Patent ID: 6381666
Filing Date: 2002-04-30
Classification: G06F

Abstract:
A method for transmitting a data stream between a host controller and a peripheral device over an extended distance; said method comprising:a. feeding a first original, outgoing digital signal from a host controller to a local expander unit; b. transmitting said outgoing digital signal as a outgoing transmission signal, over a signal distribution system; c. receiving said outgoing transmission signal as a first original outgoing digital signal at a remote expander unit; d. delivering said first original outgoing digital signal from said remote expander to at least one peripheral device; e. receiving, at said remote expander, a reply digital signal from said at least one peripheral device; f. transmitting said reply digital signal as a reply transmission signal over said signal distribution system; g. receiving said reply transmission signal as a reply digital signal at said local expander; h. storing said reply digital signal as a stored reply digital signal until the receipt of a subsequent original, outgoing digital signal from said host controller, which subsequent signal is the same as, or similar to, said first original outgoing digital signal; and i. forwarding said stored reply digital signal to said host controller in response to said subsequent original outgoing digital signal.