Dynamic Power Switching for Server Rack Density
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing information processing systems face reduced server densities and performance due to power supply limitations, as they are designed based on rated power values rather than actual consumption, leading to underutilization of power capacity.
Innovation Solution
An information processing system that includes a managing server capable of acquiring and calculating actual power consumption across multiple servers, dynamically switching power supplies between racks to ensure that no rack exceeds a threshold, thereby optimizing power distribution and utilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the number of information processing devices is determined based on rated power values, then power supply safety is ensured, but server density and system performance are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The managing server continuously monitors and acquires actual consumed power values from multiple servers in real-time, then calculates total power consumption. Based on this feedback, the system dynamically switches power supply sources when thresholds are approached, resolving the contradiction between ensuring power safety and maximizing server density by using actual consumption data rather than static rated values
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static power allocation approach (based on rated power values) to a dynamic approach where power supply sources are automatically switched based on real-time consumed power monitoring. This allows the system to adapt power distribution to actual server workload, enabling higher server density while maintaining power supply safety
2Device complexity
If power is supplied from a single power supply device, then power distribution is simple, but power supply flexibility and optimization are limited
Solution Approach 1:
Each server is equipped with multiple power supply devices that can serve different functions: primary power supply during normal operation and backup power supply when needed. The managing server can switch between different power supply sources based on total consumed power thresholds, providing both simplicity and flexibility in power distribution
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing system includes a plurality of servers stored in a first rack; and a management server coupled to the plurality of servers and configured to: acquire consumed power values from the plurality of servers when power is supplied to the plurality of servers via first power supply lines coupled to a first power strip of the first rack, calculate the total of the consumed power values based on the values of power consumed by the plurality of servers, and switch a power supply of at least one servers among the plurality of servers so that power is supplied to the at least one server via a second power supply line coupled to a second power strip of a second rack when the total of the consumed power values exceeds a first threshold.