DESCRIPTION
Title of Invention: CONNECTOR, CABLE, TRANSMISSION DEVICE,
RECEPTION DEVICE, AND MANUFACTURING METHOD OF CONNECTOR
Technical Field
[OOOl]
This invention relates to a connector, a cable, a
transmission device, a reception device, and a manufacturing
method of t.he connector, and in particular relates to a
connector used when transmitting digital signals such as
video with differential signals of a predetermined number of
*
channe 1 s .
Background Art
[0002]
In recent years, HDMI (High Definition Multi-m edia
Interface) has come into widespread use as a digital
interface connecting CE (Consumer Electronics) devices, and
is a de facto industry standard. For example, NPL 1
describes the HDMI standard.. With this HDMI standard, the
signals of video, audio, and control, are transmitted using
3 data differential line pairs (TMDS Channel 0/1/2).
Citation List
Non Patent Literature
[0003]
NPL 1: High Definition Multimedia Interface
Specification Version 1.4, June 5 2009
Summary of Invention
Technical Problem
[0004]
Currently,'a value stipulated by the HDMI standard as
transmission speed of these digital signals is around 10.2-
Gbps maximum. Taking into consideration compatibility with
high image quality 3D (3 dimension) video signals, upcoming
4k2k (QFHD), and even higher image quality - content video
signals, the HDMI standard will hereafter be under demand to
expand to the highest values of current standards and beyond,
such as 15 Gbps, 20 Gbps, and so on.
.
Now, by newly assigning a data pairs to the shield used
with the current differential line pair inside an HDMI
connector, so as to increase the number of pairs of data
lanes, the transmission band can be expanded while
maintaining compatibility with the existing HDMI.
[0006]
However, if the structure of the current HDMI connector
is kept the same, the state of coupling of differential
pairs by the shield deteriorates, and not only can the image
quality of transmission at the newly-assigned data lanes not
be maintained, but crosstalk to nearby lanes also occurs, so
conventional signal quality cannot be maintained.
[0007]
It is an object of the present invention to provide a
connector and the like enabling high quality signal
transmission while maintaining compatibility with the
current HDMI connector, in a new HDMI interface using pins
assigned to the shield provided to each data pair used with
the current HDMI, as a data pair, besides the 3 data pairs
used with the current HDMI.
Solution to Problem
A concept of this invention is a connector, _
configured of a plurality of signal electrode pins
which are disposed within a cuboid-shaped dielectric and
which correspond to differential signals of a predetermined
number of channels and extend in a first direction which is
, a predetermined axial direction of the cuboid, with the
perimeter of the dielectric being covered by a square-tube
grounding conductor opened in the first direction;
wherein each of the signal electrode pins is arrayed
near the grounding conductor so as to couple with the
conductor, and differential signals are
transmitted with single end.
[0009]
With this invention, each of the signal electrode pins
is arrayed near the grounding conductor so as to couple with
the grounding c&nductor, and differential signals are
transmitted with single end. That is to say, in order to
cause coupling such that the electromagnetic field of
signals being propagated is distributed between each of the
signal electrode pins and the grounding conductor, each of
the signal electrode pins is arrayed near the grounding
conductor and differential signals are transmitted with ..
single end. Accordingly, even in a state where coupling is
not achieved with the pair of signal electrode pins
transmitting differential signals, or in a state where there
is no corresponding shielding signal electrode pin,
crosstalk from other signal electrode pins can be reduced,
and high quality signals can be transmitted.
[OOlO]
Note that with this invention, for example, an
arrangement may be made where the plurality of signal
electrode pins corresponding to the differential signals of
the predetermined number of channels are arrayed being
divided into a first stage and a second stage, in a second
direction orthogonal ko the first direction; with the
plurality of signal electrode pins of each stage being
arrayed with a predetermined interval in a third direction
orthogonal to the first direction and second direction; and
a ground plane being disposed between the plurality of
+
signal electrode pins of the first stage and the plurality
of signal electrode pins of the second stage within the
dielectric, and connecting conductors electrically
connecting the ground plane and the grounding conductor are
disposed between each of the signal electrode pins of each
of the stages within the dielectric.
[OOll]
In this case, the ground plane is disposed between the
first stage of a plurality of signal electrode pins and the
second stage of a plurality of signal electrode pins within
the dielectric, so crosstalk between the first stage of
signal electrode pins and the second stage of signal
electrode pins is reduced. Also, connection conductors for
electrically connecting the ground plane and the grounding
conductor, vias (via) for example are disposed between the
signal electrode pins of each stage, so crosstalk is reduced
between the signal electrode pins of each stage.
Accordingly, with the pair of signal electrode pins
transmitting differential signals, crosstalk from other
signal electrode pins can be further reduced, and higher
quality signals can be transmitted.
[0012]
Also, another concept of this invention is a connector,
configuredaof a plurality of signal electrode pins
which are disposed within a cuboid-shaped dielectric and
which correspond to differential signals of a predetermined
number of channels and extend in a first direction which is
a predetermined axial direction of the cuboid, with the
perimeter of the dielectric being covered by a square-tu.b. e
grounding conductor opened in the first direction;
wherein the plurality of signal electrode pi-ns
corresponding to the differential signals of the
predetermined number of channels are arrayed being divided
into a first stage and a second stage, in a second direction
orthogonal to the first direction;
and wherein the plurality of signal electrode pins of
each stage are arrayed with a predetermined interval in a
third direction orthogonal to the first direction and second
direction;
and wherein a ground plane is disposed between the
plurality of signal electrode pins of the first stage and
the plurality of signal electrode pins of the second stage
within the dielectric, and connecting conductors
electrically connecting the ground plane and the grounding
conductor are disposed between each of the signal electrode
pins of each of the stages within the dielectric.
=
[0013]
In this case, the ground plane is disposed between the
first stage of a plurality of signal electrode pins and the
second stage of a plurality of signal electrode pins within
..
the dielectric, so crosstalk between the first stage of
signal electrode pins and the second stage of signal
w
electrode pins is reduced. Also, connection conductors for
electrically connecting the ground plane and the-grounding
conductor, vias for example are disposed between the signal
electrode pins of each stage, so crosstalk is reduced
between the signal electrode pins of each stage.
Accordingly, with the pair of signal electrode pins
transmitting differential signals, crosstalk from other
signal electrode pins can be further reduced, and higher
quality signals can be transmitted.
Also, another concept of this invention is
a cable, which transmits digital signals by
differential signals of a predetermined number of channels
from a transmission device to a reception device, comprising
a plug on an end;
wherein the plug is configured of a plurality of signal
electrode pins which are disposed within a cuboid-shaped -
dielectric and which correspond to differential signals of a
predetermined number of channels and extend in a first
direction which is a predetermined axial direction of the
cuboid, with the perimeter of the dielectric being covered
by a square-kube grounding conductor opened in the first
direction; and wherein each of the signal electrode pins is
SP313570 ..
arrayed near the grounding conductor so as to couple with
the grounding conductor, and differential signals are
transmitted with single end.
[0015]
With this invention, each of the signal electrode pins
is coupled with the grounding conductor, and differential
signals are transmitted with single end. That is to say, in
order to cause coupling such that the electromagnetic field
of signals being propagated is distributed between each of
the signal electrode pins and the grounding conductor, each
of the signal electrode pins is arrayed near the grounding
conductor and differential signals are transmitted with
single end. Accordingly, even in a state where coupling is
not achieved with the pair of signal electrode pins
transmitting differential signals, or in a state where there
is no corresponding shielding signal electrode pin,
crosstalk from other signal electrode pins can be reduced,
s
and high quality signals can be transmitted.
Note that with this invention, for example, an
arrangement may be made where the plurality of signal
electrode pins corresponding to the differential signals of
the predetermined number of channels are arrayed being
divided into a first stage and a second stage, in a second
.r
direction orthogonal to the first direction; the plurality
of s i g n a l e l e c t r o d e p i n s of each stage being arrayed with a
predetermined i n t e r v a l in a t h i r d d i r e c t i o n orthogonal t o
the f i r s t d i r e c t i o n and second d i r e c t i o n ; and a ground plane
being disposed between the p l u r a l i t y of signal electrode
pins of the f i r s t stage and the p l u r a l i t y of signal
electrode pins of the second stage within the d i e l e c t r i c ,
and connecting conductors e l e c t r i c a l l y connecting the ground
plane and the grounding conductor are disposed between each
of the s i g n a l e l e c t r o d e p i n s of each of the stages within
the d i e l e c t r i c .
[0017]
In t h i s case, the ground plane is disposed between the
f i r s t stage of a p l u r a l i t y of signal e l e c t r o d e p i n s and the
second stage of a p l u r a l i t y of signal e l e c t r o d e p i n s within
the d i e l e c t r i c , so c r o s s t a l k between the f i r s t stage of
x
signal electrode pins and the second stage of signal
electrode pins is reduced. Also, connection conductors for
e l e c t r i c a l l y connecting the ground plane and the grounding
conductor, vias f o r example are disposed between the signal
electrode pifis of each stage, so c r o s s t a l k is reduced
between the signal e l e c t r o d e p i n s of each stage.
Accordingly, with the p a i r of signal e l e c t r o d e p i n s -
transmitting d i f f e r e n t i a l signals, c r o s s t a l k from other
signal electrode pins can be f u r t h e r reduced, and higher
q u a l i t y s i g n a l s can be transmitted.
[0018]
Also, another concept of this invention is a cable,
which transmits digital signals by differential signals of a
predetermined number of channels from a transmission device
to a reception device, comprising a plug on an end;
wherein the plug is configured of a plurality of signal
electrode pins which are disposed within a cuboid-shaped
dielectric and which correspond to differential signals of a
predetermined number of channels and extend in a first
direction which is a predetermined axial direction of the
cuboid, with the perimeter of the dielectric being covered
by a square-tube grounding conductor opened in the first
direction; -
and wherein the plurality of signal electrode pins .
corresponding to the differential signals of the
predetermined number of channels are arrayed being divided
into a first stage and a second stage, in a second direction
orthogonal to the first direction;
and wherein the plurality of signal electrode pins of
each stage are arrayed with a predetermined interval in a
third direction orthogonal to the first direction and second
direction; s
and wherein a ground plane is disposed between the
plurality of signal electrode pins of the first stage and
the plurality of signal electrode pins of the second stage
within the dielectric, and connecting conductors
electrically connecting the ground plane and the grounding
conductor are disposed between each of the signal electrode
pins of each of the stages within the dielectric.
[0019]
With this invention, the ground plane is disposed
between the first stage of a plurality of signal electrode
pins and the second stage of a plurality of signal electrode
pins within the dielectric, so crosstalk between the first
stage of signal electrode pins and the second stage of
signal electrode pins is reduced. .. Also, connection
conductors for electrically connecting the ground plane and
the grounding conductor, vias for example are disposed
between the signal electrode pins of each stage, so
crosstalk is reduced between the signal electrode pins of
each stage. Accordingly, with the pair of signal electrode
pins transmgtting differential signals, crosstalk from other
signal electrode pins can be further reduced, and higherquality
signals can be transmitted.
-
[0020]
Also, another concept of this invention is a
transmission device, including:
a digital signal transmission unit which transmits
digital signals to an external device by differential
signals via a cable, having a first operation mode of which
the number of channels of the differential signals is a
first number, and a second operation mode of which the
number of channels of the differential signal? is a second
number greater than the first number;
an operation mode determining unit which determines
whether or not the external device and the cable are
compatible with the second operation mode;
an operation control unit which controls operation of
the digital sigzal transmission unit based on determination
by the operation mode determining unit; and
a receptacle having a plurality of signal electrode
pins for connecting a plug of the cable;
wherein the digital signal transmission unit selects a -
first pin assignment in the first operation mode, and in the
second operation mode selects a second pin assignment which
differs from the first pin assignment, in which a terminal
used as a shield terminal corresponding to a signal terminal -
of digital signal and/or clock signal differential signals
in the first pin assignment, is used as a signal terminal
for differential signals to transmit digital signals;
and wherein the receptacle is configured of the
plurality of signal electrode pins which are disposed within
a cuboid-shaped dielectric and extend in a first direction
which is a predetermined axial direction of the cuboid, with
the perimeter of the dielectric being covered by a squaretube
grounding conductor opened in the first direction;
and wherein each of the signal electrode pins is
arrayed near the grounding conductor so as to couple with
the grounding conductor, and differential signals are
transmitted wi,th single end.
[0021]
With this invention, each of the signal electrode pins
is coupled with the grounding conductor, and differential -
signals are transmitted with single end. That is to say, in
order to cause coupling such that the electromagnetic field
of signals being propagated is distributed between each of
the signal electrode pins and the grounding conductor, each
of the signal electrode pins is arrayed near the grounding
conductor and differential signals are transmitted with -
single end. Accordingly, even in a state where coupling is
r
not achieved with the pair of signal electrode pins
transmitting differential signals, or in a state where there
is no corresponding shielding signal electrode pin,
crosstalk from other signal electrode pins can be reduced,
and high quality signals can be transmitted (transmitted).
[0022]
N'ote that with this invention, for example, an
arrangement may be made where the plurality of signal
electrode pins are arrayed being divided into a first stage
and a second stage, in a second direction orthogonal to the
SP313570
first direction; with the plurality of signal electrode pins
of each stage being arrayed with a predetermined interval in
a third direction orthogonal to the first direction and
second direction; and with a ground plane being disposed
between the plurality of signal electrode pins of the first
stage and the plurality of signal electrode pins of the -
second stage within the dielectric, and connecting
conductors electrically connecting the ground plane and the
grounding conductor being disposed between each - of the
signal electrode pins of each of the stages.
In this case, the ground plane is disposed between the
first stage of a plurality of signal electrode pins and the
*
second stage of a plurality of signal electrode pins within
the dielectric, so crosstalk between the first stage of
signal electrode pins and the second stage of signal
electrode pins is reduced. Also, connection conductors for
electrically connecting the ground plane and the grounding
conductor, vias for example are disposed between the signal
electrode pins of each stage, so crosstalk is reduced
between the signal electrode pins of each stage.
Accordingly, w$th the pair of signal electrode pins
transmitting differential signals, crosstalk from other
signal electrode pins can be further reduced, and higher
quality signals can be transmitted (transmitted).
[0024]
Also, another concept of this invention is a
transmission device, including:
a digital signal transmission unit which transmits
digital signals to an external device by differential
signals via a cable, having a first operation mode of which
the number of channels of the differential signals is a
*
first number, and a second operation mode of which the
number of channels of the differential signals is a second
number greater than the first number; -
an operation mode determining unit which determines
s
whether or not the external device and the cable are
compatible with the second operation mode;
an operation control unit which controls operation of
the digital signal transmission unit based on determination
by the operation mode determining unit; and
a receptacle having a plurality of signal electrode
pins for connecting a plug of the cable;
wherein the digital signal transmission unit selects a
first pin assignment in the first operation mode, and in the
second operation mode selects a second pin assignment which
differs from the first pin assignment, in which a terminal
used as a shield terminal corresponding to a signal terminal
of digital signal and/or clock signal differential signals
in the first pin assignment, is used as a signal terminal
for differential signals to transmit digital signals;
and wherein the receptacle is configured of the
plurality of signal electrode pins which are disposed within
a cuboid-shaped dielectric and extend in a first direction
which is a predetermined axial direction of the cuboid, with
the perimeter of the dielectric being covered by a squaretube
grounding conductor opened in the first direction;
and wherein the plurality of signal electrode pins ;re
arrayed being divided into a first stage and a second stage,
7
in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction;
and wherein the plurality of signal electrode pins of
each stage are arrayed with a predetermined interval in a
third direction orthogonal to the first direction and second
direction;
and wherein a ground plane is disposed between the
plurality of signal electrode pins of the first stage and
the plurality of signal electrode pins of the second stage
within the dielectric, and connecting conductors
electrically connecting the ground plane and the grounding
conductor are disposed between each of the signal electrode
pins of each of the stages within the dielectric.
