PCIe XN+XN Device Bandwidth Configuration in Single Slot
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In server systems, the limited availability of PCIe X8 slots leads to wastage of PCIe X16 slots when multiple PCIe X8 devices are required, as a single X16 slot cannot support two X8 devices, resulting in inefficient use of resources.
Innovation Solution
A PCIe device and method that allows for different PCIe bandwidths to be compatible in the same slot, utilizing a PCIe single board with a bandwidth Identifier pin and a 2-to-1 analog switch to configure bandwidth for devices plugged into an X2N slot, enabling support for both X2N and XN+XN devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple PCIe X8 devices are connected to PCIe X16 slots, then the devices can be installed and operated, but the PCIe slots are wasted and resource utilization is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two PCIe XN devices (where N=1,2,4, or 8) into a single PCIe XN+XN device that can be installed in one X2N slot. This combining approach allows two devices to occupy one slot instead of two separate slots, thereby eliminating slot waste while maintaining full functionality of both devices
Solution Approach 2:
The PCIe XN+XN device is designed to be universally compatible with X2N slots while internally supporting two separate XN devices. The device can adapt its bandwidth configuration based on the slot type, providing multi-functionality that works across different PCIe slot configurations without requiring separate dedicated slots for each device type
2Reliability
If a PCIe X16 slot is used for a single X8 device, then the device operates correctly, but half of the slot bandwidth is unused
Solution Approach 1:
By combining two XN devices into one XN+XN device that fits into a single X2N slot, the patent ensures that the full bandwidth of the slot is utilized. The slot's bandwidth is shared between two devices rather than being partially unused, thereby eliminating bandwidth waste while ensuring reliable operation of both devices
3Device complexity
If PCIe bandwidth is strictly allocated to specific slot types, then bandwidth allocation is simple, but slot flexibility and utilization are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The PCIe XN+XN device implements dynamic bandwidth configuration that automatically adapts to the slot type it is installed in. The device can dynamically adjust its bandwidth allocation based on whether it is connected to an X1, X2, X4, or X8 slot, providing both simple configuration and high flexibility without requiring complex manual setup
Data Source
AI summary
A Peripheral Component Interconnect Express (PCIE) device, apparatus, and method with different PCIE bandwidths compatible in the same PCIE slot. The device includes a PCIE single board. A first core chip corresponding to a first PCIE XN device and a second core chip corresponding to a second PCIE XN device are arranged on the PCIE single board. An XN+XN gold finger is further arranged on a body of the PCIE single board. The XN+XN gold finger is formed by two XN gold fingers.