CA2358874A1 - Method of locating a cable in a data line network - Google Patents
Method of locating a cable in a data line network Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2358874A1 CA2358874A1 CA002358874A CA2358874A CA2358874A1 CA 2358874 A1 CA2358874 A1 CA 2358874A1 CA 002358874 A CA002358874 A CA 002358874A CA 2358874 A CA2358874 A CA 2358874A CA 2358874 A1 CA2358874 A1 CA 2358874A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- cable
- data
- data line
- identification
- line
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01R—MEASURING ELECTRIC VARIABLES; MEASURING MAGNETIC VARIABLES
- G01R31/00—Arrangements for testing electric properties; Arrangements for locating electric faults; Arrangements for electrical testing characterised by what is being tested not provided for elsewhere
- G01R31/50—Testing of electric apparatus, lines, cables or components for short-circuits, continuity, leakage current or incorrect line connections
- G01R31/58—Testing of lines, cables or conductors
- G01R31/60—Identification of wires in a multicore cable
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01R—MEASURING ELECTRIC VARIABLES; MEASURING MAGNETIC VARIABLES
- G01R31/00—Arrangements for testing electric properties; Arrangements for locating electric faults; Arrangements for electrical testing characterised by what is being tested not provided for elsewhere
- G01R31/50—Testing of electric apparatus, lines, cables or components for short-circuits, continuity, leakage current or incorrect line connections
- G01R31/66—Testing of connections, e.g. of plugs or non-disconnectable joints
- G01R31/67—Testing the correctness of wire connections in electric apparatus or circuits
Landscapes
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Data Exchanges In Wide-Area Networks (AREA)
- Small-Scale Networks (AREA)
Abstract
The invention relates to a method for localizing at least one cable of a data transmission network comprising at least one data transmission line which consists of one or more cables connected to each other and via which at least one data packet is transmitted. At least one cable provides the data packet with a cable-specific cable identification. The invention also relates to a device for localizing a cable of a data transmission network comprising at least one data transmission line which consists of one or more cables connected to each other and via which at least one data packet is transmitted.
At least one cable comprises a memory for a cable-specific cable identification as well as means for adding said cable-specific cable identification to the data packet.
At least one cable comprises a memory for a cable-specific cable identification as well as means for adding said cable-specific cable identification to the data packet.
Description
~
Berlin 22nd December 1999 Our ref: BB9896 JVO/js Applicants/proprietors: BB-DATA Gesellschaft fur Informations- and Kommunikationssystem GmbH
Office ref: New application BB-DATA Gesellschaft fur Informations- and Kommunikationssysteme GmbH, Brunnenstr. 111, 13355 Berlin Method of locating a cable in a data line network The invention concerns a method of locating a cable of a line network which includes at least one data line which is formed by one or more mutually adjoining cables and by way of which at least one data packet is transmitted. The invention also concerns an apparatus for carrying out the method and a cable for the apparatus.
It is usual for electrical apparatuses such as for example computers or printers to be connected together by way of cables in such a way that a data line exists between the interconnected electrical apparatuses. In 1o that situation two interconnected apparatuses may be at a relatively great distance from each other. Particularly if that is the case, it may be difficult from one apparatus to locate a second apparatus which is connected thereto. Admittedly it is in principle possible to trace a data line between two apparatuses, in the form of the cables forming the data line. However the cables forming the data line are frequently either passed together with many other cables or they are concealed behind sheathings or claddings so that tracing the cables gives rise to difficulties.
Those difficulties are made still more severe if the data line between the apparatuses is part of a data line network which comprises not just the one data line but also a plurality of data lines which are possibly branched.
The object of the invention is to permit simple location of a cable of 1o a data line network.
In accordance with the invention, that object is attained with a method of the kind set forth in the opening part of this specification, in which the cable adds a cable-specific cable identification to the data packet which is sent by way of the data line.
In addition that object is attained by an apparatus of the kind set forth in the opening part of this specification, for carrying out the method, in which each cable forming the data line includes a memory for a cable-specific cable identification and means for adding a cable-specific cable identii=ICation to a data packet.
2o The cable-specific identification can be printed onto each cable so that it can be read ofF the cable without further auxiliary means.
Alternatively it is also possible to provide a reading-out device as an auxiliary means for reading out the memory for cable identification of a cable.
The central notion of the invention involves the addition by insertion or attachment to a data packet which is sent from an electrical apparatus to the second electrical apparatus connected thereto, the cable identifications of each cable through which the data packet passes on its way through the data line, for example from a first apparatus to a second apparatus. When the data packet has reached the second apparatus, it is possible there to read off which cables the data packet has passed, on the basis of the cable identifications which are added to the data packet. In
Berlin 22nd December 1999 Our ref: BB9896 JVO/js Applicants/proprietors: BB-DATA Gesellschaft fur Informations- and Kommunikationssystem GmbH
Office ref: New application BB-DATA Gesellschaft fur Informations- and Kommunikationssysteme GmbH, Brunnenstr. 111, 13355 Berlin Method of locating a cable in a data line network The invention concerns a method of locating a cable of a line network which includes at least one data line which is formed by one or more mutually adjoining cables and by way of which at least one data packet is transmitted. The invention also concerns an apparatus for carrying out the method and a cable for the apparatus.
It is usual for electrical apparatuses such as for example computers or printers to be connected together by way of cables in such a way that a data line exists between the interconnected electrical apparatuses. In 1o that situation two interconnected apparatuses may be at a relatively great distance from each other. Particularly if that is the case, it may be difficult from one apparatus to locate a second apparatus which is connected thereto. Admittedly it is in principle possible to trace a data line between two apparatuses, in the form of the cables forming the data line. However the cables forming the data line are frequently either passed together with many other cables or they are concealed behind sheathings or claddings so that tracing the cables gives rise to difficulties.