[0025]
With this invention, the ground plane is disposed
between the first stage of a plurality of signal electrode
pins and the second stage of a plurality of signal electrode
pins within the dielectric, so crosstalk between the first
stage of signal electrode pins and the second stage of
signal electrode pins is reduced. Also, connection
conductors for electrically connecting the ground plane and
the grounding conductor, are disposed between the signal
-
electrode pins of each stage, so crosstalk is reduced
between the signal electrode pins of each stage.-
Accordingly, with the pair of signal electrode pins
transmitting. differential signals, crosstalk from other
signal electrode pins can be further reduced, and high
quality signals can be transmitted (transmitted).
[0026]
Also, another concept of this invention is a reception
device, including :
a digital signal reception unit which receives digital
signals from an external device by differential signals via
a cable, having a first operation mode of which the number
of channels of the differential signals is a first number,
and a second operation mode of which the number of channels
of the differential signals is a second number greater than
the first number;
an information reception unit which receives operation
mode information from the external device regarding which of
the first operation mode and the second operation mode to -
select;
an operation control unit which controls operation of
the digital signal transmission unit based the operation
mode information received by the information reception unit;
a.
and
a receptacle having a plurality of signal electrode
pins for connecting a plug of the cable;
wherein the information reception unit selects a first
pin assignment in the first operation mode, and in the
second operation mode selects a second pin assignment which
differs from the first pin assignment, in which a terminal
used as a shield terminal corresponding to a signal terminal
of digital signal and/or clock signal differential signals
in the first pin assignment, is used as a signal terminal
for differential signals to transmit digital signals;
and wherein the receptacle is configured of the
plurality of signal electrode pins which are disposed within
a cuboid-shaped dielectric and extend in a first direction
which is a predetermined axial direction of the cuboid, with
the perimeter of the dielectric being covered by a squaretube
grounding conductor opened in the first direction;
and whereiii each of the signal electrode pins is
arrayed near the grounding conductor so as to couple with
the grounding conductor, and differential signals are
transmitted with single end.
[0027] s
With this invention, each of the signal electrode pins -
is coupled with the grounding conductor, and differential
signals are transmitted with single end. That is to say, in
order to cause coupling such that the electromagnetic field
of signals being propagated is distributed. between each of
the signal electrode pins and the grounding conductor, each
of the signal electrode pins is arrayed near the grounding
conductor and differential signals are transmitted with
single end. Accordingly, even in a state where coupling is .
not achieved with the pair of signal electrode pins
transmitting differential signals, or in a state where there
is no corresponding shielding signal electrode pin,
crosstalk from other signal electrode pins can be reduced,
and high quality signals can be transmitted (received).
[0028]
Note that with this invention, an arrangement may be
made weherein, for example, the plurality of signal electrode
pins are arrayed being divided into a first stage and a
second stage, in a second direction orthogonal to the first
direction; with the plurality of signal electrode pins of
each stage being arrayed with a predetermined interval in a
third direction orthogonal to the first direction and second
direction; a ~ wdi th a ground plane being disposed between
the plurality of signal electrode pins of the first stage
and the plurality of signal electrode pins of the second
a,
stage within the dielectric, and connecting conductors
electrically connecting the ground plane and the grounding
conductor are disposed between each of the signal electrode
pins of each of the stages.
[0029]
In this case, the ground plane is disposed between the
first stage of a plurality of signal electrode pins and the
second stage of a plurality of signal electrode pins within
the dielectric, so crosstalk between the first stage of
signal electrode pins and the second stage of signal
electrode pins is reduced. Also, connection conductors for
electrically connecting the ground plane and the grounding
conductor, vias for example are disposed between the signal
electrode pins of each stage, so crosstalk is reduced
between the signal electrode pins of each stage.
Accordingly, with the pair of signal electrode pins
transmitting differential signals, crosstalk from other
signal electrode pins can be further reduced, and higher
quality signals can be transmitted (received).
Another Goncept of this invention is a reception device,
including:
a digital signal reception unit which receives digital
T
signals from an external device by differential signals via
a cable, having a first operation mode of which the number
of channels of the differential signals is- a first number,
and a second operation mode of which the number of channels
of the differential signals is a second number greater than
the first number;
an information reception unit which receives operation
mode information from the external device regarding which of
the first operation mode and the second operation mode to
select;
an operation control unit which controls operation of
the digital signal transmission unit based the operation
mode information received by the information reception unit;
and
a receptacle having a plurality of signal electrode
pins for connecting a plug of the cable; -
wherein the information reception unit selects a first
pin assignment in the first operation mode, and in the
se.cond operation mode selects a second pin assignment which
differs from the first pin assignment, in which a terminal
used as a shield terminal corresponding to a signal terminal
of digital signal and/or clock signal differential signals
in the first pin assignment, is used as a signal terminal
v
for differential signals to transmit digital signals;
and wherein the receptacle is configured of-the
plurality of signal electrode pins which are disposed within
a cuboid-shaped dielectric and extend in a first direction
which is a predetermined axial direction of the cuboid, with
the perimeter of the dielectric being covered by a squaretube
grounding conductor opened in the first direction;
and wherein the plurality of signal electrode pins are
arrayed being divided into a first stage and a second stage,
in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction;
and wherein the plurality of signal electrode pins of
each stage are arrayed with a predetermined interval in a
third direction orthogonal to the first direction and second
direction;
and wherein a ground plane is disposed between the
plurality of signal electrode pins of the first stage and -
the plurality of signal electrode pins of the second stage
within the dielectric, and connecting conductors
electrically connecting the ground plane and the grounding
conductor are disposed between each of the signal electrode
pins of each-of the stages.
[0031]
In this case, the ground plane is disposed between t-h e
first stage of a plurality of signal electrode pins and the
second stage of a plurality of signal electrode pins within
the dielectric, so crosstalk between the first stage of
signal electrode pins and the second stage. of signal
electrode pins is reduced. Also, connection conductors for
electrically connecting the ground plane and the grounding
conductor, vias for example are disposed between the signal
electrode pins of each stage, so crosstalk is reduced
between the signal electrode pins of each stage.
Accordingly, with the pair of signal electrode pins
transmitting differential signals, crosstalk from other
signal electrode'pins can be further reduced, and higher,
quality signals can be transmitted (received).
[0032]
Another concept of this invention is a manufacturing
method of a connector, configured of a plurality of signal
electrode pins which are disposed within a cuboid-shaped
dielectric and which correspond to differential signals of a
predetermined number of channels and extend in a first
direction which is a predetermined axial direction of the
cuboid, with-the perimeter of the dielectric being covered
by a square-tube grounding conductor opened in the first
direction,
v
each of the signal electrode pins being arrayed near
the grounding conductor so as to couple with the-grounding
conductor, and differential signals being transmitted with
single end,
the plurality of signal electrode pins being arrayed
divided into a first stage and a second stage, in a second
direction orthogonal to the first direction,
the plurality of signal electrode pins of each stage
being arrayed with a predetermined interval in a third
direction orthogonal to the first direction and second
direction,
and a ground plane being disposed between the plurality
of signal electrode pins of the first stage and the
plurality of signal electrode pins of the second stage
within the dielectric, and connecting conductors
electrically connecting the ground plane and the grounding
conductor being disposed between each of the signal
electrode pins of each of the stages within the dielectric;
wherein the inside of the grounding conductor is
manufactured by combining a plurality of parts.
-
[0033]
With this invention, the inside of the grounding
conductor is manufactured by combining a plurality of parts.
For example, the plurality of parts is a multi-layer
substrate having the ground plane, a conductor ( ~ N D
conductor) making up the grounding conductor, for connecting
the ground plane of the multi-layer substrate to the
grounding conductor, the signal electrode pins, and a
dielectric having holes into which the signal electrode pins
and the conductor (GND conductor) are inserted, disposed
between the multi-layer substrate and the grounding
Advantageous Effects of Invention
SP313570
[0034]
According to this invention, even in a state where
coupling is not achieved with the pair of signal electrode
pins transmitting differential signals, or in a state where
there is no corresponding shielding signal electrode pin,
crosstalk from other signal electrode pins can be reduced,
2
and high quality signals can be transmitted.
Brief Description of Drawings
[0035]
[Fig. 11 Fig. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a
configuration example of an AV system as an embodiment of
the present invention.
[Fig. 21 Fig. 2 is a diagram illustrating a combinaGion
example of a source device, an HDMI cable, and a sink device. -
[Fig. 31 Fig. 3 is a diagram illustrating a
configuration example of a data transmission unit of the
source device and a data reception unit of the sink device
(under current HDMI operation mode).
[Fig. 41 Fig. 4 is a diagram illustrating a
configuration example of a data transmission unit of the
source device and a data reception unit of the sink device
(under new HDMI operation mode).
[Fig. 51 Fig. 5 is a diagram illustrating a structure
example of TMDS transmission data.
[Fig. 61 Fig. 6 is a diagram comparing and illustrating
pin assignment of the current HDMI (Type A) and the new HDMI.
[Fig. 71 Fig. 7 is a diagram illustrating pin
assignment of receptacles of a source device and sink device
of the current $DM1 and new HDMI.
[Fig. 81 Fig. 8 is a diagram illustrating a structure.
example of a current HDMI cable.
[Fig. 91 Fig. 9 is a diagram illustrating a structure
example of a new HDMI cable.
[Fig. 101 Fig. 10 is a diagram illustrating another
structure example of the new HDMI cable.
[Fig. 111 Fig. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an
example of processing procedures of operation mode control
of a control unit of the source device.
[Fig. 123 Fig. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example
of a U I screen displayed on the display unit (display) under
control of the control unit of the source device.
[Fig. 131 Fig. 13 is a flowchart illustrating another
example of processing procedures of operation mode control
of the control unit of the source device.
[Fig. 141 Fig. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example
of flag information newly defined on E D I D .
[Fig. 151 Fig. 15 is a diagram describing a
determination method regarding whether or not a cable in the
control unit is compatible with the new HDMI, and is a
diagram illustrating an L S I built into a plug of the new
HDMI.
[Fig. 161 Fig. 16 is a diagram describing a
I determination method regarding whether or not the cable inthe
control unit is compatible with the new HDMI, and is a
I diagram illustrating an example of an E D I D data rewrite
circuit'of an L S I within a new - HDMI cable.
[Fig. 171 Fig. 17 is a diagram describing a
I determination method regarding whether or not the cable in
I the control unit is compatible with the new HDMI, and is-a
diagram illustrating an RE tag chip ( L S I ) built into the
.w
plug of the new HDMI.
[Fig. 181 Fig. 18 is a diagram describing a
I determination method regarding whether or not the cable in
I the control unit is compatible with the new HDMI, and is a
I diagram describing determining of whether or not the cable
I in the control unit is compatible with the new HDMI, by
I performing measurement of the electrical properties of the
I cable.
i [Fig. 191 Fig. 19 is a diagram describing a
1 determination method whether or not the cable is compatible
with the new HDMI by performing measurement of the
electrical properties of the cable.
[Fig. 201 Fig. 20 is a diagram schematically
illustrating a structure of a current HDMI connector (plug
and receptacle).
[Fig. 211 Fig. 21 is a diagram illustrating coupled -
relation of a pair of signal electrode pins PI and P2
transmitting differential signals.
[Fig. 221 Fig. 22 is a diagram describing a data
4
observation waveform in the event of operating with the pin
assignment of the current HDMI and the pin assignment of the
new HDMI, in the current HDMI connector (plug and .
receptacle) . -
[Fig. 231 Fig. 23 is a diagram schematically
illustrating an improved structure example 1 of the HDMI
connector (plug and receptacle) .
[Fig. 241 Fig. 24 is a diagram schematically
illustrating an improved structure example 2 of the HDMI
connector (plug and receptacle) .
[Fig. 251 Fig. 25 is a diagram schematically
illustrating an improved structure example 3 of the HDMI
connector (plug and receptacle) .
[Fig. 261 Fig. 26 is a diagram schematically
illustrating an improved structure example 4 of the HDMI
connector (plug and receptacle).
[Fig. 271 Fig. 27 is a diagram comparing and
illustrating the data observation waveforms of the current
HDMI and improved structure examples 1 through 4.
[Fig. 281 Fig. 28 is a diagram comparing and
illustrating crosstalk observation waveforms of the current
HDMI and improved structure examples 1 through 4.
[Fig. 291 Fig. 29 is a diagram describing a return path
*
of a shared phase component to the differential signals (D+
and D-) in the event of no via being formed and in the event
of a via being formed. -
[Fig. 301 Fig. 30 is a diagram describing a
manufacturing method of a modified structure connector.
[Fig. 311 Fig. 31 is a diagram describing a
manufacturing method of a modified structure connector.
[Fig. 321 Fig. 32 is a diagram describing a
manufacturing method of a modified structure connector.
[Fig. 331 Fig. 33 is a diagram describing a
manufacturing method of a modified structure connector.
[Fig. 341 Fig. 34 is a diagram describing another
example of the shape of the cable plug of the new HDMI the
receptacle of the new HDMI.
[Fig. 351 Fig. 35 is a perspective view of the plug of
the current HDMI cable and new HDMI cable.
Description of Embodiments
[ 0 0 3 6 ]
Hereinafter, description will be made regarding an
embodiment of the present disclosure (hereinafter, referred
to as embodiment). Note that description will be made with
the following order.
1. Embodiment
-
2. Modification
[0037]
<1. Embodiment>
[Configuration Example of AV system]
Fig. 1 illustrates a configuration example of an AV
(Audio and Visual) system 100 as an embodiment. This AV
system 100 is configured by connecting a source device.110
to a sink device 120. The source device 110 is an AV source
such as a game machine, a disc player, a set top box, a
digital camera, or a cellular phone, for example. The sink
device 120 is a television receiver, a projector, or the
like, for example.
[0038]
The source device 110 and the sink device 120 are
connected via the cable 200. A receptacle 111 to which the
data transmission unit 112 is connected, making up a
connector, is provided in the source device 110. A
receptacle 121 to which the data reception unit 122 is
connected, making up a connector, is provided in the sink
device 120. s
Also, a plug 201 making up a connector is provided at
one end of the cable 200 and a plug 202 making up a
connector is provided at the other end of the - cable 200.
