CN1794162A

CN1794162A - Sas storage virtualization controller, subsystem and system using the same, and method therefor

Info

Publication number: CN1794162A
Application number: CN 200510132336
Authority: CN
Inventors: 庞景德; 施明文; 苏献文; 李正宇
Original assignee: INFORTREND Inc
Current assignee: INFORTREND Inc; Infortrend Technology Inc
Priority date: 2004-12-21
Filing date: 2005-12-21
Publication date: 2006-06-28
Anticipated expiration: 2025-12-21
Also published as: CN100511118C; CN101470587B; CN100356310C; CN1801073A; CN101470587A

Abstract

The invention relates to a storage virtualization controller, subsystem, system and method. The storage virtualization computer system comprises a host entity for issuing an IO request, a serial attached SCSI (SAS) storage virtualization controller coupled to the host entity for executing IO operations in response to the IO request, and at least one physical storage device, each coupled to the storage virtualization controller through a SAS interconnect, for providing data storage space to the storage virtualization computer system through the SAS storage virtualization controller.

Description

Sas storage virtualization controller, subsystem and System and method for

Technical field

The present invention is relevant for a kind of sas storage virtualization controller and the subsystem that uses it, particularly about the attached minicomputer system interface of a kind of use tandem (SAS, Serial Attached SCSI) the device end I/O device links (device-side IO device interconnect) being connected in the sas storage virtualization controller between Jie's one host computer system and the direct accessing storing device and using its subsystem, and uses the computer system of this controller and subsystem and be used for its method.

Background technology

Sas storage virtualization (storage virtualization) is a kind of with the virtualized technology in entity storage area, it is that different sections with entity storage device (PSDs) are combined into and can store body (logical storage entity) for the logic that a host computer system access is used, this be called " logical medium unit " (logical media units, LMU).This technology is mainly used in Redundant Array Of Independent Disks (RAID) (RAID) sas storage virtualization, through Redundant Array Of Independent Disks (RAID) technology thus, less entity storage device can be combined into that capacity is big, fault tolerant, dynamical logical medium unit.

(storage virtualization controller, fundamental purpose SVC) is the visible logical medium of combination mapping (map) the formation one host computer system unit with each section of entity Storage Media to the sas storage virtualization controller.Going into by the output that this host computer system is sent that (IO) ask after receiving can be earlier by analysis and decipher, and the output that relevant operation and data can be compiled into the entity storage device goes into to ask.This process can be indirectly, for example (as: write-back (write-back)) got, postpones in utilization soon, usefulness and other operating characteristic are strengthened in expection (anticipate) (reading (read-ahead) earlier), the operations such as (group) of trooping, thus a main frame to export into request might not be directly to export into request corresponding to the entity storage device in man-to-man mode.

Circumscribed (or can be described as stand alone type (stand-alone)) sas storage virtualization controller is the sas storage virtualization controller that is connected in host computer system via output-input interface for a kind of, and it can be connected to the device that is positioned at the host computer system outside, generally speaking, the sas storage virtualization controller of circumscribed normally is independent of main frame and operates.

Circumscribed (or stand alone type) direct access RAID controller (external direct-accessRAID controller) is an example of circumscribed sas storage virtualization controller.RAID controller is with one or more entity DASDs (direct access storage devices, DASDs) section combination is to constitute the logical medium unit, and their constituted mode is by specific magnetic disc array type attitude (RAID level) decision of being adopted, the logical medium unit that it constituted for the host computer system that can utilize it, but be addressing continuously.Typically, a single RAID controller (single RAID controller) can be supported multiple Redundant Array Of Independent Disks (RAID) kenel, therefore, different logical medium unit can be combined by different Redundant Array Of Independent Disks (RAID) kenels in a different manner by each section of DASD, and the different logical medium unit of each that is combined into then has the respectively characteristic of this Redundant Array Of Independent Disks (RAID) kenel.

The example of another circumscribed sas storage virtualization controller is JBOD (Just a Bunch ofDrives) analog controller.JBOD is a group object DASD for the abbreviation of " only being a bundle disc player ", and is directly connected on the host computer system via one or more many device I/O devices bindings (multiple-device IOdevice interconnect).But (as: the tandem advanced technology accesses interface (SATA to use point-to-point I/O device to be connected to the DASD of this host computer system, Serial Advanced Technology Attachment) hard disc, parallel advanced technology access interface (PATA, Parallel Advanced Technology Attachment) hard disc etc.), can't see through directly binding and constitute JBOD system as the aforementioned, because these DASDs do not allow multiple arrangement to be connected directly on the I/O device passage.As for intelligent JBOD simulator, be by the mode that request is mapped to the entity DASD is gone in output, link DASD and be used for simulating a plurality of many device I/O devices, and wherein this entity DASD is individually to link passage via point-to-point I/O device to be connected to the JBOD simulator.

The example of another circumscribed sas storage virtualization controller (being abbreviated as SVC) is a kind of controller that is used for circumscribed tape backup subsystem.

The topmost function of sas storage virtualization controller is management, combination and controls the entity storage device, and its form with one group of logical medium unit is presented in host side, make each logical medium unit in host side, all similarly be to be connected directly to an entity storage device, this logical medium unit then is this entity storage device equivalent logically.In order to reach this purpose; go into request by main frame output and by the output that the sas storage virtualization controller is handled; if can produce some behavior usually in an equivalent entity storage device, then these are exported the request meeting and produce the behavior of equivalence in logic at the sas storage virtualization controller on about the part of the logical medium unit of institute's addressing.Consequently, this main frame can think that it is to be connected directly to an entity storage device and communication with it, though in fact, this main frame is that to be connected to one only be that and the logical medium unit of its addressing is the equivalent in logic of this entity storage device on the sas storage virtualization controller of this entity storage device behavior of simulation.

In order to realize above-mentioned Behavior modeling, the sas storage virtualization controller will receive the output that comes from main frame go into request and map to the built-in function that equates in logic, wherein have the operation of part not need to produce any device end and export into asking and just can finish to device end entity storage device; These operations only need get final product in inside, do not need device end entity storage device is carried out access.The output of this class goes into that request produced operates in this and will be called " internal simulation operation (internally emulatedoperation) ".

Yet some operation can't only be carried out via internal simulation, but also directly cause device end entity storage device is not carried out access.For instance, these operations comprise fast extract operation; For example during data read operation, just be present in fully in the data memory cache body of sas storage virtualization controller at present corresponding to the data of the medium section of exporting the addressing of request institute (media section); Or when data write operation, when the memory cache body of this sas storage virtualization controller is to operate in write-back mode, then make in the only first write caching memory body of data, then just be sent to suitable entity storage device.These operations all can be described as " asynchronous device operation (asynchronous device operation) ", that is the output that all reality of device end entity storage device take place to reach to reach its original purpose requested operation in order to make to go into request all be to carry out before or after institute's requested operation indirectly, rather than directly carry out in response to institute's requested operation.

