Server Management Device Time Data Conversion via GMT Intermediary
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Solution Overview
Problem
Managing remote server computers across different time zones poses challenges in accurately interpreting time data due to the need for manual conversion of time entries in event logs, leading to potential confusion and errors.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that set the real-time clock of a server management device to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and convert time data to the local time zone of the remote computer, eliminating the need for manual conversions and daylight savings calculations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the real time clock in the management device is set to the same time zone as the remote computer, then no manual time conversion is required for that specific remote computer, but confusion arises when a second remote computer in a different time zone accesses the event log
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) as an intermediary time reference. The management device converts local time to GMT when storing event log entries, and remote computers convert GMT to their local time when retrieving entries. This intermediary approach allows any remote computer in any time zone to access the event log without manual conversion, while the system automatically handles the time zone context through GMT as a universal reference point.
2Measurement precision
If the management device maintains time in its local time zone, then time data accurately reflects the server's location, but system administrators must manually convert time data when accessing from different time zones
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automatic time conversion where the system itself performs the time zone conversion rather than requiring manual intervention from system administrators. The management device automatically converts local time to GMT when storing events, and remote computers automatically convert GMT to their local time when retrieving events. This self-service mechanism eliminates manual conversion time while preserving time data accuracy through automated GMT-based conversions.
3Reliability
If manual time zone conversion is required for event log entries, then time data can be accurately represented for each location, but the complexity of managing multiple time zones increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by allowing each remote computer to display time data in its own local time zone while the underlying storage uses a universal GMT reference. This means the time representation is locally adapted to each user's time zone without compromising the universal accuracy maintained through GMT. The system automatically handles the conversion based on the local computer's time zone settings, eliminating the need for manual time zone management while maintaining both accuracy and simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, system, and apparatus are provided for interpreting time data received from a server computer management device. According to the method, the local time at a remote computer may be received and converted to GMT. Once the local time has been converted to GMT, a command may be issued to the remote management device instructing the device to set its real time clock to GMT. The remote management device then maintains its time with reference to GMT. When data is received from the server management device, a determination is made as to whether the received data includes time data. If time data is identified, the time data is converted from GMT to a local time where the remote computer is located. The time data is then replaced with the converted time data in the received data. The received data, including the converted time, may then be displayed at the remote computer.