Abstract: A coordinator communication device operates in a communication network according to a communication protocol that defines repeating time cycles and specifies that each of multiple communication devices is provided a respective transmit opportunity in each time cycle. The coordinator communication device determines a number of follower communication devices in a communication network while the follower communication devices are selecting transmit opportunities using respective initial device identifiers. The coordinator communication device determines a quantity of transmit opportunities to be provided in each of multiple time cycles during which the follower communication devices are selecting transmit opportunities using respective new device identifiers. The coordinator communication device determines the quantity of transmit opportunities at least by using the number of follower communication devices.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for selecting a media for communication in a network. The method includes (i) using a first autonegotiation circuit to attempt to establish a link over a first media of a first type, and (ii) simultaneously using a second autonegotiation circuit to attempt to establish a link over a second media of a second type, the second type being different from the first type. In response to establishing the link over the first media prior to establishing the link over the second media, the second autonegotiation circuit is powered down. In response to establishing the link over the second media prior to establishing the link over the first media, the first autonegotiation circuit is powered down.

Abstract: A network device includes a media access controller (MAC) and a physical layer having an interface that communicates with the MAC. A first autonegotiation circuit attempts to establish a link using a first transceiver over a first media. A second autonegotiation circuit attempts to establish a link using a second transceiver over a second media. A media selector communicates with the interface and the first and second autonegotiation circuits. The media selector enables data flow from the first media to the MAC using the interface when a link is established first over the first media. The media selector enables data flow from the second media to the MAC using the interface when a link is established first over the second media.

Abstract: A network device includes a media access controller (MAC) and a physical layer having an interface that communicates with the MAC. A first autonegotiation circuit attempts to establish a link using a first transceiver over a first media. A second autonegotiation circuit attempts to establish a link using a second transceiver over a second media. A media selector communicates with the interface and the first and second autonegotiation circuits. The media selector enables data flow from the first media to the MAC using the interface when a link is established first over the first media. The media selector enables data flow from the second media to the MAC using the interface when a link is established first over the second media.