Method for enabling ATCA (advanced telecom computing architecture) master control card to be compatible with orthogonal architecture and master control board card

Abstract

The invention discloses a method for enabling an ATCA (advanced telecom computing architecture) master control card to be compatible with an orthogonal architecture and a master control board card, and the ATCA master control card comprises a first ATCA connector assembly; the method for enabling the ATCA main control card to be compatible with the orthogonal architecture comprises the steps that an expansion card is manufactured, the expansion card comprises a second ATCA connector assembly, a conversion module and an orthogonal connector assembly, the first end of the conversion module is electrically connected with the orthogonal connector assembly, the second end of the conversion module is electrically connected with the second ATCA connector assembly, and the orthogonal connector assembly is electrically connected with the second ATCA connector assembly; the conversion module is used for realizing bidirectional signal conversion between the ATCA architecture and the orthogonal architecture; and the second ATCA connector assembly of the expansion card is matched with the first ATCA connector assembly of the ATCA main control card in a plugging manner. By adopting the scheme, the problem of how to enable the ATCA main control card to be compatible with the orthogonal architecture is solved, unnecessary waste can be reduced, the cost of a single card is reduced, the research and development period is shortened, and the product competitiveness is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of board and card equipment, and in particular to a method for an ATCA main control card to be compatible with an orthogonal architecture and a main control board and card. Background Art

[0002] The main control board is mainly responsible for the unified maintenance, control, monitoring and management of other boards in the whole machine, and provides a unified interface for users to control in a unified manner. The main control board mainly runs the terminal management software system for monitoring front-end equipment and is responsible for managing other modules, communicating with the upper platform, responding to remote commands from the center system software, and completing the monitoring front-end data collection and data return functions.

[0003] With the rapid development of Internet applications, the increase in the number of users and the rapid increase in the data usage demand of individual users, people's demand for communication equipment exchange bandwidth has increased rapidly. With the popularization of applications such as artificial intelligence, audio and video, big data, and cloud computing, the traditional ATCA architecture has gradually failed to meet the growing demand for data bandwidth.

[0004] The traditional ATCA chassis, due to the limitation of the chassis data backplane in architecture, has encountered a huge bottleneck in the growth of the whole machine bandwidth and can no longer meet the evolving demand for data bandwidth and capacity. In addition, the continuous enhancement of core chip capabilities has made the chip have higher requirements for board size, chassis heat dissipation capacity, high-speed wiring length and loss, and the ATCA architecture can no longer meet these requirements. The orthogonal architecture without a data backplane not only breaks the limitation of the backplane on data bandwidth, but also minimizes the length of the wiring between boards, ensuring the quality of higher-speed signal transmission. In order to meet the challenges of high-speed transmission and large-capacity requirements, the orthogonal architecture came into being and gradually replaced the ATCA architecture, and is widely used in data centers, operators and other scenarios with large network data bandwidth requirements.

[0005] For those scenarios that need to gradually switch from ATCA architecture to orthogonal architecture, because the update of the architecture does not bring about a significant increase in the computing power requirements of the main control card, directly remaking a new main control card to replace the old main control card will not only result in a lot of unnecessary waste in R&D manpower, board manufacturing, and component costs, but the long R&D cycle will also extend the time for replacement. At the same time, the increase in the number of board types will increase the risk of board backlogs, and the decrease in the manufacturing volume of a single product will also increase the manufacturing cost of a single card. The newly developed system also increases the investment of software developers, as well as the learning and subsequent operation and maintenance costs of users. Therefore, how to make the ATCA main control card compatible with the orthogonal architecture has become an urgent problem to be solved. Summary of the invention

[0006] The invention provides a method for making an ATCA main control card compatible with an orthogonal architecture and a main control board, so as to solve the problem of how to make the ATCA main control card compatible with the orthogonal architecture.

[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, a method for an ATCA main control card to be compatible with an orthogonal architecture is provided, wherein the ATCA main control card comprises a first ATCA connector assembly; the method for the ATCA main control card to be compatible with an orthogonal architecture comprises:

[0008] Manufacturing an expansion card, wherein the expansion card comprises a second ATCA connector component, a conversion module and an orthogonal connector component, electrically connecting a first end of the conversion module to the orthogonal connector component, and electrically connecting a second end of the conversion module to the second ATCA connector component, wherein the conversion module is used to realize bidirectional signal conversion between the ATCA architecture and the orthogonal architecture;

[0009] The second ATCA connector component of the expansion card is plugged into the first ATCA connector component of the ATCA main control card.

[0010] In an optional embodiment of the present invention, the first ATCA connector assembly includes a first ATCA power connector, the second ATCA connector assembly includes a second ATCA power connector, the orthogonal connector assembly includes an orthogonal power connector, the conversion module includes a hot-swap circuit; and the manufacturing expansion card further includes:

[0011] electrically connecting a first end of the hot-swap circuit to the orthogonal power connector, and a second end of the hot-swap circuit to the second ATCA power connector;

[0012] The plugging and matching the second ATCA connector component of the expansion card with the first ATCA connector component of the ATCA main control card includes:

[0013] The first ATCA power connector of the ATCA main control card is plugged and matched with the second ATCA power connector of the expansion card.

[0014] In an optional embodiment of the present invention, the first ATCA connector assembly includes a first ATCA base connector, the second ATCA connector assembly includes a second ATCA base connector, the orthogonal connector assembly includes an orthogonal base connector, the conversion module further includes a switching chip, and the expansion card manufacturing further includes:

[0015] Electrically connecting a first end of the switch chip to the orthogonal base connector, and a second end of the switch chip to the second ATCA base connector;

[0016] The plugging and matching the second ATCA connector component of the expansion card with the first ATCA connector component of the ATCA main control card further includes:

[0017] The first ATCA base connector of the ATCA main control card is plugged and matched with the second ATCA base connector of the expansion card.

[0018] In an optional embodiment of the present invention, the conversion module further includes a PHY chip, and the manufacturing expansion card further includes:

[0019] The PHY chip is electrically connected between the second end of the switch chip and the second ATCA base connector.