Also have a class to export the operation of finishing to the entity storage device into asking that operation constituted by direct generation device end in addition, this operation generally can be called " synchronous device operation (synchronousdevice operation) ".

In addition, exported into request by some host side and can map to the combination operation of being made up of a plurality of inhomogeneous child-operation, these child-operations can comprise internal simulation operation, the operation of asynchronous device and/or synchronous device operation.The example that host side that maps to operation of asynchronous device and synchronous device operative combination is exported into request is, a data read request, the pairing data of medium section of its institute's addressing in the logical medium unit, a part is present in the middle of the memory cache body at present, a part is not present in the middle of the memory cache body, thereby must read in the middle of the entity storage device.These child-operations of reading of data in the middle of the memory cache body are non-synchronous device operations, do not export into request because this child-operation does not need directly to finish this from the access of device end entity storage device, but but indirectly rely on the result of previous performed device end entity storage device access and finish; Directly then operate to the child-operation of entity storage device reading of data for synchronous device because it needed be device end entity storage device is carried out data access finish this and export directly and immediately into request.

Traditionally, general sas storage virtualization all is by parallel minicomputer system interface (P-SCSI, Parallel Small Computer System Interface), the optical fiber I/O device links as main device end I/O device binding (primary device-side IO deviceinterconnect), so that the entity storage device is connected to the sas storage virtualization controller.Parallel minicomputer system interface and optical fiber are all many device I/O devices and link, and need to be shared by connected All hosts and all devices and install the frequency range that I/O device links more.

See also shown in Figure 23ly, it is one to use the calcspar of the known storage virtualization computer system that parallel minicomputer system interface links as main device end I/O device.When using the device end I/O device binding of this parallel minicomputer system interface, this total bandwidth is limited in every binding 320MB/s, or to use the device end I/O device binding of four parallel minicomputer system interfaces, 1280MB/s aggregate bandwidth in the illustrated embodiment of Figure 23.See also shown in Figure 24ly, it is one to use the calcspar of the known storage virtualization computer system that fibre channel arbitrated loop (Fibre FC-AL) links as main device end I/O device.When using this fibre channel arbitrated loop device end I/O device to link, this total bandwidth is limited in every binding 200MB/s, or to use four fibre channel arbitrated loop device end I/O devices to link the 800MB/s aggregate bandwidth in the illustrated embodiment of Figure 24.

Many device ends I/O device links, for example parallel minicomputer system interface, link when going up if there is a device that breaks down of following shortcoming-have to be connected many devices, it may disturb the communications and liaison and/or the data transmission of the device of main frame and other shared bindings.And fibre channel arbitrated loop can lower above-mentioned misgivings to a certain degree in practical application, and double track is redundant to be linked because it provides, and this double track is redundant to be linked for each device provides two passes, in case passage breaks or is blocked.Yet such design still is worse than the binding that each storage device has its special use, and this is because independently lost efficacy separately in two bindings and still can cause two to link the problem that can't act on simultaneously.Yet on the other hand, if use special-purpose binding, the signal integrality (signalintegrity) between can guaranteeing to link has independence completely, and this moment, one of them device damage can't influence other devices.

Yet parallel minicomputer system interface-this kind I/O device binding has the parts that only can protect the effective load data (payload data) of information at most, and too late in the shortcoming of the part (as block address and data length etc.) of controlling information.And because form the number a lot (being 68) that each parallel minicomputer system interface links the signal line that needs the special use used, the number that parallel minicomputer system interface links a bit just is difficult for increasing in back surpassing certain again.Moreover because the parallel nature of parallel minicomputer system interface, it is difficult to support higher interface speed.

Therefore, using the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem (SAS, Serial AttachedSCSI) entity DASD to one is that the sas storage virtualization subsystem of main entity DASD has its demand.More very, except the attached minicomputer system interface of available tandem entity DASD is the main entity DASD, to an entity DASD that can use second type, accessing interface (SATA) entity DASD as: tandem advanced technology is main entity DASD but not the sas storage virtualization subsystem of the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem entity DASD has its demand.

This shows that above-mentioned existing sas storage virtualization controller, subsystem and System and method for obviously still have inconvenience and defective, and demand urgently further being improved in structure, method and use.In order to solve the problem that sas storage virtualization controller, subsystem and System and method for exist, relevant manufacturer there's no one who doesn't or isn't seeks solution painstakingly, but do not see always that for a long time suitable design finished by development, and common product does not have appropriate structure to address the above problem, and this obviously is the problem that the anxious desire of relevant dealer solves.Therefore how to found a kind of new sas storage virtualization controller, subsystem and System and method for, just become the current industry utmost point to need improved target.

Because the defective that above-mentioned existing sas storage virtualization controller, subsystem and System and method for exist, the inventor is based on being engaged in this type of product design manufacturing abundant for many years practical experience and professional knowledge, and the utilization of cooperation scientific principle, actively studied innovation, in the hope of founding a kind of new sas storage virtualization controller, subsystem and System and method for, can improve general existing sas storage virtualization controller, subsystem and System and method for, make it have more practicality.Through constantly research, design, and after studying sample and improvement repeatedly, create the present invention who has practical value finally.

Summary of the invention

The objective of the invention is to, overcome existing sas storage virtualization controller, the defective that subsystem and System and method for exist, and provide a kind of novel sas storage virtualization controller, subsystem and System and method for, technical matters to be solved be make its provide the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem (SAS) sas storage virtualization controller with and use the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem to link (device-side IO device interconnect) the entity storage device is connected to this sas storage virtualization controller host computer system (Host system) is provided the virtualization subsystem of storage as main device end I/O device.The present invention also provides and has comprised the system of sas storage virtualization controller and subsystem so, with and method, thereby be suitable for practicality more.

The object of the invention to solve the technical problems realizes by the following technical solutions.According to the storage virtualization computer system that the present invention proposes, it comprises: a main computer unit is gone into requirement to send output; One external storage virtualization controller is coupled to this main computer unit and goes into to operate to export into requirement in response to this to carry out output; And at least one entity storage device, its each is to link via the attached minicomputer system interface of a tandem to be coupled to this sas storage virtualization controller, to provide the data storing space to this storage virtualization computer system via this sas storage virtualization controller.

The object of the invention to solve the technical problems also adopts following technical measures further to realize.

Aforesaid storage virtualization computer system, wherein said at least one entity storage device comprises at least one entity storage device described as follows: the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem entity storage device, a tandem advanced technology accesses interface entity storage device and a parallel advanced technology accesses interface entity storage device.

Aforesaid storage virtualization computer system, wherein when above-mentioned sas storage virtualization controller when reaching the standard grade, at least one above-mentioned entity storage device can separate with the sas storage virtualization controller or be thereon attached.

