Time-domain multiplexing of power and data

摘要

Circuits, methods, and apparatus that may allow an electronic device to control a power adapter. One example may provide an electronic system where an electronic device may control a power adapter through a communication channel. Data transferred in the communication channel may include the temperature of the power adapter, the charging capability of the adapter, and other types of data. In one example, power and data may share the same two wires, and the power and data may be time-division multiplexed. That is, the two wires may convey power and data at different times. Another example may include circuitry to detect a connection between the electronic device and the power adapter. Once a connection is detected, power may be transferred from the power adapter to the electronic device. This power transfer may be interrupted on occasion to transfer data between the power adapter to the electronic device.

主权项

1. A power adapter comprising:
power conversion circuitry to receive AC power and provide DC power; detect circuitry for detecting a connection of an electronic device to a first wire and a second wire; power circuitry to provide the DC power over the first wire and ground over the second wire; and communication circuitry to receive first signals from the electronic device over the first and second wire and to provide second signals to the electronic device over the first and second wire, wherein the DC power provided by the power circuitry and the second signals provided by the communication circuitry are time-domain multiplexed such that the DC power is not provided by the power circuitry when the communication circuitry provides the second signals and the second signals are not provided by the communication circuitry when the DC power is provided by the power circuitry.