rPDU Outlet Identification via Modulated AC Power Signals
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In data centers, identifying which electrically powered devices are connected to a specific rack power distribution unit (rPDU) is time-consuming and often disruptive, as existing methods require powering down devices or using resource-intensive processes, which can be inconvenient and inaccurate.
Innovation Solution
A system that modulates the AC power signal using a power cycle profile (PCP) to encode a message, allowing data center devices to determine if they are receiving power from a specific rPDU outlet without causing power loss or brownouts, using a message encoding algorithm and a service processor to decode the signal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual physical inspection is used to identify devices connected to rPDU outlets, then identification accuracy can be achieved, but the process becomes extremely time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual physical inspection (mechanical system) with electrical signal-based detection. The system uses voltage detection circuits to automatically sense electrical characteristics through the power connection, substituting human physical inspection with automated electrical measurement, thereby achieving both high accuracy and speed
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables devices to self-identify their connected rPDU outlet through built-in detection circuits that automatically sense and report their power source information, eliminating the need for external manual inspection and enabling automated asset tracking
2Extent of automation
If power cycling commands are sent to identify target devices, then automated identification can be achieved, but device operation is disrupted and users experience inconvenience
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces power cycling (mechanical on/off switching) with electrical voltage detection during normal operation. The detection system monitors electrical characteristics while devices remain powered and operational, achieving automated identification without disrupting service
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs periodic voltage detection and identification checks during normal device operation rather than requiring power cycling events. This periodic monitoring approach maintains automation while ensuring continuous device availability and avoiding operational disruptions
3Loss of information
If resource-intensive processes are used for device identification, then comprehensive tracking can be achieved, but system performance and accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces resource-intensive software-based identification processes with simple electrical voltage detection through power lines. This electrical measurement approach consumes minimal system resources while providing reliable and accurate identification, avoiding the performance degradation associated with complex processing
Solution Approach 2:
The detection system uses the existing power infrastructure and electrical characteristics as inherent identification signals, requiring no additional heavy processing resources. The system leverages naturally occurring electrical properties to achieve comprehensive tracking with minimal computational overhead
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a system for at least one of identifying or verifying which specific data center device, from a plurality of data center devices, is being powered from an AC outlet of a power distribution unit. The system includes a message encoding algorithm module, a message decoding algorithm module and an input signal monitoring subsystem. The input signal monitoring subsystem monitors an AC power signal being supplied to the data center devices, wherein one of the data center devices includes an AC powered target device. A power distribution unit (PDU) supplies the AC power signal to the AC powered target device. The PDU has a controller which uses the message encoding algorithm to create a modulated AC power signal that includes an encoded message in accordance with a predetermined power cycle profile (PCP) event. The target device analyzes the PCP event as the modulated AC power signal is received and creates a decoded message therefrom. The decoded message is used to indicate whether the AC outlet of the PDU is providing power to the target device.