[0020] In an optional embodiment of the present invention, the conversion module further includes a CPLD chip, and the expansion card manufacturing further includes:

[0021] A first end of the CPLD chip is electrically connected to the orthogonal base connector, and a second end of the CPLD chip is electrically connected to the second ATCA base connector.

[0022] In an optional embodiment of the present invention, the method for the ATCA master control card to be compatible with the orthogonal architecture further includes:

[0023] Acquire a positioning module, wherein the positioning module includes a positioning pin and a positioning hole;

[0024] The positioning pin is arranged on one of the ATCA main control card and the expansion card, and the positioning hole is arranged on the other one of the ATCA main control card and the expansion card;

[0025] Insert the positioning pin into the positioning hole to position the ATCA main control card and the expansion card.

[0026] In an optional embodiment of the present invention, the ATCA main control card further includes a front panel debugging interface, the ATCA main control card includes a first side and a second side opposite to each other; the expansion card includes a third side and a fourth side opposite to each other; the method for the ATCA main control card to be compatible with an orthogonal architecture further includes:

[0027] The front panel debugging interface is arranged on the first side, and the first ATCA connector assembly is arranged on the second side;

[0028] The manufacturing of the expansion card also includes:

[0029] The second ATCA connector assembly is disposed on the third side, and the orthogonal connector assembly is disposed on the fourth side.

[0030] In an optional embodiment of the present invention, after plugging and matching the second ATCA connector component of the expansion card with the first ATCA connector component of the ATCA main control card, the method further includes:

[0031] Get a fixed structure;

[0032] The ATCA main control card is fixedly connected to the fixed structure by a first fastener;

[0033] The expansion card is fixedly connected to the fixing structure through a second fastener.

[0034] In an optional embodiment of the present invention, the ATCA main control card further includes a main control module, and the method for the ATCA main control card to be compatible with the orthogonal architecture further includes:

[0035] electrically connecting the main control module to the first ATCA base connector;

[0036] The card signal sent by the CPLD chip is acquired through the main control module, and the expansion card type and the expansion card insertion state are determined based on the card signal.

[0037] According to another aspect of the present invention, a main control board is provided, which is manufactured by the method for making the ATCA main control card compatible with the orthogonal architecture described in any embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] The technical solution of the embodiment of the present invention is to provide a second ATCA connector component of the expansion card to be plugged and matched with the first ATCA connector component of the ATCA main control card, and the conversion module of the expansion card is used to realize bidirectional signal conversion between the ATCA architecture and the orthogonal architecture, so that the ATCA main control card can be converted into an orthogonal main control card suitable for the orthogonal architecture, thereby realizing the compatible conversion of the ATCA main control card, solving the problem of how to make the ATCA main control card compatible with the orthogonal architecture, reducing unnecessary waste, reducing the cost of a single card, shortening the research and development cycle, and improving product competitiveness.

[0039] It should be understood that the contents described in this section are not intended to identify the key or important features of the embodiments of the present invention, nor are they intended to limit the scope of the present invention. Other features of the present invention will become easily understood through the following description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0040] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in the description of the embodiments. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative work.

[0041] Figure 1 This is a flow chart of a method for an ATCA main control card to be compatible with an orthogonal architecture provided by the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of an ATCA master control card in a method for an ATCA master control card to be compatible with an orthogonal architecture;

[0043] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of a main control board made by a method of using an ATCA main control card compatible with an orthogonal architecture;

[0044] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A structural diagram of another main control board made by the method of making the ATCA main control card compatible with the orthogonal architecture.

[0045] Wherein: 1. ATCA main control card; 11. first ATCA connector assembly; 111. first ATCA power connector; 112. first ATCA base connector; 12. front panel debugging interface; 13. first side; 14. second side; 15. main control module; 2. expansion card; 21. second ATCA connector assembly; 211. second ATCA power connector; 212. second ATCA base connector; 22. conversion module; 221. switching chip; 222. hot plug circuit; 223. PHY chip; 224. CPLD chip; 23. orthogonal connector assembly; 231. orthogonal power connector; 232. orthogonal base connector; 24. third side; 25. fourth side; 3. positioning module; 31. positioning pin; 32. positioning hole; 4. fixing structure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] In order to enable those skilled in the art to better understand the scheme of the present invention, the technical scheme in the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the drawings in the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of the present invention, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without creative work should fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0047] It should be noted that the terms "first", "second", etc. in the specification and claims of the present invention and the above-mentioned drawings are used to distinguish similar objects, and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that the data used in this way can be interchanged where appropriate, so that the embodiments of the present invention described herein can be implemented in an order other than those illustrated or described herein. In addition, the terms "including" and "having" and any variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusions, for example, a process, method, system, product or device that includes a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units that are clearly listed, but may include other steps or units that are not clearly listed or inherent to these processes, methods, products or devices.

[0048] Embodiment 1

[0049] Embodiment 1 of the present invention provides a method for making an ATCA main control card compatible with an orthogonal architecture, which is used to make an ATCA main control card compatible with an orthogonal architecture. The ATCA main control card includes a first ATCA connector component; Figure 1-Figure 3 As shown, the method for the ATCA main control card to be compatible with the orthogonal architecture includes:

[0050] S110: Make an expansion card 2, wherein the expansion card 2 includes a second ATCA connector component 21, a conversion module 22, and an orthogonal connector component 23, a first end of the conversion module 22 is electrically connected to the orthogonal connector component 23, a second end of the conversion module 22 is electrically connected to the second ATCA connector component 21, and the conversion module 22 is used to realize bidirectional signal conversion between the ATCA architecture and the orthogonal architecture.

[0051] Among them, ATCA architecture (Advanced Telecom Computing Architecture) is an advanced telecommunications computing platform, which is an open standard architecture for high-performance communication computing. ATCA main control card 1 is a key component in the ATCA architecture, usually responsible for the overall control and management of the system. It is like a central commander, used to monitor and coordinate the work of other boards (such as line cards, processing boards, etc.) in the system. Expansion card 2 is a board used to increase system functions and performance.

