Patent ID: 8279751
Filing Date: 2012-10-02
Classification: H04L

Abstract:
1. A communication port for a node in a communication network having a plurality of nodes coupled together via a bus, the communication port having an input for receiving data, an output for transmitting data and means for detecting a signal off condition at the input, and wherein the communication port is configured for: detecting a signal off condition; after the signal off condition has been detected, checking whether a shutdown flag has been received, wherein: if the shutdown flag is not received, the communication port is further configured for performing the steps of: saving its internal status “signal off”; configuring itself as timing master for the bus; setting the shutdown flag, which is forwarded over the bus to the communication port of a subsequent node; waiting a predetermined amount of time; and switching off an output signal associated with the communication port; and if the shutdown flag is received, the communication port is further configured for performing the steps of: saving its internal status “no fault saved;” and switching off the output signal associated with the communication port.