Time domain separated powerline communications method for input source selection

Abstract

Technologies are described for a two-wire power delivery system with negotiated charging between host and client devices. The host device uses a state machine and additional support circuits to negotiate time-domain separated bi-directional communications with a client device over powerlines with a two-wire cable. After attachment of the client device is detected by the host device, communications are sent from the host device to the client device, an acknowledgement is sent by the client device to the host device, and charging by the host device is established. Additional failsafe conditions may be detected by the host device, such as: detachment of the client device, short circuits, and dead batteries. Periodic retriggering of negotiated communications is utilized to ensure safe charging operation and failsafe conditions. The client device includes a correspondingly configured state machine with support circuitry to facilitate communications and proper detection of conditions by the host device.