[0052] The first ATCA connector component 11 refers to a component that complies with the ATCA standard to enable the ATCA main control card 1 to connect and communicate with other parts of the system. The ATCA standard defines the specifications and interface standards of the connector component to ensure that devices from different manufacturers can interoperate. The orthogonal connector component 23 refers to a connector component suitable for an orthogonal architecture. The orthogonal architecture refers to an orthogonal architecture without a backplane at the hardware level.

[0053] The conversion module 22 is used to realize the bidirectional signal conversion between the ATCA architecture and the orthogonal architecture. On the one hand, the conversion module 22 is used to convert the signal input through the orthogonal connector component 23 into a processable input signal of the ATCA main control card 1. The processable input signal refers to the ATCA main control card 1 being able to identify, parse and use these input signals to perform corresponding operations or tasks. Since the orthogonal architecture and the ATCA architecture may use different interface standards, the conversion module 22 needs to achieve the matching between these interface standards. Therefore, the main function of the conversion module 22 is to achieve the conversion between different signal formats or interface standards to ensure that the signal can be correctly transmitted and processed between the orthogonal architecture and the ATCA architecture. The conversion module 22 can receive signals from the orthogonal connector component 23 applicable to the orthogonal architecture. These signals may have a specific format or protocol. Then, the conversion module 22 converts these signals into the format required by the ATCA architecture so that they can be input to the ATCA main control card 1 through the first ATCA connector component 11. On the other hand, the conversion module 22 also converts the signal output by the ATCA main control card 1 into a processable signal of the orthogonal architecture. For example, the control and communication information of the chassis by the ATCA main control card 1 is converted into a form that can be recognized by the orthogonal chassis or other boards on the chassis.

[0054] S120 , plug and mate the second ATCA connector component 21 of the expansion card 2 with the first ATCA connector component 11 of the ATCA main control card 1 .

[0055] The second ATCA connector component 21 is plugged and matched with the first ATCA connector component 11 , that is, the second ATCA connector component 21 is connected with the first ATCA connector component 11 by plugging, so as to realize the connection and transmission of circuits or signals.

[0056] In the above scheme, the second ATCA connector component 21 of the expansion card 2 is plugged with the first ATCA connector component 11 of the ATCA main control card 1, and the conversion module 22 is used to realize the bidirectional signal conversion between the ATCA architecture and the orthogonal architecture, so that the ATCA main control card 1 can be converted into an orthogonal main control card suitable for the orthogonal architecture, and the compatible conversion of the ATCA main control card 1 is realized, and the problem of how to make the ATCA main control card 1 compatible with the orthogonal architecture is solved, which can reduce unnecessary waste, reduce the cost of a single card, shorten the research and development cycle, and enhance product competitiveness.

[0057] In an optional embodiment of the present invention, the first ATCA connector component includes a first ATCA power connector, the second ATCA connector component includes a second ATCA power connector, the orthogonal connector component includes an orthogonal power connector, and the conversion module includes a hot plug circuit; the manufacturing of the expansion card further includes: electrically connecting a first end of the hot plug circuit to the orthogonal power connector, and electrically connecting a second end of the hot plug circuit to the second ATCA power connector; plugging and matching the second ATCA connector component of the expansion card with the first ATCA connector component of the ATCA main control card includes: plugging and matching the first ATCA power connector of the ATCA main control card with the second ATCA power connector of the expansion card, that is, the second ATCA power connector 211 is connected to the first ATCA power connector 111 by plugging, so as to achieve circuit or signal connection and transmission.

[0058] The first ATCA power connector 111 and the second ATCA power connector 211 are used to provide a stable power connection to ensure the normal operation of the ATCA device. The first ATCA power connector 111 and the second ATCA power connector 211 generally comply with the specifications on power distribution in the ATCA standard.

[0059] The orthogonal power connector 231 refers to a power connector suitable for an orthogonal structure, and the orthogonal power connector 231 complies with the specifications for power distribution in the orthogonal architecture. The hot-swap circuit 222 refers to a circuit that inserts a module, card or connector into a system without affecting the operation of the system when the system is in a conductive working state. The implementation principle of this technology is mainly to control the magnitude of the instantaneous current to ensure that the power supply voltage of the system will not be unacceptably affected when the device is inserted or removed. There are many ways to implement the hot-swap circuit 222, among which the use of a hot-swap chip is a more advanced and reliable method. The hot-swap chip usually includes a driving MOS design and a current detection resistor, which can control the current rise rate, provide a circuit breaker function, perform power management and status reporting, etc. In addition, the hot-swap circuit 222 can also provide safety functions such as short-circuit protection and overcurrent protection to ensure the stable operation of the system. The hot-swap circuit 222 completes the conversion of the orthogonal power input from the orthogonal power connector 231 to the ATCA power supply, ensuring that the hot-swap of the board card does not affect the card and other boards on the chassis, while preventing reverse insertion.

[0060] In an optional embodiment of the present invention, the first ATCA connector component 11 includes a first ATCA base connector 112, the second ATCA connector component 21 includes a second ATCA base connector 212, the orthogonal connector component 23 includes an orthogonal base connector 232, the conversion module 22 also includes a switch chip 221, and the manufacturing of the expansion card 2 further includes: electrically connecting a first end of the switch chip 221 to the orthogonal base connector 232, and electrically connecting a second end of the switch chip 221 to the second ATCA base connector 212; plugging and matching the second ATCA connector component 21 of the expansion card 2 with the first ATCA connector component 11 of the ATCA main control card 1, further includes: plugging and matching the first ATCA base connector 112 of the ATCA main control card 1 with the second ATCA base connector 212 of the expansion card 2.

