Module Power Configuration Parameters for Safe Hot-Plug
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing computing systems face challenges in hot-plugging modules while maintaining live power, as there is a risk of power events like shorts or inrush surges, which can damage sensitive circuit devices and require system shutdowns for maintenance or upgrades, leading to unacceptable downtime in high-availability applications.
Innovation Solution
The system employs power configuration parameters stored on each module to control the supply of power during initial power-on, allowing the system controller to safely power-on modules by specifying terminals, voltages, currents, and sequences, reducing the risk of power surges and supporting a wide range of modules with different configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If modules are hot-plugged into a computing system while live power is present, then system availability is improved and shutdown/reboot is avoided, but the risk of power events such as shorts or inrush surges increases which can damage sensitive circuit devices
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by detecting module insertion before full power is applied, reading power configuration parameters from the module's memory, and preparing appropriate power settings in advance. This allows the system to safely apply power according to module-specific requirements without causing harmful power events
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes power parameters (voltage, current, timing) based on readings from the module's power configuration parameters. Different modules receive customized power profiles, allowing safe hot-plugging of diverse module types while preventing power events through adaptive parameter adjustment
2Adaptability or versatility
If power configuration parameters are stored on each module, then support for a wide range of modules with different power configurations is improved and interoperability is enhanced, but device complexity increases due to the need for parameter storage and reading mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
Each module carries its own power configuration parameters in memory, making it self-describing. The module effectively serves itself by providing the information needed for safe power application, eliminating the need for the system to maintain complex external configuration databases for each module type
Solution Approach 2:
The power configuration parameter storage mechanism provides universal support for diverse module types through a standardized approach. The same memory structure and reading process works across different vendors and module configurations, achieving multi-functionality without proportionally increasing complexity
3Reliability
If the system reads power configuration parameters from module memory before applying operating power, then safe power-on sequence is improved and damage risk is reduced, but additional time is required for parameter reading which increases power-on duration
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic or sequential power application based on the power configuration parameters. Power is applied in stages or sequences defined by the module's parameters, allowing safe reading and configuration while minimizing total power-on time through efficient timing
Solution Approach 2:
The system efficiently reads power configuration parameters and applies appropriate power without unnecessary delays. By processing only the essential power parameters and skipping non-critical initialization steps, the system minimizes the time penalty while ensuring safe power-on
Data Source
AI summary
A method and a device are provided. In an example, the method includes detecting a presence of a module in a socket. Based on detecting the presence of the module, a power configuration parameter stored in a memory of the module is read, and power is applied to an integrated circuit of the module according to the power configuration parameter.