I/O Switching Module Interface Identification in Multi-Server Chassis
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Solution Overview
Problem
In multi-server information handling systems, the generic identification of input/output switching module interfaces complicates the determination of which interface is connected to each server, requiring detailed charts and leading to confusion during configuration.
Innovation Solution
An interface identification system that includes an information handling system enclosure with IHS slots and I/O switching module slots, a connection plane for interconnects, and an I/O switching module capable of retrieving slot and server information to specifically identify each interface connected to a server through the connection plane.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If generic interface identification is used in multi-server IHS enclosures, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation deteriorates due to confusion in determining which interface is connected to each server
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making each interface identification unique and specific to its connected server rather than using generic identifiers. Each interface is identified by the specific IHS slot number and server information it connects to, creating differentiated local characteristics for each interface that eliminate confusion during configuration operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by having the I/O switching module automatically retrieve and use IHS slot information and server information to identify interfaces. This automated feedback mechanism eliminates the need for manual chart consultation and provides real-time interface identification based on actual connection data.
2Measurement precision
If detailed charts mapping each IHS to its connected interface are created, then measurement precision of interface connections is improved, but loss of time increases due to the complexity of consulting and configuring multiple interfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The I/O switching module performs self-service by automatically retrieving IHS slot information and server information to identify its own interfaces. This eliminates the need for external documentation or manual tracking, as the system independently determines and maintains accurate interface identifications based on its actual connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by having the I/O switching module retrieve connection information in advance before configuration operations are needed. This pre-fetching and storage of interface identification data eliminates the need for time-consuming manual lookups during actual configuration tasks.
Data Source
AI summary
An interface identification system includes an IHS enclosure including a plurality of IHS slots and a plurality of input/output (I/O) switching module slots. A connection plane provides interconnects between the plurality of IHS slots and the plurality of I/O switching module slots. An I/O switching module includes a plurality of interfaces. The I/O switching module may be coupled to a first I/O switching module slot and, in response, retrieve first I/O switching module slot information about the first I/O switching module slot, retrieve IHS information about IHSs located in the plurality of IHS slots that are interconnected with the first I/O switching module slot through the connection plane, and use the first I/O switching module slot information and the IHS information to identify each of the plurality of interfaces on the I/O switching module that is coupled to an IHS by that IHS and the first I/O switching module slot.