OOB MCU Local Storage Access Through an Embedded Controller
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Solution Overview
Problem
ARM-based platforms lack Embedded Controllers (ECs) necessary for Out-of-Band (OOB) management, which is crucial for remote access and management of Information Handling Systems (IHSs).
Innovation Solution
Implementing an Out-of-Band Microcontroller Unit (MCU) with a memory containing program instructions to access local storage devices via an Embedded Controller (EC), utilizing sideband interfaces like I2C or I3C buses, and high-bandwidth bus controllers like PCIe, even when the host processor is in a low-power state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If ARM-based platforms are used without Embedded Controllers, then device complexity is reduced and power consumption is lowered, but Out-of-Band management capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an Embedded Controller (EC) as an intermediary component between the ARM-based processor and the local storage device. The EC provides the necessary OOB management interface and facilitates access to storage devices through sideband interfaces (I2C, I3C) or high-bandwidth interfaces (PCIe), enabling remote management capabilities without requiring the main processor to be active.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the host processor is kept in low-power state, then power consumption is reduced, but access to local storage devices cannot be performed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the system into two independent operational domains: the main ARM-based processor that can enter low-power states, and the Embedded Controller that remains operational to handle OOB management tasks. This segmentation allows storage access operations to be performed independently by the EC without requiring the host processor to wake from low-power state, thus maintaining power efficiency while enabling storage access capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple interface types are implemented for storage access, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The Embedded Controller is designed with multi-functionality to handle multiple interface types (I2C, I3C, PCIe) for accessing local storage devices. The EC can selectively use different interfaces based on the specific storage device and operational requirements, providing universal access capability through a single component rather than requiring separate dedicated interfaces for each protocol.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for local storage access by Out-of-Band (OOB) processors in heterogeneous computing platforms. In some embodiments, a heterogeneous computing platform may include an OOB Microcontroller Unit (MCU) and a memory coupled to the OOB MCU, the memory having program instructions stored thereon that, upon execution by the OOB MCU, cause the OOB MCU to access a local storage device external to the heterogeneous computing platform through an Embedded Controller (EC).