Adaptive Interface Storage Device Protocol Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a storage device that can operate with multiple storage interfaces, as maintaining an inventory of devices supporting different interfaces can be inconvenient in systems using various interfaces.
Innovation Solution
An adaptive interface storage device that includes a rear storage interface connector, an adaptable circuit, and a front storage interface connector, configured to operate in two states: one state presenting a device-side storage interface according to a first storage protocol (e.g., NVMe) and another state presenting a device-side storage interface according to a second storage protocol (e.g., NVMe over Fabrics) using a multiplexer and programmable adaptable circuit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a storage device supports multiple storage interfaces, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The storage device incorporates multiple interface controllers (SAS, SATA, PCIe) within a single device, enabling it to support multiple storage interfaces simultaneously. The device can present different interface types through the same physical connector, making one device serve multiple functions and eliminating the need for separate inventory for different interface types.
Solution Approach 2:
A multiplexer is introduced as an intermediary component that dynamically routes signals between the front storage interface connector and different interface controllers based on the detected protocol. This mediator enables seamless switching between NVMe, NVMe over Fabrics, and other protocols without requiring manual configuration or multiple dedicated devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a storage device supports multiple storage interfaces, then the adaptability is improved, but the inventory management becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating multiple interface controllers (SAS, SATA, PCIe) within a single storage device, the system achieves multi-functionality that allows one device to replace multiple specialized devices. This universal design simplifies inventory management by reducing the variety of device types that need to be tracked and maintained.
Solution Approach 2:
The device employs dynamic protocol detection and switching capabilities, automatically identifying the required interface type and configuring itself accordingly. This dynamic adaptation eliminates the need for manual inventory categorization and device selection, as the same physical device can adapt to different interface requirements on demand.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a multiplexer is used to switch between protocols, then the interface adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A multiplexer serves as an intermediary switching component that dynamically routes signals between the front storage interface connector and different interface controllers based on the detected protocol. This mediator enables seamless switching between NVMe, NVMe over Fabrics, and other protocols without requiring manual configuration or multiple dedicated devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple interface controllers and switching functionality into a single integrated device architecture. By merging the SAS controller, SATA controller, PCIe controller, and multiplexer into one unified system, the overall device complexity is managed more efficiently than using separate devices for each function.
Data Source
AI summary
An adaptive interface storage device. In some embodiments, the adaptive interface storage device includes: a rear storage interface connector; an adaptable circuit connected to the rear storage interface connector; a first multiplexer, connected to the adaptable circuit; and a front storage interface connector, connected to the first multiplexer. The adaptive interface storage device may be configured to operate in a first state or in a second state. The adaptive interface storage device may be configured: in the first state, to present a device side storage interface according to a first storage protocol at the front storage interface connector, and in the second state, to present a device side storage interface according to a second storage protocol, different from the first storage protocol, at the front storage interface connector.