Those difficulties are made still more severe if the data line between the apparatuses is part of a data line network which comprises not just the one data line but also a plurality of data lines which are possibly branched.
The object of the invention is to permit simple location of a cable of 1o a data line network.
In accordance with the invention, that object is attained with a method of the kind set forth in the opening part of this specification, in which the cable adds a cable-specific cable identification to the data packet which is sent by way of the data line.
In addition that object is attained by an apparatus of the kind set forth in the opening part of this specification, for carrying out the method, in which each cable forming the data line includes a memory for a cable-specific cable identification and means for adding a cable-specific cable identii=ICation to a data packet.
2o The cable-specific identification can be printed onto each cable so that it can be read ofF the cable without further auxiliary means.
Alternatively it is also possible to provide a reading-out device as an auxiliary means for reading out the memory for cable identification of a cable.
The central notion of the invention involves the addition by insertion or attachment to a data packet which is sent from an electrical apparatus to the second electrical apparatus connected thereto, the cable identifications of each cable through which the data packet passes on its way through the data line, for example from a first apparatus to a second apparatus. When the data packet has reached the second apparatus, it is possible there to read off which cables the data packet has passed, on the basis of the cable identifications which are added to the data packet. In
2 that case it is in particular also possible for the second apparatus to send the data packet back again so that the cable identifications are also present in the first apparatus. Starting from the first apparatus, it is then easily possible to trace the cables corresponding to the cable identifications in order in that manner for example to find the second apparatus or to identify and locate the cables of the data line network connecting the apparatuses.
In addition the topology of a network including a plurality of electrical apparatuses, for example a computer network, can be 1o automatically analyzed as far as the level of the connecting cables by computer, by installing in a computer an analysis tool which breaks down the cable identifications contained in each data packet.
Finally a line can be easily traced by means of the method even through nodes or branching locations such as for example hubs.
i5 If the data line comprises a plurality of cables which are linked together, a preferred method is one in which a plurality of cable identifications are added in cascaded relationship to the data packet. That provides that finally all cable identifications are present in immediate succession in the data packet.
zo A preferred apparatus is one whose means for adding the cable-specific cable identi>=ICation includes detection means which are arranged between a portion of the data line, which leads to the detection means, and a portion of the data line, which leads away from the detection means, and are such that they detect at least one predetermined data 25 series, and which are connected to an electronic change-over switch which in a first position switches the data packet and in a second position switches the cable-specific cable identification, onto the portion of the data line which leads away from the detection means, wherein the detection means cause the change-over switch to switch over from its first 30 position into its second position for a period required for affording the cable identification when the detection means have detected the predetermined data series. Preferably the detection means additionally
In addition the topology of a network including a plurality of electrical apparatuses, for example a computer network, can be 1o automatically analyzed as far as the level of the connecting cables by computer, by installing in a computer an analysis tool which breaks down the cable identifications contained in each data packet.
Finally a line can be easily traced by means of the method even through nodes or branching locations such as for example hubs.
i5 If the data line comprises a plurality of cables which are linked together, a preferred method is one in which a plurality of cable identifications are added in cascaded relationship to the data packet. That provides that finally all cable identifications are present in immediate succession in the data packet.
zo A preferred apparatus is one whose means for adding the cable-specific cable identi>=ICation includes detection means which are arranged between a portion of the data line, which leads to the detection means, and a portion of the data line, which leads away from the detection means, and are such that they detect at least one predetermined data 25 series, and which are connected to an electronic change-over switch which in a first position switches the data packet and in a second position switches the cable-specific cable identification, onto the portion of the data line which leads away from the detection means, wherein the detection means cause the change-over switch to switch over from its first 30 position into its second position for a period required for affording the cable identification when the detection means have detected the predetermined data series. Preferably the detection means additionally
3 include a comparison pattern memory in which the predetermined data series to be detected is stored, and a comparator which is connected to the comparison pattern memory and the portion of the data line which leads to the detection means and the change-over switch, and is such that it switches the change-over switch into its second position when a data series which corresponds to the predetermined data series is applied on the portion of the data line which leads to the detection means.
The addition of the cable-speci>=IC cable identification can be easily implemented by means of an apparatus of that kind: the comparator continuously compares the data series which are applied to the data line to the data series which is stored in the comparison pattern memory, and causes the change-over switch to apply the cable identification to the data line as soon as a data series which corresponds to the data series which is stored in the comparison pattern memory has passed the comparator.
That stored data series is preferably a header of a data packet or a cable identification.
A particularly preferred apparatus is one which is distinguished in that the comparison pattern memory stores at least two predetermined data series of which the first characterizes the beginning of a identification portion of a data packet, which is provided for a cable identification, and the second data series characterizes an occupied identification which follows the first data series and which characterizes the fact that the identification portion is already written with a cable identification, and that the comparator has an internal electronic change-over switch and is such that it switches the second predetermined data series onto the portion of the data line, which leads away from the comparator, when a data series which corresponds to the first predetermined data series is applied on the portion of the data line which leads to the comparator. Particularly in the case of clock-controlled input signals, such an apparatus makes it possible 3o to produce an output signal which contains the cable identification, without having to provide for intermediate storage of the data packet on
The addition of the cable-speci>=IC cable identification can be easily implemented by means of an apparatus of that kind: the comparator continuously compares the data series which are applied to the data line to the data series which is stored in the comparison pattern memory, and causes the change-over switch to apply the cable identification to the data line as soon as a data series which corresponds to the data series which is stored in the comparison pattern memory has passed the comparator.
That stored data series is preferably a header of a data packet or a cable identification.
