Server BMC Connection State Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional server systems lack real-time detection of connection states between servers and their racks, leading to inefficiencies when connection errors occur, as these errors cannot be promptly identified or addressed.

Innovation Solution

A server system incorporating a baseboard management controller (BMC) that detects the connection state between servers and server cabinets, outputting data or warning signals based on the connection status, allowing for real-time monitoring and error handling through a circuit loop and storage units within the server cabinet.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional server systems are used without connection detection, then the system structure remains simple, but connection errors cannot be detected in real-time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection state detection capabilityVSAvoidsystem structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a rack connector as an intermediary component between the server and rack. This connector includes a detection module that actively detects connection status and generates detection signals. The intermediary device bridges the gap between simple physical connection and intelligent monitoring, enabling real-time connection state detection without requiring complex system-wide modifications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the detection module continuously monitors connection status and provides real-time feedback through detection signals. When connection state changes (insertion or removal), the system receives immediate feedback and can respond accordingly. This feedback loop transforms passive connection into active monitoring, improving reliability while maintaining relatively simple system architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Loss of time

If real-time connection detection is implemented, then connection errors can be promptly identified, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveerror detection timeVSAvoiddetection system structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The rack connector serves as a dedicated intermediary detection device that handles all connection monitoring functions. By concentrating detection capabilities in this single intermediary component, the patent achieves rapid error detection without distributing complex detection logic across multiple system components. The intermediary module independently manages detection signals and connection state monitoring.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The detection module within the rack connector performs self-service monitoring of connection status. It automatically detects insertion and removal events, generates detection signals, and provides real-time status information without requiring external monitoring systems. This self-service capability reduces overall system complexity while enabling immediate error detection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS9424158B2Server system with signal matching functionality
Publication Date: 2016.08.23 INVENTEC PUDONG TECH CORPOARTION
  • US9424158B2 patent drawing
  • US9424158B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A server system includes at least one server and a server cabinet. The at least one server includes a first connection port and a baseboard management controller which detects a connection state of the first connection port and according to the connection state, outputs a data signal or a warning signal. The server cabinet includes chambers for containing the at least one server, and the chamber includes a second connection port and a storage unit. The storage unit stores data. When the connection state specifies that the first connection port couples to the second connection port, the baseboard management controller reads the data stored in the storage unit, to output the data signal. When the connection state specifies that the first connection port does not couple to the second connection port, the baseboard management controller outputs the warning signal.