Master-Slave Shelf Ethernet Communication via MAC Address Forwarding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current communication systems for Multi-Service Access Nodes (MSAN) face complex network management and high maintenance costs due to the lack of support for slave shelf networking in Ethernet-based systems, leading to complicated management and costly infrastructure requirements.
Innovation Solution
An access device with a master shelf and at least one slave shelf connected through an Ethernet bus, utilizing MAC address forwarding and LAN switching chips for direct or layer-2 network connections, simplifying network management and reducing costs by integrating all shelves as a single network element.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If TDM system with E1 connection is used for master-slave shelf networking, then network privacy is ensured and communication is reliable, but device complexity increases and management becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional TDM/E1 mechanical connection system with an Ethernet-based communication system. This substitution maintains communication reliability while simplifying the network management interface and reducing the complexity of physical connections between master and slave shelves.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal Ethernet interface that can serve multiple functions: it provides both the physical connection medium and the communication protocol, eliminating the need for separate E1 connections and transmission systems. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity while maintaining reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple stand-alone broadband shelves are deployed, then system flexibility is improved, but the number of nodes to manage increases and maintenance costs rise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple broadband shelves into a unified management domain through Ethernet-based communication. Instead of managing each shelf as a completely independent stand-alone unit, the system creates a hierarchical structure where shelves can be managed collectively, reducing the number of separate management nodes and simplifying operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the management function by introducing a master shelf that centralizes management control. This segmentation allows the system to maintain flexibility in shelf deployment while concentrating management tasks in a single location, thereby improving ease of operation and reducing maintenance complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If Ethernet switching or routing is introduced for master-slave communication, then communication versatility is improved, but network management becomes much more complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a dedicated Ethernet interface as an intermediary between the master and slave shelves. This intermediary layer provides standardized Ethernet communication while encapsulating the complexity of switching and routing within the interface itself, thereby maintaining versatility without proportionally increasing management complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for communication between the master shelf and the slave shelf of an access device is provided. The method includes these a main control board of the master shelf configures a Media Access Control (MAC) address for a main control board of the slave shelf, the main control board of the master shelf configures a MAC address for a service board of the master shelf; and the main control board of the slave shelf configures a MAC address for a service board of the slave shelf, and communication is performed between the main control board of the master shelf and the main control board of the slave shelf, and between the main control board of the master shelf and the service board through the configured MAC address, where the MAC address includes information about the location of the main control board or the service board.