Network Interface Controller Power Cycling for Remote Reset
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Solution Overview
Problem
The frequent need to reset network interface devices (NIDs) leads to costly truck rolls and customer inconvenience, as existing methods require manual intervention by technicians or customers, especially when devices fail or require periodic resets.
Innovation Solution
A network interface controller that communicates with NIDs to determine reset conditions, such as error rates or data exchange issues, and triggers a power controller to cycle power to the NID, allowing for remote resetting without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a technician is dispatched to reset the NID manually, then the NID can be reset properly, but the service provider incurs significant costs and loses time
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service by allowing the NID to reset itself automatically through power cycling. The NID monitors its own operational status and triggers a power cycle when it detects failure conditions, eliminating the need for external technician intervention while maintaining reliable reset functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The NID incorporates feedback mechanisms by continuously monitoring its operational status and using this information to automatically trigger power cycling when failure conditions are detected. This closed-loop feedback system ensures the NID can self-diagnose and self-reset without external intervention
2Loss of time
If the customer is instructed to reset the NID manually, then the reset can be performed without technician dispatch, but the customer experiences inconvenience and discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The NID performs self-service by automatically detecting its own failure conditions and executing power cycling without requiring customer action. This eliminates the inconvenience of customer involvement while maintaining the benefit of avoiding technician dispatch
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses an intermediary automated control mechanism between the customer and the NID reset process. Rather than requiring direct customer interaction with the device, an automated system mediates the reset process, detecting failures and executing power cycles in the background
3Ease of operation
If the NID is located outside the customer's home, then the service provider can service the equipment without disturbing the customer, but the customer may be uncomfortable interacting with the device
Solution Approach 1:
The externally located NID performs self-service by automatically detecting failures and executing power cycles without requiring customer interaction. This maintains the advantage of external placement for service provider access while eliminating the disadvantage of customer discomfort through automation
Data Source
AI summary
According to embodiments of the present invention, a method, system and apparatus for controlling a network interface device is disclosed, the network interface device for enabling communication between a communications network and at least one customer device. A condition of the network interface device is determined. In response to the condition of the network interface device qualifying as a reset condition, a trigger is generated. The trigger is released to a power controller, the trigger having an ability to cause the power controller to cycle power to the network interface device.