Dual Connect Switch Module for Chassis Adaptability
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Solution Overview
Problem
The development of new network switch designs is inefficient due to the need for complete redesigns and replacement of old equipment with each chassis unit or system development, leading to excessive resources and complexity in switch systems.
Innovation Solution
A dual connect switch module with a substrate having two sets of pluggable panel connectors on opposite sides, connected to a switch IC, allowing for modular design and easy integration with standard cables, reducing the need for extensive redesigns and simplifying maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If network switches are designed to conform to specific chassis unit and system designs, then the switches can be integrated into those systems, but new chassis unit developments require complete redesign and replacement of old switches, leading to inefficiency and waste
Solution Approach 1:
The network switch is designed with universal interfaces and standardized connection protocols that allow it to be integrated into multiple different chassis unit types and system architectures. The switch module can function across various network topologies (director switches, dragonfly, fat-tree) without requiring redesign, as it uses standard pluggable panel connectors and common communication protocols that are compatible with diverse system designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The network switch is divided into modular components including a substrate with pluggable panel connectors, switch ICs, and optional management modules. This segmentation allows individual components to be updated or replaced independently while maintaining compatibility with the overall system, enabling evolution of switch capabilities without complete redesign when new chassis units are developed.
2Adaptability or versatility
If network switches are redesigned with each chassis unit development, then the switches can conform to new system requirements, but this requires replacement of old equipment and consumes excessive resources
Solution Approach 1:
The switch module is designed with universal characteristics including standard pluggable panel connectors (OSFP, QSFP28, etc.), common communication protocol support, and standardized mounting interfaces that enable deployment across multiple chassis unit types and system generations. This universality allows the same switch hardware to satisfy varying system requirements through configuration rather than physical redesign, eliminating the need for resource-intensive replacement cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch incorporates dynamic capabilities through programmable switch ICs and management modules that can be updated via software or firmware. This allows the switch to adapt to new system requirements and protocols without hardware replacement, enabling conformance to evolving system standards while preserving the physical infrastructure and avoiding resource waste.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional network switch designs are used, then the switches can be integrated into existing chassis, but the design becomes inefficient and wasteful when chassis units are updated
Solution Approach 1:
The network switch is implemented as a self-contained module on a substrate with integrated pluggable panel connectors, switch ICs, and management functions. This segmentation creates a standardized building block that can be easily manufactured and integrated into various chassis units using standard mounting procedures. The modular design enables parallel development of switch modules and chassis units independently, significantly improving development efficiency while maintaining ease of integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch module employs universal interfaces including standard pluggable connectors, common power requirements, and standardized management protocols that simplify manufacturing and integration processes across different chassis unit types. This universality allows a single switch module design to be produced at scale and deployed in multiple system configurations, improving both manufacturing efficiency and development productivity without sacrificing integration capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A dual connect switch module may include a first set of pluggable panel connectors on a first side of a substrate of the switch and a second set of pluggable panel connectors on an opposing second side of the substrate. The switch module further includes a switch Integrated Circuit (IC) mounted between the first side and the second side, where the switch IC is connected to the first set of pluggable panel connectors and to the second set of pluggable panel connectors. A cable can be used to connect at least one pluggable panel connector of the first set of pluggable panel connectors and/or of the second set of pluggable panel connectors with a port of an external network device. In some examples, the switch and substrate may further include a management module that manages one or more on-board functions of the switch module.