Modular Network Test Instrument With Container-Routed Test Threads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional test instruments are inadequate for performing comprehensive testing on the numerous links, cables, and connections in modern data centers, leading to inefficiencies and potential failures due to the need for multiple instruments and lack of capability to test high-capacity connections and optical transmission layers.
Innovation Solution
A modular network test instrument with removably connectable modules that utilize containers and an application name discovery and routing service (ANDR) to distribute network test applications across modules, conserving system resources by avoiding duplication of threads and enabling efficient communication between containers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple conventional test instruments are used to test various network components, then testing coverage is improved, but device complexity and resource usage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple test instruments into a single unified network test instrument. The device integrates various testing functionalities (Ethernet testing, optical testing, fiber testing) into one platform with a common user interface and control system, eliminating the need for multiple separate instruments while maintaining comprehensive testing coverage
Solution Approach 2:
The network test instrument is designed as a universal device capable of performing multiple types of tests across different network layers and technologies. It can test Ethernet links, optical transceivers, fiber optic cables, and various network components through a single instrument with reconfigurable testing capabilities
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple conventional test instruments are used, then testing capability is improved, but resource usage (CPU, memory, power) increases
Solution Approach 1:
By consolidating multiple test instruments into one unified device, the patent reduces total power consumption. The shared hardware resources (CPU, memory, power supply) are utilized more efficiently across all testing functions rather than each instrument consuming dedicated resources independently
3Ease of operation
If conventional test instruments are used, then ease of operation is maintained, but productivity decreases due to manual switching between instruments
Solution Approach 1:
The unified test instrument provides a single user interface that controls all testing functions. Operators can switch between different test types (Ethernet, optical, fiber) and configure test parameters through one consistent interface, eliminating the need to physically move between multiple instruments and learn different operating procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The integration of multiple testing capabilities into one device with centralized control allows operators to perform comprehensive network testing from a single location, improving workflow efficiency and reducing testing time
Data Source
AI summary
A test instrument provides field technicians with resources to support multiple aspects of network testing. The test instrument includes multiple, integrated and removably connectable modules such as a base module, a battery module and other modules that perform different tests on a network. Threads for a network test application can run on multiple modules of the test instrument. Containers are created on each of the modules to run the threads. An application name discovery and routing service (ANDR) is created in each of the containers. Also, an ANDR database is maintained by the ANDRs and the ANDR database identifies the container running each thread. The ANDRs route command and control messages between each other to utilize threads of the network test application running in other containers based on one or more of the entries in the ANDR database.