[0061] The first ATCA base connector 112 and the second ATCA base connector 212 are base connectors suitable for the ATCA architecture, and the base connectors are usually used to connect various components inside the chassis, including connectors such as data and control panels. The first ATCA base connector 112 and the second ATCA base connector 212 are plugged together, that is, the first ATCA base connector 112 and the second ATCA base connector 212 are connected together by plugging to achieve circuit or signal connection and transmission.

[0062] The orthogonal base connector 232 refers to a base connector suitable for an orthogonal architecture. The switch chip 221 refers to a key component used for packet forwarding and routing selection in a network device. As an integrated circuit, it can implement packet forwarding and routing decisions in a computer network device and is a core component of network communication and data transmission. By introducing the switch chip 221, the number of network ports of the network device can be significantly expanded, the communication capability can be improved, and the communication needs of more slot boards can be met.

[0063] In an optional embodiment of the present invention, the conversion module 22 further includes a PHY chip 223 , and the manufacturing of the expansion card 2 further includes: electrically connecting the PHY chip 223 between the second end of the switching chip 221 and the second ATCA base connector 212 .

[0064] Among them, the PHY chip 223, also known as the physical layer chip (Physical Layer Chip), is an important integrated circuit in computer networks and communication equipment. It is responsible for realizing the physical layer function of data transmission and is responsible for the physical layer of data signal transmission and reception in the network. It is mainly used in conjunction with a MAC (Media Access Control) chip or other high-level controller chips to enable computers and network devices to exchange data. For a main control board that only has an electrical port but no SGMII network port, it is transferred through the PHY chip 223. The PHY chip 223 can provide the functions required for physical layer communication, such as signal conversion, clock extraction, etc., to ensure normal communication between the main control board and the external network device, and can also complete the compatible conversion of using different network ports for communication under the ATCA architecture and the orthogonal architecture.

[0065] In an optional embodiment of the present invention, the conversion module 22 also includes a CPLD chip 224, and the manufacturing of the expansion card 2 also includes: electrically connecting the first end of the CPLD chip 224 to the orthogonal base connector 232, and electrically connecting the second end of the CPLD chip 224 to the second ATCA base connector 212.

[0066] The CPLD chip 224, i.e., a Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD) chip, is a digital integrated circuit that can be used by users to construct logic functions according to their own needs. The CPLD chip 224 can be used to implement functions such as board configuration, board in-place identification, and expansion of more serial ports for communication and debugging with various boards.

[0067] In an optional embodiment of the present invention, the method for making the ATCA main control card 1 compatible with the orthogonal architecture further includes: obtaining a positioning module 3, wherein the positioning module 3 includes a positioning pin 31 and a positioning hole 32; setting the positioning pin 31 on one of the ATCA main control card 1 and the expansion card 2, and setting the positioning hole 32 on the other of the ATCA main control card 1 and the expansion card 2; inserting the positioning pin 31 into the positioning hole 32 to position the ATCA main control card 1 and the expansion card 2.

[0068] In the above solution, the ATCA main control card 1 and the expansion card 2 can be positioned by simply inserting the positioning pin 31 into the positioning hole 32. The positioning module 3 is used to assist in confirming the position of the board, thereby avoiding the situation in which the ATCA main control card 1 and the expansion card 2 are skewed during the connection process, resulting in the connector not being properly inserted and causing unstable signals.

[0069] In this embodiment, if Figure 2and Figure 3 As shown, the positioning pin 31 is provided on the ATCA main control card 1, and the positioning hole 32 is provided on the expansion card 2. Preferably, the positioning pin 31 is located between the first ATCA power connector 111 and the first ATCA base connector 112, and the positioning hole 32 is located between the second ATCA power connector 211 and the second ATCA base connector 212, so that the positioning pin 31 and the positioning hole 32 can better position the first ATCA power connector 111, the first ATCA base connector 112, the second ATCA power connector 211 and the second ATCA base connector 212, and prevent the first ATCA power connector 111 and the second ATCA power connector 211 from being not properly inserted and / or the first ATCA base connector 112 and the second ATCA base connector 212 from being not properly inserted, which causes the signal to be unstable. Preferably, the expansion card 2 is also provided with a positioning pin 31 on the side opposite to the positioning hole 32, so as to position the expansion card 2 when it is connected to the formed main control board and other devices. It is understandable that in other embodiments, the positioning pin 31 may be disposed on the expansion card 2 and the positioning hole 32 may be disposed on the ATCA main control card 1 , which is not specifically limited here and is only used as an example.

[0070] In an optional embodiment of the present invention, the ATCA main control card 1 also includes a front panel debugging interface 12, the ATCA main control card 1 includes a first side 13 and a second side 14 relative to each other; the expansion card 2 includes a third side 24 and a fourth side 25 relative to each other; the method for the ATCA main control card 1 to be compatible with the orthogonal architecture further includes: setting the front panel debugging interface 12 on the first side 13, and setting the first ATCA connector component 11 on the second side 14; the manufacturing of the expansion card 2 further includes: setting the second ATCA connector component 21 on the third side 24, and setting the orthogonal connector component 23 on the fourth side 25.

[0071] Among them, the front panel debugging interface 12 of the ATCA main control card 1 refers to an interface located on the front panel of the ATCA main control card 1 for debugging and testing. Through the above settings, the front panel debugging interface 12 is still pulled out from the front panel of the ATCA main control card 1, and the operation is the same as the original ATCA main control card 1. The remaining communication signals such as the backplane network port and serial port, as well as the chassis power supply, chassis slot number identification and other functions are connected and connected from the orthogonal base connector 232 and the orthogonal power connector 231 of the expansion card 2, and are connected to the original ATCA main control card 1 after processing. The new main control board is the same as the standard ATCA main control card 1, and the software level has no perception when using this card or using other standard orthogonal main control cards.

[0072] In an optional embodiment of the present invention, after the second ATCA connector component 21 of the expansion card 2 is plugged and matched with the first ATCA connector component 11 of the ATCA main control card 1, the method further includes: obtaining a fixed structure 4; fixing the ATCA main control card 1 to the fixed structure 4 by a first fastener; and fixing the expansion card 2 to the fixed structure 4 by a second fastener.

