Optical Transceiver Firmware Update via Optical Link
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical transceivers have inflexible controller circuits that limit their ability to change functionality, making it difficult to update firmware, especially for transceivers in remote or inaccessible locations without a direct electrical link.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a processor and system memory in optical transceivers to receive and execute firmware updates via an optical link, allowing the transceiver to alter its operation by receiving and processing firmware signals over the optical link.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If firmware updates are transmitted through an electrical link, then the transceiver can be updated, but transceivers in remote or inaccessible locations cannot be updated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the electrical link (mechanical/electrical connection) with an optical link for firmware transmission. The transceiver uses its existing optical interface to receive firmware updates via optical signals, eliminating the need for physical electrical connections to remote devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical interface of the transceiver serves dual purposes: its primary function for data communication and a secondary function for firmware updates. This multi-functionality allows the same optical link to be used for both operational data transmission and firmware programming, enabling remote updates without additional hardware.
2Speed
If hardware state machines are used for control, then fast operation is achieved, but flexibility to change functionality is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic programmability to the controller by implementing a processor that can execute firmware instructions. This allows the controller's functionality to change dynamically through firmware updates while maintaining the fast operation of hardware state machines for time-critical functions. The system combines static hardware speed with dynamic software flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system is segmented into two parts: a hardware state machine that handles fast, deterministic control functions, and a programmable processor that executes firmware for higher-level functionality. This segmentation allows each component to optimize for its specific purpose while working together to provide both speed and flexibility.
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
Enables flexible firmware updates for optical transceivers, eliminating the need for exclusive electrical links and allowing updates to transceivers in remote locations, such as those on the ocean floor, thereby enhancing operational flexibility and accessibility.
Implementation Method 1
an optical transmitter (also referred to as an electro-optic transducer), such as a laser or Light Emitting Diode (LED). The electro-optic transducer emits light when current is passed there through
Implementation Method 2
an optical receiver (also referred to as an optoelectronic transducer), an example of which is a photodiode. The optoelectronic transducer receives light and generates a current
Data Source
AI summary
An operational optical transceiver configured to update operational firmware using an optical link of the transceiver. The optical transceiver includes at least one processor and a system memory capable of receiving firmware. The optical transceiver receives an optical signal over the optical link containing the update firmware. The optical transceiver then recovers the firmware from the optical signal. Finally, the optical transceiver provides to the system memory the recovered firmware, which when executed by the at least one processor alters the operation of the transceiver.