A particularly preferred apparatus is one which is distinguished in that the comparison pattern memory stores at least two predetermined data series of which the first characterizes the beginning of a identification portion of a data packet, which is provided for a cable identification, and the second data series characterizes an occupied identification which follows the first data series and which characterizes the fact that the identification portion is already written with a cable identification, and that the comparator has an internal electronic change-over switch and is such that it switches the second predetermined data series onto the portion of the data line, which leads away from the comparator, when a data series which corresponds to the first predetermined data series is applied on the portion of the data line which leads to the comparator. Particularly in the case of clock-controlled input signals, such an apparatus makes it possible 3o to produce an output signal which contains the cable identification, without having to provide for intermediate storage of the data packet on
4 the data line. This embodiment is described in detail in the specific description.
Preferably the detection means include a timer whose time constant corresponds to the time required for affording the cable identification and which is connected to the change-over switch in such a way that, after the expiry of a period of time determined by the time constant, since the change-over switch was switched over from the first position into the second position, the timer causes it to switch back from the second position into the first position. It is possible in that way to ensure in a simple fashion that it is only for the time required for the cable identification to be applied to the data line, that the change-over switch is switched into its second position which is provided for that purpose. The timer can be clock-controlled for example by a signal arriving on the data line. The time constant of the timer then corresponds to a given number of clock cycles, which is so selected that for example it corresponds to a number of bits which form the cable identification and which are successively put onto the data line. The timer can also be a monostable trigger stage which is arranged between the comparator and the change-over switch. If at the end of a data series passing the data line the 2o comparator has established that this data series corresponds to the stored data series, it outputs a pulse which triggers the monostable trigger stage. The trigger stage thereupon outputs a pulse whose duration is determined by the time constant of the monostable trigger stage. For the period of that pulse, the change-over switch is switched into its second position which serves for applying the cable identification to the data line.
Usually, a data packet is transmitted in the form of voltage signals on the data line. Preferably the detection means take the energy they require from the voltage signals on the data line. A corresponding energy supply can include for example a diode and a resistor as well as a 3o capacitor. The data transported by way of the data line are represented by two alternate voltage conditions. That ac voltage signal can be used to charge the capacitor by means of the diode and to use the capacitor
Preferably the detection means include a timer whose time constant corresponds to the time required for affording the cable identification and which is connected to the change-over switch in such a way that, after the expiry of a period of time determined by the time constant, since the change-over switch was switched over from the first position into the second position, the timer causes it to switch back from the second position into the first position. It is possible in that way to ensure in a simple fashion that it is only for the time required for the cable identification to be applied to the data line, that the change-over switch is switched into its second position which is provided for that purpose. The timer can be clock-controlled for example by a signal arriving on the data line. The time constant of the timer then corresponds to a given number of clock cycles, which is so selected that for example it corresponds to a number of bits which form the cable identification and which are successively put onto the data line. The timer can also be a monostable trigger stage which is arranged between the comparator and the change-over switch. If at the end of a data series passing the data line the 2o comparator has established that this data series corresponds to the stored data series, it outputs a pulse which triggers the monostable trigger stage. The trigger stage thereupon outputs a pulse whose duration is determined by the time constant of the monostable trigger stage. For the period of that pulse, the change-over switch is switched into its second position which serves for applying the cable identification to the data line.
Usually, a data packet is transmitted in the form of voltage signals on the data line. Preferably the detection means take the energy they require from the voltage signals on the data line. A corresponding energy supply can include for example a diode and a resistor as well as a 3o capacitor. The data transported by way of the data line are represented by two alternate voltage conditions. That ac voltage signal can be used to charge the capacitor by means of the diode and to use the capacitor
5 voltage for supplying the detection means. The resistance of the energy supply makes the latter high-ohmic so that it does not too much load the ac voltage signal representing the data series on the data line, and scarcely attenuates same.
The above-described means for adding a cable-specific cable identification to a data packet are preferably integrated into a plug of each cable forming the data line, for example in the form of a chip.
Preferably each cable with at least one pair of mutually associated individual lines has resistance measuring means for measuring the 1o electrical resistance between the mutually associated individual lines and at least one electronic connecting switch which is arranged between the mutually associated individual lines and which is connected to the resistance measuring means in such a way that the connecting switch makes a connection between the two individual lines when the resistance measuring means measure between the two individual lines an electrical resistance which is above a predetermined upper limit value. A cable equipped in that way has two advantageous properties: if a fault should occur in the data line connecting the two electronic apparatuses together, that fault can be easily located. In addition, the cable identification of a 2o cable equipped in that way can be easily read off by means of an auxiliary device, by one end of the cable being plugged into the auxiliary device.
This embodiment of the cable is based on the realization that, by measuring the electrical resistance between two mutually associated individual lines, it is possible to ascertain whether an end of the data line formed by the cable is open, because for example it is not plugged into an apparatus or into a cable which goes on therefrom, or because the data line has been damaged at a location.
In such a case a connection is made by the connecting switch between the two individual lines, with the consequence that a data packet 3o which is communicated by way of the one individual line, is communicated back, with at least the cable identifications of the cable which is open at one end, by way of the other data line. In that way the cable
The above-described means for adding a cable-specific cable identification to a data packet are preferably integrated into a plug of each cable forming the data line, for example in the form of a chip.
Preferably each cable with at least one pair of mutually associated individual lines has resistance measuring means for measuring the 1o electrical resistance between the mutually associated individual lines and at least one electronic connecting switch which is arranged between the mutually associated individual lines and which is connected to the resistance measuring means in such a way that the connecting switch makes a connection between the two individual lines when the resistance measuring means measure between the two individual lines an electrical resistance which is above a predetermined upper limit value. A cable equipped in that way has two advantageous properties: if a fault should occur in the data line connecting the two electronic apparatuses together, that fault can be easily located. In addition, the cable identification of a 2o cable equipped in that way can be easily read off by means of an auxiliary device, by one end of the cable being plugged into the auxiliary device.
