Wireless Storage Chassis Using 5G Links to Cut Data Center Cabling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current data centers face challenges with cabling and connectivity, which limit the adoption of edge-based storage and computing, and increase costs due to the need for connections to each data storage device.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a wireless communication system using 5G, millimeter wave, or sub-millimeter wave technologies in data storage devices and chassis, eliminating the need for cables by employing a wireless interface controller and antenna, and utilizing a movable carriage system to manage data storage cartridges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If wireless communication is implemented, then data access speed is maintained comparable to HDDs, but energy consumption increases due to wireless transmission requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic power management for wireless communication components. The wireless interface controller and radio frequency circuits are activated only when data transmission is required, and power consumption is adjusted based on communication demands. This dynamic approach maintains high data access speeds when needed while reducing energy consumption during idle periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes advanced wireless communication parameters including 5G New Radio (NR) frequency ranges (FR1 and FR2), modulation schemes, and transmission power levels to optimize the balance between data access speed and energy consumption. By dynamically adjusting these parameters, the system achieves HDD-comparable speeds while managing power efficiency.
2Adaptability or versatility
If movable carriage systems are used to manage data storage cartridges, then connectivity requirements are reduced, but mechanical reliability decreases due to moving parts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical movable carriage system with a wireless communication architecture. Each data storage device is equipped with its own wireless interface controller, eliminating the need for mechanical carriages to physically connect devices to host systems. This substitution maintains connectivity flexibility through wireless protocols while significantly improving mechanical reliability by removing moving parts.
3Adaptability or versatility
If wireless communication interfaces are added to each data storage device, then simultaneous connection with multiple devices is enabled, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universal wireless communication interfaces in data storage devices that can simultaneously connect to multiple host systems. By using standardized 5G NR protocols and multi-antenna configurations, a single wireless interface controller can establish multiple concurrent connections, enabling one device to serve multiple hosts without requiring separate dedicated interfaces for each connection, thereby controlling manufacturing costs.
Data Source
AI summary
A data storage chassis includes a plurality of data storage cartridges, and printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) electronics selectively connectable to one or more of the plurality of data storage cartridges. The data storage chassis also includes a wireless interface controller communicatively coupled to the PCBA electronics. The wireless interface controller facilitates wireless communication of data between the data storage chassis and a host using at least one frequency in a range of frequencies including fifth-generation (5G), millimeter, and sub-millimeter frequency ranges.