U.S. patent application number 11/147079 was filed with the patent office on 2006-08-24 for wall mounted system with insertable computing apparatus.
Invention is credited to Aviv Soffer.
Application Number | 20060185877 11/147079 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 36911445 |
Filed Date | 2006-08-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060185877 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Soffer; Aviv |
August 24, 2006 |
Wall mounted system with insertable computing apparatus
Abstract
The present invention is directed to provide a computing system
comprises plurality of apparatii mounted on the wall or floor
adjacent to or embedded inside the LAN jack or a main power outlet.
The apparatii are connected at the back side through Ethernet
cable, optical fiber or main lines to the building LAN and
connected at the front side through cables or wirelessly to
display, keyboard, mouse or other peripheral devices. In a typical
embodiment of the present invention power to the computing
apparatus is supplied through the LAN cable. Another embodiment of
the present invention utilizes a wall or floor mounted housing part
comprising of an integrated LAN connector. This common housing
enables easy installation of the said computing apparatus module
and plurality of other compatible devices that may be plugged into
that same housing.
Inventors: |
Soffer; Aviv; (Moshav Ein
Ayala, IL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Angenehm Law Firm. Ltd.
P.O. Box 48755
Coon Rapids
MN
55448-0755
US
|
Family ID: |
36911445 |
Appl. No.: |
11/147079 |
Filed: |
June 6, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60654559 |
Feb 18, 2005 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
174/50 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H02G 3/123 20130101;
H04B 2203/5483 20130101; H01R 27/02 20130101; H01R 2201/04
20130101; H04B 3/56 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
174/050 |
International
Class: |
H02G 3/08 20060101
H02G003/08 |
Claims
1. A wall or floor mounted LAN hub insert comprising: a box adapted
to fit inside or be mechanically attached to a network or mains
jack comprising: a mating electrical connector provided on said box
adapted to mate with a connector in said jack providing LAN
interface for the LAN hub insert; a LAN switch connected to said
mating connector; plurality of LAN connectors connected to said LAN
switch.
2. The LAN hub insert of claim 1 wherein the LAN hub insert is
built as a removable module adapted to fits inside a housing
permanently fixed to the building interior or furniture.
3. The LAN hub insert of claim 1 wherein said mating connector is a
fiber-optic connector provided on said box and adapted to mate with
a connector in said jack providing LAN interface for said computing
apparatus.
4. The LAN hub insert of claim 1 wherein said mating connector is
providing both power and digital data.
5. The LAN hub insert of claim 4 wherein said mating connector is
connected to main electricity lines providing both AC power and
digital data over power-lines networking.
6. A wall or floor mounted computing apparatus comprising: a box
adapted to fit inside or be mechanically attached to a network or
mains jack comprising: a processor adapted to process required
programs; Non-Volatile memory means adapted to permanently store
programs and data to be processed by said processor; volatile
memory means adapted to temporarily store data required by said
processor; at least two video display controllers adapted to
generate a visible video image on connected video display means
from data directed from said processor, said non-volatile memory or
said volatile memory; network interface means for connecting the
apparatus to external data network through fiber optic based means
adapted to receive and transmit data to and from the apparatus; a
mating connector provided on said box and adapted to mate with a
connector in said jack providing LAN interface for said computing
apparatus; means for interfacing with plurality of external
peripheral devices provided to said box so as to allow a user to
interact with the apparatus through data exchange in various forms
with the said peripheral devices such as keyboard and mouse or any
other connected device.
7. The wall or floor mounted computing apparatus of claim 6 wherein
at least one of said two video display controllers adapted to
generate a visible video image may be connected to a video display
means using DVI connector.
8. A wall or floor mounted LAN jack insert comprising: a box
adapted to fit inside or be mechanically attached to a network or
mains jack comprising: a mating connected for connecting to wall
LAN system; a LAN jack provided on a front panel capable of
communicating data received from said mating connector.
9. The LAN jack insert of claim 8 wherein said LAN jack insert is
built as a removable module adapted to fits inside a housing
permanently fixed to the building interior or furniture.
10. The LAN jack insert of claim 8 wherein said mating connector is
a fiber-optic connector provided on said box and adapted to mate
with a connector in said jack providing LAN interface for said
computing apparatus.
11. The LAN jack insert of claim 10 further comprising an optical
transceiver LAN controller connected on one side to said
fiber-optic connector and on the other side to said LAN jack.
12. The LAN jack insert of claim 8 wherein said mating connector is
connected to main electricity lines providing both AC power and
digital data over power-lines networking.
13. A layered headless computing apparatus comprising: a thermally
conductive box containing at least three substantially parallel
printed circuit boards wherein: a first Printed Circuit Board layer
containing at least a processor, memory controller, volatile
memory, non-volatile memory, and an interconnect component to
interface it with the second layer; a second Printed Circuit Board
layer connected to first and third layers and containing at least
I/O controller, LAN transceiver, power supplies, and interconnect
means to third layer; and a third layer Printed Circuit Board layer
connected to second layer and containing substantially front panel
LAN jack.
14. A modular data system comprising: a server connected to a LAN
switch; a LAN switch connected to said server and to plurality of
housing for insertable computing device; plurality of insertable
device inserted into said plurality of housings, wherein said
plurality of insertable devices are selected from a group of
devices such as blank panel modular insert, computing apparatus
insert, headless computing apparatus insert, LAN jack insert, LAN
hub insert, and Wireless LAN Access Point insert.
15. A Wireless LAN Access Point insert comprising: a box adapted to
fit inside or be mechanically attached to a network or mains jack;
a mating connector provided on said box for connecting to wall LAN
system; a LAN controller exchanging data with said mating
connector; a radio section for modulating said data as RF
radiation; and antenna for transmitting said RF radiation.
Description
[0001] This present invention claims the benefit of earlier U.S.
provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/654,559 filed on 18 of
February by Soffer Aviv.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention is related generally to system of
modular wall or floor-mounted computing apparatuses that among
other functions replaces standard desktop PCs and enables computer
user to access and use local and remote applications. More
specifically, this invention relates to a thin-client type
computing apparatus built inside or in conjunction with a LAN or
mains jack and connected to the building LAN system infrastructure
or the existing power lines network at one side and to the user
interaction and peripheral devices on the other side.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Desktop personal computers (PC) are essential working tools
for many professionals today. Desktop PCs brought not only access
to information and increased productivity, but also many inherent
problems. These problems include: high costs, low-reliability
issues, poor information and physical security, high power
consumption and production of heat, noise, electromagnetic
radiation, wasted space and poor central management. For these
reasons and others, many organizations are seeking economical
alternatives for desktop PCs.
[0004] In recent years, thin-client computing devices became a
popular alternative for desktop PCs.
[0005] As thin-clients are built around the concept of remote
processing and remote management, very little local maintenance and
interaction is needed to operate such devices. Thin-clients to some
extent are capable of running local applications just like PCs.
[0006] Typical existing thin-clients are built as a desktop
appliance connected to the wall infrastructure with a power cord
and with a Local Area Network (LAN) cable and connected to the
various desktop peripherals such as display, keyboard and mouse by
additional cabling. Thin-clients are connected via LAN or through
Wide Area Network (WAN) to remote servers where applications are
run and data is stored. This type of thin-client appliance takes
desktop space and depends on connection of various cables.
Installation of This type of thin-client appliance is complex, time
consuming and cumbersome due to the necessity to connect all the
cables. Often, the device also needs to be physically secured to
the desk with additional physical securing cable and lock to
prevent tempering and theft.
[0007] Today there are some simple functions that designed to fit
inside a LAN or mains jack such as network switches and wireless
Access Points Another option known in the art is the integration of
the thin-client inside the display device. While this option saves
the video cable connection and also reduces desktop space, it
suffers from the inherent maintenance problems of coupling the two
functions together. This type of integration tends to complicate
maintenance and to increase the solution price. It may be
advantageous to separate these two functions for operational
flexibility, ease of maintenance and proper asset management.
[0008] Yet another option known in the art is the integration of
the thin-client function inside the keyboard enclosure. This setup
saves one cable--the keyboard connection. This solution is
undesirable since keyboards are susceptible to mechanical failures
and fluid damages, therefore maintenance problems using this
combination are unavoidable.
[0009] Still another option known in the art is the integration of
computer/thin-client inside a touch pad or a mouse. This method is
undesirable due to technical and operational problems including
heavy weigh and high temperature that interfere with the mouse
function and the need to connect many cables.
[0010] Thus, there exists a need for a computing device which
overcomes these problems and provides organizations and
installation sites with a simple thin-client computing device that
has minimum connected wiring and takes minimum desktop space. A
computing device that can be easily deployed over existing or new
network infrastructure, a device that requires minimal and simple
installation.
[0011] Generally, computing devices are constructed as one "mother
board" to which essential or optional boards or components are
plugged using connectors or cables.
[0012] U.S. Pat. No. 6,710,704 (Fisher, et al. Mar. 23, 2004)
titled "Power transfer apparatus for concurrently transmitting data
and power over data wires" discloses a power supply current,
sufficient to power a remote network device which is transmitted
concurrently with a network data signal over a transmission
line.
[0013] U.S. Pat. No. 6,547,602 (Price, et al. Apr. 15, 2003) titled
"Modular plug receptacles defined by multiple electronic
components" discloses an integrated modular plug receptacle package
wherein one or more modular plug receptacles, or jacks, are defined
by bringing two or more PC cards into operable communication, such
as within the card slot cavity of a portable computer. In addition
to PC cards, various electronic device components may have formed
on a surface thereof modular jack portions enabling them to be
operably connected to a similarly equipped component, thereby also
defining a modular connector.
[0014] U.S. Pat. No. 5,971,813 (Kunz, et al. Oct. 26, 1999) titled
"RJ-45 modular connector with microwave-transmission-line
integrated signal conditioning for high speed networks" discloses a
modular connector comprises an insulating housing that accepts an
RJ-45 style jack from its front, and a molded insert from the
opposite said molded insert includes a signal conditioning circuit
that provides a proper electrical coupling between a physical
interface device or encoder/decoder and an unshielded twisted pair
cable to a high speed computer network.
[0015] U.S. Pat. No. 5,918,039 (Buswell, et al. Jun. 29, 1999)
titled "Method and apparatus for display of windowing application
programs on a terminal" discloses a video display terminal capable
of operating with a graphical user interface such as Windows,
providing functionality to permit use of popular applications
programs resident on a server, without requiring more than
application data to be transmitted from the server, and keyboard
and mouse information to be transmitted from the terminal to the
server. In addition, a method for updating terminal operating
characteristics over a communications link from a host is
disclosed.
[0016] Other general background information may be found in the
following patents:
[0017] U.S. Pat. No. 6,885,674 (Hunt, et al. Apr. 26, 2005)
Communications system for providing broadband communications using
a medium voltage cable of a power system
[0018] U.S. Pat. No. 6,888,790 (Kilani May 3, 2005), Frame
synchronization technique for OFDM based modulation scheme
[0019] U.S. Pat. No. 6,373,377 (Sacca, et al. Apr. 16, 2002), Power
supply with digital data coupling for power-line networking
[0020] U.S. Pat. No. 6,074,086 (Yonge, III Jun. 13, 2000),
Synchronization of OFDM signals with improved windowing
[0021] U.S. Pat. No. 6,040,759 (Sanderson Mar. 21, 2000),
Communication system for providing broadband data services using a
high-voltage cable of a power system
[0022] Operation of thin-client concept is described in IBM
Document "Implementing Windows Terminal Server and Citrix MetaFrame
on IBM xSeries Servers" dated April 2003.
[0023] Additional information can be found in:
[0024] "A Comparison of Thin-Client Computing Architectures,"
Network Computing Laboratory, Columbia University, Dated November
2000.
[0025] A description of important industry relevant standards can
be found in the following References:
[0026] IEEE 802.3af Power over Ethernet standard
[0027] IEEE High Power Over Ethernet proposed standard draft
[0028] HomePlug 1.0 Industry Standard
[0029] IEEE 802.3u Fast Ethernet standard
[0030] ANSI NEMA-WD6-2002 wiring devices--dimensional
specifications
[0031] ANSI/TIA/EIA-568 Commercial Building Telecommunications
Cabling Standard
[0032] ANSI/TIA/EIA-569 Commercial Building Telecommunications
Pathways and Spaces
[0033] 3Com.RTM. IntelliJack.TM. Switch NJ225 product brochure
[0034] Technical Paper--3Com.RTM. NJ205 IntelliJack.TM. Switch
Management Feature: Location Mapping
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0035] There exists a need for a computing device for providing
organizations and installation sites with a simple thin-client
computing device that has minimum connected wiring and takes
minimum or no desktop space. A computing device that can be easily
deployed over existing or new network infrastructure; a device that
requires minimal and simple installation.
