LED Port Visual Identification for Network Cable Reconnection
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Solution Overview
Problem
In network environments, particularly in Storage Area Networks (SAN), identifying and reconnecting cables between multiple ports is a time-consuming and error-prone process due to the lack of effective visual cues, often requiring manual labeling and tracking, which can lead to mistakes when cables are not properly labeled.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and system using LED arrangements at network switches and devices to provide visual identification of ports and previously connected cables by detecting link status changes, obtaining unique attributes from protocol layers, and configuring LEDs to emit specific light outputs that match between port and cable ends, facilitating easy reconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual labeling and tracking of cables is used, then cable identification is possible, but the process becomes time-consuming and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by detecting link status changes and obtaining unique attributes before cable disconnection occurs. The LED arrangements are pre-configured with identifiers based on link attributes, so when cables need to be reconnected, the visual identification is already in place, eliminating the need for manual labeling and tracking during the reconnection process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses LED arrangements that emit different colored lights to provide visual identification of ports and cables. Each LED arrangement is configured to emit a specific color or pattern corresponding to a unique attribute of the link, allowing users to quickly identify and match cables to their correct ports through color visualization rather than manual labeling.
2Ease of operation
If no visual identification system is used, then the system structure remains simple, but cable identification becomes difficult and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides self-service by automatically generating and displaying visual identifiers without requiring external controllers or manual intervention. The network switch itself detects link status changes, obtains unique attributes from protocol layers, and configures the LED arrangements autonomously, making the cable identification process intuitive and error-free while maintaining relatively simple system architecture.
3Reliability
If LED arrangements are configured to provide visual identification, then cable reconnection accuracy improves, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The LED arrangements are activated periodically or on-demand based on link status changes rather than continuously. The system detects when a link status change occurs and only then configures the LED arrangements to emit light, reducing energy consumption while still providing visual identification when needed for cable reconnection accuracy.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution significantly reduces the time and error associated with cable reconnection by providing a visual matching system that ensures correct cable placement, even in complex network setups with many ports, without the need for external controllers or precise labeling.
Implementation Method 1
instructing a light emitting diode (LED) arrangement to be configured to provide a light output of the selected identifier
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a computer-implemented method, system, and apparatus for a visual identification of a port and a previously connected cable of a link in a network environment including a network switch or a network device. The apparatus having an LED arrangement at a port assembly configured for illumination at the port and configured to provide illumination via the cable to a remote end of the link. An identifier providing component controls the LED arrangement based on a unique attribute of the link including: detecting a status change of a link; obtaining the unique attribute related to the link from a layer of a protocol received on both ends of the link; selecting an identifier based on the unique attribute related to the link; and instructing the LED arrangement to be configured to provide a light output of the selected identifier.