Network Interface Device Non-Disruptive Cable Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current network infrastructure testing methods are disruptive, require external devices, and cannot be performed on operating components, leading to unknown performance issues due to lack of in-situ testing and potential damage from improper reconnection.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for non-disruptive integrated testing of network infrastructure, where a network interface device performs connectivity verification, bandwidth measurements, and self-tests on connected network cables, suspending and resuming network activity as needed, without disrupting the host system, and stores results for analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If external testing devices are used to measure network cable performance, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation worsen due to requiring full hardware access and disconnection
Solution Approach 1:
The network interface device performs self-testing of connected network cables using its own processors and testing applications, eliminating the need for external testing devices and specialized specialists. The system serves itself by conducting connectivity verification, bandwidth capacity baseline measurement, and maximum bandwidth measurement internally.
Solution Approach 2:
The testing functionality is merged into the network interface device itself, combining the network interface card with cable testing capabilities. This integration allows the same device that handles network communication to also perform comprehensive cable testing, reducing the need for separate external testing equipment.
2Measurement precision
If network cable testing is performed with external devices requiring disconnection, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity and reliability worsen due to disruption of network operations
Solution Approach 1:
The network interface device maintains continuous network operation while performing cable tests. The system suspends network activity only temporarily during testing and automatically resumes it after completion, ensuring uninterrupted network service and eliminating the need to disconnect cables for testing.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-tests before network issues manifest, proactively measuring cable performance and detecting potential problems. By conducting tests during scheduled maintenance windows or idle periods, the system prevents disruptions before they occur.
3Reliability
If comprehensive cable testing is conducted, then measurement precision and reliability are improved, but loss of time increases due to testing duration
Solution Approach 1:
The cable testing is performed periodically at scheduled intervals rather than continuously or on-demand. The system allows users to schedule tests during off-peak hours or maintenance windows, balancing comprehensive testing with minimal impact on network operations and user productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system offers multiple testing levels including connectivity verification, bandwidth capacity baseline measurement, and maximum bandwidth measurement. Users can select only the necessary tests for their specific needs, performing partial testing when full comprehensive testing is not required, thus reducing time loss while maintaining adequate reliability.
4Measurement precision
If network activity is suspended for testing, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time and productivity worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system rapidly suspends and resumes network activity during testing, minimizing the duration of interruption. By efficiently managing the test execution and automatically restoring network operations immediately after completion, the system reduces perceived downtime and maintains high productivity despite necessary suspensions for accurate measurement.
Data Source
AI summary
Non-disruptive integrated testing of network infrastructure in which one or more processors of a first network interface device (NID) performs tests on a network cable connected to a first NID of a host system, and connected to a second NID. Tests verify connectivity of the cable, a bandwidth capacity baseline, and a maximum bandwidth of the network cable. A self-test determines the host operating system, host status, and operational status of the host NID, and responsive to changed conditions, NID settings are reverted to a pre-validated condition state, and confirmation of reverting is sent to the host. Network activity is suspended if received by the host ID during scheduled network cable tests. Upon completion of tests and storing of test results in NID memory network activity resumes. Results of the tests are transferred from memory of the first NID to persistent storage of the host system.