Embedded Controller Remote Data Access in Power Saving Mode
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for remotely accessing data from a home-based host computer require it to be constantly powered on, leading to high energy consumption, and often rely on Wake-on-LAN technology which may not be supported by all network cards, posing energy inefficiency and compatibility issues.
Innovation Solution
A method that allows remote access to a local apparatus' storage unit through a cloud server by using a network unit, embedded controller, and switch units to transfer data directly between the network unit and storage unit, even when the apparatus is in a power-saving state, bypassing the need for Wake-on-LAN technology.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the home-based host computer is constantly powered on to enable remote access, then remote accessibility is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the host computer into two operational modes: a low-power state where only the network interface remains active, and a full-power state where the entire system operates. This segmentation allows the network interface to independently receive wake-up signals without requiring the whole system to remain powered on, thus resolving the contradiction between continuous accessibility and energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The network interface is pre-configured with wake-up signal recognition capabilities before the system enters low-power mode. When a wake-up signal is detected, the system automatically transitions to full-power state and initiates the boot sequence. This preliminary configuration enables remote access functionality to be maintained with minimal energy expenditure.
2Use of energy by moving object
If Wake-on-LAN technology is used to enable remote access from power-saving state, then energy consumption is reduced, but compatibility issues arise due to lack of support in some network cards
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a dedicated wake-up signal receiver component that acts as an intermediary between the network interface and the system controller. This intermediary component is specifically designed to recognize wake-up signals and trigger system activation, providing a universal solution that works across different network card types and operating systems, thereby resolving the compatibility issues associated with Wake-on-LAN technology.
3Ease of operation
If the entire system is woken up for remote data access, then data accessibility is improved, but energy waste increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the data storage and network communication functions from the main system processor, allowing these functions to operate independently in low-power mode. The network interface can receive and forward data packets to the storage device without requiring the CPU and other system components to be fully activated, thus enabling data accessibility while minimizing energy waste.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements dynamic power management where different components are activated based on the specific access requirements. When remote data access is needed, only the necessary components (network interface, storage device, and minimal control logic) are powered on, while other system components remain in low-power state. This dynamic approach optimizes the balance between data accessibility and energy consumption.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for remotely accessing data and a local apparatus using the method are provided. An embedded controller determines whether a power management state of the local apparatus is switched to a power saving state when the embedded controller receives a remote control signal through a network unit from a cloud server. The embedded controller activates a first switch unit to switch, such that data received from the network unit is transferred to a storage unit.