Aforesaid storage virtualization computer system, wherein said sas storage virtualization controller by configuration and setting to define the section that at least one logical medium unit comprises at least one entity storage device.

Aforesaid storage virtualization computer system, wherein said sas storage virtualization controller comprises: a central processing circuit is gone into operation and is exported into requirement in response to this of this main computer unit to carry out output; At least one I/O device links controller and is coupled to this central processing circuit; At least one host side I/O device links the port and is arranged at least one above-mentioned I/O device binding controller to be coupled to this main computer unit; And the attached minicomputer system interfare device of at least one tandem end I/O device binding port is arranged at least one above-mentioned I/O device binding controller to be coupled at least one above-mentioned entity storage device.

Aforesaid storage virtualization computer system, wherein host side I/O device binding port and the attached minicomputer system interfare device of tandem end I/O device binding port are set in the same I/O device binding controller.

Aforesaid storage virtualization computer system, wherein host side I/O device binding port and the attached minicomputer system interfare device of tandem end I/O device binding port are set in the different I/O device binding controllers.

Aforesaid storage virtualization computer system, wherein said sas storage virtualization controller comprise that at least one host side I/O device links port, and its each is to be coupled to a host side I/O device to link.

Aforesaid storage virtualization computer system, wherein said sas storage virtualization controller is presented a logical medium unit by configuration and setting for linking on the port at least two at least one above-mentioned host side I/O devices redundantly.

Aforesaid storage virtualization computer system, wherein said host side I/O device links the port and comprises at least one port described as follows type: the optical-fibre channel of supporting point-to-point connection in target pattern, in target pattern, support the optical-fibre channel of private loop line, in target pattern, support the optical-fibre channel of dissipating public loop line, operate in the parallel minicomputer system interface in the target pattern, operate in the Ethernet of supporting the agreement of Internet minicomputer system interface in the target pattern, operate in the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem in the target pattern, the tandem advanced technology that operates in the target pattern accesses interface, U.S. Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers IEEE 1394A interface/U.S. Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers IEEE 1394B interface, and universal serial bus interface/universal serial bus 2.0 interfaces.

The object of the invention to solve the technical problems also realizes by the following technical solutions.The sas storage virtualization subsystem that is used to provide the data storing space according to the present invention's proposition, it comprises: an external storage virtualization controller, in order to be linked to a main computer unit and to carry out to export to go into to operate and go into requirement in response to the output that sends from this main computer unit; And at least one entity storage device, its each is to link via the attached minicomputer system interface of a tandem to be coupled to this sas storage virtualization controller, to provide the data storing space to this main computer unit via this sas storage virtualization controller.

Aforesaid sas storage virtualization subsystem, wherein said sas storage virtualization controller comprises: a CPU (central processing unit) is gone into operation and is exported into requirement in response to this of this main frame to carry out output; At least one I/O device links controller and is coupled to this central processing circuit; At least one host side I/O device links the port and is arranged in this at least one I/O device binding controller to be coupled to this main computer unit; And the attached minicomputer system interfare device of at least one tandem end I/O device binding port is arranged in this at least one I/O device binding controller to be coupled to this at least one entity storage device.

Aforesaid sas storage virtualization subsystem, wherein host side I/O device binding port and the attached minicomputer system interfare device of an above-mentioned tandem end I/O device binding port are set in the same I/O device binding controller.

Aforesaid sas storage virtualization subsystem, wherein host side I/O device binding port and the attached minicomputer system interfare device of this tandem end I/O device binding port are set in the different I/O device binding controllers.

Aforesaid sas storage virtualization subsystem, wherein said at least one entity storage device comprises at least one entity storage device described as follows: the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem entity storage device, a tandem advanced technology accesses interface entity storage device and a parallel advanced technology accesses interface entity storage device.

Aforesaid sas storage virtualization subsystem, wherein said sas storage virtualization controller comprise that at least one host side I/O device links port, its each be coupled to a host side I/O device and link.

Aforesaid sas storage virtualization subsystem, wherein said sas storage virtualization controller is presented a logical medium unit by configuration and setting to link on the port at least two at least one above-mentioned host side I/O devices redundantly.

Aforesaid sas storage virtualization subsystem, wherein said sas storage virtualization controller are comprised the section of this at least one entity storage device with the logical medium unit that defines at least one by configuration and setting.

Aforesaid sas storage virtualization subsystem, wherein when this sas storage virtualization controller be that at least one above-mentioned entity storage device can separate with this sas storage virtualization controller or thereon attached when reaching the standard grade.

Aforesaid sas storage virtualization subsystem, wherein said sas storage virtualization controller comprise that more at least one expansion port is to dispose at least one entity storage device of another group.

Aforesaid sas storage virtualization subsystem, wherein said sas storage virtualization controller comprise that more at least one many device device end expansions port is to dispose at least one entity storage device of another group.

Aforesaid sas storage virtualization subsystem, wherein said sas storage virtualization controller comprise that more at least one expansion port is to dispose at least one entity storage device of another group via an expanded circuit.

Aforesaid sas storage virtualization subsystem, wherein at least one this host side I/O device links the port and comprises the port type that at least one is following: the optical-fibre channel of supporting point-to-point line in target pattern, in target pattern, support the optical-fibre channel of private loop line, in target pattern, support the optical-fibre channel of dissipating public loop line, operate in the parallel minicomputer system interface in the target pattern, operate in the Ethernet of supporting the agreement of Internet minicomputer system interface in the target pattern, operate in the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem in the target pattern, the tandem advanced technology that operates in the target pattern accesses interface, U.S. Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers IEEE 1394A interface/U.S. Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers IEEE 1394B interface, and universal serial bus interface/universal serial bus 2.0 interfaces.

Aforesaid sas storage virtualization subsystem, it more comprises a casing management service circuit mechanism.

Aforesaid sas storage virtualization subsystem, wherein said casing management service circuit mechanism management and monitor at least one as the following device that belongs to this sas storage virtualization subsystem: power supply unit, fan, temperature-sensitive sticker, voltmeter, uninterruptible power supply provider, battery, light emitting diode, siren, the ccontaining casket lock of entity storage device, door lock.

Aforesaid sas storage virtualization subsystem, wherein said casing management service circuit configurations are set at supports a following configuration: directly connect box management service circuit configurations and device are delivered casing management service circuit configurations.

Aforesaid sas storage virtualization subsystem, wherein said casing management service circuit mechanism configuration and setting is for supporting a following agreement: agreement of SES casing management service circuit and the agreement of SAF-TE casing management service circuit.

Aforesaid sas storage virtualization subsystem, wherein this casing management service circuit mechanism of configuration and setting more comprise a following circuit with and this sas storage virtualization controller link up: bus bolt and status monitoring circuit between wafer.