The plug 201 has one end of the cable 200 connected to the
receptacle 111 of the source device 110, and the plug 202
has the other end of this cable 200 connected to-the
receptacle 121 of the sink device 120.
[0040]
The source device 110 has a control unit 113. This
control unit 113 controls the overall source device 110.
With this embodiment, the data transmission unit 112 of the
source device 110 is compatible with both of the current
HDMI and new HDMI. In the event that the determination is
made that the cable 200 is compatible with the new HDMI and
the sink device 120 is compatible with the new HDMI, the
control unit 113 controls the data transmission unit 112 so
as to operate in a new HDMI operation mode. On the other
hand, in the event that the determination is made that the
sink device 120 at least is compatible only with the current
HDMI or the cable 200 is compatible with the current' HDMI,
the control unit 113 controls the data transmission unit 112
so as to operate in a current HDMI operation mode.
[0041]
The sink device 120 has a control unit 123. This
control unit 123 controls the overall sink device 120. with
this embodime- nt, the data reception unit 122 of the sink
device 120 is compatible with only with the current HDMI, or
to both of the current HDMI and new HDMI. In the event that
the data reception unit 122 is compatible with both of tfie
current HDMI and new HDMI, the control unit 123 controls the
data reception unit 122 so as to operate in the same
operation mode as with the data transmission unit 112 of the
source device 110. In this case, the control unit 123
controls the operation mode of the data reception unit 122,
based on the determination result of the operation mode
transmitted through a line such as CEC or the like, from the
source device 110. The cable 200 is compatible with the
current HDMI or new HDMI.
[0042]
In the AV system 100 illustrated in Fig. 1, as
illustrated in Fig. 2(a), when the cable 200 is compatible
with the new HDMI and the sink device 120 is compatible with
both of the current HDMI and new HDMI, data transmission is
performed with the new HDMI. At this time, the data
transmission unlt 112 of the source device 110 and the data
reception unit 122 of the. sink device 120 are controlled so
a,s to operate in the new HDMI operation mode.
Also, in the AV system illustrated in Fig. 1, as
illustrated in Figs. 2(b) through (d), when the cable 200 at
least is compatible with the current HDMI, or the sink
device 120 is compatible with to the current HDMI, data -
transmission with the current HDMI is performed. - In this
case, the data transmission unit 112 of the source device
110 is controlled so as to operate in the current HDMI
operation mode. Also, the data reception unit 122 of the
sink device 120 is compatible with both of the current HDMI
and new HDMI is controlled so as to operate in the current
HDMI operation mode. Note that, in the case of Fig. 2(b),
there are some cases where data transmission in the new HDMI
mode may be performed when data transmission of the new HDMI
can be performed through the cable 200 by decreasing the
data transfer rate.
LO0441
[Configuration Examples of Data Transmission Unit and Data
Reception Unit]
Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 illustrate configuration examples of
the data transmission unit 112 of the source device 110 and
the data reception unit 122 of the sink device 120 in the AV
system 100 in Fig. 1. The data transmission unit 112
transmits, in a valid image section (also referred to as
"active vide^ section") a differential signal corresponding
to one uncompressed screen worth of video data to the data
reception unit 122 in one direction with multiple channels.
Here, the valid image section is a section f-roo one
vertical synchronizing signal to the next vertical
synchronizing signal, excluding the horizontal blanking
interval and vertical blanking interval. Also, the data
transmission unit 112 transmits, in one direction with
multiple channels in the horizontal blanking interval or
vertical blanking interval, a differential signal
corresponding to audio data and control data at least
associated with video data, and other auxiliary data, to the
data reception unit 122.
COO461
The data reception unit 122 receives, in the active
video section, differential signals corresponding to the
video data which is transmitted from the data transmission
unit 122 in one direction with multiple channels. Also, -
this data reception unit 122 receives, in a horizontal
blanking interval or a vertical blanking interval,
differential signals corresponding to the audio data and
control data which are transmitted from the data
transmission-unit 122 in one direction with multiple
channels.
[0047]
w
Transmission channels in the HDMI system made up of the
data transmission unit 112 and the data reception unit 122
include the following. First of all, transmission channels
include differential signal channels (TMDS channel and TMDS
clock channel). The differential signal channels to
transmit digital signals such as video data is three
channels in the current HDMI, but six channels in the new
HDMI.
[0048]
Description will be made regarding the differentia,l
signal channel in the current HDMI. As illustrated in Fig.
3', there are three TMDS channels #O through #2 as
transmission channels to synchronize the video data and
audio data to the pixel clock and perform serial
transmission in one direction from the data transmission
unit 112 to the data reception unit 122. Also, there is a
*
TMDS clock channel as a transmission channel to transmit
TMDS clock.
[0049]
An HDMI transmitter 81 of the data transmission unit
112 converts-uncompressed video data into the corresponding
differential signals, and performs serial transmission in
one direction to the data reception unit 122 connected.via -
the cable 200, with the three TMDS channels #Or #I, and #2,
for example. Also, the HDMI transmitter 81 converts audio
data associated with the uncompressed video data, necessary
control data, and other auxiliary data, into the
corresponding differential signals and performs serial
transmission in one direction to the data reception unit 122
with the three TMDS channels #O, #I, and #2.
[0050]
Further, the HDMI transmitter 81 transmits the TMDS
clock synchronized with the video data to be transmitted
with the three TMDS channels #O, #I, and #2, to the data
transmission unit 122 with the TMDS clock channel. Here,
with a TMDS channel #i (i=O, 1, 2), 10-bit video data is
transmitted during one clock of the TMDS clock.
An HDMI receiver 82 of the data reception - unit 122
receives differential signals corresponding to the video
data and differential signals corresponding to the audio
data and control data transmitted from the data transmission
unit 112 in one direction, with the TMDS channels #O, #I,
and #2. In tXis case, the differential signals are
synchronized with the pixel clock (TMDS clock) transmitted
from the data transmission unit 112 with the TMDS clock -
channel, and received.
Next, description will be made regarding the
differential signal channels in the new HDMI. As
illustrated in Fig. 4, there are six TMDS channels #O
through #5 as transmission channels to synchronize the video
data and audio data to the pixel clock and perform serial
transmission in one direction from the data transmission
unit 112 to the data reception unit 122. Note that, with
this new HDMI, transmission of the TMDS clock is omitted,
and a self-cldck method to reproduce a clock from the
received data on the reception side, is employed.
[00531
An HDMI transmitter 81 of the data transmission unit
112 converts uncompressed video data into the corresponding
differential signals, for example and performs serial
*
transmission in one direction to the data reception unit 122
connected via the cable 200, with the six TMDS channels #O
through #5. Also, this HDMI transmitter 81 converts audio
data associated with the uncompressed video data, necessary
control data; and other auxiliary data into the
corresponding differential signals and performs serial
transmission in one direction to the data reception unit - 122
with the six TMDS channels #O through #5.
An HDMI receiver 82 of the data reception unit 122
receives differential signals corresponding to the video
data and differential signals corresponding to the audio
data and control data transmitted from the data transmission
unit 112 in one direction, with the TMDS channels #O through
#5. In this case, the HDMI receiver 82 reproduces a pixel
clock from the received data, and performs reception while
synchronizing with the pixel clock (TMDS clock).
LO0551
Examples of the transmission channels of the HDMI
system include transmission channels called a DDC (Display
Data Channel) and a CEC line, besides the above-described
the TMDS channel and TMDS clock channel. The DDC is made up
of unshown two signal lines included in the cable .. 200. The
DDC is used for the data transmission unit 112 to read EEDID
(Enhanced Extended Display Identification Data) from
the data reception unit 122.
lo0561
That issto say, the data reception unit 122 has EDIDROM
(EEPROM) storing E-EDID which is capability information
regarding its qwn capability (Configuration/capability),~
besides the HDMI receiver 82. The data transmission unit
112 reads the E-EDID through the DDC from the cognected data
reception unit 122 via the cable 200, in accordance with a
request from the control unit 113, for example.
lo0571
The data transmission unit 112 transmits the read EEDID
to the control unit 113. The control unit 113 stores
this E-EDID in unshown flash ROM or DRAM. The control unit
113 can recognize setting of capabilities of the data
reception unit 122, based on the E-EDID. For example, the
control unit 113 recognizes whether or not the sink device
120 having the data reception unit 122 is compatible with
the new HDMI, besides the current HDMI. The CEC line is
made up of an unshown signal line included in the cable 200
and is used to perform bidirectional communication of data
for control between the data transmission unit 112 - and data
reception unit 122.
[0058]
Also, a line (HPD line) connected to a pin called HPD
(Hot Plug Detect) is included in the cable 200. A source -
device can detect connecting of a sink device using this HPD
line. Note that, this HPD line is also used as an HEAC-line
making up bidirectional communication. Also, a power line (+
5V power Line) to be used for supplying power from the
source device to the sink device is included in the cable
200. Further, a utility line is included in the cable 200.
This utility line is used as an HEAC + line making up a
bidirectional communication path.
[0059]
Fig. 5 illustrates structure examples of the TMDS
transmission data. This Fig. 5 indicates periods of various
transmission data in the event that the image data where
width x height is B pixels x A lines is transmitted, by the
TMDS channels #O through #2 or the TMDS channels #O through
#5. There are three types of periods in accordance with the
types of the transmission data in Video Field where
transmission data is transmitted with the TMDS channels of
the HDMI. These three types of periods are a video data
period (Video Data period), a data island period (Data
Islandperiod), and a control period (Control period).
+
Here, a video field period is a period from the leading
edge of a vertical synchronizing signal (active edge) to the -
leading edge of the next vertical synchronizing signal.
This video field period is divided into a horizontal
blanking period (horizontal blanking), a vertical blanking
period (verticalblanking), and an active video period
*
(Active Video). This active video period is, from the video
field period, the video data period which is a period where
the horizontal blanking period and vertical blanking period
has been removed, allocated to the active video period.
With this video data period, data of B pixels (pixels) x A
lines worth of valid pixels (active pixels) making up the
one uncompressed screen worth of the image data, is
transmitted.
[0061]
The data island period and control period are allocated
to the horizontal blanking period and vertical blanking
period. With these data island period and control period,
auxiliary data (Auxiliary data) is transmitted. That is to
say, the data island period is allocated to one portion of
the horizontal blanking period and the vertical blanking
period. With this data island period, of the auxiliary data,
.?
for example, packets of audio data which do not relate to
control are transmitted. The control period are allocated
to the other portions of the horizontal blanking period and
*
the vertical blanking period. With this control period, of
the auxiliary data, for example, the vertical synchronizing
signal, the horizontal synchronizing signal, and controlpackets
which relate to control, are transmitted.
Here, description will be made regarding pin assignment
of the receptacle '111. First, pin assignment of the current
HDMI (type A) will be described. This pin assignment of the
current HDMI makes up the first pin assignment. Fig. 6(a)
indicates pin assignment of this current HDMI. TMDS Data #i+
and TMDS Data #i- which are differential signals of the TMDS
channel #i (i = 0 through 2) are transmitted by two lines
which are differential lines. Pins (the pins of which pin
numbers are 7, 4, and 1) are assigned to the TMDS Data #i+
and pins (the pins of which pin numbers are 9, 6, and 3) are
assigned to the TMDS Data #i-. Note that the pins of which
pin numbers are 8, 5, and 2 are assigned to TMDS Data #i
Shield (i = 0 through 2).
LO0631
TMDS Clock+- and TMDS Clock- which are differential
signals of the TMDS Clock channel are transmitted by two
lines which are differential lines. The pin of which pin
number is 10 is assigned to the TMDS Clock + and the pin of
which pin number is 12 is assigned to the TMDS Clock-. Note
*
that the pin of which pin number is 11 is assigned to TMDS
Clock Shield. -
[0064]
v
Also, a CEC signal to be data for control is
transmitted with the CEC line. The pin of which pin number
is 13 is assigned to the CEC signal. Also, an SDA (Serial
Data) signal such as E-EDID is transmitted with the SDA line.
The pin of which pin number is 16 is assigned to the SDA
signal. Also, an SCL (Serial Clock) signal which a clock
signal to be used for synchronization at the time of
transmission and reception of the SDA signal is transmitted
with the SCL line. The pin of which pin number is 15 is
assigned to the SCL. Note that the above-described DDC line
is made up with the SDA lines and SCL line.
[0065]
Also, the pin of which pin number is 19 is assigned to
HPD/HEAC-. Also, the pin of which pin number is 14 is
assigned to an Utility/HEAC+. Also, the pin of which pin
number is 17 is-assigned to a DDC/CEC Ground/HEAC Shield.
Further, the pin of which pin number is 18 is assigned to a
power source (+5V Power).
[0066]
Next, pin assignment of the new HDMI will be described.
This pin assignment of the new HDMI makes up the second pin
assignment. Fig. 6(b) indicates pin assignment of this
-
current HDMI. TMDS Data,#i+ and TMDS Data #i- whi- ch are
differential signals of the TMDS channel #i (i = 0 through
5) are transmitted by two lines which are differential lines.
Pins (the pins of which pin numbers are 1, 4, 7, 10, 2, and
8) are assigned to the TMDS Data #i+ and pins (the pins of
which pin numbers are 3, 6, 9, 12, 5, and 11) are assigned
to the TMDS Data #i-.
[0067]
Also, a CEC signal to be data for control is
transmitted with the CEC line. The pin of which pin number
is 13 is assigned to the CEC signal. Also, an SDA (Serial
Data) signal such as E-EDID is transmitted with the SDA line.
The pin of which pin number is 16 is assigned to the SDA
signal. Also, an SCL (Serial Clock) signal which a clock
signal to be used for synchronization at the time of
transmission and reception of the SDA signal is transmitted
with the SCL line. The pin of which pin number is 15 is
assigned to the SCL. Note that the above-described DDC line
is made up with the SDA lines and SCL line.
[0068]
Also, the pin of which pin number is 19 is assigned to
*
HPD/HEAC-. Also, the pin of which pin number is 14 is
assigned to Utility/HEAC+. Also, the pin of which pin number
is 17 is assigned to DDC/CEC Ground/HEAC Shield. Further,
the pin of which pin number is 18 is assigned to a power -
source (+5V Power).
[0069]
As described above, with the new HDMI pin assignment
(see Fig. 6(b)), terminals (which are pins of which pin
numbers are 2, 5, 8, and 11) , which are used as shield
terminals with the current HDMI pin assignments (see Fig.
6(a)), are used as data terminals. Also, with the new HDMI
pin assignment, terminals (which are pins of which pin
numbers are 10 and 12), which are used as signal terminals
of the differential signal of the clock signal with the
current HDMI pin assignments, are used as data terminals.
The data transmission unit 112 of the source device 110
selects, when operating in the current HDMI operation mode,
the current HDMq pin assignment illustrated in Fig. 6(a) and
selects, when operating in the new HDMI operation mode, the
new HDMI pin assignment illustrated in Fig. 6 (b) . Note that,
with the above description, we have described pin assignment
of the receptacle 111 of the source device - 110. Further
description will be omitted, but this is also the same as
pin assignment of the receptacle 121 of the sink device 120
in the event of the data reception unit 122 of the sink '
device 120 being compatible with both the current HDMI and
new HDMI.
