Abstract: A network interface mechanism and method is provided that facilitates precise transmission time control in a computer network. The network interface mechanism and method uses feedback to provide monitoring and precise control of the transmission time. Specifically, a message detector is provided that monitors the network for transmissions from the network interface mechanism. The arrival time of messages is compared to the desired transmission time, and the transmission time of subsequent transmissions is adjusted accordingly. A transmission disable mechanism is used in the forward path to disable the transmission driver at the transmission cut off time as a means to prevent the transmission node from babbling the media. Thus, the network interface mechanism and method provide precise control of the transmission time, and thus can be used to eliminate collisions in the network.

Abstract: A network interface mechanism and method is provided that facilitates precise transmission time control in a computer network. The network interface mechanism and method uses feedback to provide monitoring and precise control of the transmission time. Specifically, a message detector is provided that monitors the network for transmissions from the network interface mechanism. The arrival time of messages is compared to the desired transmission time, and the transmission time of subsequent transmissions is adjusted accordingly. A transmission disable mechanism is used in the forward path to disable the transmission driver at the transmission cut off time as a means to prevent the transmission node from babbling the media. Thus, the network interface mechanism and method provide precise control of the transmission time, and thus can be used to eliminate collisions in the network.

Abstract: An interface method and system for interfacing a DC unbalanced databus with a DC balanced databus suited for use in an aircraft. The system includes a DC unbalanced databus and a controller coupled to the DC unbalanced databus. An alternating DC unbalanced voltage differential signal is transmittable from the controller to a first transformer which is coupled to the controller. The alternating DC unbalanced voltage differential signal may be stepped-up and DC balanced by the first transformer to create a DC balanced voltage differential signal. A transmitter is coupled to the first transformer, where the transmitter comprises a high power differential voltage driver. The DC balanced voltage differential signal may be stepped up by the transmitter to a high drive current signal. A second transformer is coupled to the transmitter, and at least one DC balanced databus is coupled to the second transformer. A waveform shaping network may be coupled between the second transformer and DC balanced databus.