The object of the invention to solve the technical problems also realizes by the following technical solutions.According to the external storage virtualization controller that the present invention proposes, it comprises: a central processing circuit, go into to operate in response to going into requirement in order to carry out output from the output of a main computer unit; At least one I/O device links controller and is coupled to this central processing circuit; At least one host side I/O device links port and is arranged at this at least one I/O device and links in controller to be coupled to this main computer unit: and the attached minicomputer system interfare device of at least one tandem end I/O device links the port and is arranged at least one I/O device and links in controller to be coupled at least one entity storage device and to carry out point-to-point tandem signal with this at least one entity storage device and transmit.

Aforesaid external storage virtualization controller, wherein host side I/O device binding port and the attached minicomputer system interfare device of an above-mentioned tandem end I/O device binding port are set in the same I/O device binding controller.

Aforesaid external storage virtualization controller, wherein host side I/O device binding port and the attached minicomputer system interfare device of an above-mentioned tandem end I/O device binding port are set in the different I/O device binding controllers.

Aforesaid external storage virtualization controller, wherein said device end I/O device link controller and comprise that a more peripheral part connects interface/peripheral element and links the extension interface to be connected to this central processing circuit.

Aforesaid external storage virtualization controller, wherein said device end I/O device links controller and comprises that more a peripheral element links quick interface to be connected to this central processing circuit.

Aforesaid external storage virtualization controller, wherein said sas storage virtualization controller comprise that at least one host side I/O device links port, its each be coupled to a host side I/O device and link.

Aforesaid external storage virtualization controller, wherein said sas storage virtualization controller are comprised the section of at least one entity storage device with the logical medium unit that defines at least one by configuration and setting.

Aforesaid external storage virtualization controller, wherein said sas storage virtualization controller is presented a logical medium unit by configuration and setting to link on the port at least two at least one above-mentioned host side I/O devices redundantly.

Aforesaid external storage virtualization controller, wherein at least one this entity storage device is that a direct accessing storing device and this sas storage virtualization controller are comprised that with the logical medium unit that defines at least one section of at least one this DASD and this logical medium unit are the merging of a Redundant Array Of Independent Disks (RAID) kenel or Redundant Array Of Independent Disks (RAID) kenel by configuration and setting, and this logical medium unit can be this main computer unit addressing continuously by this.

Aforesaid external storage virtualization controller, it comprises that more at least one expansion port is to dispose at least one entity storage device of one second group.

Aforesaid external storage virtualization controller, it comprises that more at least one many device device ends expansions port is to dispose at least one entity storage device of one second group.

Aforesaid external storage virtualization controller, it comprises that more at least one expansion port is to dispose at least one entity storage device of one second group via an expanded circuit.

Aforesaid external storage virtualization controller, wherein at least one this host side I/O device links the port and comprises at least one port described as follows kenel: the optical-fibre channel of supporting point-to-point line in target pattern, in target pattern, support the optical-fibre channel of private loop line, in target pattern, support the optical-fibre channel of dissipating public loop line, operate in the parallel minicomputer system interface in the target pattern, operate in the Ethernet of supporting the agreement of Internet minicomputer system interface in the target pattern, operate in the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem in the target pattern, the tandem advanced technology that operates in the target pattern accesses interface, U.S. Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers IEEE 1394A interface/U.S.'s Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers IEEE 1394B interface and universal serial bus interface/universal serial bus 2.0 interfaces.

Aforesaid external storage virtualization controller, it more comprises a casing management service circuit mechanism.

Aforesaid external storage virtualization controller, wherein said casing management service circuit mechanism configuration and setting is for supporting the one of following configuration: directly connect box management service circuit configurations and device are delivered casing management service circuit configurations.

Aforesaid external storage virtualization controller, wherein said sas storage virtualization configurable controller are set at the one of supporting following agreement: agreement of SES casing management service circuit and the agreement of SAF-TE casing management service circuit.

The object of the invention to solve the technical problems also realizes by the following technical solutions.According to having in the computer system of an external storage virtualization controller in order to carry out the method for sas storage virtualization that the present invention proposes, it comprises: receive one with this sas storage virtualization controller and go into requirement from the output of a main computer unit of this computer system; Analyzing this with this sas storage virtualization controller exports into requirement and carries out and export into requirement in response to this to determine at least one to export into operation; And carry out at least one with this sas storage virtualization controller and export at least one the entity storage device that uses this computer system into operation with the point-to-point tandem signal load mode access that meets the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem.

Aforesaid method, it more comprises the step that a casing management service circuit mechanism is provided.

Aforesaid method, it more comprises when casing management service circuit mechanism configuration and setting carries out this machine-processed step for the moment for its of supporting following configuration: directly connect box management service circuit configurations and device are delivered casing management service circuit configurations.

Aforesaid method, wherein at least one entity storage device comprises the entity storage device that at least one is following: the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem entity storage device, a tandem advanced technology accesses interface entity storage device and a parallel advanced technology accesses interface entity storage device.

Aforesaid method; The step of wherein carrying out the operation of at least one import and export comprises that sending at least one device end import and export requires to link controller to the attached minicomputer system interfare device of a tandem end I/O device that is arranged in this sas storage virtualization controller, and by the attached minicomputer system interfare device of this tandem end I/O device link controller again this device end import and export of layout require and follow the form of import and export data and the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem and it is become at least one packet that meets the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem transfer protocol.

The present invention compared with prior art has tangible advantage and beneficial effect.By above technical scheme as can be known, major technique of the present invention thes contents are as follows:

According to the present invention, provide a storage virtualization computer system (storagevirtualization computer system).This storage virtualization computer system comprises that sending an output goes into the main computer unit (Host entity) that (IO) requires, one is coupled to this main computer unit carries out output and goes into operation and export circumscribed sas storage virtualization controller (SVC into requirement to respond this that sent by this main computer unit, storage virtualization controller), and at least one entity storage device (PSD), each all links via the attached minicomputer system interface of a tandem and is coupled to this virtualization controller, by this sas storage virtualization controller to provide the data storing space to this storage virtualization computer system.

According to the present invention, provide a sas storage virtualization computer subsystem (SVS, storagevirtualization computer subsystem).This sas storage virtualization computer subsystem comprises that one is used to be connected to a main computer unit and carries out output and go into operation and go into circumscribed sas storage virtualization controller and at least one entity storage device of requirement to respond the output of being sent by this main computer unit, each all links via the attached minicomputer system interface of a tandem and is coupled to this virtualization controller, by this sas storage virtualization controller to provide the data storing space to this main computer unit.

According to one embodiment of the invention, in the above-mentioned subsystem, this casing management service circuit mechanism management and monitor at least one as the following device that belongs to this sas storage virtualization subsystem wherein: power supply unit, fan, temperature-sensitive sticker, voltmeter, uninterruptible power supply provider, battery, light emitting diode, siren, the ccontaining casket lock of entity storage device, door lock.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, in the above-mentioned subsystem, wherein this casing management service circuit mechanism of configuration and setting more comprise a following circuit with and this sas storage virtualization controller link up: bus bolt and status monitoring circuit between wafer.

