OOB Manageability Packet Routing in Heterogeneous Platforms
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
ARM-based platforms lack Embedded Controllers (ECs) capable of supporting Out-of-Band (OOB) management, which is crucial for remote management of Information Handling Systems (IHSs).
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an Out-of-Band Microcontroller Unit (MCU), Embedded Controller (EC), or network device into heterogeneous computing platforms to receive and route manageability data, even when the host processor is in a low-power state, using opaque packets with destination information to select specific devices for management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If ARM-based platforms are used to reduce power consumption and improve energy efficiency, then energy efficiency is improved, but the ability to perform Out-of-Band management when the host processor is in a low-power state deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the management functionality by introducing a dedicated Out-of-Band Microcontroller Unit (OOB MCU) that operates independently from the main host processor. This OOB MCU can receive and process manageability packets even when the host processor is in a low-power state, while the main ARM-based platform maintains its energy efficiency. The segmentation allows OOB management functions to be separated from the main computing functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The OOB MCU acts as an intermediary between the network and the host processor. It receives manageability packets from the network, routes them to the appropriate destination (host processor, EC, or other devices), and can wake up the host processor from low-power state when necessary. This intermediary enables OOB management without requiring the main processor to remain active.
2Reliability
If an OOB MCU or EC is added to enable remote management in low-power states, then OOB management capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The OOB MCU is designed with multi-functionality to reduce overall system complexity. It can perform multiple functions including receiving manageability packets, routing packets to different destinations (host processor, EC, or other devices), waking up the host processor from low-power state, and managing power rail sequencing. This consolidation of multiple management functions into a single component reduces the need for additional separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the OOB management functionality with existing platform components. The OOB MCU can work in conjunction with the Embedded Controller (EC) and other platform devices, combining their capabilities to provide comprehensive management functions. This merging approach avoids the need for completely separate management subsystems.
3Measurement precision
If opaque packets with destination information are used to route manageability data, then routing precision is improved, but packet processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The manageability packets include pre-configured destination information (such as destination addresses or routing headers) that are prepared in advance. The OOB MCU examines this pre-configured destination information to determine the appropriate routing action, eliminating the need for complex real-time routing decisions. This preliminary configuration of routing information simplifies the packet processing logic.
Solution Approach 2:
The OOB MCU serves as an intermediary that simplifies packet processing by implementing a straightforward routing logic based on destination information. It examines the destination field in the packet and routes it to the appropriate destination (host processor, EC, or other devices) using simple comparison and forwarding logic, avoiding complex processing algorithms.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for routing manageability data in heterogeneous computing platforms. In some embodiments, an Information Handling System (IHS) may include a heterogeneous computing platform comprising a plurality of devices and an Out-of-Band (OOB) Microcontroller Unit (MCU), an Embedded Controller (EC), or a network device integrated into or coupled to the heterogeneous computing platform and distinct from any host processor of the heterogeneous computing platform, where the OOB MCU, EC, or network device is configured to receive a packet or command from a cloud service, and send the packet or command to a selected one of the plurality of devices.