[0036] The present invention is directed to provide a computing
system comprises plurality of apparatii mounted on the wall or
floor adjacent to or embedded inside the LAN jack or a main power
outlet. Said apparatii are connected at the back side through
Ethernet cable, optical fiber or main lines to the building LAN and
connected at the front side through cables or wirelessly to
display, keyboard, mouse or other peripheral devices. In a typical
embodiment of the present invention power to the computing
apparatus is supplied through the LAN cable. Another embodiment of
the present invention utilizes a wall or floor mounted housing part
comprising of an integrated LAN connector. This common housing
enables easy installation of the said computing apparatus module
and plurality of other compatible devices that may be plugged into
that same housing.
[0037] The present invention is related generally to wall or
floor-mounted computing apparatus that replaces standard desktop
PCs and enables computer user to access and use local and remote
applications. More specifically, this invention relates to a
thin-client type computing apparatus built inside or in conjunction
with a LAN or mains jack and connected to the building LAN system
infrastructure or power lines network at one side and to the user
interaction and peripheral devices on the other side.
[0038] In an embodiment of the present invention, a wall or floor
mounted LAN hub insert is provided comprising: a box adapted to fit
inside or be mechanically attached to a network or mains jack that
comprises a mating electrical connector provided on said box
adapted to mate with a connector in said jack providing LAN
interface for said LAN hub insert; a LAN switch connected to the
mating connector; and a plurality of LAN connectors connected to
the LAN switch.
[0039] In an embodiment of the invention, a wall or floor mounted
computing apparatus is provided comprising: a box built to fit
inside or be mechanically attached to a network or mains jack
comprising: a processor adapted to process required programs;
Non-Volatile memory means adapted to permanently store programs and
data to be processed by said processor; volatile memory means
adapted to temporarily store data required by said processor; at
least two video display controllers adapted to generate a visible
video image on connected video display means from data directed
from said processor, said non-volatile memory or said volatile
memory; network interface means for connecting the apparatus to
external data network through fiber optic based means adapted to
receive and transmit data to and from the apparatus; a mating
connector provided on said box and adapted to mate with a connector
in said jack providing LAN interface for said computing apparatus;
means for interfacing with plurality of external peripheral devices
provided to said box so as to allow a user to interact with the
apparatus through data exchange in various forms with the said
peripheral devices such as keyboard and mouse or any other
connected device. In the preferred embodiment at least one of said
two video display controllers adapted to generate a visible video
image may be connected to a video display means using DVI
connector.
[0040] In an embodiment of the invention, a wall or floor mounted
LAN jack insert is provided comprising: a box adapted to fit inside
or be mechanically attached to a network or mains jack comprising:
a mating connected for connecting to wall LAN system; a LAN jack
provided on front panel capable of communicating data received from
said mating connector.
[0041] In an embodiment of the invention, a layered headless
computing apparatus is provided comprising: a thermally conductive
box containing at least three substantially parallel printed
circuit boards wherein: a first Printed Circuit Board layer
containing at least a processor, memory controller, volatile
memory, non-volatile memory, and an interconnect component to
interface it with the second layer; a second Printed Circuit Board
layer connected to first and third layers and containing at least
I/O controller, LAN transceiver, power supplies, and interconnect
means to third layer; and a third layer Printed Circuit Board layer
connected to second layer and containing substantially front panel
LAN jack.
[0042] In an embodiment of the invention, a modular data system is
provided comprising: a server connected to a LAN switch; a LAN
switch connected to said server and to plurality of housing for
insertable computing device; plurality of insertable device
inserted into said plurality of housings, wherein said plurality of
insertable devices are selected from a group comprising: blank
panel modular insert, computing apparatus insert, headless
computing apparatus insert, LAN jack insert, LAN hub insert and
Wireless LAN Access Point insert.
[0043] In yet another embodiment of the invention, a Wireless LAN
Access Point insert is provided comprising: a box adapted to fit
inside or be mechanically attached to a network or mains jack
comprising: a mating connected for connecting to wall LAN system; a
LAN controller exchanging data with said mating connector;
a radio section for modulating said data as RF radiation; and
antenna for transmitting said RF radiation.
[0044] Further features and advantages of the invention will be
apparent from the drawings and the description contained
herein.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0045] An exemplary embodiment of the invention is described in the
following section with respect to the drawings. The same reference
numbers are used to designate the same or related features on
different drawings. The drawings are generally not drawn to
scale.
[0046] In order that the manner in which the above recited and
other advantages and features of the invention are obtained, a more
particular description of the invention briefly described above
will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof,
which are illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that
these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and
are not therefore to be considered limiting of its scope, the
invention will be described and explained with additional
specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings
in which:
[0047] FIG. 1 illustrates a cross sectional view of an embodiment
of the present invention showing the wall or floor mounted
insert-housing installation having network interface based on
Ethernet LAN.
[0048] FIG. 1a. illustrates a cross sectional view of anotherr
embodiment of the present invention showing the wall or floor
mounted insert-housing installation heat conducting decorative
frame and tempering detector option.
[0049] FIG. 2 illustrates a cross sectional view of an embodiment
of the present invention showing wall or floor mounted
insert-housing installation having network interface based on
optical fibers.
[0050] FIG. 3 illustrates a cross sectional view of an embodiment
of the present invention showing wall or floor mounted
insert-housing installation having network interface based on
Ethernet over power lines.
[0051] FIG. 4 illustrate high-level system diagram with one or more
remote servers, multiple network switches or hubs and multiple
connected LAN jack installed computer apparatuses of the present
invention. This represents a typical implementation of the current
invention for business and enterprise systems.
[0052] FIG. 4a illustrate high-level system diagram with one or
more Residential gateway/server/broadband router or PCs, connected
over standard power lines to multiple mains jack installed computer
apparatuses of the present invention. This system represents a
typical example of implementation of the current invention for home
and Small Office/Home Office (SOHO) use.
[0053] FIG. 5 illustrates a front view of a blank panel modular
insert that may be used to cover unused installed jacks of the
present invention.
[0054] FIG. 5a illustrates a side view of blank panel modular
insert that may be used to cover unused installed jacks of the
present invention.
[0055] FIG. 6 illustrates typical computing apparatus according to
an embodiment of the present invention.
[0056] FIG. 6a illustrates the same computing apparatus as in FIG.
6 but without the decorative frame attached to its front panel.
[0057] FIG. 7 illustrates a typical use of computing apparatus
according to the embodiment of FIG. 6 and its connections to common
desktop peripherals such as keyboard, mouse, speakers and
monitor.
[0058] FIG. 8 illustrates a block diagram of an embodiment of the
computing apparatus according to the present invention having wired
LAN interface and power-over Ethernet options.
[0059] FIG. 8a illustrates similar embodiment of the computing
apparatus in FIG. 8 but with network over power lines circuitry
instead of LAN cabling interface.
[0060] FIG. 8b illustrates a block diagram of an embodiment of the
computing apparatus according to the present invention having wired
LAN interface and power-over Ethernet options with plurality of
video controllers.
[0061] FIG. 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a typical
embodiment of the present invention showing the various internal
Printed Circuit Boards and interconnects.
[0062] FIG. 9a illustrates a cross-sectional view of an additional
embodiment of the present invention showing the various internal
Printed Circuit Boards and interconnects.
[0063] FIG. 10 illustrates another modular insert according to an
embodiment of current invention with a LAN port to enable
connection of other devices directly to the LAN infrastructure.
[0064] FIG. 11 illustrates yet another modular insert option
comprising of four LAN ports network switch.
[0065] FIG. 11a illustrates a block diagram of a typical LAN switch
insert according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0066] FIG. 12 illustrates another embodiment of the present
invention of a computing apparatus with an additional second LAN
port accessible from the front panel.
[0067] FIG. 12a illustrates the use of computing apparatus with
additional LAN port for secured data system according to an
embodiment of the present invention.
[0068] FIG. 12b illustrates exemplary data flow in a system of FIG.
11a according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0069] FIG. 12c illustrates yet another embodiment of a computing
apparatus according to the present invention having only a LAN jack
and indicator light at its front panel.
[0070] FIG. 12d illustrates a block diagram of a typical computing
apparatus insert according to an embodiment of the present
invention having additional LAN port connected to the computer as a
second LAN port and power over Ethernet PD circuitry.
[0071] FIG. 12e illustrates a block diagram of yet another typical
computing apparatus insert according to an embodiment of the
present invention having additional LAN port with internal LAN
switch and power over Ethernet PD circuitry.
[0072] FIG. 13 illustrates yet another embodiment of a computing
apparatus with Digital Video Interactive (DVI) port to attach an
external digital video display.
[0073] FIG. 14 illustrates typical embodiment of an Installation
Tester and Programmer system, used to test the jack and LAN
installation and to program various data into the location memory
chip.
[0074] FIG. 15--illustrates yet another modular insert option
comprising a Wireless LAN Access Point.
[0075] FIG. 15a illustrates a block diagram of a modular insert
option comprising a Wireless LAN Access Point.
[0076] FIG. 16 illustrates a typical insert module Power Over
Ethernet Powered Device implementation according to an embodiment
of the present invention.
[0077] FIG. 17 illustrates a typical insert module network over
power lines implementation according to an embodiment of the
present invention.
[0078] FIG. 18--illustrates yet another modular insert option
comprising of mains jack and LAN jack that provides Ethernet
connectivity over connected power lines.
[0079] FIG. 19 illustrates a block diagram of the modular insert
shown in FIG. 18.
[0080] FIG. 20 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the housing
connector block that electrically interfaces between the building
wiring and the modular insert of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENT
[0081] The following detailed description is of the best presently
contemplated modes of carrying out the present invention. This
description is not to be taken in a limiting sense, but is made
merely for the purpose of illustrating the general principles in
accordance with the present invention. The scope of the present
invention is best defined by the appended claims.
Further reference will now be made to the drawings, wherein
exemplary embodiments of the present claimed invention are
illustrated.
[0082] Reference is first made to FIG. 1 illustrates a cross
sectional view of the typical embodiment of the present invention
showing the wall or floor mounted insert-housing 100a having
network interface based on Ethernet LAN.
[0083] Wall or floor-mounted insert-housing 100a fit in a standard
LAN jack hole (cutout) in the wall or in a floor-mounted box.
Insert housing 100a is typically made of thin sheet metal or
perforated plastic frame to secure the inset mechanically and to
conduct heat efficiently.
[0084] Insert housing 100a may be retrofitted into a cutout made
for a standard LAN connection point. This housing comprises a box
3, preferably made of metal for efficient heat dissipation. Box 3
is secured to the wall 4 by mounting screws 5 or similar friction
based fasteners. Box 3 may be mounted to a wall or floor plane.
Alternatively, box 3 may be mounted to or in furniture or in a
decorative box mounted to any other flat object. At one side
preferably at the top or bottom of box 3 is at least one housing
connector block 2.
[0085] Optionally, box 3 provides an EMI shielding against FR
radiation emitted from or entering into the said box. Optionally,
block 2 comprises EMI shielding and RF filters against FR radiation
emitted from or entering into the said box.
[0086] Ethernet cable 1 provides LAN connectivity to the device. In
this embodiment the power for the device may be extracted from the
LAN signals using Power Over Ethernet Powered Device circuitry or
can be supplied by external wall mounted DC power supply. The LAN
cable usually connected to a network switch or hub at the other
(far) side as will be shown in FIG. 4. The said Ethernet cable 1 is
typically crimped or soldered to the connector block 2 as will be
shown in details in FIG. 20
[0087] Housing Connector block 2 may optionally include a location
memory chip 2c. Additionally, housing connector 2 may also contain
means for protecting equipment from high voltage transients such as
lightning, and may provide isolation, shielding and grounding.
Housing Connector block 2 further containing some form of mating
surfaces or contacts 2b to form a low resistance electrical
conductance with the insert housing contacts 7a of Mating connector
in modular insert 7. Said mating connector 7 may come in several
configurations to mate with several configurations of housing
connector block 2.
[0088] Optional location memory chip 2c may be a programmable
device such as Electrically Programmable Read Only memory (EPROM)
device or a preset read only device. Alternatively, a set of
jumpers or miniature switches may be used. Location memory chip 2c
may be used by the remote application servers or remote management
servers (shown in FIG. 4) to create a "Location map" and to
associate each insertable device with the insert-housing location
it was inserted into. Additionally, the inserted device may access
information in location memory chip 2c in order to adopt its
function to its current location. Such functionality may be useful
in a dynamic environment where users may change their location
frequently; equipment attached may be changed and moved etc. In
this case there may be a high value for associating the user with
the device and the device with the actual (physical) location using
the Location mapping described above. This may enable: [0089] a.
Location of the actual device in case of a device or network
failure that may require physical or logical troubleshooting.
[0090] b. Help in initial installation of various devices in the
said jack. [0091] c. Definition of connected network resources
based on the device location--this may be useful for printers,
scanners and other network peripherals. The exact position of the
installed computing device may automatically assign the closest or
most comfortable printer location or scanner. [0092] d. Easier
audition by easily locating the organization deployed assets.
[0093] e. The capability to limit access to high security materials
not only to specific users but also to specific rooms/building
location.
[0094] Similar results can be achieved by properly dividing the
organization network into sub-networks and manage ports in managed
LAN switches Though this type of management is less flexible and
less reliable compared to the method of using location map of the
current invention which may operate independently of any network
configurations or resources.
