Power Over Ethernet Network Interface Card Power Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Data centers are vulnerable to power outages and disruptions due to reliance on alternating current (AC) power sources, which can cause device failures even when data processing systems continue to operate, leading to potential network failures.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a method and apparatus for providing power over Ethernet (PoE) using network interface cards, which can supply direct current (DC) or AC power to devices like redundant transceivers, reducing dependence on AC power sources and enhancing power management in data centers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate AC power sources are used for devices in data centers, then devices can operate independently, but the system becomes vulnerable to power outages and disruptions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines data transmission and power delivery into a single Ethernet cable infrastructure. The network cable that carries data signals also carries power signals, eliminating the need for separate AC power sources and reducing power management complexity while improving reliability through a unified power delivery system
Solution Approach 2:
The Ethernet cable is given dual functionality: it serves both as a data transmission medium and as a power delivery conduit. This multi-functional approach allows the same infrastructure to handle both communication and power supply, reducing the number of separate components and simplifying the overall system
2Reliability
If multiple power sources (AC and DC) are used in data centers, then power redundancy is achieved, but maintenance issues and potential failures increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple power source requirements into a single power delivery mechanism through the Ethernet cable. By consolidating power delivery through one standardized interface, the system reduces maintenance complexity while maintaining power redundancy capabilities through the network infrastructure
3Reliability
If separate power supplies are provided for each device, then power delivery is reliable, but the system requires more components and infrastructure
Solution Approach 1:
The Ethernet cable infrastructure is designed to perform both data transmission and power delivery functions universally. This eliminates the need for separate power supplies at each device, reducing infrastructure complexity while maintaining reliable power delivery through the standardized network cable
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution simplifies power management in data centers by eliminating the need for separate AC power supplies, reducing maintenance issues and potential failures by providing a single power source, thereby ensuring continuous operation of data processing systems and connected devices.
Implementation Method 1
a first device that receives power from a computer. A second device may be in communication with the first device using a wired section of the Ethernet. The first device provides electrical power to operate the second device using the wired section of the Ethernet
Data Source
AI summary
A method, apparatus, and computer usable program product for providing power over Ethernet are provided in the illustrative embodiments. The apparatus and method for providing power over Ethernet includes a first device that receives power from a computer. A second device may be in communication with the first device using a wired section of the Ethernet. The first device provides electrical power to operate the second device using the wired section of the Ethernet. One method for providing power over a data network may include determining availability of a power injector. A determination may be made whether a connected device is capable of receiving power over Ethernet. If the connected device is capable of receiving power over the Ethernet, electrical power may be provided from the power injector to the connected device.