Configurable communication output redundancy

Abstract

The invention is a communication system having a series of output modules that provide continuous synchronization output signals. Each output module has a driver assembly that has a driver output and a backup selector output that is capable of driving a failed next driver assembly. The driver output and the backup selector output can be different types. A sensor detects the failure of the driver or a backup driver output and generates a select signal in the failure state. A selector receives the driver output, the backup driver output, the select signal, and a select signal from the next driver assembly. The selector normally selects the driver output, but in response to a failure state from the select signal, isolates the failed driver output. The previous driver assembly transmits a backup selector output to the failed driver assembly to maintain a continuous driver output. The transformers are preferably placed on a separate card to reduce the thermal degradation of nearby electronics. As transformers rarely fail, replacing them when a card fails is wasteful. The driver assemblies are identical, only one type of driver assembly need be stocked. Fast protection switching, high output utilization and low power consumption are achieved in this invention.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.