Patent ID: 7518883
Filing Date: 2009-04-14
Classification: H04Q,H05K

Abstract:
1. A network element configurable for use in at least two different types of communications networks, the network element comprising: a service interface card; a service interface electrical connector for receiving the service interface card; an I/O electrical connector for receiving an I/O module that carries electrical signals associated with one or more electrical services to and from the network element; and a backplane capable of installation in the network element irrespective of the communication network type of the at least two different types of communication networks for which the network element is being configured, the backplane having a first side, an opposite side, a first means for connecting the service interface electrical connector electrically and physically to the first side of the backplane, an electrical trace extending from the first connecting means to electrical contact means on the first side of the backplane and to electrical contact means on the opposite side of the backplane, and a second means for physically and electrically connecting the I/O electrical connector to electrical contact means on the first side of the backplane if the network element is configured according to a first configuration for use in a first type of communication network and to electrical contact means on the opposite side of the backplane if the network element is configured according to a second configuration for use in a second type of communication network, wherein the electrical trace electrically connects the I/O electrical connector to the first connecting means irrespective of the side of the backplane to which the I/O electrical connector is physically connected.