Figs. 7 (a) and (b) illustrates pin array of the
receptacle 111 of the source device 110. Fig. 7(a)
illustrates pin array of the current HDMI, and Fig. 7(b)
illustrates pin array of the new HDMI. Note that, when
current HDMI pin assignment is selected as pin assignment of
the receptacle 111, the pins of which pin numbers are 2, 5,
8, 11 are made to be in the following state. That is to say,
the pins of which pin numbers are 2, 5, 8, 11 are made to be
in the grounded state in the source device 110 and sink
device 120. Alternatively, the pins of which pin numbers
are 2, 5, 8, 11 are made to be in the grounded state in the
sink device 120 and in the high impedance state in the
source device 1-10. Alternatively, the pins of which pin
numbers are 2, 5, 8, 11 are made to be in the high impedance
state in the sink device 120 and in the grounding state in
the source device 110. Note that, while further description
will be omitted, this is the same for the pin array - of the
receptacle 121 of the sink device 120 in the event of the
data reception unit 122 of the sink device 120 being
* compatible with both the current HDMI and new HDMI.
[0072] .
Fig. 8(a) illustrates a structure example of the
current HDMI cable used as the cable 200. With this current
HDMI cable, each of three data line pairs is configured of a
shielded twisted pair portion to obtain properties. Also,
the clock line pair and a line pair of utility and HPD also
is configured of a shielded twisted pair portion for HEAC
functions. Fig. 8(b) illustrates a structure example of a
shielded twisted pair portion. This shielded twisted pair
portion is a structure in which two electric wires 3 and a
drain wire 4 have been covered with a shield member 5. Note
that the electric wires 3 are configured by a core wire 1
being covered with a coating portion 2.
[0073]
With the current HDMI cable, the drain lines making up
each shielded tnisted pair portion of the data and clock are
connected to the plug pin attached to the end of this cable.
In this case, the drain lines are connected to the pins
(terminals) corresponding to each shielded terminal (which
are shielded pins of which pin numbers are 2, 5, 8, and 11)
of the above-described receptacle (pin assignment of the
current HDMI). These shielded terminals are grounded in the
source device 110 and sink device 120. Thus, the drain
lines making up each shielded twisted pair portio- n of the
data and clock are in the grounded state in the state where
the plug is grounded to the receptacle (pin array of the
current HDMI) .
[0074]
Fig. 9 illustrates a structure example of the new HDMI
cable used as the cable 200. With this new HDMI cable, each
of six data line pairs is configured as a shielded twisted
pair portion to obtain features. Also, the clock line pair
and a line pair of utility and HPD also are configured as a
shielded twisted pair portion for HEAC functions.
With the new HDMI cable, the number of individual
copper lines to be connected is greater as compared to the
current HDMI cable (see Fig. 8(a)). With this new HDMI
cable, the draih lines making up each shielded twisted pair
portion connected by dedicated pins at plugs at both ends of
the cable are connected to the metal shell of the plug.
Thus, shielded pins are freed, and increase of the number of
the necessary pins of the plug is avoided, whereby the plug
of the new HDMI cable is made to be the same as that of the
current HDMI cable. In this way, with the drain lines
*
making up each shielded twisted pair portion being connected
to the metal shell of the plug, the shell of the-receptacle
where the plug is to be inserted is connected to ground
level, thereby ensuring shielding of the differential pair
line.
[0076]
Fig. 10 illustrates another structure example of the
new HDMI cable to be used as the cable 200. With this new
HDMI cable, except that the shape of the cross-sectional
shape has been flattened, the substantial structure is the
same as the new HDMI illustrated in Fig. 9 above. Note that
flattening the cross-sectional shape of the configuration in
this way enables the area to be smaller, and it is also
known that impedance matching can be realized easily.
[0077]
[Operation Mode Control of Current HDMI and New HDMI]
Next, description will be further made regarding
operation mode control of the control unit 113 of the source
device 110. As described above, in the event that
determination is made that the cable 200 is compatible with
the new HDMI-and the sink device 120 is campatible with the
new HDMI, the control unit 113 controls the data
transmission unit 112 in the new HDMI operation mode.
*
Otherwise, the control unit 113 controls the data
transmission unit 112 in the current HDMI operation mode.
The flowchart in Fig. 11 illustrates processing
procedures of the operation mode control in the control unit
113. In step ST1, the control unit 113 starts processing
and then transitions to the processing in step ST2. In this
step ST2, the control unit 113 determines whether or not the
source device 110, i.e. the data transmission unit 112 is
compatible with the new HDMI. Since the control unit 113
has been provided be.forehand with capability information of
the source device 110 (data transmission unit 112) where it
exists, this determination can be made easily. Note that,
according to this embodiment, it is obvious that the source
device 110 is compatible with the new HDMI, so the control
unit 113 can omit the determination processing in this step
ST2.
[0079]
In the event that determination is made that the source
device 110 is compatible with the new HDMI, the control unit
113 determines whether or not the sink device 120, i.e., the
data reception unit 113 is compatible with the new HDMI in
step ST3. Details of this determination will be describe- d
later. In the event that determination is made that the
sink device 120 is compatible with the new HDM1,-the control
unit 113 transitions to processing in step ST4. In this
step ST4, the control unit 113 determines whether or not the
cable 200 is compatible with the new HDMI. Details of this
determination will be described later.
[0080]
In the event that determination is made that the cable
200 is compatible with the new HDMI, the control unit 113
transitions to processing in step ST5. In this step ST5,
the control unit 113 effects control so that the data
transmission unit 112 operates in the new HDMI operation
mode. Also, in the event that determination is made that in
step ST2, step ST3, step ST4, respectively, the source
device 110, sink device 120, cable 200 are not compatible
with the new HDMI, the control unit 113 transitions to
processing in step ST6. In this step ST6, the control unit
113 effects control so that the data transmitter unit 112
operates in the current HDMI operation mode.
[0081]
Note that in the event that determination is made that
the sink device 120 is compatible with the new HDMI in step
ST3 for example, the control unit 113 transmits the -
determination result of the final operation mode to the sink
device 120 via the cable 200. Transmitting of this judgment
result is made as control information such as InfoFrame
before performing data transmission from the source device
110, for example. At the sink device 120, based on the
determination result from the source device 110, the control
unit 123 effects control so that the data reception unit 122
operates in the same operation mode as with the data
transmission unit 112 of the source device 110.
[0082]
Also, in step ST5, when the data transmission unit 112
is controlled so as to be operated in the operation mode of
the new HDMI, the control unit 113 may control, for example,
as illustrated in Fig. 12 (a) , a UI screen to that effect, so
as to display on the display unit (display). According to
this UI screen, the user can easily comprehend that the
source device 110 and sink device 120 have connected with
the new HDMI. Note that display units (display) where the
UI screen is displayed are an unshown display unit (display)
provided in the source device 110, or an unshown display
unit (display) provided in the sink device 120. This is
also the same with reference to the following UI displays.
[0083] -
Also, when the control unit 113 determines that the
cable 200 is not compatible with the new HDMI inastep ST4
and transitions to processing in step ST6, control may be
made so that a UI screen to that effect is displayed on the
display unit (display), as illustrated in Fig. 12(c), for
example. According to this UI screen, the user can easily
recognize that the source device 110 and sink device 120 is
compatible with the new HDMI, but only the cable 200 is not
compatible with the new HDMI, and can take measures such as
exchanging the cable 200 for the new HDMI cable.
[0084]
Also, in the processing procedures of the flowchart in
Fig. 11, when the control unit 113 controls that the cable
200 is compatible with the new HDMI in step ST4, and
immediately transitions to step ST15, control is made that
the data transmission unit 112 may operate in the new HDMI
operation mode. However, when the control unit 113
determines in step ST4 that the cable 200 is compatible with
the new HDMI, an arrangement may be made wherein a user can
select one of the new HDMI or the current HDMI (conventional
% HDMI) .
[0085]
In this case, the control unit 113 controls the UI
screen so as to display on the display unit (display), as
illustrated in Fig. 12(b), for example. A user selects
either of the new HDMI or current HDMI, based on this UI
screen. Fig. 12(b) illustrates a state where "new HDMI" is
selected. The control unit 113 effects control such that
the data transmission unit 112 can operate in the new HDMI
or current HDMI operation mode, in accordance with the
user's selection.
LO0861
The flowchart in Fig. 13 illustrates processing
procedures of the operation mode control of the control unit
113 in that case. In this fig. 13, portions corresponding
to those in Fig. 11 are denoted by the same reference
numerals and detailed description will be omitted. In the
event that determination is made that the cable 200 is
compatible with the new HDMI in step ST4, the control unit
113 proceeds to the processing in step ST7. In this step
ST7, the control unit 113 controls a UI screen to select
either of the new HDMI or current HDMI so as to display on
the display unit (display). This UI display may be
*
transmitted by the source device 110 over the transmission
path 200 as video signals, or the sink device 120 may be
instructed to perform display itself. -
*
The control unit 113 then transitions to processing in
step ST8. In this step ST8, the control unit 113 determines
if the user has selected either of the new HDMI or current
HDMI, by the control unit 123 making notification of user
operations with a remote controller through lines such as
CEC. If the user has selected the new HDMI, the control
unit 113 effects control in step ST5 so that the data
transmission unit 112 operates in the new HDMI operation
mode. On the other hand, if the user has selected the
current HDMI, the control unit 113 effects control in step
.ST6 so that the data transmission unit 112 operates in the
current HDMI (conventional HDMI) operation mode.
[0088]
[Determination of Compatibility of Sink Device with New
HDMI]
Description will be made regarding a determination
method whether or not the sink device 120 in the control
unit 113 is compatible with the new HDMI. As for this
determination method, for example, there are the following
first determination method and second determination method.
[ 0 0 8 9 ] -L
[First Determination Method] -
The control unit 113 performs determination whether or
&
not the sink device 120 is compatible with the new HDMI,
based on the EDID read out using DDC lines (SDA line and SCL
line) of the cable 200 from the sink device 120. The EDID
itself has a data structure defined on the format. Let us
say that in a predetermined place of this EDID, newly, flag
information indicating whether or not the sink device 120 is
compatible with the new HDMI (new transmission) is newly
defined.
[00901
Fig. 14 illustrates an example of flag information
newly defined on the EDID. Originally, EDID is a.data
structure indicating various capabilities of the sink device
120. Fig. 14 illustrates, for simplification of the
description, of EDID, only bytes relating to this invention,
so as to maximally simplify. In the second bit, one-bit
flag information "New Rx Sink" indicating whether or not the
sink device 120 is compatible with the new HDMI is described.
Also, in the first bit, one-bit flag information "New Cable"
indicating whether or not the cable 200 is compatible with
the new HDMI is newly defined.
When the above-described 1-bit flag information "New Rx
Sink" exists on the EDID read out from the sink device 122,
the control unit 113 determines that the sink device 120 is
compatible with the new HDMI. That is to say, in the event
that the sink device 120 is compatible with the current HDMI,
the above-described one-bit flag information "New Rx Sink"
does not exist on the EDID read out from the sink device 122.
[Second Determination Method]
The control unit 113 makes determination regarding
whether or not the sink device 120 is compatible with the
new HDMI, by performing communication through the cable 200.
For example, the control unit 113 confirms, using the CEC
line, whether or not the sink device 120 is compatible with
the new HDMI with regard to command base.
Also, for example, the control unit 113 performs
communication b-e tween the sink device 120 using
bidirectional communication (HEAC function) configured with
the utility line and HPD line and confirms whether or not
the sink device 120 is compatible with the new HDMI.
Further, for example, the control unit 113 uses an unused
C
line, for example utility line or the like, until
transmission will be valid, performs exchanging some kind of
signals, and confirms whether or not the sink device 120-is
compatible with the new HDMI.
[0094]
'[~eterminationo f Compatibility of Cable with New HDMI]
Next, description will be made regarding a
determination method at the control unit 113 whether or not
the cable 200 is compatible with the new HDMI. This
determination method includes the following first through
fourth determination methods. The first through third
determination methods are, when the cable 200 is new HDMI,
determination methods to be performed by using information
providing function which this cable 200 has.
[0095]
[First Determination Method]
In the case of this first determination method, as
illustrated in Fig. 15, in the new HDMI cable, LSI (Large
Scale Integrati~n) is built in, for example in the plug.
For example, in the state where +5 V is supplied from the
source device 110, the sink device 120 requests output to
this LSI by a CEC protocol during falling HPD into L. Note
that, the sin- k device 120 in this case is a sink device
compatible with the new HDMI. The LSI reports values of the
resister embedded in this LSI (to the effect of being
compatible with new HDMI, and cable property data such as
data band that can be transmitted) to the sink device 120
<
with the CEC protocol, in response to an output request from
the sink device 120.
The sink device 120 adds information reported from the
LSI to its EDID. The sink device 120 instructs read-out of
the EDID to the source device 110 by setting HPD to H after
this addition. The control unit 113 makes determination
whether or not the cable 200 is compatible with the new HDMI,
based on the EDID read out from the sink device 120. That
is to say, in the event that there is information to the
effect or the like that the cable 200 is compatible with the
new HDMI, the control unit 113 determines that the cable 200
is compatible with the new HDMI.
Note that,-with the above description, description has
made that the sink device 120 has requested output to the
LSI with the CEC protocol. However, an arrangement can be
conceived where the source device 110 itself requests output
to the LSI with the CEC protocol and directly receives a
.v
report of resistor values (to the effect of being compatible
with new HDMI, and cable property data such as data band
that can be transmitted) from the LCI.
[0098]
[Second Determination Method]
In the case of this second determination method as well,
as illustrated in Fig. 15, an LSI is built in the new HDMI
cable, for example in the plug. The source device 110, for
exarpple at the timing when the HPD changes from L to H,
reads EDID indicating the capabilities from the sink device
120. In this case, the EDID is notified to the source side
by using SDA/SCL line and performing serial transmission of
data written in the EEPROM of the sink device 120.
[0099]
The LSI observes a line where the EDID information is
transmitted, i.e., SDA/SCL signals during transmission of
the EDID. At the time of the flag information indicating
whether or not the cable 200 is compatible with the.new HDMI
(the first bit of the predetermined byte in Fig. 14) being
transmitted, the LSI changes the bit value in the state
where the cable 200 is compatible with the new HDMI, i.e.,
in the state where the flag has been set. That is to say,
the data on the EDIDROM (EEPROM) of the sink device - 120 is
"00000100", however, the LSI in the cable rewrites data
during transmission so as to be "00000110" at the time of
the source device 110 receiving. -
[OlOO] .
The control unit 113 makes determination whether or not
the cable 200 is compatible with the new HDMI, based on the
EDID read out from the sink device 120. That is to say, in
the state of the flag information indicating whether or not
the cable 200 is compatible with the new HDMI (the first bit
of the predetermined byte in Fig. 14) indicating
compatibility with the new HDMI, the control unit 113
determines that the cable 200 is compatible with the new
HDMI.
