Smart Transceivers Add Network Functions Without Hardware Updates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data communication networks face challenges in upgrading to support time and phase synchronization without costly hardware or software updates, as many deployed switches and routers lack functionalities like IEEE1588 Transparent Clock and Synchronous Ethernet, necessitating either replacement or additional equipment.
Innovation Solution
The integration of smart transceivers into existing network elements, which enable discovery and communication to add virtual system functionalities such as transparent clock and synchronous Ethernet without modifying hardware or software, by replacing existing transceivers with smart transceivers that include discovery and new system function units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing deployed switches and routers are upgraded to support time and phase synchronization functionalities, then new system functions (IEEE1588 Transparent Clock, Synchronous Ethernet) can be added, but hardware and software updates are required which increase cost and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the synchronization functionality from the main network device by implementing it in separate smart transceiver modules. These modules can be independently updated and replaced without modifying the core switch or router hardware, thus adding adaptability while avoiding system-wide complexity increases.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces smart transceiver modules as intermediary components between the existing network infrastructure and the new synchronization requirements. These transceivers act as mediators that provide IEEE1588 Transparent Clock and Synchronous Ethernet functionalities without requiring direct modification of the existing switches or routers.
2Adaptability or versatility
If new system functionalities are added to deployed networks, then bandwidth requirements can be supported, but replacement of deployed systems or addition of new equipment is necessary
Solution Approach 1:
The smart transceiver modules are designed to provide multiple functions including IEEE1588 Transparent Clock, Synchronous Ethernet, and bandwidth management capabilities within a single component. This multi-functionality allows existing network equipment to support enhanced bandwidth requirements without adding separate dedicated devices for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables existing network infrastructure to serve new synchronization and bandwidth management functions through self-upgradable smart transceivers. The transceivers can be independently configured and updated to provide required functionalities, eliminating the need for additional external equipment or complete system replacements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If interface transceivers are replaced with smart transceivers, then new system functions can be added without hardware updates, but discovery and communication protocols must be implemented
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements discovery protocols where smart transceivers automatically exchange capability information and configure themselves through feedback mechanisms. This automated discovery and negotiation process reduces the manual configuration complexity that would otherwise be required to integrate new functionalities into existing networks.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are apparatuses and methods in data communications for adding new system functions to an existing network element without having to provide software or hardware updates to the existing network element. For example, an apparatus for data communication is configured to include a switching unit, a plurality of interfaces coupled to the switching unit, and a plurality of smart transceivers. The plurality of smart transceivers each comprises a discovery unit and a new system function unit. The discovery unit is configured to discover other smart transceivers coupled to the plurality of interfaces and the new system function unit is configured to add one or more new functionalities to the apparatus without adding software or hardware updates to the apparatus.