Adapter Board System for Multi-Processor Motherboard Versatility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing information handling systems require different server motherboards for two-processor and four-processor configurations due to distinct processor pin definitions, limiting the flexibility and efficiency of processor utilization across different platforms.
Innovation Solution
An adapter board system that enables the use of a single motherboard with multiple processor sockets by providing communication buses between processor couplings, allowing for the coupling of multiple processors and addressing signal integrity issues through a breakout via system, enabling the same motherboard to support both two-processor and four-processor configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If different processor pin definitions are used for two-processor and four-processor servers, then processor compatibility is ensured, but motherboard versatility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs an adapter board as an intermediary component that couples between the two-processor motherboard and four-processor configuration. The adapter board contains processor couplings and communication buses that mediate the connection, allowing processors with different pin definitions to communicate through a standardized interface. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining processor compatibility through the adapter while enabling motherboard versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is segmented into distinct functional components: the original two-processor motherboard, the adapter board with its own processor couplings and communication buses, and the additional processors. This segmentation allows each component to maintain its original design characteristics while working together in a unified four-processor configuration, preserving both compatibility and versatility.
2Ease of operation
If different server motherboards are used for two-processor and four-processor configurations, then processor socket requirements are met, but system complexity and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of two separate motherboards (two-processor and four-processor versions) into a single unified solution. The adapter board combines additional processor couplings, communication buses, and signal routing capabilities with the existing two-processor motherboard, eliminating the need to maintain separate motherboard designs for different processor configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The two-processor motherboard is transformed into a universal platform that can support both two-processor and four-processor configurations through the adapter board. The same motherboard design serves multiple functions and configurations, reducing system complexity and manufacturing overhead while meeting different processor socket requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If signal communication paths are extended between processors, then processor connectivity is achieved, but signal integrity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent routes communication signals through additional dimensional paths within the adapter board structure. Rather than extending single long traces across the motherboard, signals travel through multiple shorter segments via the adapter board's internal communication buses and processor couplings, effectively reducing signal path length and maintaining integrity while achieving extended processor connectivity.
Data Source
AI summary
A board adapter system includes a first adapter board. A secondary first processor coupling is located on the first adapter board, and the first adapter board passes signals between a primary first processor coupling on a first board and a first processor coupled to the secondary first processor coupling when the first adapter board engages the primary first processor coupling. A first/third processor communication bus extends between the secondary first processor coupling and the second board connector on the first adapter board, and passes signals between the first processor and a third processor that is coupled to the second board connector. A first/fourth processor communication bus extends between the secondary first processor coupling and the second board connector, and passes signals between the first processor and a fourth processor that is coupled to the second board connector on the first adapter board.