Memory Module Orientation Detection via Thermal Sensor Temperature Deltas
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Solution Overview
Problem
Information handling systems face challenges in determining the physical orientation of memory modules, which affects airflow and heat management, leading to inefficiencies in cooling and performance.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating thermal sensors within memory channels to capture temperature deltas, allowing the processor to determine whether a memory channel is upstream or downstream based on airflow patterns, thereby identifying the correct orientation for optimal cooling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If thermal sensors are integrated within memory channels to capture temperature deltas for orientation determination, then measurement precision of memory module orientation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates thermal sensors directly within the memory channel structure, merging the sensing function with the existing memory module architecture. This allows temperature delta measurement for orientation detection without adding separate external sensing components, thereby improving measurement precision while minimizing the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The memory module uses its own operational heat generation as the test signal for orientation detection. By performing high bandwidth memory accesses that naturally generate heat, the system uses its own operational characteristics to test and determine physical orientation, eliminating the need for separate test equipment or external heating mechanisms.
2Measurement precision
If high bandwidth memory access is performed for a predetermined time to generate temperature deltas, then measurement precision of orientation is improved, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs high bandwidth memory accesses for a predetermined, limited time period rather than continuously. This partial action generates sufficient temperature deltas for accurate orientation measurement while avoiding excessive energy consumption that would result from prolonged high-bandwidth operations. The test is conducted long enough to achieve measurement precision but short enough to limit energy usage.
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 method enables accurate determination of memory module orientation, improving airflow and heat management, leading to enhanced performance and efficiency in information handling systems.
Implementation Method 1
a first thermal sensor located within a middle of the first memory channel, and a second thermal sensor located within a middle of the second memory channel. The processor may receive a first temperature captured by the first thermal sensor, may receive a second temperature captured by the second thermal sensor
Data Source
AI summary
An information handling system includes a memory module having a first thermal sensor for a first memory channel, and a second thermal sensor for a second memory channel. A processor receives a first temperature from the first thermal sensor and a second temperature from the second thermal sensor, and performs a first high bandwidth access of the first memory channel. In response to a predetermined amount of time ending, the processor: receives a third temperature from the first thermal sensor and a fourth temperature from the second thermal sensor; determines a first temperature delta based on a difference between the third and first temperatures; and determines a second temperature delta based on a difference between the fourth and second temperatures. Based on the first and second temperature deltas, the processor determines whether the first or second memory channel is an upstream memory channel.