Switch Port Identification via Alternating Link State Patterns
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Solution Overview
Problem
Network administrators face difficulty in visually identifying the switch port connected to a particular device in a corporate network, as existing methods only help identify local network cards and not ports at the far end of the cable.
Innovation Solution
A switch with a connector and indicator is configured to transmit a command signal via a cable to the connected computer, detecting a response and changing the communication link state at the near end to create a recognizable alternating pattern, allowing easy identification of the far-end port using LEDs or other indicators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a local network card identification function using flashing LED is used, then the local network port can be identified, but the far end port connected by cable cannot be identified
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses feedback from the far end device to create a visible pattern at the near end. The far end device sends back a response signal that causes the near end LED to flash in a specific pattern, providing feedback about the connection status and enabling identification of the far end port through the near end indicators.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from simple binary LED states (on/off) to temporal patterns (flashing sequences). By encoding information in the time domain through patterned flashing, the system creates a new dimension of information display that enables far end port identification without additional hardware at the far end.
2Measurement precision
If existing network configuration utilities are used, then local network card identification is possible, but far end port identification remains impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The far end device automatically participates in the identification process by sending back response signals without requiring manual intervention or special configuration. The system uses the existing communication link and standard network protocols to enable self-identification of the far end port through patterned LED flashing at the near end.
3Productivity
If manual port identification methods are used, then network configuration can be performed, but troubleshooting and configuration processes become time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary identification actions automatically when a device connects to the network. The far end device sends identification signals and the near end LED displays patterns before any configuration or troubleshooting is needed, providing immediate visual feedback that speeds up the overall process.
Data Source
AI summary
A switch includes a connector, a port, and an indicator. The connector is configured to connect via a cable to a computer. The port is attached to the connector. While the connector is connected to the computer via the cable, the port is configured to: transmit a command signal from the switch to the computer via the cable, wherein the command signal requests identification of the port; and detect a response to the command signal as received from the computer. The indicator is connected to the port. The indicator is configured to identify the port based on an alternating pattern of the response to the command signal.