Roving Network Diagnostic Modules for Link Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing networking systems face challenges in efficiently diagnosing and testing high-speed data transmission systems due to the high cost and time-consuming nature of configuring multiple monitors and protocol analyzers, which often results in undiagnosed issues on untested links and increased wear and tear from frequent reconnections.
Innovation Solution
A networking system that includes a switch with software-programmable ports and pools of network diagnostic modules that can rove across links, allowing for simultaneous testing of multiple links with prioritization and conditional troubleshooting, reducing the need for multiple physical connections and enabling continuous monitoring without waiting for bit captures to finish.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple monitors and protocol analyzers are configured to test all links, then diagnostic coverage is improved, but system cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single pool of network diagnostic modules is designed to perform multiple functions by dynamically allocating modules to different links based on testing needs. The modules can be reassigned across multiple links over time, providing universal diagnostic capability without requiring dedicated modules for each link, thus reducing overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple diagnostic modules are merged into a single shared pool that serves multiple links. Instead of having separate monitors and protocol analyzers for each link, the system combines them into one resource pool that can be dynamically allocated, reducing the total number of components and simplifying system architecture while maintaining diagnostic coverage.
2Reliability
If multiple monitors and protocol analyzers are configured to test all links, then diagnostic coverage is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The network diagnostic modules are designed with multi-functionality to serve multiple links sequentially and concurrently. A single module can be allocated to different links at different times, eliminating the need to purchase separate dedicated modules for each link, thereby reducing the total quantity of hardware required and lowering system cost while maintaining comprehensive diagnostic coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses virtual allocation and software-defined networking concepts to create logical copies of diagnostic module instances across multiple links. Instead of physically duplicating expensive hardware for each link, the system creates virtual instances that share the same physical hardware resources, reducing the quantity of physical components needed while maintaining the appearance of having dedicated modules for each link.
3Adaptability or versatility
If diagnostic modules are frequently reconnected to test different links, then diagnostic flexibility is improved, but wear and tear increases
Solution Approach 1:
A switching fabric or matrix is introduced as an intermediary component between the pool of diagnostic modules and the network links. This intermediary allows modules to be dynamically allocated to different links without requiring physical reconnection or disconnection of cables. The switching fabric handles the physical connections, eliminating wear and tear on the diagnostic modules while maintaining diagnostic flexibility and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system separates the physical connection layer from the logical allocation layer. The switching fabric handles physical connections and routing, while the diagnostic modules operate in a virtualized environment where they can be allocated to different links through software control. This segmentation allows flexible module allocation without physical reconnection, reducing wear and tear while maintaining adaptability.
4Device complexity
If a single diagnostic module tests one link at a time, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple diagnostic modules are merged into a single coordinated pool that can simultaneously test multiple links. The pool shares a common control and allocation mechanism, maintaining relative simplicity while enabling parallel testing operations. This merging allows the system to maintain low device complexity through unified management while achieving high productivity through concurrent testing of multiple links.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements dynamic allocation of diagnostic modules to links based on real-time testing requirements and module availability. The pool can adaptively assign modules to different links, enabling parallel testing operations when modules are available while maintaining simple architecture. This dynamic approach allows the system to scale productivity by utilizing multiple modules simultaneously without proportionally increasing system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A networking system may include one or more nodes communicating with each other. The nodes may communicate via one or more links, which a switch or other structure may provide. The networking system may include one or more pools of at least one network diagnostic module. A network diagnostic module may test one or more links and may be configured to rove among a plurality of links. The networking system may include an alarm module.