CXL Peripheral Sharing for Space- and Power-Limited Servers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Data processing systems are limited in space, power, and connections for peripheral devices, restricting access to desired computer-implemented services.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a compute express link (CXL) switch to connect multiple data processing systems to external peripheral devices, managed by a management controller that operates independently from the CPU, allowing shared access and use of peripheral devices across systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple peripheral devices are connected to a single data processing system, then the system can access more functionalities and services, but the system space, power consumption, and connection resources are exceeded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a peripheral device sharing system where a single peripheral device can be accessed by multiple data processing systems through a management controller. This allows one peripheral device to serve multiple systems universally, eliminating the need for each system to have dedicated peripheral devices, thereby reducing total space and power requirements while maintaining access versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The management controller creates virtual representations or copies of peripheral device access rights for multiple data processing systems. Instead of physically connecting each system to every peripheral device, the controller manages virtual access permissions, allowing systems to access peripheral devices remotely through the shared pool without duplicating physical connections.
2Reliability
If each data processing system has dedicated peripheral devices, then system performance and reliability are improved, but device complexity and resource waste increase
Solution Approach 1:
The management controller serves as an intermediary between data processing systems and peripheral devices. It manages access requests, authentication, and device allocation, simplifying the complexity for individual systems while maintaining reliable access. The controller handles device state monitoring and coordination, ensuring system performance without requiring each system to manage complex device configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The management controller implements self-service mechanisms by automatically monitoring peripheral device usage states and dynamically allocating devices to requesting systems. The system autonomously manages device lending, borrowing, and return processes without manual intervention, reducing operational complexity while maintaining reliable access for all data processing systems.
3Productivity
If peripheral devices are shared between multiple data processing systems, then resource utilization improves and costs are reduced, but access control and device management complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The management controller implements feedback mechanisms by continuously monitoring peripheral device usage states and notifying relevant data processing systems. When a device is borrowed, used, or returned, the controller provides real-time feedback to update access permissions and device allocation status. This automated feedback loop simplifies access control management while maximizing resource utilization across multiple systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring access permissions and device allocation policies in the management controller before actual usage. Data processing systems can request access to peripheral devices in advance, and the controller prepares the necessary authentication and allocation arrangements, streamlining the access process and reducing management complexity during actual operations.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for managing a data processing system are disclosed. A management controller installed within the data processing system that operates independently from a central processing unit (CPU) (e.g., a motherboard) of the data processing system may manage access of the data processing system to various peripheral devices. The peripheral devices may be connected to the data processing system via a compute express link (CXL) switch. Other data processing systems may also be connected to the peripheral devices via the CXL switch, creating a shared environment where the capabilities and functionalities of the peripheral devices can be shared between these data processing systems.