Redundant Transceiver Power Over Ethernet Integration
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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 networking devices like redundant transceivers to fail, even when data processing systems continue to operate on direct current (DC) power.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method to power redundant transceivers using power over Ethernet (PoE), which supplies direct current (DC) or alternating current (AC) power over Ethernet cables, reducing dependence on problematic AC power sources and enabling continuous operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate AC power supplies are used for networking devices, then devices can operate independently, but data centers become vulnerable to power outages and disruptions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines power delivery and data communication into a single Ethernet cable infrastructure. The DC power is delivered through the same cable that carries data signals, merging two previously separate functions (power supply and data communication) into one integrated system. This eliminates the need for separate AC power supplies and reduces power management complexity while improving reliability through unified power delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The Ethernet cable infrastructure is made multi-functional by enabling it to carry both data signals and DC power simultaneously. The network switch and networking devices are designed to support both data communication and power delivery through the same interface, creating a universal platform that performs multiple functions through a single connection.
2Ease of operation
If AC power sources are used for networking devices, then devices can be powered independently, but maintenance issues and power source mismatches increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges power delivery and data communication into a single Ethernet cable infrastructure. The DC power is delivered through the same cable that carries data signals, merging two previously separate functions (power supply and data communication) into one integrated system. This eliminates the need for separate AC power supplies and reduces power management complexity while improving reliability through unified power delivery.
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate power supplies are used for data processing systems and networking devices, then each can be powered independently, but power source mismatches occur
Solution Approach 1:
The Ethernet cable infrastructure is made multi-functional by enabling it to carry both data signals and DC power simultaneously. The network switch and networking devices are designed to support both data communication and power delivery through the same interface, creating a universal platform that performs multiple functions through a single connection.
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 approach simplifies power management in data centers by eliminating the need for separate AC power supplies, reducing maintenance issues and potential for power source mismatches, and ensuring continuous operation of networking devices.
Implementation Method 1
receiving electrical power over Ethernet from a network switch
Data Source
AI summary
A method, apparatus, and computer usable program product for receiving power over Ethernet in a redundant transceiver are provided in the illustrative embodiments. A determination is made in a redundant transceiver if electrical power is available over Ethernet. If power over Ethernet is available, power is received over Ethernet in the redundant transceiver, otherwise the redundant transceiver receives power from an attached power supply. For receiving power over Ethernet, the redundant transceiver remains in communication with the source of power over Ethernet using a wired section of the Ethernet, and the redundant transceiver receives electrical power to operate using the wired section of the Ethernet. The redundant transceiver receives power over Ethernet using a wire that is simultaneously carrying a data signal. When data signal and power are provided on a common wire, the redundant transceiver separates the electrical power from the data signal, uses the electrical power for operating the redundant transceiver, and uses the data signal for performing a function of the redundant transceiver.