[OlOl]
Fig. 16 illustrates an example of an EDID data rewrite
circuit of in-cable LSI. This LSI has a counter which
counts clocks on the SCL line and a driver to rewrite the
data on the SDA line, based on the count values of this
counter. v
[0102]
[Third determination Method]
In the case of this third determination method, as
illustrated in Fig. 17, in the new HDMI cable, an .. RF tag
chip (LSI) storing information such as information to the
effect of compatibility with the new HDMI, data band which
can be transmitted, and so forth, is built in, for exampIe,
in the plug. Also, an RE' tag reader chip (LSI) i-s built in
the receptacle 111 of the source device 110. In this case,
near field communication is performed between the RE' tag
reader chip of the receptacle 111 and the RF tag chip of the
flag, and information stored in the RF tag chip is read out
by the RF tag reader chip.
[0103]
The control unit 113 then makes determination whether
or not the cable 200 is compatible with the new HDMI, based
on the information read out from the RE' tag readout chip.
- 60 -
SP313570
That is to say, when information that the cable 200 is
compatible with the new HDMI from the RF tag readout chip is
read out, the control unit 113 determines that the cable 200
is compatible with the new HDMI.
Note that with the above description, description has
made that near field communication is performed between the
RF tag reader chip of the receptacle 111 of the source
device 110 and the RF tag chip of the plug, and the
information stored in the RF tag chip is read out at the
source device 110 side. However, an arrangement may be
conceived as follows, for example. That is to say, near -.
field communication is performed between the RF tag reader
chip of the receptacle 121 of the sink device 124 and the RF
tag chip of the plug, and stored information is read out to
the RF tag chip on the sink device 120 side, and the
information is then provided to the source device 110 side.
[0105]
[Fourth Determination Method]
In the case of this fourth determination method, the
control unit 113 determines whether or not the cable 200 is
compatible with the new HDMI, by performing measurement of
the electrical properties. As illustrated in Fig. 18, the
control unit 113 of the source device 110 sends a test
signal for measurement and detection (digital signal) as to
the pin 2 and pin 5, and the control unit 123 of the sink
device 120 receives the signal. Note that, with the current
HDMI cable, a pair of signal lines connected to the pins 2
and 5 do not make up a transmission path of the differential
signal, however, with the new HDMI cable a pair of signal
lines connected to the pins 2 and 5 make up a transmission
path of the differential signal (Figs. 6 (a) and (b) ) .
[0106] k
The control unit 123 of the sink device 120 notifies
the received digital signals to the source device 110 side
through other paths (for example, a DDC line of the HDMI
illustrated in SCL/SDA, or a CEC line, utility line, etc.).
The control unit 113 of the source device 110 determines
whether or not the cable 200 is compatible with the new HDMI,
by confirming that the digital signals notified from the
sink device 120 matches the digital signals which it itself
has transmitted. That is to say, when'the received digital
signal matches the transmitted digital signal, the control
unit 113 determines that the cable 200 is compatible with
the new HDMI.
[0107]
As illustrated in Fig. 19(a), in the event that the
cable 200 is the current HDMI cable, a pair of signal lines
connected to the pins 2 and 5 is not a shielded twisted pair
line. Accordingly, "high-speed test signal cannot be
transmitted" is used for the determination that the cable
200 is compatible with the current HDMI. In this case,
applying signals with no relation to the pin 2, to pin 1 or
pin 3 which relate to the pin 2, enables using this
interference. High-speed test signals are even less readily
transmitted due to this interference.
On the other hand, as illustrated in Fig. 19(b), in the -
event that the cable 200 is the new HDMI cable, a pair of
signal lines connected 'to the pins 2 and 5 is a shielded
twisted pair line. Accordingly, "high-speed test signal can
be transmitted" is used for the determination that the cable
200 is compatible with the new HDMI. In this case, even if
signals with no relation to the pin 2 are applied to the pin
1 or pin 3, they are subjected to shielded processing
independently, and interference between the applied signals
and the pin 2 does not occur, so there is no influence on
transmission of the test signal.
[0109]
Here, the test signal is the fastest data that the
source device 110 can output, and sufficiently long random
data which can evaluate lo-' which the HDMI guarantees as a
bit error rate. Note that, frame buffer memory for video
playback is built into'the sink device 120 and this
transmission-test-dedicated memory may not be needed.
-
[ OllO]
Note that, with the above description, we have
described the control unit 113 determines that the cable 200
is compatible with the new HDMI, only when the received
digital signal matches the transmitted digital signal. The
control unit 113 performs a similar test by slowing transfer
-
rate of the data, repeats the above-described determination
process until the received digital signal matches, and
accordingly confirms the capabilities of the cable and
determines the cable to be compatible with the new HDMI, but
just enough transmission to be executable within the
transmission speed may be performed. In this case, there is
a possibility that the current HDMI cable may be determined
to be compatible with the new HDMI, as well.
[Olll]
Also, with the above description, pin 2 and pin 5 are
used. However, instead of these pins, pin 8 and pin 11
which have a similar relation between the current HDMI cable
and new HDMI cable, may also be used. That is to say, with
the current HDMI cable, a pair of signal lines connected to
the pin 8 and pin 11 do not make up a transmission path of
the differential signal, however, with the new HDMI cable, a
pair of signal lines connected to the pin 8 and pin 11 with
the cable make Gp a transmission path of the differential
signal (see Figs. 6 (a) and (b) ) .
[0112]
Also, wPth the above description, we have described
that the digital signal (test signal) which the source
device 110 has transmitted to the sink device, is receiv-e d
by the sink device 120 which notifies this to the source
device 110, and the validity is determined at the source
device 110 side. However, an arrangement may be made
wherein the sink device 120 performs determination of the
validity of the transmitted received digital signal, and
only the result is notified to the source device 110 through
the line such as CEC, or the information is added to its own
E-EDID.
[0113]
[Structure Example of Connector]
Fig. 20 schematically illustrates the structure of the
current HDMI connector (plug and receptacle). Fig. 20(a) is
a longitudinal cross-sectional view illustrating a state
where the plug 250 connected to the end of the cable 200,
and the receptacle 150 included in the source device
(transmission device) 110 or sink device (reception device)
120 are connected. Fig. 20 (b) is, of Fig. 20 (a), a -
transverse cross-sectional view along A-A', i.e., a
transverse cross-sectional view of the plug 250.
The plug 250 has a dielectric 251, signal electrode
"pins 252, and a shell 253. The dielectric 251 is formed as
a cuboid. In this dielectric 251, multiple signal electr- ode
pins 252 extending in a first direction (horizontal
direction in Fig. 20(a)) which is a predetermined axial
direction of the cuboid, are arrayed.
[0115]
These multiple signal electrode pins 252 are arrayed in
a second direction (vertical direction in Fig. 20(a) and
(b)) orthogonal to the first direction, and arrayed divided
into a first stage (upper stage) and a second stage (lower
stage). Multiple signal electrode pins 252 in each stage
are arrayed with a predetermined interval in a third
direction (horizontal direction in Fig. 20(b)) orthogonal to
the first direction and second direction.
[0116]
These multiple signal electrode pins 252 protrude with
a predetermined length from the dielectric 251, on the
connection end of the receptacle 150. The multiple signal
electrode pins 252 in the first stage (upper stage) are in a
-c
state folded downward with a predetermined angle, for
contacting and connecting with signal electrode pins
corresponding to the later-described receptacle 150. Also,
the multiple signal electrode pins 252 in the second stage
(lower stage) are in a state folded upward with a
predetermined angle, for contacting and connecting with
signal electrode pins corresponding to the later-described
receptacle 150.
The perimeter of the dielectric 251 is covered with a
square-tube shell 253 opened in the first direction
(horizontal direction in Fig. 20(a)). This shell 253 is
configured of a conductor and is grounded when being used.
That is to say, this shell 253 makes up a grounding
conductor. Note that this shell 253 is extended at the edge
portion of the dielectric 251 on the connection end side
with the receptacle 150, and the protruding portion of the
signal electrode pins 252 from the dielectric 251 is covered
by these extended portions.
[0118]
Also, the receptacle 150 has a dielectric 151, signal
electrode pins 152, and a shell 153. This receptacle 150 is
basically made to be the same structure with the above plug
4
250. That is to say, the dielectric 151 is formed as a
cuboid. In this dielectric 151, multiple signal electrode
pin 152 extending in the first direction (horizontal
direction in Fig. 20(a)), which is the predetermined axial
direction of'the cuboid, are arrayed.
These multiple signal electrode pins 152 are arrayed in
*
the second direction (vertical direction in Fig. 20 (a) )
orthogonal to the first direction, divided and arrayed into
the first stage (upper stage) and second stage (lower stage).
Multiple signal electrode pins 152 in each stage are arrayed
with a predetermined interval in the third direction (the
horizontal direction in Fig. 20(b)) orthogonal to the first
direction and second direction.
[0120]
These multiple signal electrode pins 152 protrude with
a predetermined length from the dielectric 151, on the
connection end of the plug 250. Here, a protruding portion
which extends in the above-described third direction is
formed on the connection end side with the plug 250 of the
dielectric 151. The multiple signal electrode pins 152 in
the first stage (upper stage) are in a state of being
attached to the upper face of the protruding portion of the
Y
dielectric 151. Also, the multiple signal electrode pins
152 in the second stage (lower stage) are in a state of
being attached to the lower face of the protruding portion
of the dielectric 151.
+
[0121]
The perimeter of the dielectric 151 is covered with a
square-tube shell 153 opened in the first direction ..
(horizontal direction in Fig. 20(a)). This shell 153 is
configured of a conductor and is grounded when being used.
That is to say, this shell 153 makes up a grounding
conductor. Note that this shell 153 is extended at the edge
portion of the dielectric 151 on the connection end side
with the plug 250, and the protruding portion of the
dielectric 151 where the signal electrode pins 152 are
attached to the upper face and lower face is covered by
these extended portions.
[0122]
Here, quality of the signal transmission in the
structure of the current HDMI connector (plug, receptacle)
will be described. First, we will describe a case of
operation with the pin array of the current HDMI illustrated
in the above-described Fig. 7 ( a ) . In this case,
transmission (sending and receiving) of the signal - with high
quality is enabled. In this case, as illustrated in Fig.
21(a), the array distance of a pair of signal electrode pins
P1 and P2 transmitting the differential signals is short,
and a signal electrode pin Pg for shielding corresponding to
this pair of-the signal electrode pins P1 and P2 also exists.
In this case, this is a three-line structure with the
differential signals and shielding and good coupling can_be
realized, whereby transmission with good signal quality is
enabled.
Fig. 22(a) illustrates data observation waveforms of
the TMDS channels #2 and #1 at the output side of the plug
250 through the receptacle 150 and plug 250 in the event of
transmitting 4 Gbps data at each of the TMDS channels #O
through #2. Here, "data2" illustrates data of the TMDS
channel #2, and signal electrode pins of pin numbers 1 to 3
are used, and transmitted (see Fig. 6 (a) and Fig. 7 (a) ) .
Also, "datal" illustrates data of the TMDS channel #1, and
signal electrode pins of pin numbers 4 to 6 are used, and
transmitted (see Fig. 6 (a) and Fig. 7 (a) ) .
[0124]
Next, description will be made regarding a case of
operations with_the pin array of the new HDMI illustrated in
above-described Fig. 7(b). In this case, transmission
(sending and receiving) of the signal with high quality
becomes difficult. In this case, as illustrated in Fig.
21(b), the signal electrode pin Pg for shielding,
+
corresponding to a pair of signal electrode pins PI and P2
transmitting the differential signal, does not exist.
[0125] -
Accordingly, coupling between each one pair of the -
signal electrode pins Pl and P2 becomes weak. Particularly,
in the case of a pair of the signal electrode pins PI and P2
converted from the signal electrode pin Pg for shielding in
the pin array of the current HDMI, the array distance is
long and the coupling between the pair of signal electrode
pins P1 and P2 becomes very weak. Therefore, in each one
pair of signal electrode pins P1 and P2, interference
between other signal electrode pins electromagnetically
increases, i.e., crosstalk from other signal electrode pins
increases, and transmission of the signal with high quality
becomes difficult.
[0126]
Fig. 22(b) illustrates data observation waveforms of
the TM,DS channels #Of #4, and #1 at the output side of the
plug 250, in the event of transmitting 4 Gbps data at each
of the TMDS channels #O through #5 through the receptacle
150 and plug 250. Here, "dataO" illustrates data of the
TMDS channel #Or and signal electrode pins of pin numbers 1,
3 are used, and transmitted (see Fig. 6(b) and Fig. 7(b)). -
Also, "data4" illustrates data of the TMDS channel #4, and
signal electrode pins of pin numbers 2, 5 are used, and
transmitted (see Fig. 6 (b) and Fig. 7 (a) ) . Further, "dat-al"
illustrates data of the TMDS channel # 1, and signal ."
electrode pins of-pin numbers 4, 6 are used, and transmitted
(see Fig. 6 (b) and Fig. 7 (b) ) .
[0127]
With the data observation waveforms of these TMDS
channels #Of #4, # 1, it can be seen that waveforms have
deteriorated as compared to the data observation waveforms
illustrated in Fig. 22 (a). In this case, not only data
"data4" of the TMDS channel #4 but also data "dataO" of the
TMDS channels #O and #1 and "datal" have greatly
deteriorated due to crosstalk from the other signal
electrode pins.
['0128]
Fig. 22(c) illustrates crosstalk observation waveform
observed in a pair of signal electrode pins P1 and P2 of the
TMDS channel #4. In this case, except the TMDS channel #4,
it was observed in the state where transmitted data of 4
Gbps in each of the TMDS channels #O through #3, and #5,
through the receptacle 150 and plug 250.
[0129] -
As described above, transmission (sending and
receiving) of the signal with high quality becomes difficult
in the event of operating in a structure of the current HDMI
connector (plug and receptacle) in pin array of the new HDMI.
,.
An example of imp;oved structure of the HDMI connector
(improved structure example 1 through improved structure
example 4) will be described below.
[0130]
[Improved Structure Example 11
Fig. 23 schematically illustrates an improved structure
example 1 of the HDMI connector (plug, receptacle). Fig.
23(a) is a longitudinal cross-sectional view indicating the
state where the plug 250A connected to the end portion of
the cable 200 and the receptacle 150A included in the source
device (transmission device) 110 or sink device (reception
device) 120 has been connected. Fig. 23(b) is a transverse
cross-sectional view along line A-A' in Fig. 23(a), i.e., a
transverse cross-sectional view of the plug 250A. In this
Fig. 23, portions corresponding to Fig. 20 are denoted with
the same reference numerals.
[ 0 13 1 ]
The plug 250A has a dielectric 251, signal electrode
pins 252, a shell 253, and a ground plane 254. The
*
dielectric 251 is formed as a cuboid. In this dielectric
251, multiple signal electrode pins 252 are arrayed in the
first direction (horizontal direction in Fig. 23(a)) whieh
is a predetermined axial direction of the cuboid.- .,.
[0132]
These multiple signal electrode pins 252 are arrayed in
the second direction (vertical direction in Fig. 23(a) and
(b)) orthogonal to the first direction, divided and arrayed
into a first stage (upper stage) and second stage (lower
stage). Multiple signal electrode pins 252 in each stage
are arrayed with a predetermined interval in the third
direction (horizontal direction in Fig. 23(b)) orthogonal to
the first direction and second direction.
