Network Cabling Assistant Device for Port Location
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Solution Overview
Problem
In large networking environments, managing cables and determining the correct port and device connections can be complex due to the number of devices and ports involved, often leading to human error and inefficiency in creating and maintaining network cabling configurations.
Innovation Solution
A device that assists network administrators by using network topology information, such as the Euclid or Clos network structure, to determine the correct port and switch locations for loose cables, utilizing protocols like CDP or LLDP to communicate with switches and provide visual or auditory feedback to technicians.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a cut sheet is created to specify network connections, then connection accuracy is improved, but the task becomes tedious and error-prone due to the large number of devices and cables
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically discovers network connections by having devices introduce themselves to a central database, eliminating the need for manual cut sheet creation. Each device automatically provides its identification and connection information, allowing the system to self-configure and self-document the network topology without human intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical processes (physically creating and maintaining cut sheets) with automated electronic processes. The system uses database storage, automatic device introduction, and electronic communication to replace the manual task of documenting network connections, thereby eliminating human error and reducing complexity.
2Loss of information
If manual cut sheet creation is used, then connection information can be documented, but human error increases due to the tedious nature of the task
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements automatic feedback loops where devices continuously introduce themselves and update the central database with their connection status. This real-time feedback mechanism ensures that connection information is always current and accurate, eliminating the errors that occur with manual documentation and updates.
Solution Approach 2:
Devices automatically manage their own connection documentation by introducing themselves to the system and providing their identification and connection information. This self-service approach eliminates human error in documentation, as the devices themselves provide accurate, real-time information about their network connections.
3Ease of operation
If technicians manually determine cable connections, then flexibility is maintained, but time consumption increases due to the complex network environment
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically discovering and documenting network connections before any configuration work is needed. Devices introduce themselves and establish their connection information in the database upfront, so that when technicians need to work with the network, all connection details are already ready and eliminated the need for time-consuming manual investigation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual technical investigation and determination of cable connections with automated electronic discovery processes. The system automatically queries the network, identifies devices, and documents connections through electronic communication, thereby reducing the time technicians would otherwise spend on manual network mapping and configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
A device is described for assisting network technicians and other users with network cabling. The device can be provided to a technician, where the technician plugs a loose cable end into the device, and if the other end of the cable is attached to a switch (e.g. Euclid switch), the device indicates to the technician via a display where on the network the cable should be plugged in (which port on which switch). When the device is connected to a switch via a cable, the switch can make available its information to the device. The device can also consult a data store to determine where the other end should be attached. The information that is used to determine where the cable should be attached can include the number of layers in the network; the number of switches in each layer; and the number of ports on the switches.