Remote Access Controller File Transfer Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for updating software in information handling systems often consume network bandwidth and require taking systems offline, negatively impacting performance by mixing operational and non-operational communications.
Innovation Solution
Utilizing a remote access controller (RAC) to receive and store files for installation independently of the primary processor, allowing for separate out-of-band communication channels to conserve bandwidth and maintain system operational efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If software packages are delivered over the same communication channel used for operational communications, then file transfer capability is improved, but network bandwidth consumption increases and operational performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the communication infrastructure into two separate channels: an in-band communication channel for operational communications and an out-of-band communication channel for file transfers. This segmentation allows file transfer capability to be maintained while operational performance is preserved, as each channel operates independently without competing for bandwidth.
Solution Approach 2:
The remote access controller (RAC) acts as an intermediary device that receives file transfer requests and manages software package deliveries through the out-of-band channel. This intermediary approach enables file transfers to occur without directly impacting the primary operational communication path, thus maintaining both file transfer capability and operational performance.
2Adaptability or versatility
If installation files are transferred using conventional methods, then software update capability is improved, but network bandwidth availability for operational tasks decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The communication bandwidth is segmented into two distinct paths: in-band bandwidth for operational tasks and out-of-band bandwidth for software updates. This segmentation ensures that software update capability is maintained while the quantity of bandwidth available for operational tasks remains unaffected.
3Reliability
If information handling systems are removed from operation during file transfers, then file installation reliability is improved, but system availability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The RAC serves as an intermediary that handles file transfers and installations independently of the primary system operation. This allows file installation reliability to be maintained through dedicated error handling and retry mechanisms in the out-of-band channel, while system availability is preserved because the main system remains operational throughout the process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary file transfers and preparations through the out-of-band channel before actual installation is required. This preliminary action ensures that files are ready and validated in advance, improving installation reliability while allowing the system to remain available for operational tasks.
Data Source
AI summary
An information handling system that receives operational communications over a primary communications controller may receive files to be installed in the information handling system via a remote access controller. Files received using the remote access controller may not require use of the primary processor of the information handling system, and can be staged in the information handling system for later installation by the primary processor.