[0133]
These multiple signal electrode pins 252 protrude with
a predetermined length from the dielectric 251, at the
connection end of the receptacle 150A. The multiple signal
electrode pins 252 in the first stage (upper stage) are in a
state folded domnward with a predetermined angle, for
contacting and connecting with signal electrode pins
corresponding to the later-described receptacle 150A. Also,
th,e multiple signal electrode pins 252 in the second stage
(lower stage) are in a state folded upward with a *
predetermined angle, for contacting and connecting with
signal electrode pins corresponding to the later-described
receptacle 150A.
[0134]
- -
Also, in the dielectric 251, a thin-plate ground plane
254 is disposed. This ground plane 254 is placed between
the multiple signal electrode pins 252 of the first stage
(upper stage) and the multiple signal electrode pin 252 of
the second stage (lower stage). This ground plane 254 is
configured of a conductor and is grounded when used. For
example, this ground plane 254 is electrically connected to
the later-described shell 253 in the above-described third
direction (horizontal direction in Fig. 23(b)).
[0135]
The perimeter of the dielectric 251 is covered with a
square-tube shell 253 opened in the first direction
(horizontal direction in Fig. 23(a)). This shell 253 is
configured of a conductor and is grounded when used. That
is t o say, t h i s s h e l l 253 makes up a grounding conductor.
Note t h a t t h i s s h e l l 253 is extended by the edge portion of
the d i e l e c t r i c 251 on the connection end side with the
receptacle 150A, and the protruding portion of the s i g n a l
e l e c t r o d e p i n s 252 from the d i e l e c t r i c 251 is covered by -
these extended p o r t i o n s .
[0136]
Also, the receptacle 150A has a d i e l e c t r i c 151, s i g n a l
e l e c t r o d e p i n s 152, a s h e l l 153, and a ground plane 154.
This receptacle 150A is b a s i c a l l y made t o be the same
s t r u c t u r e with the above plug 250A. That is t o say, the
d i e l e c t r i c 151 is formed a s a cuboid. In t h i s d i e l e c t r i c
151, multiple s i g n a l e l e c t r o d e p i n s 152 extending i n the
f i r s t d i r e c t i o n ( h o r i z o n t a l d i r e c t i o n i n Fig. 2 3 ( a ) ) , which
is the predetermined a x i a l d i r e c t i o n of the cuboid, a r e
arrayed.
These multiple s i g n a l e l e c t r o d e p i n s 152 a r e arrayed i n
the second d i r e c t i o n ( v e r t i c a l d i r e c t i o n i n Fig. 2 3 ( a ) )
orthogonal t o the f i r s t d i r e c t i o n , divided and arrayed i n t o
the f i r s t stage (upper stage) and second stage (lower stage)
Multiple s i g n a l e l e c t r o d e p i n s 152 i n each stage a r e arrayed -
with a predetermined i n t e r v a l i n the t h i r d d i r e c t i o n ( t h e
horizontal d i r e c t i o n i n Fig. 2 3 ( b ) ) orthogonal t o the f i r s t
d i r e c t i o n and second d i r e c t i o n .
These multiple signal electrode pins 152 protrude with
a predetermined length from the dielectric 151, on the %
connection end of the plug 250A. Here, a protruding portion
which extends in the above-described third direction is
formed on the connection end side with the plug 250A of the . ,
dielectric 151. The multiple signal electrode pins 152 in
the first stage (upper stage) are made in a state of being
attached to the upper face of the protruding portion of the
dielectric 151. Also, the multiple signal electrode pins
152 in the second stage (lower stage) are made in a state of
being attached to the lower face of the protruding portion
of the dielectric 151.
Also, in the dielectric 151, a thin-plate ground plane
154 is disposed. This ground plane 154 is placed between
the multiple signal electrode pins 152 of the first stage
(upper stage) and the multiple signal electrode pin 152 of
the second stage (lower stage). This ground plane 154 is
configured of a conductor and is grounded when used. For
.s
example, this ground plane 154 is electrically connected to
the later-described shell 153 in the above-described third
direction (horizontal direction in Fig. 23(b)).
[0140]
The perimeter of the dielectric 251 is covered with a
SP313570
square-tube s h e l l 153 opened i n the f i r s t d i r e c t i o n -
(horizontal d i r e c t i o n i n Fig. 2 3 ( a ) ) . This s h e l l 153 is
configured of a conductor and is grounded when used. That
is t o say, t h i s s h e l l 153 makes up a grounding conductor.
Note t h a t t h i s s h e l l 153 is extended a t the edge portion of
the d i e l e c t r i c 151 on the connection end side with the plug
250A, and the protruding portion from the d i e l e c t r i c 151
where the signal electrode pins 152 a r e attached on the
upper face and lower face is covered by these extended
p o r t i o n s .
In the improved s t r u c t u r e example 1 of the HDMI
connector i l l u s t r a t e d i n Fig. 23, ground planes 254 and 154
are placed w i t h i n the d i e l e c t r i c s 251 and 151 of the plug
250A and receptacle 150A. Therefore, a t the plug 250A and
receptacle 150A, the s i g n a l e l e c t r o d e p i n s 252 and 152 of
the f i r s t stage (upper stage) and the s i g n a l e l e c t r o d e p i n s
252 and 152 of the second stage (lower stage) .. a r e divided
with these ground planes 254 and 154, and c r o s s t a l k
therebetween is reduced. Therefore, as compared with the
current HDMI connector (plug and receptacle) i l l u s t r a t e d i n
Fig. 20, i n the p a i r of the s i g n a l e l e c t r o d e p i n s
t r a n s m i t t i n g - t h e d i f f e r e n t i a l s i g n a l s , c r o s s t a l k from other
s i g n a l e l e c t r o d e p i n s can be reduced, and transmission of
signal with high q u a l i t y is enabled.
Fig. 27(b) illustrates data observation waveforms of
the TMDS channels #0, #4, and #1 at the output side of the
plug 250A in the event that data of 4 Gbps is transmitted at
each of the TMDS channels #O to #5 through the receptacle
150A and plug 250A. Note that Fig. 27(a) illustrates,
similar to the above-described Fig. 22(b), data observation
waveforms of the TMDS channels #0, #4, and #1 in the
structure of the current HDMI connector (see Fig. 20). It
can be seen from the data observation waveforms of the TMDS
channels #Or #4, and #1 illustrated in Fig. 27(b) that
waveform deterioration is improved as compared with the data
observation waveforms illustrated in Fig. 27(a).
Fig. 28(b) illustrates a crosstalk observation waveform
observed in a'pair of the signal electrode pins P1 and P2 of *
the TMDS channel #4. In this case, observation was made in
the state of transmitting 4 Gbps data through the receptacle
150A and plug 250A in each of the TMDS channels #O to #3,
and #5, except for the TMDS channel #4. Fig. 28(a)
-
illustrates, similar to the above-described Fig. 22(c), a
crosstalk observation waveform observed in a pair of signal
electrode pins P1 and P2 of the TMDS channel #4 in the _
structure of the current HDMI connector (see Fig. 20). It
can be seen fromthe crosstalk observation wavefGrm of the
TMDS channel #4 illustrated in Fig. 28(b), as compared with
the crosstalk observation waveform illustrated in Fig. 28 (a),
the level thereof becomes smaller.
LO1441
[Improved Structure Example 21
Fig. 24 schematically illustrates an improved structure
example 2 of the HDMI connector (plug, receptacle) . Fig.
24(a) is a longitudinal cross-sectional view indicating the
state where the plug 250B connected to the end portion of
the cable 200 and the receptacle 150B included in the source
device (transmission device) 110 or sink device (reception
device) 120 have been connected. Fig. 24(b) is a transverse
cross-sectional view along line A-A' in Fig. 24(a), i.e., a
transverse cross-sectional view of the plug 250B. - In this
Fig. 24, portions corresponding to Fig. 23 are denoted with
the same reference numerals and further description will be
omitted, as appropriate.
The plug 250B has a dielectric 251, signal electrode
pins 252, a shell 253, ground plane 254, and vias (via) 255
as connecting conductors. With this plug 250B, in the
dielectric 251, vias 255 electrically connecting the ground
*
plane 254 and shell 253, i.e., plated holes, are formed.
the vias 255 are formed between each signal electrode pin
252 on the first stage (upper stage) and each signal
electrode pin 252 on the second stage (lower stage). While
further description will be omitted, other structures of the
plug 250B are made to be the same as that of the plug 250A
in the improved configuration example 1 illustrated in Fig.
23.
[0146]
Also, the receptacle 150B has a dielectric 151, signal
electrode pins 152, a shell 153, a ground plane 154, and
vias (via) 255 as connecting conductors. With this
receptacle 150B, in the dielectric 151, vias 155
electrically connecting the ground plane 154 and shell 153,
i.e., plating hples, are formed. The vias 155 are formed
between each signal electrode pin 152 on the first stage ..
(upper stage) and each signal electrode pin 152 on the
second stage (lower stage). While further description will
be omitted, other structures of the receptacle 150B are the
same as those of the receptacle 150A in the improved
configuration example 1 illustrated in Fig. 23.
[0147] +
In the improved structure example 2 of the HDMI -
connector illustr'ated in Fig. 24, ground planes 254 and 154
are placed within the dielectrics 251 and 151 of the plug
250B and receptacle 150B. Therefore, in the plug 250B and
receptacle 150B, the signal electrode pins 252 and 152 of
the first stage (upper stage) and the signal electrode pins
SP313570
252 and 152 of the second stage (lower stage) are divided
with these ground planes 254 and 154, and crosstalk
therebetween is reduced.
[0148]
Further, with this improved structure example 2, the
vias 255 and 155 are formed in the dielectrics 251 and 151
of the plug 250B and receptacle 150B. Therefore in the plug
250B and receptacle 150B, crosstalk between the signal
electrode pins 252 and 152 of each stage is reduced.
Accordingly, with this improved structure example 2, in a
pair of signal electrode pins transmitting differential -
signals, crosstalk from other signal electrode pins can be
further reduced as compared to the improved structure
example 1 illustrated in the above-described Fig. - 23, and
higher quality signals can be transmitted.
Fig. 27(c) illustrates data observation waveforms of
the TMDS channels # 0, #4, and #1 at the output side of the
plug 250B in the event of transmitting 4 Gbps data through
the receptacle 150B and plug 250B in each of the TMDS
channels #O through #5. It can be seen that waveform
deterioration is further improved with the data observation
waveforms of the TMDS channels # 0, #4, and # 1 illustrated
in Fig. 27(c), as compared with the data observation
waveforms illustrated in Fig. 27(b) of the above-described
improved structure example 1 (see Fig. 23).
[0150]
Fig. 28(c) illustrates crosstalk observation waveforms
observed in a pair of the signal electrode pins P1 and P2 of
the TMDS channel #4. In this case, observation was made in
the state of transmitting 4 Gbps data through the receptacle
150B and plug 250B in each of the TMDS channels #O to #3,
and #5, excluding the TMDS channel #4. It can be seen that
the level becomes smaller for the crosstalk observation -
waveforms of the TMDS channel #4 illustrated in Fig. 28(c)
as compared with the crosstalk observation waveforms
illustrated in Fig. 28(b) according to . the above-described
improved structure example 1 (see Fig. 23).
[Improved structure example 31 -
Fig. 25 schem- atically illustrates an improve-d structure
example 3 of the HDMI connector (plug, receptacle). Fig.
25(a) is a longitudinal cross-sectional view indicating the
state where the plug 250C connected to the end portion of
the cable 200 and the receptacle 150C included in the source
device (transmission device) 110 or sink device (reception
device) 120 has been connected. Fig. 25(b) is a transverse
cross-sectional view along line A-A' in Fig. 25(a), i.e., a
transverse cross-sectional view of the plug 250C. In this
Fig. 25, portions corresponding to Fig. 20 are denoted with
the same reference numerals and further description will be
omitted, as appropriate.
[0152]
The plug 250C has a dielectric 251, signal electrode
pins 252, and a shell 253. The dielectric 251 is formed as
a cuboid. In this dielectric 251, multiple signal electrode
pins 252 are arrayed extending in the first direction
(horizontal direction in Fig. 25(a)) which is a
predetermined axial direction of the cuboid.
[0153]
+
These multiple signal electrode pins 252 are arrayed in
the second direction (vertical direction in Figs. 25(a) and
(b)) orthogonal to the first direction, divided and arrayed
into the first stage (upper stage) and second - sta- ge (lower
stage). Multiple signal electrode pins 252 in each stage
are arrayed with a predetermined interval in the third
direction (the horizontal direction in Fig. 25 (b) )
orthogonal to the first direction and second direction.
These multiple signal electrode pins 252 protrude with
a predetermined length from the dielectric 251, on the
connection end of the receptacle 15OC. The multiple signal
electrode pins 252 in the first stage (upper stage) are in a
state folded downward with a predetermined angle, for
contacting and connecting with signal electrode pins
corresponding to the later-described receptacle 150C. Also,
the multiple signal electrode pins 252 in the second stage
(lower stage) are in a state folded upward with a
predetermined ahgle, for contacting and connecting with
signal electrode pins corresponding to the later-describedreceptacle
150C.
[0155]
The perimeter of the dielectric 251 is covered - with a
square-tube shell 253 opened in the first direction
(horizontal direction in Fig. 25(a)). This shell 253 is
made up of a conductor and is grounded when used. That is
to say, this shell 253 makes up a grounding conductor. Note
L
that this shell 253 is extended at the edge portion of the
dielectric 251 on the connection end side with the
receptacle 150C, and the portion where the signal electrode
pins 252 protrude from the dielectric 251 is covered by
these extended portions.
In this plug 250C, each signal electrode pin 252 of the
first stage (upper stage) and each signal electrode pin 252
of the second stage (lower stage) is set close to the shell
253 as compared with the structure of the current HDMI
connector illustrated in Fig. 20. Thereby, each signal
electrode pin 252 is coupled to the shell 253, and the
differential signals are transmitted with single end. That
is to say, electromagnetic field of the transmitting signal
is coupled so a> to be distributed between each signal
electrode pin 252 and the shell 253, each signal electrode
pin 252 is placed close to the shell 253 and the
differentia1,signals are transmitted with single end. The
structure is-such that the protruding portion of the signal
electrode pins 252 from the dielectric 251 at the connection
end of the receptacle 150C is closer to the shell 253, as -.
illustrated in the diagram, by a thick portion being formed
to the later-described shell 253 along with - the folding
angle of this protruding portion.
Also, the receptacle 150C has a dielectric 151, signal
electrode pins 152, and a shell 153. This receptacle 150C
is basically made to be the same structure with the above
plug 250C. That is to say, the dielectric 151 is formed as
a cuboid. In this dielectric 151, multiple signal electrode
pins 152 are arrayed extending in the first direction
(horizontal direction in Fig. 25(a)) which is the
predetermined axial direction of the cuboid.