According to the present invention, this sas storage virtualization controller of provide a sas storage virtualization controller. comprise that one carries out the central processing circuit (central processing circuitry) that import and export operates to respond the import and export requirement of being sent by a main computer unit, at least one I/O device links controller (IOdevice interconnect controller) and is couple to this central processing circuit, in this at least one I/O device binding controller, at least one host side I/O device is set and links port (host-side IOdevice interconnect port) in order to couple this main computer unit, and the attached minicomputer system interface of at least one tandem (SAS) device end I/O device binding port (device-side IO device interconnect port) is set in order to couple at least one physical storage device and it to be carried out point-to-point tandem signal transmit (point-to-pointserial-signal transmission) in this at least one I/O device binding controller.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, in the above-mentioned controller, wherein this device end I/O device links controller and comprises that a more peripheral part connects interface (PCI)/peripheral element and links extension interface (PCI-X) to be connected to this central processing circuit.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, in the above-mentioned controller, wherein this device end I/O device links controller and comprises that more a peripheral element links quick interface (PCI-Express) to be connected to this central processing circuit.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, in the above-mentioned controller, wherein at least one this entity storage device is that a direct accessing storing device (DASD) and this sas storage virtualization controller are to comprise that the section of at least one this DASD and this logical medium unit are the merging of a Redundant Array Of Independent Disks (RAID) kenel or Redundant Array Of Independent Disks (RAID) kenel by configuration and setting with the logical medium unit that defines at least one, and this logical medium unit can be this main computer unit addressing continuously by this.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, in the above-mentioned computer system or subsystem, wherein this at least one entity storage device comprises at least one entity storage device described as follows: the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem entity storage device, a tandem advanced technology access interface (SATA) entity storage device and a parallel advanced technology accesses interface (PATA) entity storage device.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, in the above-mentioned computer system or subsystem, wherein can separate with this sas storage virtualization controller or thereon attached when this sas storage virtualization controller this at least one entity storage device when reaching the standard grade.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, in above-mentioned computer system, subsystem or the controller, wherein said sas storage virtualization controller by configuration and setting to define the section that at least one logical medium unit comprises at least one this entity storage device.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, in the above-mentioned computer system or subsystem, wherein said sas storage virtualization controller comprises: a central processing circuit is gone into operation and is exported into requirement in response to this of this main computer unit to carry out output; At least one I/O device links controller and is coupled to this central processing circuit; At least one host side I/O device links the port and is arranged in this at least one I/O device binding controller to be coupled to this main computer unit; And the attached minicomputer system interfare device of at least one tandem end I/O device binding port is arranged in this at least one I/O device binding controller to be coupled to this at least one entity storage device.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, in above-mentioned computer system, subsystem or the controller, wherein this host side I/O device binding port and the attached minicomputer system interfare device of this tandem end I/O device binding port are set in the same I/O device binding controller.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, in above-mentioned computer system, subsystem or the controller, wherein this host side I/O device binding port and the attached minicomputer system interfare device of this tandem end I/O device binding port are set in the different I/O device binding controllers.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, in above-mentioned computer system, subsystem or the controller, wherein said sas storage virtualization controller comprises that at least one host side I/O device links port, and its each is to be coupled to a host side I/O device to link.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, in above-mentioned computer system, subsystem or the controller, wherein said sas storage virtualization controller is presented a logical medium unit by configuration and setting for linking on the port at least two these at least one host side I/O devices redundantly.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, above-mentioned computer system, in subsystem or the controller, wherein said host side I/O device links the port and comprises at least one port described as follows type: the optical-fibre channel (Fibre Channel) of supporting point-to-point connection in target pattern, in target pattern, support the optical-fibre channel (Fibre Channel) of private loop line, in target pattern, support the optical-fibre channel (Fibre Channel) of dissipating public loop line, operate in the parallel minicomputer system interface (P-SCSI) in the target pattern, operate in the Ethernet (ethernet) of supporting Internet minicomputer system interface (iSCSI) agreement in the target pattern, operate in the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem (SAS) in the target pattern, the tandem advanced technology that operates in the target pattern accesses interface (SATA), U.S. Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers IEEE 1394A interface (IEEE 1394A)/U.S. Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers IEEE 1394B interface (IEEE 1394B), and universal serial bus interface (USB)/universal serial bus 2.0 interfaces (USB 2.0).

According to another embodiment of the present invention, in the above-mentioned subsystem or controller, wherein said sas storage virtualization controller comprises that more at least one expansion port is to dispose at least one entity storage device of another group.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, in the above-mentioned subsystem or controller, wherein said sas storage virtualization controller comprises that more at least one many device device end expansions port is to dispose at least one entity storage device of another group.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, in the above-mentioned subsystem or controller, wherein said sas storage virtualization controller comprises that more at least one expansion port is to dispose at least one entity storage device of another group via an expanded circuit.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, more comprise casing management service circuit (EMS) mechanism in above-mentioned subsystem or the controller.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, in the above-mentioned subsystem or controller, wherein these casing management service circuit configurations are set at and support the one of the following configuration: directly connect box management service circuit configurations and device are delivered casing management service circuit configurations.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, in the above-mentioned subsystem or controller, wherein said casing management service circuit mechanism configuration and setting is for supporting the one of the following agreement: agreement of SES casing management service circuit and the agreement of SAF-TE casing management service circuit.

According to the present invention, provide one and in computer system, use the circumscribed sas storage virtualization controller of this computer system to carry out the method for sas storage virtualization.This method comprises that receiving an output from a main computer unit of this computer system of using this circumscribed sas storage virtualization controller goes into requirement; Analyzing this with this sas storage virtualization controller exports into requirement and carries out and export into requirement in response to this to determine at least one output to go into operation (IOoperation); And carry out that operation is gone at least one output and with at least one entity storage device of point-to-point this computer system of tandem signal load mode access of meeting the attached minicomputer system interface agreement of tandem with this sas storage virtualization controller.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, above-mentioned method more comprises the step that a casing management service circuit mechanism is provided.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, above-mentioned method more comprises when casing management service circuit mechanism configuration and setting carries out this machine-processed step for the moment for its of supporting following configuration: directly connect box management service circuit configurations and device are delivered casing management service circuit configurations.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, in the above-mentioned method, wherein at least one entity storage device comprises the entity storage device that at least one is following: the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem entity storage device, a tandem advanced technology accesses interface entity storage device and a parallel advanced technology accesses interface entity storage device.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, in the above-mentioned method, wherein carry out this at least one export operation step comprise that sending at least one device end exports requirement and link controller to the attached minicomputer system interfare device of a tandem end I/O device that is arranged in this sas storage virtualization controller, and by the attached minicomputer system interfare device of this tandem end I/O device link controller again this device end of layout export requirement and follow output to go into the form of data and the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem and it is become at least one packet that meets the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem transfer protocol.

