Network Interface Controller Automatic Power State Transition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems lack the ability to automatically exit a standby mode and enter a standard operational mode without external input, limiting their power management capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A method and device for a Network Interface Controller (NIC) that operates in a low power mode and transitions to a power-up sequence if a sleep packet is not received from a second NIC within a predetermined time threshold, utilizing firmware to manage power states and include a processor, transceiver, and Ethernet port for data communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If a NIC operates in low power mode to reduce energy consumption, then power efficiency is improved, but the system cannot automatically exit standby mode without external input
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the NIC monitors incoming packets during low power mode. When a packet is detected, the NIC automatically transitions from low power mode to full operation without requiring external wake-up signals. This feedback-driven approach enables autonomous power state management while maintaining energy efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The NIC performs self-service by autonomously monitoring its own power state and automatically transitioning between low power and full operation modes based on detected network traffic. The system serves itself by detecting packets and triggering the appropriate power state changes without external intervention, thereby achieving both energy efficiency and automation.
2Use of energy by moving object
If a NIC remains in low power mode to conserve energy, then power consumption is reduced, but system responsiveness to network traffic deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the NIC's operational state variable rather than static. The system dynamically transitions between low power mode and full operation mode based on real-time network conditions. This dynamic adaptation allows the NIC to optimize power consumption during idle periods while maintaining rapid responsiveness when network traffic is detected, as the automatic transition mechanism ensures quick activation upon packet detection.
3Reliability
If a NIC automatically transitions from low power mode upon packet detection, then system functionality is maintained, but additional power management logic increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages existing universal components within the NIC architecture to implement power management functionality. The packet detection capability, already present for normal network operations, is repurposed to trigger power state transitions. By utilizing existing multi-functional components rather than adding dedicated power management hardware, the system maintains reliability while minimizing increases in device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A first Network Interface Controller operates in a low power mode. The first Network Interface Controller transitions from low power mode to a power-up sequence if a sleep packet in not received from a second Network Interface Controller at the first Network Interface Controller within a predetermined time threshold.