Reconfigurable Circuit Layout Using Cable Links for Low-Loss Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
High-speed data transmission in network devices experiences significant signal loss due to conductive traces on circuit boards, exceeding permissible loss limits, especially at high frequencies, which limits the flexibility and reconfigurability of circuit board designs and increases power consumption.
Innovation Solution
The integration of connectors on circuit boards that route signals to cables, reducing the length of conductive traces and using cables with lower loss per unit length to minimize transmission losses, allowing for reconfigurable and flexible circuit designs compatible with high-speed signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conductive traces on circuit boards are used for high-speed data transmission, then signal transmission is achieved, but transmission loss exceeds permissible limits
Solution Approach 1:
The circuit board design is segmented into multiple regions with different trace length requirements. High-speed signals are routed through optimized paths with controlled trace lengths, while other areas maintain standard routing. This segmentation allows the system to meet transmission loss requirements for critical signals without redesigning the entire circuit board.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes three-dimensional routing techniques and adjusts trace geometry in multiple dimensions. By controlling trace width, spacing, and layer transitions in the vertical dimension, the design optimizes signal integrity and reduces transmission loss without increasing horizontal trace length.
2Reliability
If circuit board designs are optimized for low transmission loss, then signal quality improves, but design flexibility and reconfigurability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The circuit board incorporates universal connector interfaces and standardized routing patterns that can accommodate different signal configurations. The same physical infrastructure supports multiple network standards and signal types, allowing the board to be reconfigured for different applications without compromising transmission quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The design includes dynamic routing capabilities where signal paths can be reconfigured based on operational requirements. Switches and multiplexers allow the circuit board to adapt its internal routing topology while maintaining controlled impedance and signal integrity for active connections.
3Loss of energy
If conductive trace length is reduced to minimize loss, then transmission loss decreases, but circuit board layout flexibility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The circuit board design nests high-speed signal traces within shielded regions or places them adjacent to reference planes in a layered configuration. This nesting approach allows short trace lengths for critical signals while organizing the overall layout in a systematic manner that manages complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary components such as signal repeaters, equalizers, or impedance matching networks at strategic locations. These intermediaries compensate for transmission loss in longer traces, allowing the layout to be more flexible without compromising signal quality.
Data Source
AI summary
Loss reduction methods are described. A first transmission loss associated with signal transmission through a trace in a first circuit board design is determined. The trace is routed from an integrated circuit disposed on a circuit board to a circuit element disposed on the circuit board. It is determined that the first transmission loss is greater than a threshold transmission loss. The first circuit board design is altered to obtain a second circuit board design. In the second circuit board design, the trace is routed from the integrated circuit to a connector disposed on the circuit board, and the connector is electrically coupled to the circuit element by a cable. A second transmission loss associated with signal transmission between the integrated circuit and the circuit element in the second circuit board design is less than the threshold transmission loss.