N-port algorithm for disabling a node within a network during reset

Abstract

A device and method to control a node within a network is disclosed. The node can have any number of ports N where N is an integer greater than one. The device has N-port modules, corresponding to the number of ports in the node, each port module associated with one port for controlling reception and transmission of information through the associated port. The port modules are substantially identical and the device can be manufactured by replicating N-port modules, one port module for each port. The port modules have a priority within the node. The priority can be created by connecting the port modules in a daisy chain configuration. The port module having the highest priority compares the unique identifier of the node with the unique identifier being received by the port associated with the highest priority port module. The results of this comparison are sent to the next highest priority port module. The port modules compare, in a predetermined priority, the unique identifier being received by the associated port with the unique identifier having been sent by the previous port modules. This continues until all of the port modules have agreed upon a unique identifier which satisfies a set of predetermined conditions. Once the port modules have all determined that an identically unique identifier satisfies the predetermined conditions, the device disables ports which are receiving this identical unique identifier from the root node until only one port in the node is receiving this unique identifier from the root node.