Pluggable Retimer Module for Longer Cable Signaling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies require costly motherboard redesign to implement re-timing functions for extending signaling distance between cable-connected integrated circuit components, limiting field serviceability and increasing production costs.
Innovation Solution
A pluggable retimer module with a cable-emulation connector and cable-attach ports that re-times signals between IC components, allowing for extended signaling distance without motherboard redesign, and supports protocol and signaling-rate conversion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If re-timing functions are implemented through motherboard redesign, then signaling distance can be extended, but production costs increase and field serviceability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the re-timing function from the motherboard into a separate pluggable module. The retimer module contains the re-timing circuitry and can be independently manufactured and installed, allowing the motherboard to remain unchanged while extending signaling distance through cable connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The retimer module acts as an intermediary device between the motherboard and cable-connected components. It receives signals from the motherboard, performs re-timing operations, and transmits the re-timed signals through cables to remote IC components, thereby extending signaling distance without requiring motherboard modification.
2Length of stationary object
If re-timing functions are implemented through motherboard redesign, then signaling distance can be extended, but field serviceability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the re-timing function into a separate pluggable module, the system allows field serviceability through hot-swapping. The retimer module can be removed and replaced in the field without requiring motherboard redesign or complex reconfiguration, enabling easy repair and maintenance while maintaining extended signaling distance capability.
3Ease of repair
If cable emulation connector is designed to match passive cable form factor, then field serviceability is improved, but connector complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cable emulation connector is designed to copy the physical form factor, pinout, and electrical characteristics of standard passive cable connectors. This allows the retimer module to be plugged into existing motherboard cable ports without requiring new connector designs, improving field serviceability while the internal complexity is contained within the module itself.
Data Source
AI summary
A small form-factor pluggable retimer module re-times signals transiting between its host-side plug-in connector and one or more passive-cable attach ports, extending the practicable signaling distance between cable-connected integrated circuit components without the costly motherboard/system-board re-design otherwise required to implement re-timing functions.