Network Adapter Optical Alert System for Fault Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
In data centers, fault alerts from computing systems to system management devices can be hindered by non-operational communication links, preventing timely detection and response to faults.
Innovation Solution
A network adapter optical alert system using LEDs to transmit fault alerts via an optical communication path, even when traditional communication links are down, allowing alerts to be relayed through operational links to system management devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional communication links are used to transmit fault alerts, then the system structure remains simple, but the reliability of alert transmission deteriorates when communication links fail
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an optical alert transmission path as an intermediary communication channel. When the traditional electrical communication link fails, the optical path serves as a mediator to carry alert signals from the network adapter to the receiver device, ensuring continuous alert transmission without requiring the primary link to be functional.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the electrical signal-based communication mechanism with an optical signal-based mechanism. The network adapter converts electrical alert signals to optical signals using LEDs, which are then transmitted through optical fibers or air to the receiver device, substituting the mechanical/electrical transmission medium with an optical one for enhanced reliability.
2Reliability
If optical communication paths are added to ensure alert transmission, then the reliability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the network adapter multi-functional by integrating both electrical communication capabilities and optical alert transmission capabilities into a single device. The network adapter can operate in traditional electrical mode for normal communication and switch to optical mode for alert transmission when electrical links fail, eliminating the need for separate dedicated optical devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the signal transmission parameter from electrical signals to optical signals. The network adapter includes an LED that converts electrical alert signals to optical signals, changing the fundamental transmission parameter to achieve reliable communication through non-operational electrical links while maintaining manageable device complexity.
3Speed
If optical LEDs are used to transmit alerts, then the alert transmission speed increases, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic action by using LEDs to transmit optical alert signals in discrete bursts or pulses rather than continuous transmission. The LED activates only when an alert condition occurs and transmits the alert signal, then remains inactive, creating a periodic transmission pattern that reduces overall energy consumption while maintaining fast alert notification capability.
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
Ensures fault alerts are transmitted reliably, enabling prompt system management and reducing downtime by utilizing optical communication paths to bypass non-operational links.
Implementation Method 1
A network adapter optical alert system using LEDs to transmit fault alerts via an optical communication path
Data Source
AI summary
One embodiment provides a network adapter. The network adapter includes a network adapter controller, a medium access controller (MAC) and a physical layer (PHY) including at least one port. The network adapter further includes optical communication logic to at least one of receive and/or acquire a local alert and generate a local alert message related to the local alert, the local alert message including an alert identifier (ID) and a network adapter ID. The network adapter further includes a first light emitting diode (LED) to convert the local alert message to a corresponding optical local alert message and to transmit the optical local alert message to an optical communication path.