PCI-E Signal Transmission via Differential Cables
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing PCI-E signal transmission schemes require expensive external cables and connectors, result in protrusion and space issues due to external connections, and inefficient use of signal lines, limiting high-speed data transmission while increasing costs.
Innovation Solution
A PCI-E signal transmission apparatus using a differential signal transmission cable with a reduced pin count, connected internally between a controller board and unit boards, employing a PCI-E protocol to transmit data efficiently and cost-effectively, with optional single-ended signal cables for control signals, allowing for compact and cost-effective design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If PCI-E external cable is used for high-speed signal transmission, then data transmission rate is improved, but cost increases and space utilization deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive PCI-E external cables with inexpensive existing cables (such as USB cables, Ethernet cables, or custom cables) that can achieve comparable high-speed data transmission. This substitution maintains the high data transmission rate while dramatically reducing cost, as the existing cables are readily available and much cheaper than dedicated PCI-E external cables.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables existing multi-purpose cables (USB cables, Ethernet cables) to serve the function of PCI-E external cables for high-speed data transmission between the controller board and unit boards. This universal approach allows a single cable type to fulfill multiple functions including data transmission, power delivery, and communication, eliminating the need for specialized expensive cables.
2Speed
If PCI-E external cable is used for high-speed signal transmission, then data transmission rate is improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential function of high-speed data transmission from the complex PCI-E external cable system and implements it using simpler existing cable infrastructure. By removing the requirement for specialized PCI-E connectors and external cabling, the connection path becomes significantly simpler while maintaining high-speed transmission capability through alternative means.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent copies the high-speed data transmission functionality from PCI-E protocol to other communication protocols (such as USB 3.0, Ethernet) that can achieve comparable speeds using existing cable infrastructure. This functional copying allows the system to attain the same performance level without adopting the complex PCI-E external cable architecture.
3Reliability
If PCI-E external cable with 18 pins is used, then signal transmission capability is improved, but signal line utilization efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses existing cables that have sufficient signal lines for the required data transmission without the excess capacity of 18-pin PCI-E cables. For example, USB 3.0 cables with 9 pins or Ethernet cables with fewer conductors provide adequate signal transmission capability for the application, eliminating the waste of unused signal lines present in the 18-pin PCI-E configuration.
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
The solution enables high-speed signal transmission with reduced costs and improved space utilization by eliminating unnecessary signal lines and using internal connections, maintaining performance comparable to or exceeding existing PCI-E external cables.
Implementation Method 1
at least one unit board which is connected to the controller board through a differential signal transmission cable, which uses a PCI-E protocol, to transceive data
Data Source
AI summary
A PCI-E signal transmission apparatus and an image forming apparatus using the same are provided. The PCI-E signal transmission apparatus includes a controller board, and at least one unit board which is connected to the controller board through a differential signal transmission cable, which uses a PCI-E protocol, to transceive data. Therefore, it is possible to transmit a signal using an inexpensive cable at a high speed.