Switchable Diplexer Filter for Seamless DOCSIS Frequency Range Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current communication devices, such as cable modems and gateways, face challenges in seamlessly switching between different upstream frequency ranges (5-42 MHz and 5-85 MHz) in DOCSIS networks, requiring separate filter configurations or temporary signal removal, which is not optimal for network compatibility and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A cost-effective, modular switchable diplexer/triplexer filter design that auto-detects the upstream frequency range using upstream channel descriptor messages, allowing devices to switch between 5-42 MHz and 5-85 MHz without manual intervention, ensuring seamless operation in both network configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate filter configurations are used for different upstream frequency ranges, then network compatibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The filter circuit is designed to perform multiple functions by supporting both legacy (5-42 MHz) and expanded (5-85 MHz) upstream frequency ranges using a single unified filter configuration, eliminating the need for separate filter designs for different network environments
Solution Approach 2:
The filter circuit incorporates switchable elements that allow dynamic reconfiguration between different frequency range modes based on detected network requirements, enabling the same hardware to adapt its filtering characteristics without physical changes
2Ease of operation
If manual intervention is required for filter switching, then control precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The filter circuit automatically detects the appropriate frequency range mode and configures itself without requiring manual intervention, using upstream channel descriptor messages to determine the required filtering characteristics and switching modes autonomously
3Adaptability or versatility
If temporary signal removal is performed for network upgrades, then adaptability is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The filter circuit is pre-configured to support both legacy and expanded frequency ranges, allowing networks to upgrade to 5-85 MHz operation without temporary signal removal or service interruptions, as the filtering capability is already in place and can be activated immediately upon detection
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure is directed to an apparatus (300) and method (400, 600) for controlling a filter circuit (500) in a signal communication device (300). The apparatus (300) and method (400, 600) of the present disclosure receives (410) an indication of a plurality of channels used to transmit upstream communication signals in an upstream communication portion of a frequency range. Furthermore, the apparatus (300) and method (400, 600) of the present disclosure determines (420) a maximum frequency value among all frequencies used by the plurality of channels based on the indication and adjusts (430) a filter response in a filter circuit (500) used to separate the upstream communication signals from the downstream communication signals in a communication device (300) based on the determined uppermost frequency value.