This embodiment of the cable is based on the realization that, by measuring the electrical resistance between two mutually associated individual lines, it is possible to ascertain whether an end of the data line formed by the cable is open, because for example it is not plugged into an apparatus or into a cable which goes on therefrom, or because the data line has been damaged at a location.
In such a case a connection is made by the connecting switch between the two individual lines, with the consequence that a data packet 3o which is communicated by way of the one individual line, is communicated back, with at least the cable identifications of the cable which is open at one end, by way of the other data line. In that way the cable
6 identification of an individual cable can be ascertained by means of a reading-out device. In the case of a relatively long but interrupted data line between a >rlrst and a second apparatus moreover it is possible by analysis of the data packet which is communicated back to ascertain as far as which cable the data line is intact.
The invention will now be described in greater detail by means of an embodiment with reference to the Figures in which:
Figure 1 shows two electrical apparatuses connected by way of a data line, Figure 2 shows an end of a multi-wire cable with connecting plug with integrated chip for cable identification, Figure 3 is a schematic block circuit diagram of a circuit integrated in the chip shown in Figure 1, Figure 4 is a diagrammatic illustration of a signal representing a data packet, Figure 5 is diagrammatic view of a circuit for open end identification, and Figure 6 shows a reading-off and display unit for cable identification.
2o Figure 1 shows two apparatuses 12 and 14 which are connected together by way of a data line 10. Those apparatuses can be computers or printers, but also for example domestic appliances such as a refrigerator with intelligence incorporated for example in the form of an embedded controller. The data line is formed by two cables 16 and 18.
Each of the two cables 16 and 18 has at its free ends connecting means 20, 22, 24 and 26, for example in the form of Western plugs and corresponding sockets. A respective one of the connecting means of a cable - in Figure 1 this is the connecting means 20 of the cable 16 and the connecting means 24 of the cable 18 - is provided with means 28 and 30 respectively for applying a cable identification to the data line 10.
The first connecting means 20 of the first cable 16 is connected to a connection terminal 32 which is compatible therewith of the electrical
The invention will now be described in greater detail by means of an embodiment with reference to the Figures in which:
Figure 1 shows two electrical apparatuses connected by way of a data line, Figure 2 shows an end of a multi-wire cable with connecting plug with integrated chip for cable identification, Figure 3 is a schematic block circuit diagram of a circuit integrated in the chip shown in Figure 1, Figure 4 is a diagrammatic illustration of a signal representing a data packet, Figure 5 is diagrammatic view of a circuit for open end identification, and Figure 6 shows a reading-off and display unit for cable identification.
2o Figure 1 shows two apparatuses 12 and 14 which are connected together by way of a data line 10. Those apparatuses can be computers or printers, but also for example domestic appliances such as a refrigerator with intelligence incorporated for example in the form of an embedded controller. The data line is formed by two cables 16 and 18.
Each of the two cables 16 and 18 has at its free ends connecting means 20, 22, 24 and 26, for example in the form of Western plugs and corresponding sockets. A respective one of the connecting means of a cable - in Figure 1 this is the connecting means 20 of the cable 16 and the connecting means 24 of the cable 18 - is provided with means 28 and 30 respectively for applying a cable identification to the data line 10.
The first connecting means 20 of the first cable 16 is connected to a connection terminal 32 which is compatible therewith of the electrical
7 apparatus 12. At its other end the cable 16 is connected by way of the connecting means 22 to the connecting means 24, which is compatible therewith, of the second cable 18. That second cable 18 is connected with its second end by way of the connecting element 26 to a connection terminal 34, which is compatible therewith, of the second electrical apparatus 14. The data line 10 which is formed by both cables 16 and 18 and the connecting means 20, 22, 24, 26 and the connection terminals 32 and 34 thus represents a physical connection between the first electrical apparatus 12 and the second electrical apparatus 14. The data line 10 comprises a plurality of electrical conductors which extend in mutually parallel relationship and which are formed by individual wires of the cables 16 and 18.
Figure 2 shows the specific configuration of an end of the cable 16 with the connecting means 20 in the form of a Western plug. The cable 16 has eight separate wires 40 forming electrical conductors. Those wires 40 are connected by way of the means 28 for applying a cable identification to the data line 10 to eight contacts of the connecting means 20. The means 28 for applying a cable identification is in the form of a chip with a total of sixteen connection terminals 44.
2o Figure 3 schematically shows a block circuit diagram of the means 28 integrated into the chip 44 for applying the cable identification to the data line 10. The means 28 for applying the data to the data line 10 are arranged between an incoming and an outgoing portion of the data line 10. In the situation shown in Figure 3 the data line 10 is formed by a signal line 50 and a ground line 52. A data signal is transmitted by way of the signal line 50 in the form of voltage pulses.
The means 28 for applying the cable identification to the data line 10 include a change-over switch 54 which is connected on its input side on the one hand by way of an amplifier or detector 56 and a comparator 62 to an incoming portion 50a of the signal line 50, and on the other hand to a memory 58 for the cable identification. On the output side an outgoing
Figure 2 shows the specific configuration of an end of the cable 16 with the connecting means 20 in the form of a Western plug. The cable 16 has eight separate wires 40 forming electrical conductors. Those wires 40 are connected by way of the means 28 for applying a cable identification to the data line 10 to eight contacts of the connecting means 20. The means 28 for applying a cable identification is in the form of a chip with a total of sixteen connection terminals 44.
2o Figure 3 schematically shows a block circuit diagram of the means 28 integrated into the chip 44 for applying the cable identification to the data line 10. The means 28 for applying the data to the data line 10 are arranged between an incoming and an outgoing portion of the data line 10. In the situation shown in Figure 3 the data line 10 is formed by a signal line 50 and a ground line 52. A data signal is transmitted by way of the signal line 50 in the form of voltage pulses.