[0073] Specifically, the first fastener passes through the ATCA main control card 1 and is fixedly connected to the fixed structure 4, and the second fastener is used to fix the expansion card 2 to the fixed structure 4. Specifically, the second fastener passes through the ATCA expansion card 2 and is fixedly connected to the fixed structure 4. In some embodiments, the first fastener and the second fastener are flat spring screws. Since the ATCA main control card 1 does not use a CPU subcard module, the top height is relatively low, and it can be freely adapted to chassis of orthogonal main control cards of different heights. It only needs to replace a front panel structure to switch smoothly, and has strong compatibility. The original ATCA main control card 1 and the expansion card 2 are both fixed to the fixed structure 4 by flat spring screws, ensuring that the main control board position will not be affected when plugging in and out a new main control board and plugging in and out accessories of the front panel debugging interface 12, and the mechanical strength is high. In some embodiments, the fixed structure 4 is a metal structure.

[0074] In an optional embodiment of the present invention, Figure 4 As shown, the ATCA main control card 1 also includes a main control module 15. The method of the ATCA main control card 1 being compatible with the orthogonal architecture also includes: electrically connecting the main control module 15 to the first ATCA base connector 112; acquiring the card signal sent by the CPLD chip 224 through the main control module 15, and determining the expansion card type and the expansion card insertion status based on the card signal.

[0075] Among them, the main control module 15 is a key component in the automatic control system, which plays the role of the system brain and is responsible for coordinating and controlling the operation of the entire system. In some embodiments, the main control module 15 includes a CPU. In some embodiments, the main control module 15 obtains the card signal sent by the CPLD chip 224 in a direct manner. In some embodiments, the main control module 15 obtains the card signal sent by the CPLD chip 224 in an indirect manner. Specifically, the main control module 15 obtains the card signal sent by the CPLD chip 224 in a CPLD manner, that is, the ATCA main control card 1 also includes a CPLD, and the card signal of the expansion card 2 is obtained by the CPLD on the ATCA main control card 1, and the CPLD on the ATCA main control card 1 communicates with the main control module so that the main control module 15 obtains the card signal of the CPLD chip 224. In some embodiments, the card signal of the expansion card 2 is obtained by the CPLD on the ATCA main control card 1 and the expansion card type and expansion card plug-in state are determined. In other embodiments, the card signal of the CPLD chip 224 can also be obtained by the main control module 15 and the expansion card type and expansion card plug-in state are determined. This is not specifically limited here, but is just an example.

[0076] The expansion card type refers to different types of storage or function expansion cards 2 designed according to different equipment and application requirements. Different expansion card types send different signals, so the main control module 15 can determine the expansion card type according to the card signal sent by the CPLD chip 224. The expansion card plug-in state refers to the plug-in state of the expansion card 2 and the ATCA main control card 1. When the expansion card 2 is plugged in with the ATCA main control card 1, the main control module 15 can communicate directly or indirectly with the CPLD chip 224, and when the expansion card 2 is not plugged in with the ATCA main control card 1, the main control module 15 cannot communicate directly or indirectly with the CPLD chip 224, so the main control module 15 can determine the expansion card plug-in state according to the card signal sent by the CPLD chip 224.

[0077] The advantages of adopting the above scheme are: the standard ATCA main control card 1 can be easily transformed into an orthogonal main control card that can be applied to the orthogonal architecture, that is, a new main control board is formed. Reusing the existing ATCA main control card 1 can reduce the R&D and manufacturing costs of a single card, shorten the R&D cycle, and reduce the difficulty of use and maintenance. Using the expansion card 2 for transfer has low cost, simple installation and operation, supports hot plugging, and has high mechanical strength. Because the original ATCA main control card 1 and the expansion card 2 are relatively low in height, they can be applied to orthogonal main control card slots of different heights and have strong compatibility. The original ATCA main control card 1 plus the expansion card 2 have the same length as the standard orthogonal main control card, and the structural parts of other orthogonal main control cards can be reused, while ensuring the connection and adaptation with the backplane of the chassis control surface. By using this expansion card 2, debugging interfaces such as network ports and serial ports can be expanded, so that the main control board can be smoothly connected in chassis with two different backplane definitions. Because the front and rear connectors of the expansion card 2 are all standard chassis definitions, they can be applied to different standard boards and chassis. Expansion card 2 provides chip configuration, management and other functions, and tries to be software-insensitive, reducing software development costs and user learning costs. It also provides functions such as board in place and type identification, which facilitates later management, maintenance and development of special functions.

[0078] Embodiment 2

[0079] Embodiment 2 of the present invention provides a main control board, which is manufactured by using the method of ATCA main control card compatible with orthogonal architecture described in any embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the main control board includes an ATCA main control card 1 and an expansion card 2. The ATCA main control card 1 includes a first ATCA connector component 11. The expansion card 2 includes a second ATCA connector component 21, a conversion module 22, and an orthogonal connector component 23. The second ATCA connector component 21 is plugged and matched with the first ATCA connector component 11. A first end of the conversion module 22 is electrically connected to the orthogonal connector component 23, and a second end of the conversion module 22 is electrically connected to the second ATCA connector component 21. The conversion module 22 is used to realize bidirectional signal conversion between the ATCA architecture and the orthogonal architecture.

[0080] In the above scheme, the second ATCA connector component 21 of the expansion card 2 is plugged with the first ATCA connector component 11 of the ATCA main control card 1, and the conversion module 22 is used to realize the bidirectional signal conversion between the ATCA architecture and the orthogonal architecture, so that the ATCA main control card 1 can be converted into an orthogonal main control card suitable for the orthogonal architecture, and the compatible conversion of the ATCA main control card 1 is realized, and the problem of how to make the ATCA main control card 1 compatible with the orthogonal architecture is solved, which can reduce unnecessary waste, reduce the cost of a single card, shorten the research and development cycle, and enhance product competitiveness.

