Distributed network repeater module and method
US6431765B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 11, 1999 |
| Grant date | Aug 13, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 11, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01R2201/04
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A repeater, useable for connecting switches in a data communication network, is provided in a distributed and/or modular fashion. The repeater includes a plurality of separate and distinct components or modules connected to or at least partially housed in, the various switches which the repeater modules couple. The distributed and/or modular repeater facilitates accommodating various switching or repeater needs as a network grows or contracts. A light pipe, preferably integral with a module case, conveys indicator lights to a position visible when viewing a switch front panel. A heat spreader unit receives and/or conveys heat and/or protects against undue EMI. A collision-handling state machine transmits modified collision fragments so as to avoid reduction in interpacket gaps, e.g. by downstream repeater modules.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.