The means 28 for applying the cable identification to the data line 10 include a change-over switch 54 which is connected on its input side on the one hand by way of an amplifier or detector 56 and a comparator 62 to an incoming portion 50a of the signal line 50, and on the other hand to a memory 58 for the cable identification. On the output side an outgoing
8 portion 50b of the signal line 50 is connected to the change-over switch 54.
The design of the change-over switch 54 is such that, in its first position as illustrated, it switches a data packet arriving on the signal line 50a to the portion 50b of the signal line 50, which leads away from the means 28 for applying the cable identification to the data line. In its second position the change-over switch 54 connects the portion 50b of the signal line 50, which leads away from the means 28, to the memory 58 for the individual cable identification in such a way that the individual cable identification is applied to the outgoing portion 50b of the signal line 50.
The above-mentioned detector or amplifier 56, a comparison pattern memory 60 and a comparator 62 serve for alternately switching over the change-over switch 54. The comparator is connected as a central decision logic or control unit by way of a control line to the change-over switch 54 and the memory 58. In addition there is a data or signal line between the detector or amplifier 56 and the comparator 62, which continues the signal line 50a and which communicates to the comparator the data series which arrive on the signal line 50a. In addition the comparator 62 is also connected to the comparison pattern memory 60 and has access to one or more data series which are stored there as comparison patterns.
The comparator 62 continuously compares the signal which arrives on the signal line 50 and which is amplified by the amplifier 56, to comparison patterns which are stored in the comparison pattern memory 60. The signal which arrives by way of the amplifier 56 is a data series, like also the comparison pattern stored in the comparison pattern memory 60.
A shift register which is integrated into the comparator 62 and the actual comparator serve for comparison of the data series which are arriving on the signal line 50a to those stored in the comparison pattern memory 60. A data series which arrives on the signal line 50a is shifted bit by bit by the shift register and the respective data series which is in
The design of the change-over switch 54 is such that, in its first position as illustrated, it switches a data packet arriving on the signal line 50a to the portion 50b of the signal line 50, which leads away from the means 28 for applying the cable identification to the data line. In its second position the change-over switch 54 connects the portion 50b of the signal line 50, which leads away from the means 28, to the memory 58 for the individual cable identification in such a way that the individual cable identification is applied to the outgoing portion 50b of the signal line 50.
The above-mentioned detector or amplifier 56, a comparison pattern memory 60 and a comparator 62 serve for alternately switching over the change-over switch 54. The comparator is connected as a central decision logic or control unit by way of a control line to the change-over switch 54 and the memory 58. In addition there is a data or signal line between the detector or amplifier 56 and the comparator 62, which continues the signal line 50a and which communicates to the comparator the data series which arrive on the signal line 50a. In addition the comparator 62 is also connected to the comparison pattern memory 60 and has access to one or more data series which are stored there as comparison patterns.
The comparator 62 continuously compares the signal which arrives on the signal line 50 and which is amplified by the amplifier 56, to comparison patterns which are stored in the comparison pattern memory 60. The signal which arrives by way of the amplifier 56 is a data series, like also the comparison pattern stored in the comparison pattern memory 60.
A shift register which is integrated into the comparator 62 and the actual comparator serve for comparison of the data series which are arriving on the signal line 50a to those stored in the comparison pattern memory 60. A data series which arrives on the signal line 50a is shifted bit by bit by the shift register and the respective data series which is in
9 the shift register, of a bit number which is predetermined by the size of the shift register, is compared to data series which are just as long in the comparison pattern memory. A first data series stored in the comparison pattern memory 60 corresponds to an initialization code for the comparator 62 and marks a portion of a data packet, which is provided to receive a cable identification. If, by pattern comparison with the data series which is in the shift register, the comparator 62 ascertains that the data stream arriving by way of the signal line SOa contains the initialization code, the comparator internally outputs a signal which sets 1o the comparator to compare the content of the shift register, which changes continuously with the incoming data stream, to a second comparison pattern. That second comparison pattern corresponds to a free code which indicates that the corresponding portion of the data packet, which is provided for a cable identification, is not yet occupied by a cable identification but is still free. Thereupon, on the output side, the comparator switches a third data series which is stored in the comparison pattern memory onto the signal line which leads to the change-over switch. That data series corresponds to an occupied code which marks as already occupied a portion of a data packet, which is intended for a cable identification. In addition the comparator begins to count the number of bits issuing from the shift register. If the number thereof corresponds to the size of the shift register, that is to say the free code has completely left the shift register and has also been completely replaced by an occupied code which is just as long, it again switches the incoming data stream onto the signal line portion leading to the change-over switch 54.
If the free code and the occupied code differ for example only in one bit, it is sufficient if the comparator switches over the bit of the free code, which characterizes the occupied code. In addition, it is also possible to forego a separate initialization code for the comparator 62 and 3o to use the free code itself for initialization of the comparator 62.
Accordingly it is sufficient to store only a single data series in the comparison pattern memory 60, which corresponds to the free code.
At the same time the comparator delivers a change-over switching signal to the change-over switch 54 by way of the control line 64 and switches the switch 54 from its first position into its second position, more specifically until, at the output of the shift register, it has counted a number of bits which correspond to the number of bits of the cable identification. While the change-over switch 54 is in its second position the comparator 62, by way of a branch of the control line 64, which leads to the memory 58, causes the content of the memory 58, more specifically the individual cable identification, to be put bit by bit onto the outgoing portion 50b of the signal line 50. The change-over switch 54 then goes back into its first position so that the outgoing portion 50b of the signal line 50 carries the data stream which issues from the shift register of the comparator 62 and which corresponds to the data stream passing into the shift register and thus the data stream on the incoming portion 50a of the signal line 50.