[0081] In an optional embodiment of the present invention, Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the first ATCA connector assembly 11 includes a first ATCA power connector 111, and the second ATCA connector assembly 21 includes a second ATCA power connector 211. The first ATCA power connector 111 is plugged with the second ATCA power connector 211, that is, the second ATCA power connector 211 is connected with the first ATCA power connector 111 by plugging, so as to achieve the connection and transmission of circuits or signals. The orthogonal connector assembly 23 includes an orthogonal power connector 231, and the conversion module 22 includes a hot plug circuit 222. The first end of the hot plug circuit 222 is electrically connected to the orthogonal power connector 231, and the second end of the hot plug circuit 222 is electrically connected to the second ATCA power connector 211.

[0082] Among them, the orthogonal power connector 231 refers to a power connector suitable for an orthogonal structure, and the orthogonal power connector 231 complies with the specifications for power distribution in the orthogonal architecture. The hot-swap circuit 222 refers to a circuit that inserts a module, card or connector into a system without affecting the operation of the system when the system is in a conductive working state. The implementation principle of this technology is mainly to control the magnitude of the instantaneous current to ensure that the power supply voltage of the system will not be unacceptably affected when the device is inserted or removed. There are many ways to implement the hot-swap circuit 222, among which the use of a hot-swap chip is a more advanced and reliable method. The hot-swap chip usually includes a driving MOS design and a current detection resistor, which can control the current rise rate, provide a circuit breaker function, perform power management and status reporting, etc. In addition, the hot-swap circuit 222 can also provide safety functions such as short-circuit protection and overcurrent protection to ensure the stable operation of the system. The hot-swap circuit 222 completes the conversion of the orthogonal power input by the orthogonal power connector 231 to the ATCA power supply, ensuring that the hot-swap of the board card does not affect the card and other boards on the chassis, and preventing reverse insertion.

[0083] In an optional embodiment of the present invention, Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the first ATCA connector assembly 11 includes a first ATCA base connector 112, and the second ATCA connector assembly 21 includes a second ATCA base connector 212. The first ATCA base connector 112 and the second ATCA base connector 212 are base connectors suitable for the ATCA architecture, and the base connectors are generally used to connect various components inside the chassis, including connectors such as data and control panels. The first ATCA base connector 112 and the second ATCA base connector 212 are plugged together, that is, the first ATCA base connector 112 and the second ATCA base connector 212 are connected together by plugging to achieve circuit or signal connection and transmission.

[0084] The orthogonal connector assembly 23 includes an orthogonal base connector 232, and the conversion module 22 also includes a switching chip 221. The first end of the switching chip 221 is electrically connected to the orthogonal base connector 232, and the second end of the switching chip 221 is electrically connected to the second ATCA base connector 212. Among them, the orthogonal base connector 232 refers to a base connector suitable for an orthogonal architecture. The switching chip 221 refers to a key component used for data packet forwarding and routing selection in a network device. As an integrated circuit, it can implement data packet forwarding and routing decisions in a computer network device, and is a core component of network communication and data transmission. By introducing the switching chip 221, the number of network ports of the network device can be significantly expanded, the communication capability can be improved, and the communication needs of more slot boards can be met.

[0085] In an optional embodiment of the present invention, Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the conversion module 22 also includes a PHY chip 223, which is electrically connected between the second end of the switching chip 221 and the second ATCA base connector 212. Among them, the PHY chip 223, also known as the physical layer chip (Physical Layer Chip), is an important integrated circuit in computer networks and communication equipment, which is responsible for realizing the physical layer function of data transmission and is responsible for the physical layer of data signal transmission and reception in the network. It is mainly used in conjunction with a MAC (Media Access Control) chip or other high-level controller chips to enable computers and network devices to exchange data. For a main control board that only has an electrical port but no SGMII network port, it is transferred through the PHY chip 223. The PHY chip 223 can provide the functions required for physical layer communication, such as signal conversion, clock extraction, etc., so that compatible conversion using different network ports for communication under the ATCA architecture and the orthogonal architecture can be completed.

[0086] In an optional embodiment of the present invention, Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the conversion module 22 also includes a CPLD chip 224, a first end of the CPLD chip 224 is electrically connected to the orthogonal base connector 232, and a second end of the CPLD chip 224 is electrically connected to the second ATCA base connector 212. The CPLD chip 224, i.e., a complex programmable logic device (Complex Programmable Logic Device) chip, is a digital integrated circuit that can be constructed by users according to their own needs. The CPLD chip 224 can be used to implement functions such as board configuration, board in-place identification, and expansion of more serial ports for communication and debugging with each board.

[0087] In an optional embodiment of the present invention, Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the main control board also includes a positioning module 3, which is used to position the ATCA main control card 1 and the expansion card 2. The positioning module 3 is used to assist in confirming the position of the board to avoid the situation in which the ATCA main control card 1 and the expansion card 2 are skewed during the connection process, resulting in the connector not being properly inserted and causing unstable signals.

[0088] On the basis of the above embodiment, the positioning module 3 includes a positioning pin 31 and a positioning hole 32. The positioning pin 31 is arranged on one of the ATCA main control card 1 and the expansion card 2, and the positioning hole 32 is arranged on the other of the ATCA main control card 1 and the expansion card 2. The positioning pin 31 is used to be inserted into the positioning hole 32 to position the ATCA main control card 1 and the expansion card 2. Therefore, the positioning of the ATCA main control card 1 and the expansion card 2 can be realized by simply inserting the positioning pin 31 into the positioning hole 32.

