Asymmetric Interposer Routing for Flexible Data Interfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Information handling systems face challenges in efficiently configuring and interconnecting devices and processors with varying data communication interfaces, requiring a flexible and efficient interconnect solution that can adapt to different orientations and interface widths.
Innovation Solution
An asymmetric high-speed interconnect routing interposer is introduced, which connects devices and processors through a socket system with interchangeable orientations, allowing for either 16-bit or bifurcated 8-bit data communication interfaces, enabling flexible routing and efficient data transfer based on the interposer's installation orientation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-configuration interconnect is used, then device compatibility is simplified, but adaptability to different interface widths and orientations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The interconnect configuration is made dynamic through the interposer's ability to be installed in different orientations (first and second orientations), allowing the system to adapt between 16-bit single interface mode and 8-bit dual interface mode based on operational requirements, rather than being fixed in a single configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The interposer serves multiple functions by supporting both 16-bit and 8-bit interface widths through its dual-orientation capability, enabling a single component to handle different data communication requirements without requiring separate specialized interconnects for each interface type
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single 16-bit interface is used, then hardware complexity is reduced, but flexibility in data communication configurations is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The 16-bit data communication interface is segmented into two separate 8-bit interfaces when the interposer is installed in the second orientation, allowing independent configuration and connection of device 112 and device 114 to different host processors, thereby increasing configuration flexibility without requiring a completely different interconnect architecture
3Adaptability or versatility
If interchangeable orientation sockets are used, then routing flexibility is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The socket and interposer are designed with asymmetric features that enable directional installation, where the interposer can be installed in one of two specific orientations. This asymmetric design provides routing flexibility while maintaining manageable manufacturing precision requirements through clear orientation guidance rather than requiring extremely tight tolerances for arbitrary angular positioning
Data Source
AI summary
An information handling system includes a first device having a first data communication interface connected to a first socket area of a socket. A second device includes a second data communication interface connected to a second socket area of the socket. A host processor includes a third data communication interface connected to a third socket area of the socket. When an interposer is installed into the socket in a first orientation, the interposer connects the first data communication interface to the third data communication interface. When the interposer is installed into the socket in a second orientation, the interposer connects the first data communication interface to the second data communication interface.