If the data stream does not include a free code which possibly follows an initialization code, no change-over switching operation takes place, in other words, the data stream on the incoming portion 50a of the signal line 50 passes by way of the shift register of the comparator 62 and the change-over switch 54 without alterations to the outgoing portions 50b of the signal line 50.
By virtue of the above-described means, it is possible for a plurality of cable identifications of consecutive cables to be added to a data packet in successive cascaded relationship. The operation of adding the cable identification can be switched on by a procedure whereby data packets or data streams which contain the free code and if necessary the initialization code are sent by way of the data line. Without such codes no cable identifications are added to a data packet or a data stream, in other words the data packet or the data stream remain unchanged.
The energy required for operation of the amplifier 56, the comparator 62 and the change-over switch 54 is taken from the voltage signals on the signal line 50. That purpose is served by a diode 70 and a resistor 72. The resistor 72 provides that the voltage signal on the signal line 50 is only high-ohmically loaded and is therefore only weakly attenuated. The circuit also has a capacitor 74 which is charged by way of the resistor 72 and the diode 70 and serves as a memory for the energy required for operation of the cable identification-applying means 28.
Figure 4 shows by way of example a data packet as can be received on the signal line 50. The data packet is identified by a header 80 followed by a data block 82. The data block 82 is followed by two cable identifications 84 and 86. A further cable identification 88 can be attached at the end of the data packet by the above-described means 28 for applying a cable identification.
Figure 5 diagrammatically shows a circuit 90 for open end identification, that is to say for ascertaining whether a cable is open at one end and the data line 10 is thus interrupted. The circuit 90 can also be integrated into the chip 44. The circuit 90 is based on the fact that a data feed or forward line 92 and a data return line 94 are provided in the data line 10. When the data line 10 is closed the data in the line 92 and in the data return line 94 are connected together for example in an electrical apparatus, so that signals transmitted to the electrical apparatus on the data forward line 92 can be transmitted back again by way of the data return line 94 in order in that way to check the consistency of the transmitted data. If a corresponding connection 96 of the data forward line 92 to the data return line 94 does not exist in an electrical apparatus, that is expressed in the form of a greater resistance between the data forward line 92 and the data return line 94. Accordingly, for open end identification, there is provided a resistance measuring means 98 which is connected between the data forward line 92 and the data return line 94.
The resistance measuring means 98 is connected to a connecting switch 100 which in its closed position connects the data forward line 92 to the 3o data return line 94.
As soon as the resistance measuring means 98 measures an electrical resistance between the data forward line 92 and the data return line 94, which is above a predetermined upper limit value, the resistance measuring means 98 switches the connecting switch into its position of connecting the data forward line 92 to the data return line 94. The connecting switch 100 remains closed either for a predetermined time or until it is reset by a signal.
Closure of the connecting switch 100 is achieved by data on the data forward line 92 being returned by way of the data return line 94.
The data on the data forward line 92 are for example also the cable identifications of all cables, as far as that one which is open at its one end.
If that cable is a component part of a data line, it is possible on the basis of the cable identifications which are returned by way of the data return line 94 to identify up to which cable the data line exists and from where it is interrupted.
Figure 6 shows a reading-out and display unit 110 which has a connection socket 112, for example for a Western plug, and a display 114.
Figure 6 does not show an electronic evaluation system connected between the connection socket 112 and the display 114, in the interior of the reading-out and display unit 110. A cable with means for applying a cable identification to one or more data lines can be inserted into the connection socket 112 of the reading-out and display unit 110. A data packet is introduced into the connected cable by the electronic evaluation system in the interior of the reading-out and display unit 110. The cable adds its cable identification to the cable packet in the above-described manner. It is fed by way of the data return line in the cable to the electronic evaluation system in the reading-out and display unit again, evaluated and displayed on the display 114. The data forward and return lines of the cable connected to the reading-out and evaluation unit 110 can in this case be connected together by way of a short-circuit plug or can be afforded by means integrated into the cable as shown in Figure 5.
If the free code and the occupied code differ for example only in one bit, it is sufficient if the comparator switches over the bit of the free code, which characterizes the occupied code. In addition, it is also possible to forego a separate initialization code for the comparator 62 and 3o to use the free code itself for initialization of the comparator 62.
Accordingly it is sufficient to store only a single data series in the comparison pattern memory 60, which corresponds to the free code.
At the same time the comparator delivers a change-over switching signal to the change-over switch 54 by way of the control line 64 and switches the switch 54 from its first position into its second position, more specifically until, at the output of the shift register, it has counted a number of bits which correspond to the number of bits of the cable identification. While the change-over switch 54 is in its second position the comparator 62, by way of a branch of the control line 64, which leads to the memory 58, causes the content of the memory 58, more specifically the individual cable identification, to be put bit by bit onto the outgoing portion 50b of the signal line 50. The change-over switch 54 then goes back into its first position so that the outgoing portion 50b of the signal line 50 carries the data stream which issues from the shift register of the comparator 62 and which corresponds to the data stream passing into the shift register and thus the data stream on the incoming portion 50a of the signal line 50.
If the data stream does not include a free code which possibly follows an initialization code, no change-over switching operation takes place, in other words, the data stream on the incoming portion 50a of the signal line 50 passes by way of the shift register of the comparator 62 and the change-over switch 54 without alterations to the outgoing portions 50b of the signal line 50.
By virtue of the above-described means, it is possible for a plurality of cable identifications of consecutive cables to be added to a data packet in successive cascaded relationship. The operation of adding the cable identification can be switched on by a procedure whereby data packets or data streams which contain the free code and if necessary the initialization code are sent by way of the data line. Without such codes no cable identifications are added to a data packet or a data stream, in other words the data packet or the data stream remain unchanged.