[0089] In this embodiment, if Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the positioning pin 31 is provided on the ATCA main control card 1, and the positioning hole 32 is provided on the expansion card 2. Preferably, the positioning pin 31 is located between the first ATCA power connector 111 and the first ATCA base connector 112, and the positioning hole 32 is located between the second ATCA power connector 211 and the second ATCA base connector 212, so that the positioning pin 31 and the positioning hole 32 can better position the first ATCA power connector 111, the first ATCA base connector 112, the second ATCA power connector 211 and the second ATCA base connector 212, and prevent the first ATCA power connector 111 and the second ATCA power connector 211 from being not properly inserted and / or the first ATCA base connector 112 and the second ATCA base connector 212 from being not properly inserted, which causes the signal to be unstable. Preferably, the expansion card 2 is also provided with a positioning pin 31 on the side opposite to the positioning hole 32, so as to position the expansion card 2 when it is connected to the formed main control board and other devices. It is understandable that in other embodiments, the positioning pin 31 may be disposed on the expansion card 2 and the positioning hole 32 may be disposed on the ATCA main control card 1 , which is not specifically limited here and is only used as an example.

[0090] In some embodiments, there are two groups of positioning modules 3, one group of positioning modules 3 is used to position the ATCA main control card 1 and the expansion card 2, and the other group of positioning modules 3 is used to position the expansion card 2 and the orthogonal chassis. When the positioning modules 3 position the expansion card 2 and the orthogonal chassis, the positioning pins 31 in the group of positioning modules 3 are set on one of the expansion card 2 and the orthogonal chassis, and the positioning holes 32 in the group of positioning modules 3 are set on the other of the expansion card 2 and the orthogonal chassis.

[0091] In an optional embodiment of the present invention, Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the ATCA main control card 1 also includes a front panel debugging interface 12. The ATCA main control card 1 includes a first side 13 and a second side 14 opposite to each other. The front panel debugging interface 12 is arranged on the first side 13, and the first ATCA connector component 11 is arranged on the second side 14. The expansion card 2 includes a third side 24 and a fourth side 25 opposite to each other. The second ATCA connector component 21 is arranged on the third side 24, and the orthogonal connector component 23 is arranged on the fourth side 25. The front panel debugging interface 12 of the ATCA main control card 1 refers to an interface located on the front panel of the ATCA main control card 1 for debugging and testing. Through the above settings, the front panel debugging interface 12 is still pulled out from the front panel of the ATCA main control card 1, and the operation is the same as the original ATCA main control card 1. The remaining communication signals such as the backplane network port and the serial port, as well as the functions such as the chassis power supply and the chassis slot number identification are connected and taken out from the orthogonal base connector 232 and the orthogonal power connector 231 of the expansion card 2, and are connected to the original ATCA main control card 1 after processing. The new main control board is the same as the standard ATCA main control card 1. The software level has no perception when using this card or other standard orthogonal main control cards.

[0092] In an optional embodiment of the present invention, Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the main control board also includes a fixed structure 4, a first fastener and a second fastener. The first fastener is used to fix the ATCA main control card 1 to the fixed structure 4. Specifically, the first fastener passes through the ATCA main control card 1 and is fixedly connected to the fixed structure 4. The second fastener is used to fix the expansion card 2 to the fixed structure 4. Specifically, the second fastener passes through the ATCA expansion card 2 and is fixedly connected to the fixed structure 4. In some embodiments, the first fastener and the second fastener are flat spring screws. Since the ATCA main control card 1 does not use a CPU subcard module, the top height is relatively low, and it can be freely adapted to the chassis of orthogonal main control cards of different heights. It only needs to change a front panel structure to switch smoothly, and the compatibility is relatively strong. The original ATCA main control card 1 and the expansion card 2 are fixed to the fixed structure 4 by flat spring screws, ensuring that the position of the main control board will not be affected when plugging in and out a new main control board and plugging in and out accessories of the front panel debugging interface 12, and the mechanical strength is high.

[0093] In an optional embodiment of the present invention, Figure 4 As shown, the ATCA main control card 1 further includes a main control module 15, which is electrically connected to the first ATCA connector assembly 11. The main control module 15 is used to obtain the card signal sent by the CPLD chip 224, and determine the expansion card type and expansion card insertion status based on the card signal.

[0094] Among them, the main control module 15 is a key component in the automatic control system, which plays the role of the system brain and is responsible for coordinating and controlling the operation of the entire system. In some embodiments, the main control module 15 includes a CPU. In some embodiments, the main control module 15 obtains the card signal sent by the CPLD chip 224 in a direct manner. In some embodiments, the main control module 15 obtains the card signal sent by the CPLD chip 224 in an indirect manner. Specifically, the main control module 15 obtains the card signal sent by the CPLD chip 224 in a CPLD manner, that is, the ATCA main control card 1 also includes a CPLD, and the card signal of the expansion card 2 is obtained by the CPLD on the ATCA main control card 1, and the CPLD on the ATCA main control card 1 communicates with the main control module so that the main control module 15 obtains the card signal of the CPLD chip 224. In some embodiments, the card signal of the expansion card 2 is obtained by the CPLD on the ATCA main control card 1 and the expansion card type and expansion card plug-in state are determined. In other embodiments, the card signal of the CPLD chip 224 can also be obtained by the main control module 15 and the expansion card type and expansion card plug-in state are determined. This is not specifically limited here, but is just an example.

[0095] The expansion card type refers to different types of storage or function expansion cards 2 designed according to different equipment and application requirements. Different expansion card types send different signals, so the main control module 15 can determine the expansion card type according to the card signal sent by the CPLD chip 224. The expansion card plug-in state refers to the plug-in state of the expansion card 2 and the ATCA main control card 1. When the expansion card 2 is plugged in with the ATCA main control card 1, the main control module 15 can communicate with the CPLD chip 224, and when the expansion card 2 is not plugged in with the ATCA main control card 1, the main control module 15 cannot communicate with the CPLD chip 224, so the main control module 15 can determine the expansion card plug-in state according to the card signal sent by the CPLD chip 224.

