Multi-Interface Optical Transceiver Adapter for Data Rate Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optical fiber communication systems face challenges in interoperability due to varying standards and data rates among electrical signal source modules and optical transceiver modules, requiring a system that can support multiple interfaces without reconfiguration.
Innovation Solution
A multiple-interface apparatus with mode selector and adaptation module that connects to multiple optical transceiver modules, allowing for pass-through or adaptation of electrical signals to match different data rates and standards, including conversion, re-clocking, or bit multiplexing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a system uses multiple optical transceiver modules with different data rates and standards, then interoperability and adaptability are improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for multiple networking ICs and interface configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical signal source module is designed to support multiple data rates (10G, 25G, 40G, 100G) and standards (Ethernet, OTN) within a single module. The module can dynamically adapt its output based on the connected optical transceiver module type, eliminating the need for multiple specialized networking ICs. This universal design allows one module to replace what would traditionally require multiple different modules for different standards.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediate adaptation layer between the electrical signal source and optical transceiver modules. This layer includes data rate adaptation logic that automatically detects the connected module type and adjusts the electrical signal parameters accordingly. The adaptation layer acts as a mediator that translates between different standards and data rates, simplifying the overall system architecture by centralizing the adaptation function rather than requiring complex configuration at each interface.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the system supports multiple data rates and standards, then versatility is improved, but the number of required networking ICs and interfaces increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple networking IC functions into a single electrical signal source module. Instead of having separate ICs for 10G Ethernet, 25G Ethernet, 40G OTN, and 100G OTN, the module integrates all these capabilities. The internal architecture combines multiple data rate generators and serializers/deserializers that can be dynamically activated based on the connected optical module, reducing the total component count.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical signal source module employs dynamic configuration capabilities where the active data rate and interface type are determined at runtime based on the connected optical transceiver module. The module can dynamically switch between different operating modes (10G/25G/40G/100G, Ethernet/OTN) without requiring physical reconfiguration or additional hardware, adapting its behavior to match the connected device's requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If different optical transceiver modules with varying data rates are connected, then system flexibility is improved, but signal adaptation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical signal source module automatically adjusts its output parameters (data rate, encoding format, lane configuration) based on the detected optical transceiver module type. When a 25G module is detected, the module changes its output to 25G rates; when a 100G module is detected, it configures for 100G with appropriate lane aggregation. This parameter adaptation is handled automatically through detection logic and configurable output stages, simplifying the adaptation process compared to manual configuration or fixed architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
A multiple-interface apparatus, and networking device including: a plurality of system side lanes configured to connect to an electrical signal source; and a plurality of line side lanes, wherein the number of the plurality of line side lanes matches the number of the plurality of system side lanes, including: a first set of line side lanes configured to connect to a first optical transceiver module; and a second set of line side lanes configured to connect to a second optical transceiver module; a mode selector module configured to transmit the electrical signal to the first optical transceiver module on the first set of line side lanes or the second optical transceiver module on the second set of line side lanes; and an adaptation module to adapt the electrical signal for at least one of the first or second set of line side lanes.