For enabling further to understand feature of the present invention and technology contents, see also following about detailed description of the present invention and accompanying drawing, yet appended graphic only provide with reference to and the explanation usefulness, be not to be used for the present invention is limited.

By technique scheme, sas storage virtualization controller of the present invention, subsystem and System and method for have following advantage at least:

1, an advantage of the present invention is in this storage virtualization computer system that uses the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem to link as main device end I/O device, and each entity storage device links (dedicated) that this sas storage virtualization controller has a special use.

2, another advantage of the present invention is not only information the effective load data part is linked protection by the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem I/O device, this controlling signal (control signal) part also with.

In sum, the sas storage virtualization controller that the present invention is special, subsystem and System and method for, it has above-mentioned many advantages and practical value, and in like product and method, do not see have similar structural design and method to publish or use and really genus innovation, no matter it is at product structure, bigger improvement is all arranged on method or the function, have large improvement technically, and produced handy and practical effect, and more existing sas storage virtualization controller, subsystem and System and method for have the multinomial effect of enhancement, thereby being suitable for practicality more, really is a novelty, progressive, practical new design.

Above-mentioned explanation only is the general introduction of technical solution of the present invention, for can clearer understanding technological means of the present invention, and can be implemented according to the content of instructions, and for above-mentioned and other purposes, feature and advantage of the present invention can be become apparent, below especially exemplified by preferred embodiment, and conjunction with figs., be described in detail as follows.

Description of drawings

Fig. 1 is the calcspar of a demonstration one according to the primary structure of the embodiment that the present invention includes a system.

Fig. 2 A be one show one according to the present invention one sas storage virtualization controller 200 with and to the calcspar of one first embodiment that is connected of main frame and DASD.

Fig. 2 B be one show a sas storage virtualization controller 200 according to the present invention with and to the calcspar of one second embodiment that is connected of main frame and DASD.

Fig. 2 C be one show a sas storage virtualization controller 200 according to the present invention with and to the calcspar of the 3rd embodiment that is connected of main frame and DASD.

Fig. 3 A to 3D show each different square diagram with example according to of the present invention should between this (etc.) between main frame/redundant sas storage virtualization controller, this host side I/O device links the connection configuration of controller and this central processing circuit.

Fig. 4 describes a calcspar according to an embodiment of this CPU (central processing unit) wafer set/coordination engine (CPUchipset/parity engine) of the present invention.

The attached minicomputer system interfare device of this tandem end I/O device that Fig. 5 A illustration one is used for Fig. 2 A links the calcspar of one first embodiment of controller.

The attached minicomputer system interface of this tandem (SAS) output that Fig. 5 B illustration one is used for Fig. 2 B goes into to link the calcspar of one second embodiment of controller.

The attached minicomputer system interface of this tandem that Fig. 5 C illustration one is used for Fig. 2 C is exported the calcspar into one the 3rd embodiment of binding controller.

Fig. 6 A describes this peripheral element to link the calcspar of extension interface to an embodiment of the attached minicomputer system interface controllor of tandem (PCI-X to SAS controller) 310.

Fig. 6 B describes this peripheral element to link the calcspar of extension interface to one second embodiment of the attached minicomputer system interface controllor 310 of tandem.

Fig. 6 C is that 400 pairs of these peripheral elements of this DASD array that are described among Fig. 6 A link the calcspar of extension interface to one first embodiment of the connection configuration of the attached minicomputer system interface controllor 310 of tandem.

Fig. 6 D describes the calcspar of an embodiment at the attached minicomputer system interface of this tandem port in Fig. 6 A/6B/6C.

Fig. 6 E describes the calcspar of an embodiment of the attached minicomputer system interface of this tandem expander device 315 that is used for the attached minicomputer system interface of this tandem expanded circuit 340 of Fig. 6 B/6C.

Fig. 6 F describes this peripheral element to link the calcspar of extension interface to one the 3rd embodiment of the attached minicomputer system interface controllor 310 of tandem.

Fig. 6 G is that 400 pairs of these peripheral elements of this DASD array that are illustrated among Fig. 6 A link the calcspar of extension interface to one second embodiment of the connection configuration of the attached minicomputer system interface controllor 310 of tandem.

Fig. 7 A to 7F shows different calcspars, and its example should central processing circuit according to the present invention and its being connected other effector squares of this sas storage virtualization controller.

Fig. 8 A one is described in more detail among Fig. 2 A the calcspar that should link the connection between controller 300 and the DASD array 400 between the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem I/O device.

Fig. 8 B is being connected between this expanded circuit and other function squares among the further explanatory drawings 2B more.

Fig. 8 C is a calcspar that connects configuration between this backboard, this expanded circuit and other functional block among the further explanatory drawings 2C more.

Fig. 9 describes one and accords with the transfer structure that the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem is reached an agreement on.

The syndeton of Figure 10 example one between between this DASD array and this sas storage virtualization controller.

Figure 11 A to Figure 11 B disclose one in Figure 10 this multiplexer and between the details of the bridge of sas storage virtualization controller and DASD array.

Figure 12 is the calcspar according to a storage virtualization computer system of the present invention.

Figure 13 and Figure 14 go into the example of crossfire for this output between between this main computer unit and this sas storage virtualization controller among Figure 12.

Figure 15 and Figure 16 go into the example of crossfire for this output between between this a sas storage virtualization controller and an entity storage device among Figure 12.

Figure 17 is the calcspar of one first embodiment of the sas storage virtualization subsystem at assisting system end expansion port.

Figure 18 is the calcspar of one second embodiment of the sas storage virtualization subsystem at assisting system end expansion port.

Figure 19 and Figure 20 show that this is connected to the embodiment calcspar of the sas storage virtualization subsystem at DASD and assisting system end expansion port via an outside expanded circuit.

Figure 21 and Figure 22 show that this is connected to the embodiment calcspar of the sas storage virtualization subsystem at two port mouth DASDs and assisting system end expansion port via an outside expanded circuit.

Figure 23 one uses the calcspar of the known storage virtualization computer system that parallel minicomputer system interface (P-SCSI) links as main device end I/O device.

Figure 24 one uses the calcspar of the known storage virtualization computer system that fibre channel arbitrated loop (Fibre FC-AL) links as main device end I/O device.

Embodiment

Reach technological means and the effect that predetermined goal of the invention is taked for further setting forth the present invention, below in conjunction with accompanying drawing and preferred embodiment, to its embodiment of sas storage virtualization controller, subsystem and System and method for, structure, method, step, feature and the effect thereof that foundation the present invention proposes, describe in detail as after.

See also shown in Fig. 1 to Figure 11 B, be main framework of the present invention.More detailed operating process of the present invention and definite detailed structure will illustrate according to Figure 12 to Figure 22.