[0096] The advantages of adopting the above scheme are: the standard ATCA main control card 1 can be easily transformed into an orthogonal main control card that can be applied to the orthogonal architecture, that is, a new main control board is formed. Reusing the existing ATCA main control card 1 can reduce the R&D and manufacturing costs of a single card, shorten the R&D cycle, and reduce the difficulty of use and maintenance. Using the expansion card 2 for transfer has low cost, simple installation and operation, supports hot plugging, and has high mechanical strength. Because the original ATCA main control card 1 and the expansion card 2 are relatively low in height, they can be applied to orthogonal main control card slots of different heights and have strong compatibility. The original ATCA main control card 1 plus the expansion card 2 have the same length as the standard orthogonal main control card, and the structural parts of other orthogonal main control cards can be reused, while ensuring the connection and adaptation with the backplane of the chassis control surface. By using this expansion card 2, debugging interfaces such as network ports and serial ports can be expanded, so that the main control board can be smoothly connected in chassis with two different backplane definitions. Because the front and rear connectors of the expansion card 2 are all standard chassis definitions, they can be applied to different standard boards and chassis. Expansion card 2 provides chip configuration, management and other functions, and tries to be software-insensitive, reducing software development costs and user learning costs. It also provides functions such as board in place and type identification, which facilitates later management, maintenance and development of special functions.

[0097] It should be understood that the various forms of processes shown above can be used to reorder, add or delete steps. For example, the steps described in the present invention can be executed in parallel, sequentially or in different orders, as long as the desired results of the technical solution of the present invention can be achieved, and this document does not limit this.

[0098] The above specific implementations do not constitute a limitation on the protection scope of the present invention. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications, combinations, sub-combinations and substitutions can be made according to design requirements and other factors. Any modification, equivalent substitution and improvement made within the spirit and principle of the present invention should be included in the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A method for making an ATCA main control card compatible with an orthogonal architecture, wherein the ATCA main control card comprises a first ATCA connector assembly; characterized in that: The method for the ATCA main control card to be compatible with the orthogonal architecture includes: Manufacturing an expansion card, wherein the expansion card comprises a second ATCA connector component, a conversion module and an orthogonal connector component, electrically connecting a first end of the conversion module to the orthogonal connector component, and electrically connecting a second end of the conversion module to the second ATCA connector component, wherein the conversion module is used to realize bidirectional signal conversion between the ATCA architecture and the orthogonal architecture; The second ATCA connector component of the expansion card is plugged and matched with the first ATCA connector component of the ATCA main control card.

2. The method for ATCA master control card compatibility with orthogonal architecture according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first ATCA connector assembly includes a first ATCA power connector, the second ATCA connector assembly includes a second ATCA power connector, the orthogonal connector assembly includes an orthogonal power connector, and the conversion module includes a hot-swap circuit; the expansion card manufacturing further includes: electrically connecting a first end of the hot-swap circuit to the orthogonal power connector, and a second end of the hot-swap circuit to the second ATCA power connector; The plugging and matching the second ATCA connector component of the expansion card with the first ATCA connector component of the ATCA main control card includes: The first ATCA power connector of the ATCA main control card is plugged and matched with the second ATCA power connector of the expansion card.

3. The method for ATCA master control card compatibility with orthogonal architecture according to claim 2, characterized in that: The first ATCA connector assembly includes a first ATCA base connector, the second ATCA connector assembly includes a second ATCA base connector, the orthogonal connector assembly includes an orthogonal base connector, the conversion module also includes a switching chip, and the expansion card manufacturing further includes: Electrically connecting a first end of the switch chip to the orthogonal base connector, and a second end of the switch chip to the second ATCA base connector; The plugging and matching the second ATCA connector component of the expansion card with the first ATCA connector component of the ATCA main control card further includes: The first ATCA base connector of the ATCA main control card is plugged and matched with the second ATCA base connector of the expansion card.

4. The method for ATCA master control card compatibility with orthogonal architecture according to claim 3, characterized in that: The conversion module also includes a PHY chip, and the expansion card manufacturing also includes: The PHY chip is electrically connected between the second end of the switch chip and the second ATCA base connector.

5. The main control board according to claim 3, characterized in that: The conversion module also includes a CPLD chip, and the expansion card making also includes: A first end of the CPLD chip is electrically connected to the orthogonal base connector, and a second end of the CPLD chip is electrically connected to the second ATCA base connector.

6. The method for ATCA master control card compatibility with orthogonal architecture according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that: The method for the ATCA main control card to be compatible with the orthogonal architecture further includes: Acquire a positioning module, wherein the positioning module includes a positioning pin and a positioning hole; The positioning pin is arranged on one of the ATCA main control card and the expansion card, and the positioning hole is arranged on the other one of the ATCA main control card and the expansion card; Insert the positioning pin into the positioning hole to position the ATCA main control card and the expansion card.

7. The method for ATCA master control card compatibility with orthogonal architecture according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that: The ATCA main control card further includes a front panel debugging interface, the ATCA main control card includes a first side and a second side opposite to each other; the expansion card includes a third side and a fourth side opposite to each other; the method for the ATCA main control card to be compatible with an orthogonal architecture further includes: The front panel debugging interface is arranged on the first side, and the first ATCA connector assembly is arranged on the second side; The manufacturing of the expansion card also includes: The second ATCA connector assembly is disposed on the third side, and the orthogonal connector assembly is disposed on the fourth side.

8. The method for ATCA master control card compatibility with orthogonal architecture according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that: After the second ATCA connector component of the expansion card is plugged and matched with the first ATCA connector component of the ATCA main control card, the method further includes: Get a fixed structure; The ATCA main control card is fixedly connected to the fixed structure by a first fastener; The expansion card is fixedly connected to the fixing structure through a second fastener.

9. The method for ATCA master control card compatibility with orthogonal architecture according to claim 5, characterized in that: The ATCA main control card further includes a main control module. The method for the ATCA main control card to be compatible with the orthogonal architecture further includes: electrically connecting the main control module to the first ATCA base connector; The card signal sent by the CPLD chip is acquired through the main control module, and the expansion card type and the expansion card insertion state are determined based on the card signal.

10. A main control board, characterized in that: The method is manufactured by using the ATCA main control card compatible orthogonal architecture method described in any one of claims 1 to 9.

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