Patent attributes
A data communication cable that is capable of informing a user via light signals regarding any operational status of the cable and/or devices to which the cable is connected. The data communication cable includes a first connector configured to connect to a first device; a second connector configured to connect to a second device; one or more communication mediums configured to route a data signal and/or a power signal between the first and second devices; and one or more illumination fibers configured to emit light. The cable may further include a light driver circuit configured to generate a drive signal for the one or more illumination fibers based on detecting one or more events. Such events may include the cable receiving power, data signal activity or loss of signal activity in the one or more communications mediums, authentication or other operations performed between the first and second devices.