[0095] Interchangeable modular insert 600 is configured to fit
inside the box 3. Optional decorative frame 602 may be installed if
space permitting. Typically for smaller installation space the
decorative frame 602 would not be installed. Plurality of
variations of modular insert 600 may fit into the said box 3. Few
variations will be shown in the following figures. For example,
modular insert 600 may be a computing apparatus such as thin-client
type computing apparatus. Modular insert 600 shown in FIG. 1
comprises a mating connector 7 in its back that mates with the
housing connector 2 to exchange all necessary signals to and from
the modular insert 600.
[0096] The installation and operation processes can be explained
using the relevant drawings. In the preferred embodiment, a
standard floor or wall-mounted LAN jack can be either converted to
the preferred embodiment configuration or pre-built while the
building is being built to enable quick installation of a computing
apparatus. The LAN cabling 1 is typically Category 5 or higher
twisted pairs shielded type. The hole (cutout) in the wall or floor
surface 4 is typically drilled in compliance with NEMA-WD6 standard
cutout or other relevant standard. The LAN cable 1 is usually
stripped crimped and pressed into a terminal block that is part of
the housing connector block 2. Another option to achieve electrical
connection between the LAN cabling and the installed housing
connector, especially useful if the jack is already installed, is
to connect a short jumper cable between the existing RJ-45 LAN jack
and the connector block of housing connector block 2 thus avoiding
the need for manually stripping and crimping processes. This method
may be particularly useful in the case that an existing LAN system
is being retrofitted from conventional LAN jacks to the LAN jacks
of the present invention.
[0097] The housing connector is then secured to the housing box 3
to enable electrical connection with the inserted module 600
through its mating connector 7 and its spring contacts 7. The
assembled housing 100a is than inserted into the LAN jack cutout
and secured to the wall or floor surface 4 by screws 5 or any other
type of friction fasteners.
[0098] Though this cupper LAN based installation method would be
relevant to large majority of the organizations, still there may be
a need to provide similar solution in cases that the whole LAN or
segments of it are based on optical fibers.
[0099] Therefore another similar embodiment of the present
invention shown in FIG. 2 which shows a insert-housing 100b
specifically for optical fibers 1a instead of cupper wiring based
LAN presented above.
[0100] FIG. 1a. illustrates a cross sectional view of another
embodiment of the present invention showing the wall or floor
mounted insert-housing installation heat conducting decorative
frame and tempering detector option.
[0101] In the exemplary embodiment, heat conducting decorative
frame 602a is optionally comprises of heat conductive material such
as metal of sufficient thickness, preferably aluminum or copper.
The decorative frame is preferably in thermal contact with the
housing, the insertable device or both and assist in dissipation of
heat generated by computing insert.
[0102] In the exemplary embodiment, decorative frame 602a is
optionally comprises of key 2g capable of interacting with housing
3 so as to signal the proper installation or removal of said frame.
For example, security detector 2f may sense the insertion of key
2g. For example, removal of key 2g may cause electrical resistance
to load the network cable 1. The current in said cable may be
sensed for example by power over Ethernet power supply and set an
alarm.
[0103] In some embodiment of the invention, decorative frame is
locked by physical locking device to the housing preventing removal
of said frame without special tool. Preferably, in this embodiment,
said frame is configured to hold the insert in place and prevent
its removal without removing the frame first.
[0104] FIG. 2 illustrates a cross sectional view of an embodiment
of the present invention showing wall or floor mounted
insert-housing installation having network interface based on
optical fibers. This figure shows a wall or floor mounted
installation of insert-housing 100b and modular insert apparatus
603 similar to the ones shown in FIG. 1 but adopted to be connected
to a fiber optic network.
[0105] Wall or floor-mounted insert-housing 100b fits in a standard
hole in the wall or floor mounted box. Insert-housing 100b
comprises a box 3, which holds housing connector 2b and enable
insertion of modular insert 603. Decorative frame 602 may be
installed for esthetic reasons if space permits.
[0106] Fiber optic cable 1a provides data connectivity to the
device. The fiber optic cable usually connected to a network switch
or hub with optical ports at the other (far) end. Optical fiber
cable may comprise of a single fiber operating in duplex or two
fibers, single or multi mode type. Housing optical coupler 2a at
the back of box 3 contains one or more optical couplers to enable
good optical interface between the optical transceiver 7b on
modular insert 603 and fiber optic cable 1a. Housing optical
coupler 2a may also include location memory chip 2c. Housing
connector block 2a typically also contains some electrical contacts
2b to mate with the insert housing contacts 7a to supply optional
power and location memory 2c connectivity.
[0107] Mating fiber optic transceiver 7b attached to the side of
modular insert 603 mates with the housing optical coupler 2a to
deliver all necessary signals to and from the modular insert
603.
[0108] Preferably, a power cable 1b supplies power to the
insert-housing 100b. Preferably, a power cable 1b is connected to
housing connector 2a. Alternatively, power to the modular insert
603 is provided externally, optionally via a connector on the
modular insert.
[0109] Optionally housing optical coupler 2a includes fiber optic
transceiver for optical to electrical conversion, thus enabling the
use of eclectically interfaced interchangeable modular insert 600
instead of optically interfaced interchangeable modular insert
603.
[0110] In this figure screws 5 which are used for anchoring box 3
to the wall are shown.
[0111] FIG. 3 illustrates another cross sectional view of an
embodiment of the present invention showing wall or floor mounted
insert-housing installation having network interface based on
network over power lines. This figure shows a wall or floor mounted
installation of main power insert-housing 100c and main power
modular insert apparatus 604 similar to the ones shown in FIGS. 1
and 2 but adopted to be connected to the mains power outlet.
[0112] Wall or floor-mounted insert-housing 100c fits in a standard
hole in the wall or floor mounted box. Insert-housing 100c
comprises a box 3, which holds housing connector 2b and enables
insertion of modular insert 604. Decorative frame 602 may be
installed for esthetic reasons if space permits.
[0113] Mains electrical wires connected to the building electrical
infrastructure are crimped or otherwise connected to the main power
housing connector 2d which mates with main power mating connector
7c. Electrical wires typically consist of: Live line 1c, Neutral
line 1d and Ground line 1e. Voltage at this area will reach 110 or
230 Volts and is dangerous for the users. Therefore proper
shielding, insulation and safety measures need to be taken in this
area to protect the high voltage AC lines.
[0114] FIG. 4 illustrates a high-level system diagram with one or
more remote servers, multiple network switches or hubs and multiple
connected LAN jack installed computer apparatuses.
[0115] System 300 comprises at least one server 8 which may be
located on-site over Local Area Network (LAN) or at a remote
location over Wide Area Network (WAN). In the case that the system
implemented is using thin-client inserts the server 8 may be an
application server, presentation server, legacy host or a web
server. If multiple servers 8 are being used, a load balancing
function may be added before the servers 8 to route new connections
based on various real time and static parameters such as current
server load and capacity of each individual server. Application
server not only executes programs for the thin clients, but it also
can provide the thin clients with access to all the resources
available on the networks attached to the application server. The
application server 8 delivers data to the thin clients including,
but not limited to, graphics, encoded audio, and video which are
decoded and displayed by the thin clients. The thin clients may
deliver data including, but not limited to, keyboard and control
signals, pointer, and encoded audio and video data to the
application server 8.
[0116] Network connection 9 connecting the said server 8 with at
least one network switch or hub 10. Network switch or hub 10 is
connected to multiple wall or floor mounted insert housings 100a
via Ethernet cable 1. Network switch or hub may have an integrated
power over Ethernet end-span circuitry or fitted with external
Power Over Ethernet mid-span power injector device/s 11 attached to
it downstream. Alternatively or additionally, all or parts of the
insert housings 100a may be replaces with optically interfaced
insert housings 100b connected to Network switch or hub 10 with
optical fiber cables 1a and optionally also to power cable 1b
connected to power supply 11a or getting its power from hub 10.
[0117] Typically, the LAN cables are routed through the floors,
walls and ceilings of the installation site to a centralized
location where a network switches or hubs installed.
[0118] An insert 600 is inserted into at least in one of the
housings 100a (100b). Inserts may be chosen from a list of
available inserts such as computing devises 610, 650, etc.
Preferably housing which are not in use are covered by blank cover
605.
[0119] It should be noted that plurality of standard LAN jacks may
be connected to the same network infrastructure without interfering
with its operation. In a typical installation few or all of the
installed or existing LAN are replaced with insert housings 100a or
100b
[0120] FIG. 4a illustrates another high-level system 310 diagram
with broadband router, one or more local or remote servers, and
multiple connected mains jack installed computer apparatuses.
[0121] System 310 comprises of a broadband
modem/router/firewall/residential gateway/set top box 205 that
connects the system sites to the internet 312, at least one remote
server 8 or local server 8a that may be a standard PC or a
dedicated appliance. The server 8/8a may be an application server,
multimedia streaming server, presentation server, legacy host or a
web server or any other type of server. Application server not only
executes programs for the thin clients, but it also can provide the
thin clients with access to all the resources available on the
networks attached to the application server.
[0122] The broadband modem/router/firewall/residential gateway/set
top box 205 connected to the site electrical system directly if
equipped with network over power lines interface or through an
external network over power lines interface box 208. This enables
multiple of insert housings 100c typically replacing existing wall
or floor mounted power jacks while connected trough household main
power line 1c,d,e depicted here as one line cable.
[0123] An insert 604 is inserted into at least in one of the
housings 100c. Inserts may be chosen from a list of available
inserts such as computing devises 720, etc. For safety, housing
which are not in use are covered by blank cover. It should be noted
that plurality of standard main power outlets may be connected to
the same power infrastructure without interfering with its
operation. In fact, in a typical installation only few of the
installed or existing power outlets are replaced with insert
housings 100c
[0124] This system illustrated here is a typical example of
implementation of the current invention for home and SOHO use as it
allows a simple network implementation using elements of the
present invention without the need to install a special network
cabling.
[0125] It should be understood that a mixed system comprising
combination of elements of systems 300 and 310 may be constructed
having plurality of housing boxes selected from 100a, 100b and
100c.
[0126] FIG. 5 illustrates a front view of a blank panel modular
insert 605. This panel may be used to cover unused installed jacks
for decoration and protection.
[0127] Blank panel modular insert 605 comprises a blank front panel
187 with optional access holes 43 for insert lock--unlock special
removal tool. Decorative frame 602 may be installed if installation
space permits.
[0128] Optionally, all modular inserts types are built so they
could be easily inserted into box 3, preferably by simply pushing
them into place without the need of tools. However, once in place,
modular inserts preferably cannot be removed without the use of
special removal tool. In an embodiment of the invention, the
removal tool is a key-like device that is inserted into holes in
the front panel of the modular insert in order to free it from box
3.
[0129] Alternatively, blank panel modular insert 605 may be removed
without using special removal tool. Optionally the blank panel
modular insert 605 further contains an electronic circuitry
intended to signal remote management system in case that the panel
is removed. This may be done by closing an electronic circuit with
a detection and load resistor that affects the Power Over Ethernet
signature of that network. Removal of panel 605 will trigger the
connected Power Over Ethernet switch to detect a disconnect event
and to signal a remote management system of this event. This
feature is specifically useful to protect access to unused network
ports from unauthorized physical access.
[0130] The need to use special tool to remove the blank insert
before being able to connect to the network connector give some
protection against unauthorized use of the network.
[0131] FIG. 5a illustrates a side view of the blank panel modular
insert 605. This panel may be used to cover unused installed jacks
for decoration and protection.
[0132] Optionally Blank panel modular insert 605 comprises a
security mating connector 7d. In some embodiment, security mating
connector 7d comprise a passive security device 7e such as a
resistor, which is sensed by switch 10 or mid-span power injector
11 signaling the existence of blank insert covering the unused box
3. Removal of Blank panel modular insert 605 causes disconnection
of optional security mating connector 7d, which can be sensed by
the system and issue an alert warning of possible attempt of
network abuse.
[0133] Additionally or alternatively, security mating connector 7d
may comprise or connected to a passive or active electrical circuit
configured to supply the system with authentication signal
indicating its proper engagement within box 3.
[0134] It should be clear to a person skilled in the art that blank
panel 605 and connector 7d may be configured to interface with
systems 100a, 100b and 100c to provide the proper signaling. Blank
cover 605 provides physical protection from dust and foreign
elements and protection against unauthorized intrusion into the
data system by insertion of unauthorized devices.
[0135] Generally, house main power systems are not intended to
provide high data security and security elements may be omitted in
a blank cover used with housing box 100c. Instead, a blank cover
insert fitted with a simple power outlet providing electrical
connections to lines 1c, 1d, and optionally 1e may be used.
[0136] FIG. 6 illustrates a typical computing apparatus insert
module 610 according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0137] Computing apparatus insert module 610 has a mating connector
7 in the form of 7 7b or 7c depending on its interface type and is
configured to fit in box 3 of insert-housing 100a, 100b or 100c
such that its mating connector is engaged with corresponding
housing connector block 2 2a or 2d respectively.