The energy required for operation of the amplifier 56, the comparator 62 and the change-over switch 54 is taken from the voltage signals on the signal line 50. That purpose is served by a diode 70 and a resistor 72. The resistor 72 provides that the voltage signal on the signal line 50 is only high-ohmically loaded and is therefore only weakly attenuated. The circuit also has a capacitor 74 which is charged by way of the resistor 72 and the diode 70 and serves as a memory for the energy required for operation of the cable identification-applying means 28.
Figure 4 shows by way of example a data packet as can be received on the signal line 50. The data packet is identified by a header 80 followed by a data block 82. The data block 82 is followed by two cable identifications 84 and 86. A further cable identification 88 can be attached at the end of the data packet by the above-described means 28 for applying a cable identification.
Figure 5 diagrammatically shows a circuit 90 for open end identification, that is to say for ascertaining whether a cable is open at one end and the data line 10 is thus interrupted. The circuit 90 can also be integrated into the chip 44. The circuit 90 is based on the fact that a data feed or forward line 92 and a data return line 94 are provided in the data line 10. When the data line 10 is closed the data in the line 92 and in the data return line 94 are connected together for example in an electrical apparatus, so that signals transmitted to the electrical apparatus on the data forward line 92 can be transmitted back again by way of the data return line 94 in order in that way to check the consistency of the transmitted data. If a corresponding connection 96 of the data forward line 92 to the data return line 94 does not exist in an electrical apparatus, that is expressed in the form of a greater resistance between the data forward line 92 and the data return line 94. Accordingly, for open end identification, there is provided a resistance measuring means 98 which is connected between the data forward line 92 and the data return line 94.
The resistance measuring means 98 is connected to a connecting switch 100 which in its closed position connects the data forward line 92 to the 3o data return line 94.
As soon as the resistance measuring means 98 measures an electrical resistance between the data forward line 92 and the data return line 94, which is above a predetermined upper limit value, the resistance measuring means 98 switches the connecting switch into its position of connecting the data forward line 92 to the data return line 94. The connecting switch 100 remains closed either for a predetermined time or until it is reset by a signal.
Closure of the connecting switch 100 is achieved by data on the data forward line 92 being returned by way of the data return line 94.
The data on the data forward line 92 are for example also the cable identifications of all cables, as far as that one which is open at its one end.
If that cable is a component part of a data line, it is possible on the basis of the cable identifications which are returned by way of the data return line 94 to identify up to which cable the data line exists and from where it is interrupted.
Figure 6 shows a reading-out and display unit 110 which has a connection socket 112, for example for a Western plug, and a display 114.
Figure 6 does not show an electronic evaluation system connected between the connection socket 112 and the display 114, in the interior of the reading-out and display unit 110. A cable with means for applying a cable identification to one or more data lines can be inserted into the connection socket 112 of the reading-out and display unit 110. A data packet is introduced into the connected cable by the electronic evaluation system in the interior of the reading-out and display unit 110. The cable adds its cable identification to the cable packet in the above-described manner. It is fed by way of the data return line in the cable to the electronic evaluation system in the reading-out and display unit again, evaluated and displayed on the display 114. The data forward and return lines of the cable connected to the reading-out and evaluation unit 110 can in this case be connected together by way of a short-circuit plug or can be afforded by means integrated into the cable as shown in Figure 5.
Claims (11)
1. A method of locating at least one cable of a line network which includes at least one data line which is formed by one or more mutually adjoining cables and by way of which at least one data packet is sent, characterized in that at least one cable adds a cable-specific cable identification to the data packet.
2. A method as set forth in claim 1 characterized in that cable identifications of successive cables are added in cascaded relationship to the data packet.
3. Apparatus for locating a cable of a line network which includes at least one data line which is formed by one or more mutually adjoining cables and by way of which at least one data packet is transmitted characterized in that at least one cable includes a memory for a cable-specific cable identification and means for adding the cable-specific cable identification to the data packet.
4. Apparatus as set forth in claim 3 characterized in that the means for adding the cable-specific cable identification include detection means which are arranged between a portion of the data line, which leads to the detection means, and a portion of the data line, which leads away from the detection means, and are such that they detect a predetermined data series and which are connected to an electronic change-over switch which in a first position switches the data packet from the portion of the data line leading to the detection means onto the portion of the data line leading away from the detection means and in a second position switches the cable-specific cable identification onto the portion of the data line, which leads away from the detection means, wherein the detection means cause the change-over switch to switch over from its first position into its second position for a time required for applying the cable identification when the detection means have detected the predetermined data series.
5. Apparatus as set forth in claim 4 characterized in that the detection means include a comparison pattern memory in which at least one predetermined data series is stored and a comparator which is connected to the comparison pattern memory and the incoming portion of the data line and the change-over switch and is such that it switches the change-over switch into its second position when a data series which corresponds to the predetermined data series is on the incoming portion of the data line.
6. Apparatus as set forth in claim 5 characterized in that stored in the comparison pattern memory are at least two predetermined data series of which the first data series characterizes the beginning of a data packet identification portion provided for a cable identification and the second data series characterizes an occupied identification which follows the first data series and which characterizes the fact that the identification portion is already written with a cable identification, and that the comparator has an internal electronic change-over switch and is such that it switches the second predetermined data series to the portion of the data line which leads away from the comparator when a data series which corresponds to the first predetermined data series is on the incoming portion of the data line.
7. Apparatus as set forth in claim 5 and claim 6 characterized in that the comparator is such that it compares a data series which is on the portion of the data line leading to the comparator and which follows the first data series to the second stored data series while the second data series is switched onto the portion of the data line which leads away from the comparator and switches the change-over switch from the first position into the second position if the data series on the data line does not correspond to the second stored data series.
8. Apparatus as set forth in one of claims 4 through 7 wherein the data packets are transmitted in the form of voltage signals on the data line characterized in that the detection means take the energy they require from the voltage signals on the data line.
