All-in-one USB Type-C Connector for Non-Intrusive Telemetry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Debugging and obtaining telemetry information in closed chassis computing devices is challenging due to limited debug capabilities and the inability to access platform information beyond debug data, especially when traditional debugging interfaces are not exposed.
Innovation Solution
An all-in-one USB Type-C connector is used to enable non-intrusive telemetry data collection and communication, allowing for the transmission of various system parameters, including voltage, temperature, and connection information, through a reversible plug with dedicated pins for debug mode, facilitating communication between the SoC and an external debugger.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If traditional debugging interfaces are used in closed chassis systems, then debug information can be obtained, but access to platform information is limited and the debugging process becomes intrusive
Solution Approach 1:
The USB Type-C connector is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides debug information access, platform telemetry data collection, and power delivery capabilities through a single standardized interface, replacing the need for separate specialized connectors
Solution Approach 2:
The all-in-one connector acts as an intermediary between the closed chassis system and external debugging equipment, enabling non-intrusive access to both debug and platform information without requiring physical opening of the device
2Reliability
If specialized debug connectors are used, then debug capabilities are provided, but the device complexity increases and manufacturing becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple previously separate connectors (debug interface, telemetry interface, power interface) are merged into a single USB Type-C connector, reducing the number of components and simplifying the device architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The USB Type-C connector is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides debug information access, platform telemetry data collection, and power delivery capabilities through a single standardized interface, replacing the need for separate specialized connectors
3Ease of operation
If the chassis is opened for debugging, then debugging interfaces are exposed, but the device structure is compromised and debugging becomes intrusive
Solution Approach 1:
The all-in-one connector acts as an intermediary between the closed chassis system and external debugging equipment, enabling non-intrusive access to both debug and platform information without requiring physical opening of the device
Solution Approach 2:
The USB Type-C connector provides multiple interfaces (debug, telemetry, power) through a single standardized connection point on the closed chassis, eliminating the need to open the device for debugging access
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a controller to couple between a system on chip (SoC) and an external connector of a platform. The controller may include: a digitizer to digitize platform telemetry information of the platform; and a control circuit to receive a command from a debug test system and direct the platform telemetry information to a destination in response to the command. Other embodiments are described and claimed.