Modular network switches, associated structures, and associated methods of manufacture and use
US10356955B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 12, 2016 |
| Grant date | Jul 16, 2019 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 26, 2037 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH05K7/1489
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Modular network switches and other computer systems are described herein. A modular network switch can include a latching device for installing and removing computer modules (e.g., line cards) from an associated cabinet or enclosure. The network switch can also include interconnected computer modules (e.g., line cards, fabric cards, control modules, etc.) that include circuit boards oriented parallel to the flow of cooling air through the cabinet in the absence of a backplane or midplane oriented perpendicular to the air flow. The absence of such backplanes and/or midplanes provides a more direct air flow path through the cabinet, thereby enabling a more efficient flow of cooling air and lower operating temperatures. Additionally, the network switch can include an orthogonal arrangement of data planes, control planes, and/or power planes that can be efficiently interconnected to increase operational speed and further facilitate the flow of cooling air through the computer cabinet.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.