Michael A Erickson

US Patent:

20030023887, Jan 30, 2003

Filed:

Jul 30, 2001

Appl. No.:

09/918027

Inventors:

David Maciorowski - Parker CO, US
Michael Erickson - Loveland CO, US
Paul Mantey - Fort Collins CO, US

International Classification:

G06F001/26
G06F001/28
G06F001/30

US Classification:

713/300000

Abstract:

A system for providing basic system control functions upon failure of a management processor in a computer system. During normal system operation, a management processor monitors system sensors that detect system power, temperature, and cooling fan status, and make necessary adjustments. The management processor normally provides an output signal indicating that it is operating properly. A high-availability controller monitors each of these signals to verify that there is at least one operating management processor. When none of the processors indicate that they are operating properly, the high-availability controller monitors the system sensors and updates system indicators. If a problem develops, such as failure of a power supply or a potentially dangerous increase in temperature, the high-availability controller sequentially powers down the appropriate equipment to protect the system from damage.