9. A cable for an apparatus as set forth in one of claims 3 through 8 characterized in that the cable includes a memory for an individual cable identification and means for adding a cable-specific cable identification to a data packet.
10. A cable as set forth in claim 9 which at its two ends is provided with connecting means, by means of which the cable can be connected to a further cable or an electrical apparatus, characterized in that the means for adding the cable-specific cable identification are integrated into at least one of the connecting means of the cable.
11. A cable as set forth in claim 10 comprising at least one pair of mutually associated individual lines characterized in that the cable includes resistance measuring means for measuring the electrical resistance between the mutually associated individual lines and at least one electronic connecting switch which is arranged between the mutually associated individual lines and which is connected to the resistance measuring means in such a way that the connecting switch makes a connection between the individual lines when the resistance measuring means measure between the two individual lines an electrical resistance which is above a predetermined upper limit value.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| DE19860708.3 | 1998-12-24 | ||
| DE19860708A DE19860708A1 (en) | 1998-12-24 | 1998-12-24 | Method for localizing a cable in a data line network |
| PCT/EP1999/010356 WO2000039959A2 (en) | 1998-12-24 | 1999-12-23 | Method for localizing a cable in a data transmission network |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2358874A1 true CA2358874A1 (en) | 2000-07-06 |
Family
ID=7893115
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002358874A Abandoned CA2358874A1 (en) | 1998-12-24 | 1999-12-23 | Method of locating a cable in a data line network |
Country Status (6)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| EP (1) | EP1147638A2 (en) |
| JP (1) | JP2002534839A (en) |
| AU (1) | AU2102100A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2358874A1 (en) |
| DE (1) | DE19860708A1 (en) |
| WO (1) | WO2000039959A2 (en) |
Families Citing this family (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DE19956964A1 (en) * | 1999-11-17 | 2001-05-23 | Bb Data Inf & Komm Syst Gmbh | Intelligent data line |
| DE10126351A1 (en) * | 2001-05-30 | 2002-12-12 | Ccs Technology Inc | Optical distribution device and fiber optic connection cable |
Family Cites Families (5)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US3902026A (en) * | 1974-01-18 | 1975-08-26 | Electronic Control Systems Inc | Method and apparatus for identifying wires |
| FR2583884B1 (en) * | 1985-06-25 | 1987-09-04 | Electricite De France | COMPUTER NETWORK TROUBLESHOOTING METHOD AND INSTALLATION |
| GB2236398A (en) * | 1989-09-29 | 1991-04-03 | James Alexander Carter | Self documenting patch panel |
| ATE165669T1 (en) * | 1992-06-10 | 1998-05-15 | Rit Techn Ltd | SCAN FOR PATCH PANEL |
| US5436555A (en) * | 1994-06-09 | 1995-07-25 | Fluke Corporation | LAN cable identifier for testing local area network cables |
-
1998
- 1998-12-24 DE DE19860708A patent/DE19860708A1/en not_active Withdrawn
-
1999
- 1999-12-23 EP EP99965549A patent/EP1147638A2/en not_active Withdrawn
- 1999-12-23 JP JP2000591749A patent/JP2002534839A/en active Pending
- 1999-12-23 WO PCT/EP1999/010356 patent/WO2000039959A2/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 1999-12-23 CA CA002358874A patent/CA2358874A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 1999-12-23 AU AU21021/00A patent/AU2102100A/en not_active Abandoned
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| JP2002534839A (en) | 2002-10-15 |
| EP1147638A2 (en) | 2001-10-24 |
| WO2000039959A2 (en) | 2000-07-06 |
| AU2102100A (en) | 2000-07-31 |
| WO2000039959A3 (en) | 2000-11-16 |
| DE19860708A1 (en) | 2000-07-06 |
Similar Documents
| Publication | Publication Date | Title |
|---|---|---|
| US5081627A (en) | Status and activity monitor for contention type local area networks | |
| EP0518367B1 (en) | System for determining pluggable memory characteristics | |
| US4059727A (en) | Data transmission system between telephone subscriber location and telephone exchange location during idle telephone condition | |
| EP0340325B1 (en) | Digitally addressable electronic device | |
| EP0697094B1 (en) | Fault tolerant multipoint data collection system | |
| CN100593314C (en) | System and method for implementing RMII Ethernet reset | |
| US4418312A (en) | Apparatus for testing multi-conductor cables | |
| US4399400A (en) | Apparatus for testing multiconductor cables and having transition circuit means for extending its capability | |
| US6323654B1 (en) | Method and apparatus for remotely changing signal characteristics of a signal generator | |
| GB2211329A (en) | Event detection system | |
| WO1987006380A1 (en) | Local control system for domestic appliances and alarm devices | |
| US5627474A (en) | Continuity checker for allocating individual cores of multi-core cables | |
| EP2290944A3 (en) | Transmitter, signal transfer method, data distribution system and method of same, data receiver, data provider and method of same, and data transfer | |
| CA2377638A1 (en) | Qualifying telephone lines for data transmission | |
| CN102246050A (en) | System and method of detecting and locating intermittent electrical faults in electrical systems | |
| WO2004018960A3 (en) | Otdr arrangement for detecting faults in an optical transmission system on a span by span basis | |
| US5168273A (en) | Sequential analog/digital data multiplexing system and method | |
| US6718284B2 (en) | Smart module and adapter apparatus | |
| CA2358874A1 (en) | Method of locating a cable in a data line network | |
| CN101502087A (en) | Office ID remote with oscillating circuit | |
| US6256128B1 (en) | Electricity meter data source identification circuit | |
| US5856791A (en) | Port expander for utility meter reading | |
| US4941115A (en) | Hand-held tester for communications ports of a data processor | |
| SE9401318D0 (en) | Method for monitoring a memory and circuitry for this | |
| CN214473764U (en) | Board card detection system |
Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Dead |