[0138] Connector 2 (2a, 2d) provides power for operation of the
various circuitry inside computing apparatus insert 610 as well as
network services to the remote server or servers 8. Box 3 is
preferably made of high heat-conductive material to assist
dissipation of heat produced by the operation of the computing
apparatus insert 610.
[0139] Computing apparatus insert module 610 comprises a front
panel 41 with optional access holes 43 for special removal tool. An
optional decorative frame 602 may be installed around the panel 41
if space permit.
[0140] Insert module 610 is built so it could be easily inserted
into box 3, preferably by simply pushing it into place without the
need for tools. However, once in place, modular insert 610
preferably locks and cannot be removed without the use of special
removal tool. In an embodiment of the invention, the removal tool
is a key-like device that is inserted into one or more holes in the
front panel 41 of the modular insert in order to free it from box
3.
[0141] In the exemplary embodiment depicted in FIG. 6, insert
module 610 is a thin-client apparatus connected to a server 8
through its mating connector and comprises at least few interface
connections on its front panel 41.
[0142] In the exemplary embodiment, four Universal Serial (USB)
ports 42 enable connection of insert module 610 to plurality of
external USB peripherals such as keyboard, mouse, printer etc.
Optional Audio Out connector 44 enables connecting external
speakers or headphones. Optional Audio In connector 51 enables
connecting an external microphone or other audio signal sources to
the apparatus. Analog video out connector 48 enables connection of
standard computer monitor. Optional Infra Red Data Association
(IrDA) Transceiver 50 enables the computing apparatus interfacing
wirelessly with mobile phones, Personal Digital Assistants (PDA)
laptop computers etc. Optional Reset switch 49 enables manual reset
of the apparatus. Optional Power and self test indicator 53
indicates device power in green light and self test failure in red
light. Additional indicator light 52 may be fitted on the panel 41
to indicate LAN activity and Link status.
[0143] Optional Auxiliary power jack 47 may be installed on the
panel 41 to enable direct power feeding from a wall-mounted DC
power supply.
[0144] It should be noted that the exemplary configuration of FIG.
6 describes a typical embodiment of a thin-client computing
apparatus insert module. For example, number of USB ports may vary.
Alternatively, keyboard and mouse may be connected using other
keyboard and mouse connectors such as PS/2 type instead of USB
connector. For example; IrDA Transceiver may be omitted, Audio In
or Audio Out or both audio connectors or reset switch may be
omitted and other connectors may be added. Analog monitor
connection may be replaced with other standard visual signal
connections such as DVI, RGB, video connection, S-video connection
etc. In addition an active or passive extension cable may be
connected to enable comfortable location of connected peripherals
at longer distance from the said apparatus. LVDS circuitry in the
said computing apparatus insert or in the cable may be used to
enable further extension of the video output to remote monitor.
[0145] Further more an internal or external user authentication
peripheral such as smart card reader, biometric device may be
fitted.
[0146] FIG. 6a illustrates the same computing apparatus 610 of FIG.
6 but with the decorative frame 602 not assembled. This type of
installation is typical for a space limited applications such as in
floor-mounted box or in furniture.
[0147] FIG. 7 illustrates a typical use of computing apparatus 610
according to the embodiment of FIG. 6 and its connections to common
desktop peripherals such as keyboard, mouse, speakers and
monitor.
[0148] For clarity, elements 41, 42, 43, 44, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52
and 53, which are marked in FIGS. 6 and 6a, were not marked in this
figure. In order to use the installed computing apparatus 610 the
user or technician connects computer peripherals such monitor,
keyboard, mouse, and optionally a printer, external mass storage
device, audio equipment etc.
[0149] In this exemplary embodiment, computing apparatus insert
module 610 is connected to a keyboard 81 using first USB cord 80
connected to the first USB jack. Mouse 83 is connected to computing
apparatus via a second USB cord 82. Optionally portable USB
mass-storage device 79 is connected to third USB jack. Monitor 87
is connected to computing apparatus via Analog video cable 86.
Monitor 87 may be a standard display such as CRT or LCD. Power to
the monitor may be supplied separately.
[0150] Optionally Audio Out cable 84 is connected to (optionally
amplified) stereo speakers 85 home theater or any other external
multimedia appliance to enable audio output. Alternatively or
additionally, audio equipment may be integrated into the display.
Alternatively, USB based audio devices may be used. Equipped with
audio in/out devices, the computing apparatus may be used for Voice
Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) communication.
[0151] Optionally Microphone 78 is connected to the Audio in jack.
Keyboard 81 and a mouse 83 are typically connected to the
appropriate USB ports in the device panel. Alternatively, the mouse
may be integrated to or connected to the keyboard. Optionally,
additional USB ports or hub may be integrated into the keyboard or
the display and be used to connect additional computer peripherals.
Keyboard 81 and Mouse 83 may also be connected to the apparatus
through wireless link such as Infrared or Radio Frequency
[0152] Optionally, other computer peripherals such as: printer,
mass storage devices, removable media storage device such as CD or
DVD reader or Reader Writer, Disk On Key external memory, external
modem, other I/O devices such games I/O, scanner, Fax, Musical
Digital Instrument Interface (MIDI), card reader, magnetic card
reader (for example for credit card reading), cash register, an
industrial monitoring or operational machine such as industrial
robot or industrial monitoring device or scientific data
acquisition device or public displays such as airport terminal
displays may be connected to the computing apparatus.
[0153] Optionally an external USB Hub may be connected to increase
the number of computer peripherals that may be connected to the
computing apparatus.
[0154] Optional Auxiliary power supply 77 connected via DC cable 76
may be added to supply power to the device in case that Power Over
Ethernet is not available.
[0155] FIG. 8 illustrates a block diagram of a computing apparatus
having wired LAN interface and power-over Ethernet options 120
according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0156] This drawing shows a block diagram of typical computing
apparatus such as depicted in FIG. 6.
[0157] Computing apparatus 120 is a data processing electronic
system capable of performing thin-client or stand-alone computing
functions comprising:
[0158] Processor 14 process stored programs and data entered by
user, peripherals and network. Processor is preferably chosen from
available Reduced Instruction Set Computers (RISC) due to their
lower power consumption and low heat generation. Alternatively, a
Complex Instruction Set Computer (CISC), Security and encryption
engine, Digital Signal Processor (DSP) or any other type or
combinations of digital processor with sufficient processing power
may be used.
[0159] A Memory controller/bridge 15 interface the said processor
14, with the volatile memory 16 and Bus 18. This function and
others may be integrated with the processor 14 or installed
separately.
[0160] Volatile memory 16 is used for storage of temporary data as
needed by the processor 14. Memory 16 may be RAM type, SDRAM, DDRAM
or any other type of volatile memory.
[0161] Internal bus 18 connects the various parts of the computing
apparatus and may be a single or multiple buses. 16, 32 or 64 bit
PCI or any other bus type. If multiple buses are implemented then
bus bridges modules may be added to interface and drive the
different buses.
[0162] Non-volatile memory 17, connected to bus 18, permanently
stores data, programs and settings required for the apparatus
operation.
[0163] Optional Audio controller 19 such as standard AC-97 CODEC is
connected to bus 18 and to audio connectors 44 and 51 on front
panel 23 is used for conversion of analog audio signal into digital
stream and vise versa. Digital streams to and from the audio
controller may be available directly on the internal bus 18 or on a
dedicated CODEC bus such as AC Link. A dedicated bridge may be
implemented to interface between the bus 18 and the said Audio
controller 19. In addition this module may contain various analog
stages such as mixers, switches, attenuators, filters, amplifiers
etc. Also this module may include additional functionality and
enhancements to support improved sound output for home theatre and
multimedia applications. Audio circuitry may be single channel
(Mono), dual channel (stereo) or more to enhance multimedia
experience.
[0164] I/O controller 20 connected to bus 18 and to I/O connectors
on front panel 23 is used for enabling connection of standard
peripherals through standard ports such as USB, PS/2, Serial,
Parallel, IEEE-1394 etc. This controller may also provide switched
power source to power external peripherals.
[0165] Video controller 21, connected to bus 18 from one side and
to video connector on front panel 23 on the other side. It is used
for driving an external analog or digital monitor. Video controller
21 may contain internal video memory, external video memory or it
may share the said volatile memory 16 with the said processor
14.
[0166] Local Area Network controller or Media Access Controller
(MAC) 22, connected to bus 18 is used for interfacing the apparatus
with the local network through the LAN transceiver (physical layer
module) 24.
[0167] Front panel connectors and ports 23 are used for electrical
connection of various external peripherals to the apparatus. These
connectors connect the various ports such as the Audio controller
19, the I/O Controller 20 and the Video Controller 21. Front panel
may also contain an external power jack to connect optional power
supply. It may also contain various wireless connectivity means
such as IrDA, Blue-tooth and Wireless LAN.
[0168] Local Area Network 24 transceiver (physical layer module)
interface between the LAN controller (MAC) 22 and the LAN media
connected to the apparatus through the mating connector 7, 7b or 7c
depending on its type. LAN Transceiver 24 may be connected to the
Local Area Network controller 24 by means of Media Independent
Interface (MII) bus or by other interconnection buses. Local Area
Network 24 transceiver may support 100BASE-TX, 100BASEFX, 10BASE-T
and Giga LAN or other LAN protocols.
[0169] Local Area Network controller 24 connected to the main
Internal Bus 18. This connection allows data received and
transmitted through the wireless LAN and available on the bus 18 to
communicate with the wired LAN infrastructure. Data is passed from
the building LAN infrastructure 1 through the housing connector 2,
Mating connector 7, 7b or 7c, LAN Transceiver 24, LAN Controller
(MAC) 22 to the Internal Bus 18.
[0170] Power over Ethernet Powered Device circuitry 25 extracts
power from the LAN transceiver 24 to power all apparatus circuits.
This circuitry may comply with industry standards such as IEEE
802.3af or pre-standard High Power Over Ethernet to operate in
conjunction with standard power switches and hubs. This circuitry
contains Powered Device modules such as input filters, rectifiers,
detection, classification, isolation switch and isolated
down-converter switching power supply to reduce the LAN 48V power
to low voltage stable supply needed to power apparatus circuitry.
This module may contain the required logic and signaling required
by the appropriate standards to be incorporated in such
interface.
[0171] Line 32 represents the 48 VDC power that is extracted from
the LAN transceiver 24 to feed the power over Ethernet Powered
Device circuitry 25.
[0172] Power supplies 26 uses the Power over Ethernet power 25 or
the auxiliary power input from the front panel ports 23 and convert
it to the appropriate voltage/s output 27 required by the different
apparatus' circuits. This module may also include timing circuitry
to provide power up sequencing for other circuits. It also may
contain reset signal/s generation to enable proper starting and
power interruption detection.
[0173] Voltage output/s 27 from Power supplies 26 powers all other
apparatus circuitry.
[0174] Optional Auxiliary power path 28 from front panel auxiliary
power jack, provides alternative power source to power supplies 26.
Diodes or logic may be used to avoid a situation when both
auxiliary and Power Over Ethernet sources supplying the apparatus
at the same time.
[0175] Mating connector 7 7b or 7c connects LAN, Power and various
other signals between the apparatus and the housing connections
described above. Mating connector may support location programmable
memory chip 2c, power and data signals.
[0176] Optional connection to optional location memory chip 2c
allows data input output through the mating connector.
[0177] The preferred thin-client embodiment described here may run
local operating system such as Microsoft Windows CE, Linux or any
other compatible embedded OS. If the implemented hardware
compatible with standard x86 or limited size x86 then it can also
run larger x86 operating system such as, Microsoft.RTM. Windows XP
or XP embedded. The said operating system can run plurality of
local programs to enable connection to remote servers. These
programs may include Citrix ICA client to communicate with Citrix
server, Microsoft Terminal Services RDP client to support remote
Windows servers and various local terminal emulations to
communicate directly with legacy systems. Running such clients
enables the thin-client computing device to run applications in a
session that runs in the remote server.
[0178] In addition to that the thin-client computing apparatus may
run plurality of independent local applications such as
web-browser, multimedia players and dedicated user
applications.
[0179] Further more the thin-client computing apparatus may also
contain remote management agent/s. These agents enables the
organization to manage device and user settings remotely. It may
also enable centralized software deployment and user authentication
and security monitoring.
[0180] All together such an implementation can be very beneficial
to the user organization in reducing the IT total cost of
ownership, providing higher reliability and security and faster
reaction to various changes. Combining all these features with the
seamless installation and physical footprint offered by the present
invention enables even better and faster transition from PCs to
thin-clients.
[0181] FIG. 8a illustrates a block diagram 122 of a computing
apparatus having network over power lines interface to enable
simple installation of the apparatus of the current invention
inside or in conjunction with the mains power jack.
[0182] This drawing shows a block diagram of typical computing
apparatus such as depicted in FIG. 6.
[0183] Computing apparatus 122 is a data processing electronic
system capable of performing thin-client or stand-alone computing
functions comprising in addition to the components shown in FIG. 8
and instead of the Power over Ethernet PD circuitry:
[0184] Mating connector 7c with power lines connectivity to deliver
high voltage AC lines for the computing apparatus power and network
interfaces.
