Server Power Cable Verification Using Signal-Based Port Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for verifying power cable connections in data centers require significant downtime and are often only performed at installation, leaving the risk of unnoticed cabling errors that can reduce equipment availability and prolong outages.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method that modifies power signals at electronic equipment and power distribution devices to create a mapping of connections without disrupting operations, allowing real-time verification and detection of deviations from a stored configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sequential port turning-off method is used for cable verification, then connection accuracy is confirmed, but verification time exceeds one hour and operational downtime increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by using alternating current signals with different frequencies to periodically probe power cable connections. Instead of sequentially turning off ports over an extended period, the system simultaneously applies multiple frequency signals and detects their presence at power supply units, enabling parallel verification that reduces verification time from over one hour to a fraction of that time while maintaining connection identification accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by transforming the verification approach from mechanical port isolation to electrical signal frequency modulation. By changing the parameter of interest from port state (on/off) to signal frequency characteristics, the system can identify cable connections through spectral analysis, achieving both high precision and rapid verification without prolonged operational downtime.
2Ease of manufacture
If cable check is performed only at installation time, then initial setup is verified, but cabling errors introduced during maintenance remain undetected until outages occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by establishing a baseline cable mapping during installation and storing it for future comparison. This preliminary verification creates a reference configuration that enables subsequent rapid checks against the original setup, allowing the system to detect any deviations caused by maintenance activities before they result in outages.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring power cable connections and comparing current states against the stored baseline configuration. When discrepancies are detected, the system provides immediate feedback about potential cabling errors, enabling proactive correction before outages occur, thus transforming from a one-time installation check to an ongoing reliability assurance mechanism.
3Measurement precision
If traditional cable verification methods are used, then connection status is confirmed, but equipment availability is reduced during verification and error detection is delayed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary approach by using electrical frequency signals as mediators to probe cable connections without disrupting power delivery. Instead of physically isolating ports or interrupting power flow, the system injects detection signals that coexist with normal power transmission, allowing connection verification to occur simultaneously with equipment operation, thus maintaining full productivity while achieving precise connection status detection.
Data Source
AI summary
Computer-implemented methods for power cable connection verification for a plurality of pieces of electronic equipment connected to a power distribution device are provided. Aspects include instructing a first power supply of a first piece of electronic equipment to modify a first power signal received from the power distribution device and instructing a second power supply of a second piece of electronic equipment to modify a second power signal received from the power distribution device. Aspects also include identifying a first port of a plurality of ports of the power distribution device corresponding to the first power signal and a second port of the plurality of ports of the power distribution device corresponding to the second power signal and creating a mapping of the plurality of pieces of electronic equipment to the plurality of ports of the power distribution device.