Seeing also shown in Figure 1ly, is a calcspar of a primary structure according to the embodiment that the present invention includes a sas storage virtualization subsystem and sas storage virtualization controller.System according to the present invention comprises that a host computer 10 is connected sas storage virtualization subsystem on it (Storage VirtualizationSubsystem) 20 with one.Though Fig. 1 only main frame 10 of illustration is connected with a sas storage virtualization subsystem 20, can there are a plurality of sas storage virtualization subsystems 20 to attach to this main frame 10; Perhaps, a plurality of main frames 10 can attach to this sas storage virtualization subsystem 20.Perhaps, a plurality of main frames 10 can attach to a plurality of sas storage virtualization subsystems 20.

This main frame 10 can be a servo-drive system, a workstation, and a perhaps personal computer system, or like that.In addition, this main frame 10 can be another sas storage virtualization controller.This sas storage virtualization subsystem 20 comprises a sas storage virtualization controller (Storage Virtualization Controller) 200, and it can be a RAID controller or a JBOD simulator, and a direct accessing storing device array 400.Though only describe a direct accessing storing device array 400 herein, a plurality of DASD arrays 400 can attach to this sas storage virtualization controller 200.

This sas storage virtualization controller 200 is the attached minicomputer system interface of a tandem (SAS) sas storage virtualization controllers, and meaning i.e. a sas storage virtualization controller of abideing by the attached minicomputer system interface agreement of tandem implementation.This sas storage virtualization controller 200 receive from the output of this main frame 10 go into requirement and related data (controlling signal and data signals) and carry out in inside this export into signal or shine upon its etc. to this DASD array 400.With the viewpoint of this main frame 10, this sas storage virtualization controller 200 (for example can be used to strengthen unity logic media units (logical mediaunit); One logic magnetic disc) usefulness and/or promote its availability of data and/or increase its storage volume.This DASD array 400 comprises a plurality of DASDs 420, hard disc for example, it comprises that the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem DASD 420A or tandem advanced technology access the one of interface (SATA) DASD 420S or two kinds and have concurrently.

When the logical medium unit in this sas storage virtualization subsystem 20 is set to Redundant Array Of Independent Disks (RAID) kenel outside kenel 0 or 1, for example kenel 3 to 6, this DASD 420 comprises at least one coordination DASD, that is one comprise the coordination data in DASD wherein, and therefore availability of data can be promoted.In addition, because of the DATA DISTRIBUTION of access in a plurality of DASDs, carry out an output and go into the usefulness of operation and also can promote.More very, because of each section combination that this logical medium unit is a plurality of DASDs, accessible storage volume can greatly increase in the unity logic media units.For example, in the Redundant Array Of Independent Disks (RAID) subsystem of Redundant Array Of Independent Disks (RAID) kenel 5, above-mentioned function all can be reached.In the Redundant Array Of Independent Disks (RAID) subsystem of Redundant Array Of Independent Disks (RAID) kenel 6; it is similar to Redundant Array Of Independent Disks (RAID) kenel 5, but but it comprises that protected data avoids the coordination data that run off because of the data that DASD causes of two or more inefficacies and thereby increases the availability of data of stocking system.

When the logical medium unit in this sas storage virtualization subsystem 20 is set to Redundant Array Of Independent Disks (RAID) kenel 1, identical data will be stored in two other DASDs of branch, and under double DASD cost, availability of data can thereby significantly be strengthened.

When the logical medium unit in this sas storage virtualization subsystem 20 was set to Redundant Array Of Independent Disks (RAID) kenel 0, main subject under discussion is that usefulness is promoted but not availability is considered, and does not so improve availability of data.Yet, enhanced performance significantly.For example, one Redundant Array Of Independent Disks (RAID) kenel 0 also has the Redundant Array Of Independent Disks (RAID) subsystem of two hard discs, compared to a storage device that only has a hard disc, be to have 200% usefulness in theory, because of its different data segments can be stored in two fens other hard discs simultaneously under the control of sas storage virtualization controller 200.

Fig. 2 A show one according to the present invention sas storage virtualization controller 200 with and to the calcspar of one first embodiment that is connected of main frame and DASD.In the present embodiment, this sas storage virtualization controller 200A comprises that a host side I/O device links controller 220, a central processing circuit (CPC) 240, a memory body 280 and the attached minicomputer system interface of a tandem (SAS, Serial Attached SCSI) I/O device and links controller (or the device end I/O device links controller) 300.Though be stated as independently functional block, in actual embodiment, but two or more even all functional block integrations are a wafer.

This host side I/O device links controller 220 and is connected to this main frame 10 and this central processing circuit 240.It is one between interface and the impact damper of this sas storage virtualization controller 200A with 10 in this main frame that this host side I/O device links controller 220, and receive output from main frame go into requirement and related data and mapping and/or transmit its etc. to this central processing circuit 240.

When requirement is gone in this output from the main frame 10 of host side I/O device binding controller 220 of these central processing circuit 240 receptions, this central processing circuit 240 its grades of analysis are also carried out several operations and are exported into requirement to respond this, and via this host side I/O device link controller 220 send the data that require and/or report and/or the information of this sas storage virtualization controller 200A to this main frame 10.

The analysis one from main frame 10 receive requirement after, when receiving a reading requirement and carry out one or more operations when responding, this central processing circuit 240 be not in inside be exactly from this memory body 280 or with the method that both have concurrently obtain the data of this requirement and transmit its etc. give this main frame 10.If in the time of can't obtaining these data in inside or in these data are not present in the memory body, to link controller 300 transmission outputs via the attached minicomputer system interface of this tandem I/O device and go into requirement to DASD array 400, and transmit this from this DASD array 400 and require data, link controller 220 via this host side I/O device then and pass to this main frame 10 to this memory body 280.

Write when requiring when receive one from this main frame 10, after this requirement of analysis and carrying out one or more operations, this central processing circuit 240 links via this host side I/O device that controller 220 obtains from this main frame 10 and the data of coming store it and equal to move its grade to this DASD array 400 via this central processing circuit 240 then in this memory body 280.When this writes when requiring to be a write-back requirement, this export into finish report can be sent to earlier this main frame 10 then this central processing circuit 240 just carry out actual write operation in after a while.In addition, to require be that a footpath is write when requiring when this writes, the data reality that is required write this DASD array 400 after, an output is gone into to finish report and just is sent to this main frame 10.

This memory body 280 is connected to this central processing circuit 240 and plays the part of an impact damper and is transmitted in data between this main frame 10 and this DASD array 400 with buffering via this central processing circuit 240.In one embodiment, this memory body 280 can be a Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM); Particularly this Dynamic Random Access Memory can be a synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory (SDRAM).