[0185] Network Over Power Lines circuitry 33 to combine network
traffic on the standard connected AC power network.
[0186] Isolated AC to DC power supply 34 to supply the low voltage
DC power required for the computing apparatus operation.
[0187] Dashed area 35 represents the isolated area inside the
apparatus to ensure that the power lines dangerous high voltage
would not leak to the low voltage interfaces. This isolation is
critical to ensure user's safety at all conditions.
[0188] Line 32a represents the AC power that is extracted from the
AC input circuitry of the Network over power lines circuitry 33 to
feed through the isolated power supply 34 the rest of the apparatus
circuitry.
[0189] FIG. 8b illustrates a block diagram of an embodiment of the
computing apparatus according to the present invention having wired
LAN interface and power-over Ethernet options with plurality of
video controllers. In the exemplary embodiment, two video
controllers are connected to bus 18.
[0190] Preferably, this embodiment uses Digital Video Interface
(DVI) connector on the front panel to support dual display.
[0191] FIG. 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a typical
insert 100d according to an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention. The implementation shown although is an example,
represents a reasonable arrangement to ensure small size, good
electrical characteristics, lower costs and assembly
flexibility.
[0192] Preferably, some or all inserts depicted as 600, 603, 604,
100a, 100b, 100c, 610, 630, 640, 641, 650 and 720 share the same
layered construction design.
[0193] First Printed Circuit Board layer is Core 140. Core layer
preferably contains the Processor, Memory controller/bridge,
Bus/Buses, Volatile memory, Non-volatile memory, Video controller,
On-Board programming and testing port and LAN controller. Other
circuitry may be added to support the core functions as needed.
Core busses as well as other I/O and power planes are routed
through the inter-board connectors and passed through the modules
as necessary.
[0194] In addition the core layer typically contains an
interconnect component 141 to interface it with the next layer. Hot
components 142 such as the processor, bridge and video controller
chips may be located at the aft side of the PCB to assist in heat
dissipation to the metallic case 138. Heat is better conducted to
the cover through silicon greases layer or elastic heat-conducting
pads 143. Metallic cover 138 serves both as an EMI shielding and as
part of the mechanical structure of the apparatus.
[0195] The second layer is the Peripheral and Power layer 144
consisting of Audio controller, I/O controller LAN transceiver,
Power Over Ethernet circuitry, various power supplies, USB hub, USB
power switching and support circuits. This layer also contains the
interconnect means to the core layer 141 and additional
interconnect means 145 to the next layer. Some signals are passing
through this layer from the core layer to the next layer. The
Peripheral & Power layer further consisting of the mating
connector 7 or 7b or 7c to provide the electrical interfaces with
the housing and the attached LAN cable or fibers. This modular
construction enables an easy implementation of the 3 different
power/network modes--Power over Ethernet, fibers and network over
power lines with just one module change.
[0196] In the case of main power option, power supplies in
peripheral and power layer 144 are configured to rectify the
household main power in the country it is intended to be used.
Alternatively, power supplies may be automatically configured by
detecting the supplied household voltage or adopted to tolerate
wide range of household voltages.
[0197] The third layer is the Connector Front panel layer 146. This
layer contains all front panel connectors 23, switches, indicators
and so forth that penetrating through the apparatus's front panel
41. Front panel 41 may be coated internally with conductive coating
to shield EMI radiation. Metallic cover 138 may be pressed into the
front panel 41 internal coating to assure proper apparatus
shielding.
[0198] The Connector Front panel layer further contains the mating
interconnect means to interface with the Peripheral & Power
layer. This layer may also contain various filters logic and
protection circuitry as needed to protect and support the various
ports.
[0199] Decorative frame 602 may be assembled to enhance the
installation esthetics if desired. As shown in FIG. 6a the
decorative frame 602 is built around the front panel 41 in such way
that it can only be removed backwards when the insert is completely
removed from the wall/floor housing. This is an important feature
to assure that the decorative frame 602 will not be removed
inadvertently or on purpose by unauthorized person.
[0200] The said three layers are typically connected mechanically
by sets of spacers not shown in this figure to form a rigid
structure with in conjunction with the metallic cover 138.
[0201] FIG. 9a illustrates a cross-sectional view of an additional
embodiment of an insert 600b according to an exemplary embodiment
of the present invention. The implementation shown although is an
example, represents a reasonable arrangement to ensure small size,
good electrical characteristics, lower costs and assembly
flexibility.
[0202] Some or all inserts depicted as 600, 603, 604, 100a, 100b,
100c, 610, 630, 640, 641, 650 and 720 may share the same layered
construction design.
[0203] Core Printed Circuit Board 140a preferably contains the
Processor, Memory controller/bridge, Bus/Buses, Volatile memory,
Non-volatile memory, Video controller, On-Board programming and
testing port and LAN controller. Other circuitry may be added to
support the core functions as needed.
[0204] The core layer 140a connects to Front panel layer 146
through connector 148a. Hot components 142 such as the processor,
bridge and video controller chips may be located at the outer side
of the PCB to assist in heat dissipation to the metallic case 138.
Heat is better conducted to the cover through silicon greases layer
or elastic heat-conducting pads 143. Metallic cover 138 serves both
as an EMI shielding and as part of the mechanical structure of the
apparatus.
[0205] Optionally, metallic case 138 is a modular construction
comprised of sections. For example, core layer 140a may be
manufactured with a section of the case 138a already mechanically
and thermally attached. Inserting core layer 140a into connector
148a provided electrical connection to front panel layer 146 as
well as mechanical and thermal integrity of the case. Power and LAN
layer 144a preferably consists of interface with house
infrastructure. This layer preferably comprises mating connector
7a, LAN transceiver, Power Over Ethernet circuitry, various power
supplies. This layer connects to Front panel layer 146 through
connector 148b. Hot components 142 may be located at the outer side
of the PCB to assist in heat dissipation to the metallic case 138b.
Heat is better conducted to the cover through silicon greases layer
or elastic heat-conducting pads 143. Metallic cover 138b serves
both as an EMI shielding and as part of the mechanical structure of
the apparatus.
[0206] Optionally, metallic case 138 is a modular construction
comprised of sections. For example, layer 144a may be manufactured
with a section of the case 138b already mechanically and thermally
attached. Inserting core layer 144a into connector 148b provided
electrical connection to front panel layer 146 as well as
mechanical and thermal integrity of the case.
[0207] Modular construction of allows replacement of only power and
LAN layer 144a to change the configuration of the insert from one
configured to fit into insert-housing installation with Ethernet
LAN 100a to a configuration that fits into Fiber based LAN housing
100b or main power insert-housing 100c.
[0208] Optionally, less power-consuming devices such as Audio
controller, I/O controller, etc, are located on central layer 149
which optionally connects to Connector Front panel layer 146 via
optional connector 148c.
[0209] Decorative frame 602 may be assembled to enhance the
installation esthetics if desired. As shown in FIG. 6a the
decorative frame 602 is built around the front panel 41 in such way
that it can only be removed backwards when the insert is completely
removed from the wall/floor housing. This is an important feature
to assure that the decorative frame 602 will not be removed
inadvertently or on purpose by unauthorized person.
[0210] The said three layers are typically connected mechanically
by sets of spacers not shown in this figure to form a rigid
structure with in conjunction with the metallic cover 138.
[0211] It should be clear that modular construction of 600a and
600b allows flexible reconfiguration of the inserts and using
common modules in design and construction of large number of
inserts.
[0212] For example, replacing Connector Front panel layer 146 with
"headless" front panel, with optionally removal of central layer
149, would tern computing insert with power pass-through and LAN
port to a headless computing device 641.
[0213] Similarly, insert with larger or lesser computing power may
be achieved by exchanging core layer 140a FIG. 10 illustrates
another modular insert with a standard network jack 620 according
to the current invention.
[0214] Modular insert with a standard network jack 620 which fits
inside box 3 comprises a front panel 180 fitted with optional
decorative frame 602 and equipped with 2 access holes for special
removal tool 43 and an RJ-45 LAN jack 181. This LAN jack 181
receives and transmits signals to and from the mating connector at
the top or bottom side of the modular insert, thus provides a
simple pass-through RJ-45 LAN port to connect network-enabled
devices. This exemplary embodiment of the invention is intended to
be used as a standard LAN jack to connect standard network
connected devices such as VoIP phone, PC, laptop, printer etc.
[0215] FIG. 11 illustrates yet another modular insert with four LAN
ports 630.
[0216] Modular insert with four LAN ports 630 is a 4-way LAN hub or
switch that can fit inside box 3 to enable connection of multiple
standard LAN enabled devices such as computers, printers, laptop
computers etc. Modular insert with four LAN ports 630 comprises a
front panel 183 equipped holes for special removal tool access 43
and four RJ-45 LAN jacks 182. Modular insert with four LAN ports
630 receives and transmits signals to and from the mating connector
at the top or bottom side of the modular insert, and comprises an
electronic switch configured to support the four LAN ports 182,
thus providing four RJ-45 LAN ports to connect network-enabled
devices. This exemplary embodiment of the invention, is intended to
be used as a standard LAN jack for VoIP phone, PC laptop etc. Power
to the hub and to the downstream ports may be provided by Power
Over Ethernet method (such as IEEE 802.3af) from the connected LAN
infrastructure. It should be clear to a person skilled in the art
of electronics that the modular insert may be constructed with
other number of LAN ports such as two, three or six, etc or with
other enhancements such as remote management and security
functions.
[0217] FIG. 11a illustrates a block diagram describing LAN Switch
Function.
[0218] The network switch passes data frames received from a
transmitting station (either from the building infrastructure
network or from the externally connected clients) to a destination
station based on the header information and the received data
frame.
[0219] The switch may comply with the IEEE 802.3, IEEE 802.3u, IEEE
802.3.times., IEEE 802.3af industry standards or any other standard
or functional design. The switch may also comply with pre-standard
High Power Over Ethernet to provide power forwarding to the 4
ports. Switch may be managed on non-managed type as needed.
[0220] LAN Switch insert module 175 has a mating connector 7, 7b or
7c depending on its interface type and is configured to fit in box
3 of insert-housing 100a 100b or 100c such that its mating
connector is engaged with corresponding housing connector 2 or 2a
respectively. Mating connector 7, 7b or 7c connected to Local Area
Network 24 transceiver (physical layer module) interface between
the LAN controller (MAC) 22 and the LAN media connected to the
apparatus through the mating connector 7, 7b or 7c depending on its
type. LAN Transceiver 24 may be connected to the Local Area Network
controller 24 by means of Media Independent Interface (MII) bus or
by other interconnection buses. Local Area Network 24 transceiver
may support 100BASE-TX, 100BASE-FX, 10BASE-T and Giga LAN or other
LAN protocols.
[0221] Power over Ethernet Powered Device circuitry 25 extracts
power from the LAN transceiver 24 to power all apparatus circuits.
This circuitry may comply with industry standards such as IEEE
802.3af or pre-standard High Power Over Ethernet to operate in
conjunction with standard power switches and hubs or midspan power
injectors. This circuitry contains Powered Device (PD) modules such
as input filters, rectifiers, detection, classification, isolation
switch and isolated down-converter switching power supply to reduce
the LAN 48V power to low voltage stable supply needed to power
apparatus circuitry. This module may contain the required logic and
signaling required by the appropriate standards to be incorporated
in such interface.
[0222] Optional Power Over Ethernet Power Sourcing Equipment (PSE)
controller 29 may be added to provide downstream ports with Power
Over Ethernet. This may be useful to support connected IP Phones or
other Powered Devices. To enable full power downstream, the Power
Over Ethernet Powered Device module 25 need to be powerful enough.
This can be implemented with High Power Over Ethernet
circuitry.
[0223] Power supplies 26 uses the Power over Ethernet power and
convert it to the appropriate voltage/s output required by the
different apparatus' circuits. This module may also include timing
circuitry to provide power up sequencing for other circuits. It
also may contain reset signal/s generation to enable proper
starting and power interruption detection.
[0224] Local Area Network controller 24 connected to the main
Internal Bus 18. This connection allows data received and
transmitted through the LAN switch to be available on the internal
bus 18 to communicate with the fixed infrastructure building LAN.
Data is passed from the building LAN infrastructure 1 through the
housing connector 2, Mating connector 7, 7b or 7c, LAN Transceiver
24, LAN Controller (MAC) 22 to the Internal Bus 18 and vice
versa.
[0225] Typical network switch embodiment uses volatile memory as
packet buffer 193 to temporarily store the packets of data which it
receives from the units (end node or network switch) connected to
it while the switch logic determines how, when and through which
port to retransmit the packets. Each packet can be transmitted to
only one destination address (a "Unicast" packet) or to more than
one unit (a "multicast" or "broadcast" packet). For multicast and
broadcast packets, the switch typically stores the packet only once
and transmits multiple copies of the packet to some (multicast) or
all (broadcast) of its ports. Once the packet has been transmitted
to all of its destinations, it can be removed from the packet
buffer memory 193 or written over.
