Abstract: A method of processing data within a controller for a network can include, while frame lock is not established, detecting a first preamble and a second preamble within a data stream of the network (1210, 1235). Biphase units between the first preamble and the second preamble can be counted (1215). Frame lock can be acquired on the data stream responsive to determining that the first preamble and the second preamble are separated by a number of biphase units corresponding to a frame (1235). A synchronization signal indicating that frame lock has been acquired can be output responsive to acquiring frame lock on the data stream (1240).

Abstract: A method of processing data within a controller for a network can include identifying frames within a data stream within the network (1110) and detecting a deadlock state according to a number of consecutive frames comprising at least one set control bit (1130). The method can include, responsive to detecting the deadlock state, adjusting the at least one control bit within a current frame (1135). Adjusting the at least one control bit clears the deadlock state and generates a modified frame. The modified frame can be output to at least one node within the network (1140).