OCP Adapter Card Single-Dual Host Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing OCP adapter cards lack the ability to switch between single-host and dual-host working modes, limiting their flexibility and application complexity in server configurations.
Innovation Solution
An OCP adapter card with a programmable logic device (CPLD) controller, IO extension module, and hot-swap button, which allows for bandwidth allocation, power control, and mode switching between single-host and dual-host configurations through a selector and motherboard connector, enabling flexible mode switching without physical reconfiguration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed single-host or dual-host configuration is used in existing OCP adapter cards, then the hardware design is relatively simple, but the adaptability to switch between single-host and dual-host modes is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter card employs a dynamic configuration approach where the working mode (single-host or dual-host) can be switched based on operational requirements. The selector module enables dynamic routing of PCIe signals to different CPU sockets, allowing the system to adapt between configurations without physical reconfiguration. This dynamic capability resolves the contradiction by making the adapter card flexible while managing complexity through controlled switching mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter card is designed to perform multiple functions by supporting both single-host and dual-host modes within a single device. The motherboard connector and selector module enable the same adapter card to interface with different CPU configurations, making it a universal solution that replaces the need for separate dedicated adapter cards for each mode, thereby improving adaptability without proportionally increasing complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If two separate adapter cards are used to support single-host and dual-host functions, then mode-specific functionality is achieved, but device complexity and application simplicity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the functionality of separate single-host and dual-host adapter cards into a single unified device. The adapter card integrates both operational modes through shared components including the motherboard connector, controller, and PCIe interface. This consolidation reduces the number of physical devices required, simplifies motherboard interface design, and maintains full functionality for both single-host and dual-host configurations simultaneously.
3Adaptability or versatility
If physical reconfiguration is required to switch between modes, then mode switching is achieved, but loss of time and operational convenience increase
Solution Approach 1:
The selector module enables dynamic mode switching through software or control signal activation rather than requiring physical reconfiguration. The adapter card can transition between single-host and dual-host modes by changing internal signal routing, allowing rapid mode changes without shutting down systems or physically reconnecting components. This dynamic switching capability eliminates time loss associated with manual reconfiguration while maintaining adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
An open compute project (OCP) adapter card and a computer device are disclosed. The adapter card includes an OCP connector, a controller, a selector, and a motherboard connector. The OCP connector is configured to connect to an OCP network interface card (NIC). The controller is configured for bandwidth allocation, in-situ control and power-on/off control of the OCP NIC. The selector gates a single-homed host or a dual-homed host based on working mode configuration information stored in the controller. The motherboard connector is configured to connect to a motherboard device.