[0226] In the LAN switch insert embodiment shown here 4 ports are
provided to connect external clients to the LAN. To interface with
these 4 ports, 4 sets of LAN connectors are built in the front
panel 177. Panel may further include the LAN magnetics, EMI
filtering and indicator LEDs. Each port is connected to its
respected LAN transceiver (PHY) 24. Each PHY is connected to its
respective LAN Controller (MAC) 22 through an MII bus. All LAN
controllers are then connected to the internal bus 18.
[0227] Packets received at each of the ports in the front panel 177
are temporarily stored in receive packet buffers 193 by either the
DMA controller 192 or directly from the internal bus 18. From the
packet buffer 193 received packets may be distributed to their
destination ports by any convenient means through the switch fabric
191. The switch fabric 191 and the attached logic physically
connect specific input port to specific output port for direct
packet streaming.
[0228] Optional CPU 190 can be used as necessary to program and
monitor the exact rules which are appropriate to control packet
processing. However, typically once the switch logic registers are
appropriately programmed or configured, the switch may operates, as
much as possible, in a free running manner without communicating
with CPU 190.
[0229] Optional Management Information Base (MIB) Registers 194,
connected to bus are registers implemented in the switch system to
enable remote monitoring and configuration of that switch from
remote sites using standard SNMP (Simple Network Management
Protocol). In addition the MIB registers enables collection and
transmitting of ports statistics. MIBs are a collection of
definitions, which define the properties of the managed object
within the device to be managed. Every managed device keeps a
database of values for each of the definitions written in the MIB.
It is not the actual database itself--it is implementation
dependant. Definition of the MIB conforms to the SMI given in RFC
1155. Latest Internet MIB is given in RFC 1213 sometimes called the
MIB-II.
[0230] FIG. 12 illustrates a computing apparatus insert module with
an additional LAN port 640 according to the preferred embodiment of
the present invention. This insert module with pass-through LAN
port 640 is similar to computing apparatus insert module 610 as
depicted in FIG. 6.
[0231] Computing apparatus insert module 640 has a mating connector
7, 7b or 7c depending on its interface type and is configured to
fit in box 3 of insert-housing 100a, 100b or 100c such that its
mating connector is engaged with corresponding housing connector 2
or 2a respectively. An optional decorative frame 602 may be fitted
if installation space permitting. Connector 2 (2a, 2d) provides
power for operation of the various electronic circuitry inside the
computing module 640 as well as data link to the remote server 8.
Computing apparatus insert module 640 comprises a front panel 41a
with optional holes 43 for special removal tool. Insert module 640
is built so it could be easily inserted into box 3 and locked. In
the exemplary embodiment depicted in FIG. 12, insert module 640 is
a thin-client apparatus connected to a server through its mating
connector and comprises at least few interface connections on its
front panel 41a.
[0232] In the exemplary embodiment, two Universal Serial (USB)
ports 42 enable connection of insert module 640 to plurality of
external USB peripherals such as keyboard, mouse, printer etc.
[0233] Audio Out jack 44 enables connecting external speakers or
headphones. Optional Audio In/microphone jack 51 enables connecting
an external microphone or other audio signal sources to the
apparatus.
[0234] Analog video out connector 48 enables connection of standard
monitor.
[0235] Optional Infra Red Data Association (IrDA) Transceiver 50
enables wireless interface with variety of external devices such as
mobile phones, Personal Digital Assistants (PDA) laptop computers
etc.
[0236] Reset switch 49 enables manual reset of the apparatus.
[0237] A LAN port 45 is provided on front panel 41a. This LAN port
may be used for connection network enabled external devices such as
Laptop computer, Voice Over IP phone or other LAN based device.
Optional power forwarding option may be installed to enable
downstream powering of the connected device. In that case the LAN
jack 45 may be fitted with power indicator to indicate that the
connected powered device is receiving power.
[0238] This optionally RJ-45 LAN port may be used as a
"Pass-through" or it may be controlled by the processor within
insert module 640. For example, insert module 640 may be used to
provide Virtual Privet Network (VPN) over existing LAN, increasing
data security for example by encryption of the data exchanged
between the end user and host 8. Additionally or alternatively,
insert module 640 may be used as "firewall" protecting the LAN
against intentional or unintentional attempts to perform
unauthorized communication. For example, inserted module 640 may be
configured to assess the identity of any device or user connecting
to LAN port 45, blocking any unauthorized use of the said port.
[0239] Optionally inserted module 640 is equipped with an auxiliary
power input jack 47 for connection of external DC power-supply.
[0240] Optional Link/Activity indicator 52 may be fitted on the
front panel 41 to provide a visible indication of the connected
infrastructure (upstream) LAN status.
[0241] It should be noted that the exemplary configuration of FIG.
12 describes a typical embodiment of a thin-client computing
apparatus insert module with an additional LAN port. For example,
number of USB ports may vary or omitted. Alternatively or
additionally, keyboard and mouse connectors may be used instead of
USB connector. For example; IrDA Transceiver may be omitted, Audio
In or Audio Out or both audio connectors or reset switch may be
omitted and other connectors may be added. Monitor connection may
be replaced with other standard visual signal connections such as
RGB, video connection, S-video connection etc.
[0242] In some embodiments of inserted module 640 some of the
elements: 602, 42, 44, 47, 48, 49, 50, 5, 152 and 53 may be
omitted.
[0243] Specifically, in an embodiment of the invention, inserted
module 640 is used as firewall or to provide Virtual Privet Network
(VPN). In this embodiment, some or all the elements: 42, 44, 47,
48, 49, 50, 51 and 52 may be omitted.
[0244] An optional use of LAN port 45 is to enable standard or
proprietary data encryption between the connected device and remote
network resources.
[0245] Such implementation may be useful to high-security
applications where tunneling or additional encryption required for
externally connected devices.
[0246] FIG. 12a illustrates the use of computing apparatus with
pass-through LAN port for secured data system 340 according to an
embodiment of the present invention.
[0247] In this embodiment, secured data system 340 is built
similarly to system 300 of FIG. 4. Preferably, computing apparatus
insert modules with pass-through LAN port 640 are inserted in
plurality of boxes 3. Modules 640 are programmed to provide one or
more preprogrammed security functions such as
encryption-decryption, Virtual Private Network, Firewall etc.
Therefore external computing device 944 can operate securely
connecting to server 8 or 8a on different (lower or higher)
security network 1, network switch, hub or router 10 and Backbone
network 9.
[0248] Preferably, external devices 944 are located in a user
secured area 946, accessible only to trusted personnel. Data
exchanged between module 640 and external device 944 is in
unsecured form.
[0249] External computing devices 944 may be desktop PC, Laptop PC,
thin-client, Terminal, network printer, scanner or any other
computing device having a network port. Cable 942 is optionally
connected between the external computing devices 944 LAN port and
the LAN ports 45 on modules 640. Downstream Power option enables
the computing apparatus 640 to power the connected external device
944.
[0250] Further enhancement of the embodiment described in FIG. 12b.
This embodiment 341 include a network switching function 655a and
655b (physical or logical--through software) that under certain
conditions may bridge between the LAN cable 942a and 942b connected
to the external computing device 944a and 944b and LAN 1x and 1y on
the other side.
[0251] In FIG. 12b the two different options are shown through two
external computing devices 944a and 944b. External computing device
944a connected to the secured computing insert 640a by LAN cable
942a. Secured computing device 944a is shown configured in such way
that its LAN switch function 655a connected the external computing
device 944a directly to the LAN 1a.
[0252] The other external computing device shown 944b is accessing
higher classification data and therefore it is connected through
LAN cable 942b to the second secured computing device 640b. This
device internal LAN switch function 655b was configured locally or
remotely by a management function to connect the external computing
device 944b securely through a VPN tunneling 945, to a local or
remote server 8. In this state the data passed between secured
computing device 640b and the secured server 8 is encrypted and
isolated from the standard network connected to other clients such
as 944a.
[0253] This implementation enables the secured computing insert
640a and 640b to serve as a secured switching device according to
remote or local management and security commands. The system may
sense the type of external computing device 944a or 944b and it
user using them and then decide locally or remotely if that user
will be able to access the network 1 directly or open a VPN and
access special server/s 8.
[0254] This system implementation is specifically useful to enable
an end-to-end high security data exchange inside a lower security
network with much lower risk of data leakage between the two
networks. With both network co-exist on the same infrastructure, a
single network may be used instead of two physically isolated
networks.
[0255] A reverse implementation of the above system enables the
device 944 to connect to low security server 8 (such as a web
server on the internet) without any risks to a higher security
network 1 (intranet), network switch, hub or router 10 and backbone
network 9.
[0256] Preferably, computing device used for secured data
application is "heedless" type. FIG. 12c shows the front panel of
headless computing device 641 having only few of the features and
connections of computing device inserts 610 or 640. In this example
only LAN connector 45 and reset button 49 are present on front
panel 184. Internal block diagram of the headless computing device
is optionally missing the block of unused option. Optionally, the
front panel of headless computing device 641 is similar to or
indistinguishable from Pass through LAN jack modular insert 620
seen in FIG. 7.
[0257] Having no keyboard or video connections reduces the cost of
headless computing device 641 and increases data security by making
it difficult to access or reprogram the device externally, thus
providing added security and immunity against unauthorized
intrusion. Optionally headless computing device 641 comprises of
specific hardware for encryption/decryption of information and may
be specifically designed for that purpose.
[0258] FIG. 12d illustrates a block diagram of a computing
apparatus with pass-through LAN option 130 according to a preferred
embodiment of the current invention.
[0259] This drawing shows a block diagram of computing apparatus
such as depicted in FIG. 9.
[0260] Computing apparatus 130 is a data processing electronic
system capable of performing thin-client or stand-alone computer
functions comprising the same elements as computing apparatus 120
and in addition it comprises of:
[0261] A second LAN Controller 22a connected to bus 18.
[0262] A second LAN Transceiver 24a connected to second LAN
controller 22a and to front panel connectors 23a. As can be seen in
FIG. 9, second LAN transceiver 24a is connected to LAN connector 45
on front panel 184.
[0263] Power over Ethernet Powered Device (PD) circuitry 25 is
optionally supplied by the first LAN transceiver 24 by connection
port 31. The Powered Device circuitry 25 provides among other
functions Power Over Ethernet signature, classification,
rectification, protection and isolation according to the
appropriate standard such as IEEE802.3af.
[0264] Optional Power Over Ethernet Power Sourcing Equipment (PSE)
controller 29 may be added to provide downstream port or ports in
23a front panel with downstream Power Over Ethernet. This may be
useful to support connected IP Phones or other Powered Devices that
may draw power from the Computing apparatus 130. To enable full
power downstream, the Power Over Ethernet Powered Device module 25
need to be powerful enough. This can be implemented with standard
Power Over Ethernet or with High Power Over Ethernet or similar
circuitry. The Power Sourcing Equipment (PSE) controller 29
typically takes the higher voltage DC power directly from the
Powered Device circuitry 25 through port 31a. In the PSE the power
is switched, filtered and controlled to match the requirements of
the appropriate standard. The output power of this circuitry
connected through connection port 30 to the second LAN transceiver
24a that connected to the LAN jack in the front panel 23a.
[0265] FIG. 12e illustrates another block diagram of a computing
apparatus with internal LAN switch option 135 according to a
preferred embodiment of the current invention.
[0266] This drawing shows a block diagram of computing apparatus
such as depicted in FIG. 9 but with internal LAN switch to connect
one or more external LAN enabled devices.
[0267] Computing apparatus 135 is a data processing electronic
system capable of performing thin-client or stand-alone functions
comprising the same elements as computing apparatus 120 and in
addition it comprises of:
[0268] LAN Switch 88 connected through the LAN transceiver 24a to
the Mating connector 7 or 7b in such way that the switch upstream
port connected to the building LAN infrastructure. The two
downstream ports of the LAN switch are connected as following:
[0269] First downstream port connected through the first LAN
transceiver 24 and LAN controller 22 to the computing apparatus bus
18.
[0270] Second downstream port connected through the second LAN
transceiver 24c to the LAN jack located on the front panel 23a.
This LAN jack may be used to connected external LAN enabled devices
such as IP telephones, video conferencing equipment and
computers.
[0271] Power over Ethernet Powered Device circuitry 25 is
optionally supplied by the first LAN transceiver 24 by connection
port 31.
[0272] Optional Power Over Ethernet (POE) Power Sourcing Equipment
(PSE) controller 29 may be added to provide downstream port in 23a
front panel with downstream Power Over Ethernet. This may be useful
to support connected IP Phones or other Powered Devices. To enable
full power downstream, the Power Over Ethernet Powered Device
module 25 need to be powerful enough. This can be implemented with
High Power Over Ethernet circuitry.
[0273] This type of implementation is specifically useful in case
that the particular installation infrastructure provides only a
single LAN port per user. The internal hub allows both the
computing apparatus 135 of the present invention and IP telephone
to share the same port and optionally share the same remote power
source.
[0274] FIG. 13 illustrates a computing apparatus insert module 650
with a Digital Video Interactive (DVI) port according to another
embodiment of the present invention.