[0158]
These multiple signal electrode pins 152 are arrayed in
the second direction (a vertical direction in Fig. 25(a))
orthogonal to the first direction, divided and arrayed into
the first stage (upper stage) and second stage (lower stage).
v
Multiple signal electrode pins 152 in each stage are arrayed
with a predetermined interval in the third direction (the
horizontal direction in Fig. 25(b)) orthogonal to the first
direction and second direction.
[0159]
These multiple signal electrode pins 152 protrude with -
a predetermined length from the dielectric 151, at the
connection end of the plug 250C. Here, a protruding portion *
which extends in the. above-described third direction is
formed on the connection end side with the plug 250C of the
dielectric 151. The multiple signal electrode pins 152 in
the first stage (upper stage) are in a state of being
attached to the upper face of the protruding portion of the
dielectric 151. Also, the multiple signal electrode pins
152 in the second stage (lower stage) are made in a state of
being attached to the upper face of the protruding porti'on
of the dielectric 151.
The perimeter of the dielectric 151 is covered with a
square-tube shell 153 opened in the first direction
(horizontal direction in Fig. 25 (a) ) . This shell 153 is
configured of a conductor and is grounded when used. That
is to say, this shell 153 makes up a grounding conductor.
Note that this Bhell 153 is extended at the edge portion of
the dielectric 151 on the connection end side with the plug
250C, and the protruding portion of the dielectric 151 where
the signal e&ectrode pins 152 are attached to the upper face
and lower face is covered by these extended portions.
[0161] -
In this receptacle 150C, the shell 153 is thickly
formed, except for the insertion portion of the plug 250C as
compared with the structure of the current HDMI connector
illustrated in Fig. 20. Thereby, distance between each
signal electrode pin 152 of the first stage (upper stage),
each signal electrode pin 152 of the second stage (lower
stage), and the shell 153 is shortened. Therefore, each
signal electrode pin 152 is coupled to the shell 153, and
the differential signal is transmitted with single end.
That is to say, the electromagnetic field of the
transmitting signal is coupled so as to be distributed
between each of signal electrode pin 152 and the shell 153,
so each signal electrode pin 152 is placed close to the
shell 153 and the differential signals are transmitted with
single end.
[0162]
In the improved structure example 3 of the HDMI
connector illustrated in Fig. 25, the signal electrode pins
252 and 152 of the plug 250C and receptacle 150C are coupled
with the shells 253 and 153, and differential signals are
transmitted with single end. Accordingly, even in the event
that a pair of signal electrode pins P1 and P2 transmitting
differential signals are in a state of not being coupled- or
in a state with no corresponding signal electrode pin for
shielding, crosstalk from other signal electrodecpins can be
reduced, and transmission of signal with high quality is
enabled.
[0163]
In this case, as illustrated in Fig. 21(c), each,of a
pair of the signal electrode pins P1 and P2 transmitting
differential signals, are coupled with the shell. Therefore,
in each of the pair of the signal electrode pins P1 and P2,
interference between the other signal electrode pin greatly
decreases with regard to electromagnetic field, that is to
say, crosstalk from the other signal electrode pin greatly
decreases, and transmission of signal with high quality is
enabled.
[0164]
Fig. 27(d) illustrates data observation waveforms of
the TMDS channels #0, #4, and #1 at the output side of the -
plug 250C in the event that data of 4 Gbps is transmitted -a t
each of the TMDS channels #O to #5 through the receptacle
150C and plug 250C. It can be seen that waveform
deterioration is greatly improved with the data observation
waveforms of-the TMDS channels #0, #4, and #1 illustrated in
Fig. 27(d) as compared with the data observation waveforms
SP31- 3570
according to the current HDMI connector structure,
illustrated in Fiq. 27(a) described above.
[0165]
Fig. 28(d) illustrates crosstalk observation waveforms
observed in a pair of the signal electrode pins P1 and P2 of
the TMDS channel #4. In this case, observation was made in a
state of transmitting 4 Gbps data in each of the TMDS
channels #O to #3, and #5 through the receptacle 150C and
plug 250C, excluding the TMDS channel #4. It can be seen
that the level becomes much smaller for the Erosstalk
observation waveforms of the TMDS channel #4 illustrated in
Fig. 28(b), as compared with the crosstalk observation
waveform of the current HDMI connector structure,
illustrated in Fig. 28(a) described above.
[Improved Structure Example 41
Fig. 26 schematically illustrates improved structure .
example 4 of the HDMI connector (plug, receptacle) . Fig.
-
26,(a) is a longitudinal cross-sectional view indicating the
state where the plug 250D connected to the end portion of
the cable 200 and the receptacle 150D included in the source
device (trahsmission device) 110 or sink device (reception
device) 120 has been connected. Fig. 26(b) is a transverse
cross-sectional view along line A-A' in Fig. 26(a), i.e.-, a
transverse cross-sectional view of the plug 250D. In this
Fig. 26, portions corresponding to Fig. 25 are denoted with
the same reference numerals and further description will be
omitted, as appropriate.
[0167]
The plug 250D has a dielectric 251, signal electrode
pins 252, a shell 253, ground plane 254, and vias (via) 255.
With this plug 250D, a thin-plate ground plane 254 is
disposed in the dielectric 251. This ground plane 254 is
arrayed between multiple signal electrode pins 252 on the
first stage (upper stage) and multiple signal electrode pins
252 on the second stage (lower stage). This ground plane
254 is configured of a conductor and grounded when being
used. For example, this ground plane 254 is electrically
connected to the shell 253 in the above-described third
direction (horizontal direction in Fig. 26(b)).
[0168]
Also, with this plug 250D, in the dielectric 251, vias
255 electrically connecting the ground plane 254 and shell
253, i.e., plating holes, are formed. The vias 255 are
formed between each signal electrode pin 252 on the first
stage (upper stage) and each signal electrode pin 252 on the
second stage (lower stage). While further description wi-l l
be omitted, other structures of the plug 250D are made to be
the same as those-of the plug 250C in the improved
configuration example 3 illustrated in Fig. 25.
Also, the receptacle 150D has a dielectric 151, signal
electrode pins 152, a shell 153, a ground plane 154, and
vias (via) 155. With this receptacle 150D, the thin-plate
ground plane 154 is disposed in the dielectric 151. This
ground plate 154 is formed between multiple signal electrode
pins 152 on the first stage (upper stage) and multiple
signal electrode pins 152 on the second stage (lower stage).
This ground plane 154 is configured of a conductor and
grounded when being used. For example, this ground plane
154 is electrically connected to the shell 153 in the abovedescribed
third direction (horizontal direction in Fig.
With this plug 150D, in the dielectric 151, vias 155
electrically connecting the ground plane 154 and shell 153,
i.e., plating holes, are formed. The vias 155 are formed
between each-signal electrode pin 152 on the first stage
(upper stage) and each signal electrode pin 152 on the
second stage (lower stage). While further description wi-l l
be omitted, other structures of the receptacle 150D are made
to be the same as-those of the receptacle 150C ifi the
improved configuration example 3 illustrated in Fig. 25.
[0171]
In the improved structure example 4 of the HDMI
connector illustrated in Fig. 26, as with the improved
configuration example 3 in Fig. 25, each of the signal
electrode pins 252 and 152 of the plug 250D and receptacle
150D is coupled to the shells 253 and 153, and the
differential signals are transmitted with single end.
Accordingly, even in the event that a pair of signal
electrode pins P1 and P2 transmitting differential signals
are in a state of not being coupled or in a state with no
corresponding signal electrode pin for shielding, crosstalk
from other signal electrode pins can be reduced.
[0172]
Also, with this improved structure example 4, the
grounding planes 254 and 154 are disposed in the dielectrics
251 and 15'1 of the plug 250D and receptacle 150D.
Accordingly, at the plug 250D and receptacle 150D, the first -
stage (upper stage) signal electrode pins 252 and 152, and
the second stage (lower stage) signal electrode pins 252 and
152, are divided by these grounding planes 254 and 154, po
crosstalk therebetween is reduced.
L
[0173] -
Further, with this improved structure example 4, the
vias 255 and 155 are formed in the dielectrics 251 and 151
of the plug 250D and receptacle 150D. Accordingly,
crosstalk between the signal electrode pins 252 and 152 of
each stage is reduced in the plug 250D and receptacle 150D.
Accordingly, with this improved structure example 4, in a
pair of signal electrode pins transmitting differential
signals, crosstalk from other signal electrode pins can be
further reduced than the improved structure example 3
illustrated in the above-described Fig. 25, and transmission
of even higher quality signals is enabled.
[0174]
Fig. 27(e) illustrates data observation waveforms of
the TMDS channe-l s # 0, #4, and # 1 at the output side of the
plug 250B in the event of transmitting 4 Gbps data throughthe
receptacle 150D and plug 250D in each of the TMDS
channels #O through #5. It can be seen that waveform
deterioration is further improved for the data observation -
waveforms of the TMDS channels # 0, #4, and # 1 illustrated
in Fig. 27 (e) , as compared with the data observation
waveforms illustrated in Fig. 27(d) of the above-described
improved structure example 3(see Fig. 25).
Fig. 28(e) illustrates crosstalk observation waveforms
observed in a pair of the signal electrode pins P1 and P2 of
the TMDS channel #4. In this case, observation was made in a
state of transmitting 4 Gbps data in each of the TMDS
channels #O to # 3 , and #5 through the receptacle l5OD and
plug 250D, excluding the TMDS channel #4. It can be seen
that the level becomes even smaller for the crosstalk
observation waveforms of the TMDS channel #4 illustrated in
Fig. 28(e) as compared with the crosstalk observation
waveforms of the above-described improved structure example
3 illustrated in Fig. 28 (d) (see Fig. 25) .
Note that, with the improved structure example 2 and 4
of HDMI connectpr illustrated in Fig. 24 and Fig. 26, in the
plugs 250B and 250D and receptacles 150B and 15OD, the -
ground planes 254 and 154 and shell 253 and 153 are
electrically connected with the vias 255 and 155. Therefore,
as compared with the improved structure examples 1 and 3 -
illustrated in Fig. 23 and Fig. 25, the return path of the
same-phase components can be greatly shortened, thereby
preventing a major inconsistency regarding the differential
signals.
[0177]
Fig. 29(a) illustrates a case where the vias are not
formed, as with the improved structure examples 1 and 3
illustrated in Fig. 23 and Fig. 25. In this case, the
return path of the same-phase components as to the
differential signals (D+ D-) follows a detour along the
shell, which is a major inconsistency regarding the
differential signals (D+ D-). Conversely, Fig. 29(b)
illustrates a case where the vias are formed, as with the
improved structure examples 2 and 4 illustrated in Fig. 24
and Fig. 26. In this case, the return path of the samephase
components as to the differential signals (D+ D-)
follows a shortened route through the vias and ground plate.
Accordingly, with the improved structure example 4
illustrated in Pig. 26 in particular, transmission signal
quality approximately equivalent to that of the current HDMI
transmission can be ensured.
[0178]
[Manufacturing Technique Example of - Modified Structure
Connector]
Next, one example of a manufacturing technique of the
modified structure connector will be described. Note thzt
description will be made regarding the manufacturing
technique of the connector (see Fig. 26) of the modified
structure example 4. Connectors of the modified structure
examples 1 through 3(see Fig. 23 through Fig. 25) can be
manufactured in the same way as with the connector of the
modified structure example 4, so description will be omitted.
Fig. 30(a) is, the same as with Fig. 26(a), a
longitudinal cross-sectional view illustrating a state where
the plug 250D and receptacle 150D, have been connected. Fig.
31(a) is, similar to Fig. 26(b), a transverse crosssectional
view of the plug 250D. The connector (plug 250D
and receptacle 150D) of the modified structure example 4 is
of a structure where the inside of the shell is divided into
four types of parts, of part 1 through part 4, as
illustrated in Fig. 30 (b) and Fig. 31 (b) . That is to say,
the inside of the shell is manufactured by combining these'
part 1 through part 4.
The part 1 is a conductor (GND conductor) connecting an
a.
electrode of the part 4 to the shell as illustrated in Fig.
32 an,d Fig. 33. Also, the part 2 is a dielectric with a
hole for inserting the part 1 and part 3, as illustrated'in
Fig. 32 and Fig. 33. Also, the part 3 is a signal electrode
d
pin, as illustrated in Fig. 32 and Fig. 33. Also, the part
4 is a multilayer substrate to connect upper and lower shell
via the part 1, as illustrated in Fig. 32 and Fig. 33.
[Ol8l]
As described above, by dividing the inside of the shell
into four kinds of parts, of part 1 through part 4, .and
manufacturing by combining these, allows easy manufacturing
of a connector (plug 250D and receptacle 150D).
[0182]
As described above, with the AV system 100 illustrated
in Fig. 1, the data transmission unit 112 of the source
device 110 has the operation mode of the new HDMI mode
besides the current HDMI operation mode. Here, differential
signal channels to transmit digital signal such as video
data are 3 channels in the current HDMI, but 6 channels in
the new HDMI. Therefore, signal transmission with a high -
data rate is enabled by the new HDMI being used. Also, when
the sink device 120 and cable 200 are not compatible with
the new HDMI, backward compatibility is ensured - by the
current HDMI (conventional HDMI) being used.
[0183]
<2. Modification>
Note that, with the above embodiment, the shape of the
plug of the new HDMI cable has been illustrated as being the
same as the shape of the plug of the current HDMI cable
(conventional HDMI cable). However, an arrangement may be
made where the shape of the plug of the new HDMI is
different from the shape of the plug of the'current HDMI
cable, so that when one of the source device and sink device
is not compatible with the new HDMI, these cannot be
connected with a new HDMI cable.
[0184]
Fig. 34(a) illustrates a shape of the plug of the
current HDMI cable and a shape of the receptacle of the
source device or sink device compatible only with the
current HDMI. In contrast, Fig. 34(c) illustrates the shape
of the plug of new HDMI cable and Fig. 34(d) illustrates an
example of the shape of the receptacle of the source device
or sink device compatible with the new HDMI. Note that Fig,
35(a) is a perspective view of the plug of the current HDMI
cable and Fig. 35(b) is a perspective view of the plug of
the new HDMI, .
[0185]
A protruding portion is provided t o the plug of the new -
HDMI cable (indicated by arrow P ) . Receptacles of the
source device and sink device compatible with t o the new -
HDMI are provided with a recessed portion corresponding t o
the protruding portion of plug (indicated by arrow Q ) . In
t h i s case, the shapes of the receptacles of the source
device and sink device compatible with t o the new HDMI match
the shape of the plug of the new HDMI cable, and the shape
of the plug of the current HDMI cable is encompassed.
[0186]
S e t t i n g t h e shape of the plug of the new HDMI cable and
the shape of the receptacles of the source device and sink
device compatible with the new HDMI so as t o be such as
described above enables the new HDMI cable t o connect t o the
receptacles of source device and sink device compatible with
the new HDMI. However, the new HDMI cannot be connected t o
the receptacles of a source device or sink device compatible
with the current HDMI -alone. Thus, i n the event t h a t one of
the source device and sink device is not compatible with the
new HDMI, these w i l l no longer be connected with the new
HDMI cable. That is t o say, only when both of the source
device and sink device are compatible with the new HDMI,
these connection thereof can be realized with the new HDMI
cable.
