PCIe Network Management via Out-of-Band Ethernet Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
High-speed I/O-interconnect networks like PCIe lack advanced management features such as fault tolerance, end-to-end flow control, and quality-of-service (QoS), which are costly to implement and complicate network management.
Innovation Solution
Combining a high-speed I/O-interconnect like PCIe with a separate out-of-band network, such as Ethernet, to provide reliable device discovery, registration, and management features, using a network management agent and monitoring agent to control and monitor the PCIe network via the Ethernet network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional Ethernet networks are used for high-speed data transfer, then management features such as fault tolerance, end-to-end flow control, and QoS are supported, but performance, cost, and power overheads become significant
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments management functions from data transfer functions by using two separate networks: a PCIe network for high-speed data transfer and an Ethernet network for management operations. This segmentation allows each network to be optimized for its specific purpose without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism where management requests from the Ethernet network are translated and forwarded to the PCIe network through a management interface. This intermediary allows the PCIe network to benefit from Ethernet's robust management features without requiring the PCIe network itself to implement complex management protocols.
2Productivity
If PCIe is used as a high-speed network fabric, then performance and energy efficiency improve, but advanced management features such as fault tolerance, end-to-end flow control, and QoS are not supported
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds another dimension to the PCIe network by introducing a separate Ethernet network operating in parallel. This dimensional addition provides the missing management capabilities without interfering with the PCIe network's high-speed data transfer performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves multi-functionality by combining two networks: PCIe provides high-speed data transfer while Ethernet provides comprehensive management features. Together, they create a unified system that delivers both performance and reliability.
3Reliability
If management features are implemented on PCIe network, then fault tolerance and QoS are supported, but cost and complexity significantly increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent effectively copies Ethernet's proven management architecture to work alongside the PCIe network. By using the Ethernet network's existing management protocols and interfaces, the system gains fault tolerance and QoS capabilities without having to develop complex custom management solutions for PCIe.
Solution Approach 2:
The approach uses the inexpensive and widely deployed Ethernet infrastructure to provide management functions, rather than attempting to make the PCIe network itself fully-featured for management. This leverages existing, cost-effective technology to solve the management complexity problem.
Data Source
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AI summary
A system and method for network management are described herein. The system includes a number of servers and a first network coupling the servers to each other and configured to connect the servers to one or more client computing devices. The system also includes a second network coupling the servers to each other, wherein data transferred between the servers is transferred though the second network. Network management requests for configuring the second network are communicated to the servers through the first network.