Host Card Software Upgrade Module for Wireless Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Upgrading wireless communications networks with software-defined radio (SDR) on digital wideband RF transport systems poses a risk of service interruption due to unanticipated power disruptions, potentially corrupting computing logic and requiring on-site hardware replacement, which can lead to network downtime.
Innovation Solution
A method and system capability upgrade module that transfers and validates upgraded software machine-coded instructions to a host card without interrupting network operations, using a programmable logic device to select between primary and secondary program memory storage mediums, ensuring continuous service by maintaining a known good version of system software.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If system upgrade is performed on digital wideband RF transport systems, then system capability is improved, but service interruption occurs and network operation is affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary validation of upgraded software images before activation. The system validates the software image in advance, determines its validity, and only then activates it. This preliminary action ensures that only validated software is deployed, preventing service interruptions caused by corrupt or invalid software updates while still enabling system capability improvements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional RF network equipment is upgraded, then new capabilities are achieved, but service must be interrupted and hardware replacement is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional hardware-based upgrade mechanisms with a software-defined approach. Instead of requiring physical hardware replacement and service interruption, the system uses software images that can be validated and activated without interrupting network operations. This substitution of mechanical upgrade processes with software-based validation and activation eliminates downtime while achieving new capabilities.
3Adaptability or versatility
If software download is performed during system upgrade, then system capability is enhanced, but unanticipated power interruption can corrupt computing logic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism through software image validation. Before activating upgraded software, the system validates the software image to determine its validity. This feedback loop ensures that only valid, uncorrupted software is deployed, preventing corruption from unanticipated power interruptions during the download or activation process while still enabling system capability enhancements.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of upgrading the system capability of a communications network is provided. The method involves initiating a transfer of at least one set of upgraded system capability software machine-coded instructions to a host card, instructing the host card to begin an upgrade process, determining whether at least one set of system capability software machine-coded instructions on the host card is valid, and completing the transfer of at least one valid set of system capability software machine-coded instructions to the host card, wherein the system capability is upgraded without affecting operation of the network.