Remote Access Appliance Backup Power for DRIP BIOS Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Remote access appliances in data centers face challenges in capturing the BIOS screen during server boot-up due to delayed power application to digital rack interface pods (DRIPs), preventing timely troubleshooting and configuration.
Innovation Solution
A remote access appliance with a backup power subsystem that automatically provides regulated power to the DRIP via the RJ-45 port, ensuring continuous power during server re-boot and maintaining the remote session, using a controller to detect Ethernet device connection and manage power distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the DRIP receives power from the server's USB port, then the DRIP can be powered during normal operation, but the DRIP loses power during server re-boot when the USB port delays power application
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary power supply device that mediates between the server and the DRIP. This intermediary device detects when the server is rebooting and provides backup power to the DRIP through the Ethernet cable, bridging the power gap that occurs when the server's USB port delays power application during reboot.
Solution Approach 2:
The power supply device performs preliminary actions by detecting server reboot conditions before the DRIP would lose power. It proactively provides backup power in advance of the power interruption, ensuring continuous operation of the DRIP during the server's power cycle.
2Reliability
If the server delays applying power to USB port during re-boot, then the server can complete its initialization, but the BIOS screen cannot be captured by the DRIP
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediary power supply device enables the DRIP to remain powered during server reboot, acting as a mediator that maintains the communication link between the server and remote access system throughout the entire boot process, including the critical BIOS display phase.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent ensures continuity of useful action by maintaining power to the DRIP throughout the server's reboot process. This continuous power supply allows the DRIP to capture the BIOS screen and maintain the remote session without interruption, enabling uninterrupted observation of the server's boot sequence.
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate remote access appliances are used for Ethernet and serial, then specific protocol requirements are met, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a power supply device that can serve multiple functions: it provides power over Ethernet cables, detects server reboot conditions, and maintains DRIP operation. This multi-functional approach consolidates what would otherwise require separate specialized devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the power supply function with the Ethernet communication function. By combining these functions into a single integrated device, the system reduces the number of separate appliances needed while maintaining protocol compatibility for both Ethernet and serial communications.
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
Enables the capture of BIOS screens and facilitates remote troubleshooting by maintaining the DRIP session during server re-boot, allowing for immediate configuration and diagnostics.
Implementation Method 1
US 2006/112288 discloses a method for supplying power over Ethernet including determining whether a first port of power sourcing equipment is supplying current to a power over Ethernet device in a predetermined current range.
Data Source
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Figure 1C
AI summary
A remote access appliance ("appliance") having a backup power subsystem for powering a digital rack interface pod ("DRIP") that is interfacing the appliance to a remote device. The backup power subsystem may involve the use of at least one shunt regulator subsystem that is adapted to control backup power to the DRIP in the event the DRIP loses power from a USB port of the remote device while a session is in progress with the remote device. The backup power subsystem automatically applies and regulates the power available to the power pins on the RJ-45 port of the appliance to power the DRIP. In the event the DRIP is unplugged form the RJ-45 port of the appliance while backup power is being drawn by the DRIP, the backup power subsystem virtually immediately removes power being applied to the predetermined pins of the RJ-45 port of the appliance. The backup power subsystem further will not make power available to the power pins of the RJ-45 port on the appliance unless predetermined operating conditions are present with the DRIP.