Synchronization Module Distributes Timing Signals via USB 3.0
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Solution Overview
Problem
Information handling systems (IHSs) face challenges in synchronizing their clocks and counters, which affects their ability to perform hyperthreading and virtualization, as existing technologies do not automatically synchronize their timing with other similar devices.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a synchronization module that repurposes USB 3.0 port wires to distribute a master timing signal among IHSs in a daisy chain configuration, allowing for efficient synchronization while maintaining USB connectivity, using a synchronizer and module identifier to initiate and manage time synchronization between IHSs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing technologies are used for clock synchronization, then IHSs can maintain independent operation, but time synchronization between IHSs is not achieved, affecting hyperthreading and virtualization performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a synchronization module as an intermediary device that couples between IHSs to distribute timing signals. This module receives timing signals from one IHS and distributes them to other IHSs, enabling synchronized operation without requiring fundamental changes to the IHS architecture. The intermediary module resolves the contradiction by providing the necessary time synchronization infrastructure that enables both reliable timing and improved productivity in hyperthreading and virtualization workloads.
Solution Approach 2:
The synchronization module is designed to work with existing IHS architectures while enabling multiple functions: it maintains USB 3.0 connectivity for data communication while simultaneously distributing timing signals for synchronization. The module can be integrated into existing systems without replacing core components, allowing the system to maintain independent operation capability while adding synchronization functionality. This multi-functionality approach resolves the contradiction by enabling time synchronization without sacrificing independent operation reliability.
2Reliability
If dedicated synchronization hardware is implemented, then time synchronization between IHSs is achieved, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The synchronization module leverages existing USB 3.0 infrastructure to perform dual functions: data communication and timing signal distribution. By using the same physical connection for both purposes, the patent avoids adding dedicated synchronization hardware pathways, thereby reducing system complexity. The module interfaces with standard USB 3.0 ports and protocols, maintaining compatibility with existing systems without requiring complex custom hardware interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The synchronization module is designed to be plug-and-play, automatically configuring itself when connected to IHSs. The module identifies itself as a synchronization device through USB identification mechanisms, and the IHSs automatically recognize and configure the timing signal distribution. This self-configuration capability reduces deployment complexity and eliminates the need for manual setup or complex initialization sequences, resolving the contradiction between achieving reliable synchronization and maintaining simple system architecture.
3Ease of manufacture
If USB 3.0 port wires are repurposed for timing signal distribution, then inexpensive components are used and USB functionality is maintained, but signal integrity and synchronization precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The synchronization module separates the timing signal distribution function from the data communication function at the signal processing level, even though they share the same physical USB 3.0 connection. The module includes dedicated timing signal input and output pathways that are distinct from the data communication pathways. This segmentation allows timing signals to be extracted and distributed with minimal interference from data traffic, maintaining signal integrity while using the inexpensive USB 3.0 infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The synchronization module acts as an intermediary that buffers and conditions timing signals between IHSs. It includes signal conditioning circuitry that cleans and stabilizes timing signals before distribution, compensating for potential degradation from sharing the USB connection. The module also includes buffering mechanisms that isolate timing signal transmission from data communication variations, maintaining synchronization precision while leveraging the cost-effective USB 3.0 wire infrastructure.
Data Source
AI summary
An information handling system includes a synchronizer and a module identifier. The module identifier identifies a module identification event for a module attached to the information handling system; in response to identifying the module identification event: obtains a module identifier from the module, and makes a determination that the module identifier indicates that the module is a synchronization type of module, and initiates, based on the determination, time synchronization for the information handling system with a second information handling system using the module and the synchronizer.