[0275] This insert module with DVI port 650 is similar to computing
apparatus insert module 610 as depicted in FIG. 6. The DVI port 651
enables higher quality, resolution and color depth video output
compared to older analog interfaces. This interface may be useful
to connect the said computing apparatus with large format high
resolution color displays as analog interface may be incompatible
or provide unacceptable performance with such display.
[0276] Computing apparatus insert module 650 has a mating connector
7 or 7b depending on its interface type and is configured to fit in
box 3 of insert-housing 100a or 100b such that its mating connector
is engaged with corresponding housing connector 2 or 2a
respectively. Connector 2 (2a) provides power for operation of
digital processing unit inside computing module 640 as well as data
link to the remote server 8. Computing apparatus insert module 640
comprises a front panel 186 with optional access holes 43 for
special removal tool. Insert module 650 is built so it could be
easily inserted into box 3. In the exemplary embodiment depicted in
FIG. 10, insert module 650 is a thin-client apparatus connected to
a server 8 through its mating connector and comprises at least few
interface connections on its front panel 186. Front panel 186 may
be fitted with matching decorative frame 602 if installation space
permitting.
[0277] In the exemplary embodiment, four Universal Serial (USB)
ports 42 enable connection of insert module 650 to plurality of
external USB peripherals such as keyboard, mouse, printer etc.
Audio Out jack 44 enables connecting external speakers or
headphones. Audio In jack 51 enables connecting an external
microphone or other audio signal sources to the apparatus. Infra
Red Data Association (IrDA) Transceiver 50 enables wireless
interface with mobile phones, Personal Digital Assistants (PDA)
laptop computers etc. Reset switch 49 enables manual reset of the
apparatus.
[0278] Digital Video Interactive (DVI) 651 enables connection of
standard DVI equipped monitor. Optional Auxiliary DC power jack 47
may be installed on front panel 186 to enable device powering by a
wall-mounted DC power supply when Power Over Ethernet is not
available.
[0279] It should be noted that the exemplary configuration of FIG.
13 describes a typical embodiment of a thin-client computing
apparatus insert module with a DVI port. For example, number of USB
ports may vary or omitted. Alternatively or additionally, keyboard
and mouse connectors may be used instead of USB connector. For
example; IrDA Transceiver may be omitted, Audio In or Audio Out or
both audio connectors or reset switch may be omitted and other
connectors may be added.
[0280] FIG. 14 illustrates an embodiment of an Installation Tester
and Programmer system 660. This system may be used to test the jack
and LAN installation wiring and to program various data into the
location memory chip 2c and other desired parameters into the
enhanced jack.
[0281] FIG. 14 shows a pictorial view of the installation testing
system 660, which comprises of tester modular insert 670, which is
connected to tester controller 700 with flexible cord 67.
[0282] Tester modular insert 670 has a mating connector 7, 7b or 7c
depending on its interface type and is configured to fit in box 3
of insert-housing 100a or 100b such that its mating connector is
engaged with corresponding housing connector 2 or 2a
respectively.
[0283] Insert 670 comprises a front pane 60, optionally equipped
with quick-release buttons 61 (instead of access holes 43 for
special removal tool) to release the mechanical lock function after
testing and programming completed. Preferably, the two buttons 61
are pushed in order to release the tester insert from box 3.
[0284] Optionally front panel 60 equipped with few indicators. For
example: [0285] A LAN cable indicator 62 may be in a form of
color-coded light, for example a green/red LED configured to
illuminate when LAN cable tested to function correctly (no open and
no shorts). In the preferred embodiment, red light will be
illuminated in case of LAN wiring fault exists. In this case the
fault details will appear on the device's display 70. [0286] A
Power over Ethernet indicator 63 may be in a form of a green/red
LED configured to illuminate green when Power over Ethernet signals
available and functioning correctly for the tested port. Optionally
several properties of the Power over Ethernet are tested such as
voltage, current capacity and noise level and detailed results will
appear at the device's display 70. [0287] Communication speed
indicator 64 may be in a form of multicolor LED configured to
illuminate in amber color when 10 Mbps link is available; in green
when 100 Mbps link is available; in blue when 1 Gbps link is
available and not illuminated when non of the above is available.
[0288] Location indication LED 65, illuminating wham activated
remotely by the management system. This function may be useful to
confirm from remote help-desk or maintenance console that the
tester programmer device connected to the proper port.
Additionally, front pane 60, optionally equipped with an RF wiring
trace push button 73. Upon pushing this push-button, the device
generates strong RF signal on the LAN port. This enables
technicians to trace connected LAN wiring using special RF
detector. Signal strength provides guidance to the LAN wiring
[0289] Tester modular insert 670 may be configured to perform some
testing functions and report the results using its indicators
independently of tester controller 700. Tester also can report test
and programming results to the management server if LAN port is
functioning properly. Tester can also PING to remote servers as
additional testing for that port.
[0290] More testing and programming function are available when
tester controller 700 is connected using flexible cord 67 to the
controller cable connector 66 on front panel 60.
[0291] Alternatively, tester modular 670 may have to be connected
to tester controller 700 in order to perform any of the tests.
Tester controller 700 comprises a keypad 69 with alphanumeric and
function keys, a display 70 such as Alphanumeric LCD display and
optionally indicators such as:
[0292] Battery Low indicator 71 which may be in the form of a red
color LED, Illuminating when internal (optionally rechargeable)
batteries have reached a critical condition. [0293] Power On
indicator 72 which may be in the form of a green LED, Illuminating
when the tester controller is turned on.
[0294] Alternatively, all indicators may be located on tester
controller 700.
[0295] To test a housing 100a (100b or 100c), tester insert module
60 is inserted into the installed box 3. When fully inserted the
tester insert module locks mechanically into position and make
electrical (and optical) connection to housing connector 2
(2a).
Upon turning the tester controller on, several illuminated LEDs
indicates the status of the installed jack under test and its
cabling.
[0296] If jack's location memory chip 2c is already programmed, the
location string can be read on the controller display 70.
[0297] The user can program a desired location string by entering
the string through the keypad 69 and press a specific function key
to reprogram the jack location memory chip.
[0298] User may program unique location parameters into the
location memory chip to enable automatic location detection and
mapping. Data in location memory chip 2c may be used to enable or
disable specific functionality of the housing or the inserted
module which is inserted to the housing. For example; in order or
prevent unauthorized access to the LAN, a housing may be disabled
unless a valid data is entered into location memory chip 2c,
additionally or alternatively, the types of inserted module which
may be functioning within a specific housing may be limited by data
is entered into location memory chip.
[0299] Location mapping allows the server to continuously monitor
the status and existence of inserted module in each housing and to
issue an alarm notice if any of the modules is tempered with or
removed. Alarm notice may include information on the physical
location of the module in question.
[0300] Alternatively, data in location memory chip may be factory
set, and tester and programmer system may be used to read said
information in order to create the location mapping.
[0301] Another function of the tester and programmer system is to
enable TCP/IP ping to a remote host for testing.
[0302] Yet another option is to enable blinking of location
indication LED 65 by remote management system to verify that the
tester/programmer is actually connected to the right jack.
[0303] After the jack was tested and its location memory chip
programmed successfully it is ready for installation of any modular
insert from the plurality of matching options.
[0304] Yet in another embodiment is to enable the jack by
programming the memory chip with a valid ID number. Without such
number any computing device inserted to the housing would not work
properly.
[0305] Yet in another embodiment the programming the memory chip is
done with a valid ID number specific to the insert to be insereted
into the jack. Any other combination of computing and housing would
not work properly.
[0306] In some embodiment the testing and programming device
comprises of specific hardware necessary for programming the
location memory chip, thus preventing unauthorized reprogramming of
said memory chip.
[0307] In some embodiments location memory chip define the class of
the housing. For example, a class may restrict access to some data
or function. For example, a housing may be define to belong to a
class restricted to have "read only" operation without
authorization to write or delete data on the server, restricted to
exchange only VoIP data, etc. In this embodiment, some location
within the organization may have different restrictions or
authorization. For example, classified information may be accessed
only by users reside in specified locations regardless of the
computing devices used.
[0308] It is clear to a person skilled in the art that testing and
programming functions may be achieved using other tools and system
implementations. For example, functionality of the housing may be
tested by inserting a computing apparatus insert module 610, 640 or
650.
[0309] is clear to a person skilled in the art that security
measures disclosed in the current invention are preferably augment
security measures known in the art such as the use of a password or
a hardware key.
[0310] FIG. 15 illustrates yet another modular insert option of a
Wireless LAN Access Point 677.
[0311] Wireless LAN Access Point insert module 677 has a mating
connector 7, 7b or 7c depending on its interface type and is
configured to fit in box 3 of insert-housing 100a, 100b or 100c
such that its mating connector is engaged with corresponding
housing connector 2 or 2a respectively.
[0312] Connector 2 (2a, 2b, 2d) provides power for operation of
insert module 677 as well as data link to the remote server 8.
Insert module 677 comprises a front panel 188 with optional holes
43 for special removal tool.
[0313] Insert module 677 is built so it could be easily inserted
into box 3, preferably by pushing it into place without the need of
tools.
[0314] Insert module 677 is preferably equipped with an external
antenna 675 for transmitting and receiving RF signals to and from
similarly equipped devices such as laptop computers, cellular
phones, PDAs, pagers, and RF interfaced computer peripherals.
Optionally the antenna may be concealed within the module or
mounted remotely. This wireless insert module may support IEEE
802.11b/g/a, Blue-tooth or any other wireless protocol.
[0315] Optionally, front panel 188 is equipped with indicators such
as: [0316] Optional Power indicator 186 which may be in the form of
a LED, Illuminating when power is available to the inserted module.
[0317] Optional Link indicator 189 which may be in the form of a
LED, Illuminating when the inserted module is able to communicate
with the network switch or hub 10. [0318] Optional Traffic
indicator (not shown in this figure) which may be in the form of an
LED, Illuminating when the inserted module is communicating with an
external device/s.
[0319] FIG. 15a illustrates the block diagram 150 of modular insert
option of a Wireless LAN Access Point 677.
[0320] Wireless LAN Access Point insert module 677 has a mating
connector 7, 7b or 7c depending on its interface type and is
configured to fit in box 3 of insert-housing 100a 100b or 100c b
such that its mating connector is engaged with corresponding
housing connector 2 or 2a respectively. Mating connector 7, 7b or
7c connected to Local Area Network transceiver 24 (physical layer
module) interface between the LAN controller (MAC) 22 and the LAN
media connected to the apparatus through the mating connector 7 or
7b depending on its type.
[0321] LAN Transceiver 24 may be connected to the Local Area
Network controller 22 by means of Media Independent Interface (MII)
bus or by other interconnection buses.
[0322] Local Area Network 24 transceiver may support 100BASE-TX,
100BASE-FX, 10BASE-T and Giga LAN or other LAN protocols.
[0323] Power over Ethernet circuitry 25 extracts power from the LAN
transceiver 24 to power all apparatus circuits. This circuitry may
comply with industry standards such as IEEE 802.3af to operate in
conjunction with standard power switches and hubs. This circuitry
contains Powered Device (PD) modules such as input filters,
rectifiers, detection, classification, isolation switch and
isolated down-converter switching power supply to reduce the LAN
48V power to low voltage stable supply needed to power apparatus
circuitry. This module may contain the required logic and signaling
required by the appropriate standards to be incorporated in such
interface.
[0324] Power supplies 26 uses the Power over Ethernet power 25 and
convert it to the appropriate voltage/s output required by the
different apparatus' circuits. This module may also include timing
circuitry to provide power up sequencing for other circuits. It
also may contain reset signal/s generation to enable proper
starting and power interruption detection.
[0325] Local Area Network controller 22 connected to the main
Internal Bus 18. This connection allows data received and
transmitted through the wireless LAN and available on the bus 18 to
communicate with the wired LAN infrastructure. Data is passed from
the building LAN infrastructure 1 through the housing connector 2,
Mating connector 7 7b or 7c, LAN Transceiver 24, LAN Controller
(MAC) 22 to the Internal Bus 18.
[0326] MAC and Microcontroller 110 programmed to carry out the
various control and operational functions needed for the
implementation of the selected wireless protocol (for example IEEE
802.11g). It is connected to its RAM 112 to store programs and
packets and to a ROM 111 to permanently store programs and
settings.
[0327] MAC and Microcontroller 110 connected to the base band
module (PHY) 109 that responsible to the frequency generation and
signal and modulation monitoring. This module drives the Digital to
Analog Converter (DAC) 107 that generates the radio modulation
signal. It also connected to the Analog to Digital Converter (ADC)
107 to capture radio received signal and convert it to a digital
stream. Base band module also control the Frequency Synthesizer 104
that generates the radio carrier frequency according to the MAC
Microcontroller 110 instruction.
[0328] The radio section contains an Antenna/s 675 that matches the
used frequency range, an RF switch 102 that connects the antenna to
the receiver or to the transmitter circuitry as needed. An optional
RF filter 101 may be inserted before the RF antenna 675 to filter
unwanted RF noise to the sensitive RF receiver 103 and optionally
to perform impedance matching. A receiver module 103 typically
operates at a lower Intermediate Frequency (IF). A transmitter 105
that modulate the generated carrier signal with the transmitted
data and then amplifies it to the required RF output level. A Bias
and control module 106 in the radio section 113 monitors controls
the transmitter output power and various other parameters to enable
tuned operation and to comply with various protocols and regulatory
rules.
