to varying data transmission requirements, as current transceivers rely on continuous data streams for clock synchronization, leading to high power consumption during low-traffic periods.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method that synchronizes clocks on transmitter and receiver sides and uses parallel links with redundant channels to enable dynamic activation/deactivation of channels based on data traffic, allowing power-saving modes during low utilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If continuous data streams are used for clock synchronization in current transceivers, then clock synchronization is maintained, but power consumption increases during low-traffic periods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the data transmission into discrete packets with embedded clock information, rather than requiring a continuous data stream. Each data packet contains synchronization markers that allow the receiver to maintain clock synchronization intermittently, enabling channels to be deactivated during low-traffic periods while preserving synchronization capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic clock synchronization markers within data packets, allowing the receiver to resynchronize at regular intervals rather than requiring continuous data flow. This periodic action enables the transceiver to enter low-power states between synchronization events, reducing overall power consumption while maintaining synchronization reliability.
2Productivity
If multiple channels are activated to handle varying data traffic, then bandwidth requirements are met, but energy consumption increases during low-utilization periods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic channel activation and deactivation based on traffic demand. Channels can be selectively enabled or disabled without compromising clock synchronization, as each activated channel carries its own synchronization markers. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to match bandwidth provision to actual traffic needs, reducing energy consumption during low-utilization periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of channels dynamically - specifically, the number of active channels is adjusted based on traffic load. Each channel operates with self-contained synchronization markers, allowing individual channels to be turned on or off independently. This parameter change enables flexible bandwidth management while maintaining synchronization integrity across varying channel configurations.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of transmission, the method comprising: sending, in two or more groups of channels, data and at least one clock signal over an optical link to a receiver, wherein each group in the two or more groups of channels comprises: at least one channel for sending at least one data packet of the data; and a channel for sending a clock signal of the at least one clock signal, wherein the clock signal is synchronized with the at least one data packet in the group of channels.