Dynamic Data Channel Allocation for Peripheral Connectivity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Computing devices face a challenge in managing a limited number of data channels, leading to inefficiencies when connecting peripheral devices, as allocating channels to one device often means sacrificing others, and there is a tradeoff between supporting interfaces and controllers.
Innovation Solution
A data channel allocation apparatus and method that dynamically allocates channels by connecting a peripheral device to a resource when a component is not detected, using a loop-back connection to redirect channels from a controller to the resource, allowing for flexible use of data channels without dedicating specific channels to controllers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If data channels are allocated to controllers for interface support, then interface functionality is ensured, but the number of available data channels for peripheral devices is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The data channels are designed to serve multiple functions: they can be allocated to controllers when interfaces are present, or reallocated to peripheral devices when interfaces are absent. This multi-functionality allows the same physical channels to adapt to different configuration scenarios, resolving the contradiction between ensuring interface support and maximizing available channels for peripherals.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements dynamic data channel allocation where the assignment of channels to controllers or peripheral devices is not fixed but can change based on detection of interface presence. The allocation is adjusted dynamically during system initialization or configuration, allowing the system to optimize channel usage based on actual hardware configuration.
2Reliability
If data channels are dedicated to controllers, then controller functionality is guaranteed, but motherboard space and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of dedicating specific data channels exclusively to controllers, the invention makes these channels universal resources that can be shared between controllers and peripheral devices. The same physical channels on the motherboard can serve different purposes depending on configuration, reducing the total number of channels needed and thereby reducing motherboard space requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the allocation parameter of data channels from a fixed dedicated assignment to a flexible dynamic assignment. By changing how the channels are parameterized and assigned, the system can reduce the total channel count needed while maintaining reliability, thus reducing motherboard space and cost.
3Adaptability or versatility
If more data channels are allocated to support increasing number of devices, then device connectivity is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention creates a universal data channel pool that can be dynamically allocated to serve multiple devices and functions. This universal approach allows the system to support an increasing number of devices without proportionally increasing the total number of physical channels, thereby managing system complexity while improving device connectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges the data channel resources for controllers and peripheral devices into a single shared pool. By combining these previously separate allocations into one unified resource pool with dynamic allocation, the system reduces overall complexity while maintaining the ability to support multiple devices.
Data Source
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AI summary
Examples disclosed herein relate to data channel allocation. An example includes an apparatus, including a resource to connect to a controller in a first state and a peripheral card in a second state. Example apparatus include a controller to control a connection to an interface card and to connect to the resource via a first data channel in the first state, the first data channel to connect the resource and the peripheral card in the second state.