[0329] Layer construction similar to FIGS. 9 and 9a may apply to
other modular inserts. For example, to construct an RF LAN insert
667 as depicted in the block diagram 150 of FIGS. 15 and 15a
respectively. Three layers according FIG. 9 according to an
exemplary embodiment of the invention may comprise: [0330] Core
layer: Baseband processor 109, MAC and Microcontroller 110, RAM
112, ROM, 111, LAN controller 22, ADC 107 and DAC 108. [0331]
Peripheral & Power layer: Power supplies 26, POE 25, LAN
transceiver 24, mating connector 7 (7b or 7c) [0332] Front panel
layer: antenna 675, RF filter 101, RF switch 102, Receiver 103,
Frequency synthesizer 104, Transmitter 105 and Bias/Control 106
[0333] (There may be other good combinations . . . )
[0334] It should be clear to a man skilled in the art that other
arrangements of the components are possible while maintaining the
general layer configuration according to the current invention.
[0335] FIG. 16 presents a more detailed possible implementation of
the power input blocks with power over Ethernet Powered Device (PD)
option that presented in the previous figures.
[0336] Power over Ethernet PD implementation block diagram 176
gives more details as to the inner construction of blocks 25 and 26
seen in FIGS. 8, 11a, 12d, 12e, and 15a.
[0337] Future active inserts, designed to fit into wall housing 3
may use the same or similar method of extracting power. Mating
connector 7 or 7b connects to housing connector 2 or 2a
respectively.
[0338] Mating connector 7 or 7b couples the insert circuitry to the
LAN infrastructure and to various other external functions. With
IEEE 802.11af attached network DC voltage between 36 and 57V will
be present between the TX (pins 3-6) and the RX (pins 1-2) sides or
between spare cable pairs pins 4-5 and pins 7-8. The TX and the RX
signal pairs are connected to LAN transformer 211. This transformer
provides voltage isolation and impedance matching with the
connected LAN transceiver (PHY) 22. The LAN transceiver 22 sends
and receives packets through the TX and the RX pairs respectively.
With little effect on the LAN functioning, Diode full rectifiers
212 takes the input DC voltage and rectify it to ensure proper
polarity. The resulted DC voltage--nominally 48V is then passed
through an EMI filter 213 to reduce the incoming and outgoing
electromagnetic interference level. From there it is passed through
a detection circuitry 214 that intended to signal the connected
switch or power injector Power Sourcing Equipment circuitry that
this particular device matches the Power Over Ethernet standard.
Proper signature typically achieved using a 25 K Ohm resistor. From
the detection circuitry DC voltage typically connected to the
classification circuitry 215. This circuit signals the switch or
power injector about the power consumption class of the Powered
Device (the specific insert). This classification typically
performed prior to providing the PD with full power for proper
power management. The isolation circuitry 216 required in order to
isolate the device load during the initial detection and
classification phases. From the isolation circuitry 216 the DC
power typically connected to an isolated DC to DC converter 217.
The isolation required by certain standards to avoid certain safety
hazards. Typically 1500 VAC isolation required between the media
side (wall LAN infrastructure) and the device circuitry. This
isolation barrier is shown in the figure as dashed line 220.
Isolation on the data side achieved using LAN transformer 211 while
in the DC to DC it is typically achieved by a fly-back transformer
218 and an opto-coupler feedback device 219. Negative DC output of
the isolated DC to DC converter 217 is connected to the main device
ground while positive side (typically 5V or 3.3V) 221 connected to
the various internal power supplies and to the various electronics
circuitry. An array of DC to DC and or linear power supplies is
used to further generate additional low voltages needed for the
device operation. In this embodiment DC to DC power supply A 222
generates voltage A through its output 223. DC to DC power supply B
224 generates a different voltage B through its output 225. Linear
power supply C 226 generates yet a different voltage C through its
output 227.
[0339] It should be noted that the choice of the number and types
of power supplies s (Linear vs. DC to DC power supply) is made
according to the circuit requirement. For example, if the required
output is close to the input voltage then it is better to implement
a linear power supply instead of DC to DC converter.
[0340] As an alternative, 5V DC power may be connected to the 5V
power plane 221 with certain logic from a panel mounted DC jack.
This enables proper device operation in cases that Power Over
Ethernet infrastructure is not available.
[0341] FIG. 17 presents a more detailed possible implementation of
the network over power lines input blocks according to the current
invention.
[0342] Network over power lines implementation block diagram 178
gives more details as to the inner construction of blocks 26, 33
and 34 seen in FIG. 8a. 7c is the mating connector adapted to
withstand the high voltage (110 to 230 VAC) connected to the
housing connector. Pin 1 of the connector is the phase, pin 2 is
the ground and pin 3 is the Neutral. When the insert is installed
in the housing box power from the building mains lines connected to
these 3 pins. Input power connected to the coupling transformer 230
and to the AC to DC power supply 235 that powers the apparatus. The
AC to DC power supply circuitry reduced the input voltage to 5V DC
221 to power the internal DC to DC down converters 222, 224 and
226. These DC to DC power supplies generates the internal DC
voltages 223, 225 and 227 needed to power the apparatus internal
circuitry.
[0343] Coupling transformer 230 and internal transformer inside the
AC to DC power supply 235 isolate the rest of the apparatus from
the high voltages available in the power lines. Isolation barrier
220 serves as a safety measure with isolation of at least 1500 V
between the two sides.
[0344] Anything other than useful network data carried over the
power lines is filtered by the High Pass Filter 231 that connected
to the coupling transformer 230. The filtered signal is then
connected to the Analog Front End (AFE) 232. The AFE contains
additional adaptive filtering, multiplexer, receiver, driver,
analog to digital, digital to analog and AGC circuitry to interface
between the digital side of the baseband module 233 and the analog
signals of the coupling transformer 230. Baseband module 233
contains the processor, MAC, PHY, DSP and additional circuitry to
handle all networking layers and activities. It is then connected
to the other insert circuitry using direct bus interface, USB, MII
or any other common interface.
[0345] FIG. 18 illustrates yet another modular insert option of a
network over power lines LAN jack 720.
This inserts contains an optional pass-through mains jack 734 to
enable connection of various electrical appliances and LAN jack 732
to enable connection of various network enabled devices such as
computer, laptop, PDA, network printer etc.
Front panel is also fitted with optional access holes 43 for insert
lock-unlock special removal tool.
[0346] By replacing a standard household power outlet with main
power insert-housing 100c and inserting a network over power lines
LAN jack 720 into it, both data are conveniently available. For
example, a work station or LAN printer may be connected anywhere in
the house without having to re-route power or data line and with
minimal modification to existing infrastructure. Skill level
required for the installation is minimal.
[0347] This exemplary embodiment serves as bridge between the
building power lines and networked equipment that share the
electrical system media to create a Local Area Network. To further
enhance its security and usability, this apparatus may contain
encryption/decryption capabilities, web based management portal and
management agents.
[0348] FIG. 19 illustrates the block diagram 722 of modular insert
option of the present invention having a LAN port and a
pass-through power jack.
[0349] Mating connector 7c couples the insert circuitry to the
building power lines (1c, 1d, 1e) infrastructure connected to the
housing and to optional location memory chip 2c.
[0350] Pass-through mains jack 734 installed in the insert front
panel provide power to connected appliances through optional
protection device 735. Protection device may be over current, over
voltage, inrush current or any other type of protection device.
[0351] Mating connector 7c also provides power to the Network over
power lines circuitry 33. This circuitry extracts the data
super-imposed on the mains lines and provide standard network stack
to interface with the LAN transceiver 24. LAN transceiver 24
connected to the magnetics and LAN jack 732 installed in the
insert's front panel.
[0352] Small internal optionally isolated power supply 34 extracts
the power needed for the internal circuitry and convert it into low
DC voltage. This voltage is further converted in Power supplies 26
into all needed DC voltages 27 to power the device circuits. The
area enclosed in line 35 represents the High Voltage circuitry that
is electrically isolated from the other areas in the device due to
safety reasons.
[0353] FIG. 19 illustrates the block diagram 722 of modular insert
option of the present invention having a LAN port and a
pass-through power jack.
[0354] Mating connector 7c couples the insert circuitry to the
building power lines infrastructure connected to the housing.
[0355] Mains jack 734 installed in the insert front panel provide
power to connected appliances through optional protection device
735. Protection device may be over current, over voltage, inrush
current or any other type of protection device.
[0356] Mating connector 7c also provides power to the Network over
power lines circuitry 33. This circuitry extracts the data
super-imposed on the mains lines and provide standard network stack
to interface with the LAN transceiver 24. LAN transceiver 24
connected to the magnetics and LAN jack 732 installed in the
insert's front panel.
[0357] Small internal optionally isolated power supply 34 extracts
the power needed for the internal circuitry and convert it into low
DC voltage. This voltage is further converted in Power supplies 26
into all needed DC voltages 27 to power the device circuits. The
area enclosed in line 35 represents the High Voltage circuitry that
is electrically isolated from the other areas in the device due to
safety reasons.
[0358] FIG. 20 illustrate in further details the cross sectional
view of the housing connector block 2 presented in FIG. 1. The
primary function of the housing connector is to electrically
interface between the building LAN cable 1 and the removable insert
housing contacts 7 (not shown here for clarity--showed at FIG.
1).
[0359] LAN Cable 1 is fixed mechanically to the connector module by
block 400 preferably made of metal that serves both as a friction
pad to secure the cable 1 to the module 2 and also as a shielding
component to connect the cable shield to the housing shield 3
properly. The said block 400 may conduct high currents in case of
lightning strike and therefore it may be built of solid metal. The
top cover 425 secured the cable to the block 400 by providing
positive down-word pressure on the cable.
[0360] Metal blades 410 are fitted to enable cable crimping to each
of the eight conductors 401 contained in the shielded LAN cable 1.
A special hand tool may be used to push each conductor to its metal
blade 410 to provide good electrical contact through the conductor
isolation layer. Each of the eight blades is color marked 402 to
show the proper conductor that should be connected to that blade.
Various other electromechanical methods may be used to secure and
connect the LAN cable 1 conductors 401 to the housing connector
2.
[0361] The eight blades 410 are soldered into the small contacts
PCB 412. This two-sided PCB serves as a component carrier and
conductor for the housing connector 2. On the top side the eight
blades connected and on the bottom sides there are eight to twelve
gold plated connector strips 404 positioned in such way to be in
full contact with the insert mating contacts 7 (not shown here for
clarity). Also on the bottom side of this PCB 412 there are
optional lighting spark gaps 415 to protect the insert circuitry
from high voltage spikes induced by lighting strikes. Lighting
spark gaps 415 may be implemented simple printed patterns on the
PCB or by attached Through Hole or SMT components. Electrical
signals connection from the PCB 412 top side to the bottom side is
achieved by means of via holes such as 418.
[0362] Optional location memory chip 2c may be fitted inside the
connector block to further improve the housing functionality. To
reduce cost the said chip 2c may be assembled directly on the top
side of the PCB 412 using Chip On Board technology. The chip 2c may
be covered by an encapsulation layer to protect it from mechanical
and humidity damages.
[0363] Cover 425 provides mechanical protection for the assembly
and further secure each of the eight crimped conductors 401 to the
appropriate blade 410. The cover may also serve as a shield and to
secure the LAN cable 1 to the metal block 400.
[0364] To facilitate for easy installation and support, the
connector block 2 is secured to the housing part 3 by a removable
means.
[0365] It should be clear to a man skilled in the art that similar
construction can be made for other types of LAN or power standards.
For example, number of conductors may vary without departing from
the general configuration according to the current invention.
[0366] Specifically, main household lines 1c, 1d and 1e may take
the place of the eight Ethernet lines of 1. In this case, proper
high voltage insulation and higher current-carrying capacity
connectors should be used.
[0367] While the invention has been described in connection with
what is presently considered to be the most practical and preferred
embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be
limited to the disclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is
intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements
included within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.
[0368] The invention has been described with reference to certain
exemplary embodiments; various modifications will be readily
apparent to and may be readily accomplished by persons skilled in
the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the above
teachings.
[0369] It should be understood that features and/or steps described
with respect to one embodiment may be used with other embodiments
and that not all embodiments of the invention have all of the
features and/or steps shown in a particular figure or described
with respect to one of the embodiments. Variations of embodiments
described will occur to persons of the art.
[0370] It is noted that some of the above described embodiments may
describe the best mode contemplated by the inventors and therefore
include structure, acts or details of structures and acts that may
not be essential to the invention and which are described as
examples. Structure and acts described herein are replaceable by
equivalents that perform the same function, even if the structure
or acts are different, as known in the art.
[0371] Therefore, the scope of the invention is limited only by the
elements and limitations as used in the claims. The terms
"comprise", "include" and their conjugates as used herein mean
"include but are not necessarily limited to"
* * * * *