Server Rack Power Management via Integrated Management Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Server rack systems face inefficiencies in power management, including poor space utilization due to cable arrangements and increased hardware costs from network power instability, especially as the number of servers grows.
Innovation Solution
A server rack system incorporating a local area network switch, servers with board management controllers, a power supply unit, and an integrated management module that communicates through a management network to adjust power output based on server power consumption values, eliminating the need for network power and reducing hardware costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If cables are used to connect each server unit and power supply module, then power supply function is achieved, but space utilization deteriorates and cable disarrangement occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the power transmission function from physical cables and implements it through the management network. The power supply module communicates with server units via network packets to transmit power control signals, eliminating the need for dedicated power cables and improving space utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical cable-based power transmission system with an electronic network-based control system. The power supply module uses the existing management network to send power control commands to server units, substituting physical cable connections with digital communication.
2Ease of operation
If network power is used for remote management, then remote power control is achieved, but hardware cost increases and power stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a power supply module as an intermediary device that remains physically connected to server units via traditional power cables. This module receives remote control commands through the management network and executes power control locally, acting as a mediator between network management and physical power supply.
Solution Approach 2:
The power supply module autonomously executes power control operations based on network commands without requiring direct intervention in the power transmission path. It self-manages the conversion of network commands into physical power control actions, maintaining stability while enabling remote operation.
3Productivity
If the number of server units increases, then computing capacity improves, but cable quantity increases and operation difficulty worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The management network serves multiple functions simultaneously: data communication, remote management, and power control signal transmission. This universal communication infrastructure eliminates the need for separate cable systems for each function, reducing overall system complexity as server units are added.
Data Source
AI summary
A server rack system for managing power supply is provided. The system includes: a first LAN switch, a plurality of servers, at least one power supply unit, and an IMM. The first LAN switch is coupled to a management network. Each of the servers has a BMC. The BMC has a management network port connected to the management network. The power supply unit supplies electric power to the server rack system and has a management network port connected to the management network. The IMM has a management network port connected to the management network, visits the BMCs through the management network to acquire a power consumption value of the servers, generates a control command according to the power consumption value of the servers, and transmits the control command through the management network to the power supply unit. The power supply unit adjusts electric power output according to the control command.