[ o i a 7 1
As described above, the shapes of the recept-acles of
the source device and sink device compatible with the new
HDMI match the shape of the plug of the new HDMI cable, and
the shape of the plug of the current HDMI cable is
encompassed. Therefore, the current HDMI cable can be
connected to not only the receptacles of the source device
and'sink device compatible only with the current HDMI, but
also the receptacles of the source device and sink device
compatible with the new HDMI.
[0188]
Also, with the above embodiment, we have illustrated
differential signal channels being six channels as the new
HDMI, as compared to differential signal channels being
three channels to transmit digital signals such as video
data in the current HDMI. However, the number of the
differential signal channels employed to transmit digital
signals such as'video data can be conceived to be four
channels, five channels, and further, seven channels or the
like. For example, differential signal channels to transmit
digital signals such as video data may be arranged to be
five channel-s , and the clock frequency speeded up to around
1.2 times, which will result in obtaining data transfer -
speed equivalent to a case of six channels.
Also, with the above embodiment, this invention has
been applied to the AV system where a source device and sink
device are connected with an HDMI standard digital interface.
This invention is similarly applicable to AV systems
connected with other similar digital interfaces.
Industrial applicability
[0190]
This invention is applicable to AV systems made up by
connecting a source device to a sink device via a digital
interface.
Reference Signs List
81 HDMI transmitter
82 HDMI receiver
100 AV system
110 source device
111 receptacle
112 data transmission unit
113 control unit
120 sink deyice
121 receptacle
122 data reception unit
123 c o n t r o l u n i t
150, 150A through 150D plug
151 d i e l e c t r i c
152 s i g n a l e l e c t r o d e p i n
153 s h e l l
154 ground plane
155 v i a
200 c a b l e
201, 202 plug
250, 250A through 250D r e c e p t a c l e
251 d i e l e c t r i c
252 s i g n a l e l e c t r o d e p i n
253 s h e l l
254 ground plane
255 v i a

CLAIMS
[Claim 11
A connector, configured of a plurality of signal
electrode pins which are disposed within a cuboid-shaped
dielectric and which correspond to differential signals of a
predetermined number of channels and extend in a first
direction which is a predetermined axial direction of the
cuboid, with the perimeter of the dielectric being covered
by a square-tube grounding conductor opened in the first
direction;
wherein each of the signal electrode pins is arrayed
near the grounding conductor so as to couple with the
grounding conductor, and differential signals are
transmitted with single end.
44
[Claim 21
The connector according to Claim 1,
wherein the plurality of signal electrode pins
corresponding to the differential signals of the
predetermined number of channels are arrayed being divided
into a first stage and a second stage, in a second direction
orthogonal to the first direction; -
and wherein the plurality of signal electrode pins of
each stage are arrayed with a predetermined inte~val in a
third direction orthogonal to the first direction and second
direction;
and wherein a ground plane is disposed between the
plurality of signal electrode pins of the first stage and
the plurality of signal electrode pins of the second stage
within the dielectric, and connecting conductors
electrically connecting the ground plane and the grounding
conductor are. disposed between each of the signal electrode
pins of each of the stages within the dielectric.
[Claim 31
A connector, configured of a plurality of signal
electrode pins' which are disposed within a cuboid-shaped
dielectric and which correspond to differential signals of a
predetermined number of channels and extend in a first
A
direction which is a predetermined axial direction of the -
cuboid, with the perimeter of the dielectric being covered
by a square-tube grounding conductor opened in the first
direction;
wherein-the plurality of signal electrode pins
corresponding to the differential signals of the
predetermined number of channels are arrayed being divid-e d
into a first stage and a second stage, in a second direction
orthogonal to the-first direction;
and wherein the plurality of signal electrode pins of
each stage are arrayed with a predetermined interval in a
third direction orthogonal to the first direction and second
direction;
and wherein a ground plane is disposed between the
plurality of signal electrode pins of the first stage and
the plurality of signal electrode pins of the second stage
within the dielectric, and connecting conductors
electrically connecting the ground plane and the grounding
conductor are disposed between each of the signal electrode
pins of each of the stages within the dielectric.
[Claim 41
A cable, which transmits digital signals by
differential signals of a predetermined number - of channels
from a transmission device to a reception device, comprisi-n g
a plug on an end;
wherein the plug is configured of a plurality of signal
electrode pins which are disposed within a cuboid-shaped
dielectric arid which correspond to differential signals of a
predetermined number of channels and extend in a first
direction which is a predetermined axial direction of th-e
cuboid, with the perimeter of the dielectric being covered
by a square-tube grounding conductor opened in the first
direction;
and wherein each of the signal electrode pins is
arrayed near the grounding conductor so as to couple with
the grounding conductor, and differential signals are
transmitted with single end.
[Claim 51
The cable according to Claim 4,
wherein the plurality of signal electrode pins
corresponding to the differential signals of the
predetermined number of channels are arrayed being divided
into a first stage and a second stage, in a second direction
orthogonal to the first direction;
and wherein the plurality of signal electrode pins of
each stage are arrayed with a predetermined interval - in a
third direction orthogonal to the first direction and second
direction;
and wherein a ground plane is disposed between the
plurality of signal electrode pins of the first stage and
the pluralit? of signal electrode pins of the second stage
within the dielectric, and connecting conductors
electrically connecting the ground plane and the grounding
conductor are disposed between each of the signal electrode
pins of each of the stages within the dielectric:
[Claim 61
A cable, which transmits digital signals by
differential signals of a predetermined number of channels
from a transmission device to a reception device, comprising
a plug on an end;
wherein the plug is configured of a plurality of signal
electrode pins which are disposed within a cuboid-shaped
dielectric and which correspond to differential signals of a
predetermined number of channels and extend in a first
direction which is a predetermined axial direction of the
cuboid, with the perimeter of the dielectric being covered
by a square-tube grounding conductor opened in the first
direction, and the plurality of signal electrode pins
corresponding to the differential signals of the
+
predetermined number of channels are arrayed being dividedinto
a first stage and a second stage, in a second direction
orthogonal to the first direction;
and wherein the plurality of signal electrode pins of
each stage ace arrayed with a predetermined interval in a
third direction orthogonal to the first direction and second
direction; -
and wherein a ground plane is disposed between the
plurality of signal electrode pins of the first stage and
the plurality of signal electrode pins of the second stage
within the dielectric, and connecting conductors
electrically connecting the ground plane and the grounding
conductor are disposed between each of the signal electrode
pins of each of the stages within the dielectric.
[Claim 71
A transmission device, comprising:
a digital signal transmission unit which transmits
digital signals to an external device by differential
signals via a cable, having a first operation mode of which.
the number of channels of the differential signals is a
first number, and a second operation mode of which the
number of channels of the differential signals is a second
number greater than the first number;
an operation mode determining unit which determines .
whether or not the external device and the cable are
compatible with the second operation mode;
an operation control unit which controls operation of -
the digital signal transmission unit based on determination
by the operation mode determining unit; and
a receptacle having a plurality of signal electrode,
pins for connecting a plug of the cable;
wherein the digital signal transmission unit selects a
first pin assignment in the first operation mode, and in the
second operation mode selects a second pin assignment which
differs from the first pin assignment, in which a terminal
used as a shield terminal corresponding to a signal terminal
of digital signal and/or clock signal differential signals
in the first pin assignment, is used as a signal terminal
for differential signals to transmit digital signals;
and wherein the receptacle is configured of the
plurality of signal electrode pins which are disposed within
a cuboid-shaped dielectric and extend in a first direction
which is a predetermined axial direction of the cuboid, with
the perimeter of the dielectric being covered by a squaretube
grounding conductor opened in the first direction;
and wherei~ each of the signal electrode pins is
arrayed near the grounding conductor so as to couple with -
the grounding conductor, and differential signals are
transmitted with single end.
[Claim 83
*
The transmission device according to Claim 7,
wherein the plurality of signal electrode pins are
arrayed being divided into a first stage and a second stage,
in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction;
and wherein the plurality of signal electrode pins of
each stage are arrayed with a predetermined interval in a
third direction orthogonal to the first direction and second
direction;
and wherein a ground plane is disposed between the
plurality of signal electrode pins of the first stage and
the plurality of signal electrode pins of the second stage
within the dielectric, and connecting conductors
electrically connecting the ground plane and the grounding
conductor are disposed between each of the signal electrode
pins of each of the stages.
[Claim 91
A transmission device, comprising:
a digital signal transmission unit which transmits
digital signals to an external device by differential
signals via a cable, having a first operation mode of which
the number of channels of the differential signals is a
first number, and a second operation mode of which the
number of channels of the differential signals is a second -
number greater than the first number;
an operation mode determining unit which determines
whether or not the external device and the cable are -
compatible with the second operation mode;
an operation control unit which controls operation of
the digital signal transmission unit based on determination
by the operation mode determining unit; and
a receptacle having a plurality of signal electrode
pins for connecting a plug of the cable;
wherein the digital signal transmission unit selects a
first pin assignment in the first operation mode, and in the
second operation mode selects a second pin assignment which
differs from the first pin assignment, in which a terminal
used as a shield terminal corresponding to a signal terminal
of digital signal and/or clock signal differential signals
in the first pin assignment, is used as a signal terminal
for differential signals to transmit digital signals;
and wherein the receptacle is configured of the
plurality of signal electrode pins which are disposed within
a cuboid-shaped-dielectric and extend in a first direction
which is a predetermined axial direction of the cuboid, with
the perimeter of the dielectric being covered by a squaretube
grounding conductor opened in the - first direction;
and wherein the plurality of signal electrode pins are
arrayed being divided into a first stage and a second stage,
in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction;-
and wherein the plurality of signal electrode pins of
-
each stage are arrayed with a predetermined interval in a
third direction orthogonal to the first direction and second
direction;
and wherein a ground plane is disposed between the
plurality of signal electrode pins of the first stage and
the plurality of signal electrode pins of the second stage
within the dielectric, and connecting conductors
electrically connecting the ground plane and the grounding
conductor are disposed between each of the signal electrode
pins of each of the stages within the dielectric.
[Claim 101
A reception device, comprising:
a digital signal reception unit which receives digital
signals from an external device by differential signals via
a cable, having a first operation mode of which the number
of channels of Zhe differential signals is a first number,
and a second operation mode of which the number of charinels
of the differential signals is a second number greater than
the first number;
an information reception unit which receives operation
mode information from the external device regarding which of
the first operation mode and the second operation mode t6
select;
an operation control unit which controls operation of
the digital signal transmission unit based the operation
mode information received by the information reception unit;
and
a receptacle having a plurality of signal electrode
pins for connecting a plug of the cable;
wherein the information reception unit selects a first
pin assignment in the first operation mode, and in the
second operation mode selects a second pin assignment which
differs from the first pin assignment, in which a terminal
used as a shield terminal corresponding to a signal terminal
of digital signal and/or clock signal differential signals
in the first pin assignment, is used as a signal terminal
for differential signals to transmit digital signals;
and wherein the receptacle is configured of the
plurality of signal electrode pins which are disposed within
a cuboid-shaped dielectric and extend in a first directionwhich
is a predetermined axial direction of the cuboid, with
the perimeter of the dielectric being covered by a squaretube
grounding conductor opened in the - first direction;
and wherein each of the signal electrode pins is
arrayed near the grounding conductor so as to couple with
the grounding conductor, and differential signals are
transmitted with single end.
[Claim 111
The reception device according to Claim 10,
wherein the plurality of signal electrode pins are
arrayed being divided into a first stage and a second stage,
in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction;
and wherein the plurality of signal electrode pins of
each stage are arrayed with a predetermined interval in a
third direction orthogonal to the first direction and second
direction;
and wherein a ground plane is disposed between the
plurality of signal electrode pins of the first stage and
the plurality of signal electrode pins of the second stage
within the dielectric, and connecting conductors
electrically connecting the ground plane and the grounding
conductor are disposed between each of the signal electrode
= pins of each of the stages.
[Claim 121
A reception device, comprising:
a digital signal reception unit which .- receives digital
signals from an external device by differential signals via
a cable, having a first operation mode of which the number
of channels of the differential signals is a first numbef,
and a second operation mode of which the number of channels
of the differential signals is a second number greater than
the first number;
an information reception unit which receives operation
mode information from the external device regarding which of
the first operation mode and the second operation mode to
select;
an operation control unit which controls operation of
the digital signal transmission unit based the operation
mode information received by the information reception unit;
and
a receptacle having a plurality of signal electrode
pins for connecting a plug of the cable;
wherein the information reception unit selects a first
pin assignment in the first operation mode, and in the
second operation mode selects a second pin assignment which
differs from the first pin assignment, in which a terminalused
as a shield terminal corresponding to a signal terminal
of digital signal and/or clock signal differential signals
in the first - pin assignment, is used as a signal terminal
for differential signals to transmit digital signals;
and wherein the receptacle is configured of the
plurality of signal electrode pins which are disposed wifhin
a cuboid-shaped dielectric and extend in a first direction
which is a predetermined axial direction of the cuboid, with
the perimeter of the dielectric being covered by a squaretube
grounding conductor opened in the first direction;
and wherein the plurality of signal electrode pins are
arrayed being divided into a first stage and a second stage,
in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction;
and wherein the plurality of signal electrode pins of
each stage are arrayed with a predetermined interval in a
third direction orthogonal to the first direction and second
direction;
and wherein a ground plane is disposed between the
plurality of signal electrode pins of the first stage and
the plurality of signal electrode pins of the second stage
within the dielectric, and connecting conductors
electrically coknecting the ground plane and the grounding
&
conductor are disposed between each of the signal electrode
pins of each of the stages.
[Claim 131
A manufa_cturing method of a connector, configured of a
plurality of signal electrode pins which are disposed within
a cuboid-shaped dielectric and which correspond to
differential signals of a predetermined number of channeis
and extend in a first direction which is a predetermined
axial direction of the cuboid, with the perimeter of the
dielectric being covered by a square-tube grounding
conductor opened in the first direction,
the plurality of signal electrode pins being arrayed
divided into a first stage and a second stage, in a second
direction orthogonal to the first direction,
the plurality of signal electrode pins of each stage
being arrayed with a predetermined interval in a third
direction orthogonal to the first direction and second
direction,
each of the signal electrode pins being arrayed near
the grounding conductor so as to couple with the grounding
conductor, and a signal transmission mode being single mode,
and a ground plane being disposed between the plurality
of signal electkode pins of the first stage and the -
plurality of signal electrode pins of the second stage
within the dielectric, and connecting conductors
electrically connecting the ground plane and the grounding
conductor being disposed between each of the signal
electrode pins of each of the stages within the dielectric;
wherein the inside of the grounding conductor is
-
manufactured by combining a plurality of parts.
[Claim 141
The manufacturing method of a connector according to
Claim 13, wherein the plurality of parts is
a multi-1ayer.substrate having the ground plane,
a conductor making up the grounding conductor, for
connecting the ground plane of the multi-layer substrate to
%
the grounding conductor,
the signal electrode pins, and
a dielectric having holes into which the signal
electrode pins and the conductor are inserted, disposed
between the multi-layer substrate and the grounding
conductor.