The attached minicomputer system interface of this tandem I/O device links controller 300 and links controller for the device end I/O device that is connected to this central processing circuit 240 and this DASD array 400.It is one between interface and the impact damper of this sas storage virtualization controller 200A with 400 of this DASD arrays that the attached minicomputer system interface of this tandem I/O device links controller 300, and receive from the output of these central processing circuit 240 transmissions go into requirement and related data and mapping and/or transmit its etc. to this DASD array 400.The attached minicomputer system interface of this tandem I/O device link data that controller 300 receives from this central processing circuit 240 and controlling signal formatting (re-format) again so that its meet the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem reach an agreement on and transmit its etc. to this DASD array 400.

When this DASD 420 in this DASD array 400 linked output that controller 300 receives this central processing circuit 240 and goes into requirement via the attached minicomputer system interface of this tandem I/O device, it carried out several operations to respond this and export into requirement and to transmit the data of this requirement and/or report and/or information are given this central processing circuit 240.This DASD array 400 can provide multiple DASD 420.For example, this DASD array 400 comprises that the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem DASD 420A and tandem advanced technology access both of interface DASD 420S.

One casing management service circuit (EMS, enclosure management service circuitry) 360 can attach to this central processing circuit 240 with as a management circuit that holds on these DASD array 400 casings.In another configuration of this sas storage virtualization subsystem, be the actual demand of visual various product function, and omit this casing management service circuit 360.

Fig. 2 B is a calcspar, its show a sas storage virtualization controller 200 according to the present invention with and with this main frame 10 and this DASD array 400 via one second embodiment that disposes that is connected that is positioned at the outer expanded circuit 340 of this sas storage virtualization controller 200.In this embodiment, this sas storage virtualization controller 200B comprises that a host side I/O device links controller 220, a central processing controller 240, a memory body 280, the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem I/O device links controller 300 and redundant manipulator communications and liaison link controller (redundantcontroller communicating (RCC) interconnect controller) 236.Though describe it with functional block independently, some or all these functional block can be bonded in the single wafer.

200A compares with this sas storage virtualization controller, among this embodiment, this redundant manipulator communications and liaison link controller 236 real as the time be arranged in sas storage virtualization controller 200B so that this central processing circuit 240 is connected to one second sas storage virtualization controller 800.In addition, the attached minicomputer system interface of this tandem I/O device link controller 300 via this expanded circuit 340 to be connected to this DASD array 400.This expanded circuit 340 also is connected to this second sas storage virtualization controller 800.In this configuration, redundant second a sas storage virtualization controller 800 can attach to this sas storage virtualization controller 200B.This DASD array 400 can be via this expanded circuit 340 by this two sas storage virtualization controller 200B and 800 accesses.What is more, control that is come by this main frame 10 or data information can link controller 236 through these redundant manipulator communications and liaison from this central processing circuit 240 and be sent to this sas storage virtualization controller 800, and if necessary, it more can be sent to one second DASD array (not shown).Because of not only sas storage virtualization controller is arranged, when not only sas storage virtualization controller is connected to this tandem advanced technology and accesses interface DASD array 420S, be a tandem advanced technology is set between the interface DASD array 420S accesses interface duplex circuit (SATA multiplexing circuit) 460 accessing to be used as a port selector switch (port selector) between these sas storage virtualization controllers and this tandem advanced technology.For example, comprise that one this tandem advanced technology accesses in the sas storage virtualization subsystem of interface DASD array 420S, when these sas storage virtualization controllers 200 and 800 be configured to a redundant sas storage virtualization controller to the time, above-mentioned situation will take place.

This DASD array of Figure 10 example to these sas storage virtualization controllers 200 with 800 one be connected configuration, wherein there is the DASD of complex data type to be arranged in this DASD array 400, as: the tandem advanced technology accesses interface hard disc 420S and the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem hard disc 420A.In the present example, this DASD 420 comprises that the attached minicomputer system interface of a tandem hard disc 420A and a tandem advanced technology access interface hard disc 420S.Because of the agreement of the attached minicomputer system interface of its tandem accesses the compatibility of interface hard disc to a tandem advanced technology, this single port tandem advanced technology accesses interface hard disc 420S and can access interface duplex circuit (SATA MUX) 460 via a tandem advanced technology and be connected to these sas storage virtualization controllers.This DASD 420 can be placed in the removable box capable (removable canister) 450.This removable box capable can replace it this DASD 420 and any relevant circuit easily when a direct accessing storing device 420 and/or interlock circuit need be served.By putting this change-over circuit in box capable, the whole box capable content of this DASD, for example a parallel advanced technology accesses interface (PATA) hard disc and interlock circuit thereof, just being easy to can be with the DASD of another kenel, for example a tandem advanced technology accesses interface (SATA) hard disc, replaces it.

Figure 11 A discloses the example that this tandem advanced technology accesses interface duplex circuit 460.The data that access the interface form from the tandem advanced technology of this sas storage virtualization controller 200 are by 462 receptions of host side physical layer one (PHY1), and are by 464 receptions of host side physical layer two (PHY2) from the data that the tandem advanced technology of this sas storage virtualization controller 800 accesses the interface form.Which can be via this DASD of this device end physical layer (device-side PHY) 466 accesses 420S in these sas storage virtualization controllers 200 and 800 of decision under respectively from the control of the controlling signal CTRL-1-2 of these sas storage virtualization controllers 200 and 800 and CTRL-2-2 for one duplex circuit controller 470.Yet, access interface 2 (SATA2) agreement according to the tandem advanced technology, can omit these controlling signal CTRL-1-2 and CTRL-2-2.In another embodiment, this DASD 420P can be a parallel advanced technology and accesses interface hard disc 420P, and to access in this tandem advanced technology that the parallel advanced technology with this of interface duplex circuit 460 accesses between the interface hard disc 420P be to be provided with a bridge (bridge) 480 to access interface signals with conversion tandem advanced technology and accept to access interface signals with the parallel advanced technology of processing for being accessed interface hard disc controller by this parallel advanced technology.Figure 11 B discloses an example of this bridge 480.The data signals that accesses interface duplex circuit (SATAMUX) 460 from this tandem advanced technology is to be 482 receptions of physical layer (PHY layer), and is transferred to transport layer (transport layer) 486 via link layer (link layer) 484.The signal that this tandem advanced technology accesses the interface form is to be converted to by this agreement converter 487 to meet signal that parallel advanced technology accesses the interface form and be sent to this parallel advanced technology via a bus interface 488 then and access interface DASD 420P.

These redundant manipulator communications and liaison link controller 236 can be integrated into a single wafer integrated circuit with this host side I/O device binding controller 220, it comprises a plurality of port,input-outputs, and these a plurality of port,input-outputs comprise one or more host side port and one or more device ends port.In another kind of embodiment, these redundant manipulator communications and liaison link controller 236 can be integrated into a single wafer integrated circuit with this device end I/O device binding controller 300.What is more, and this host side I/O device links controller 220, this device end I/O device links controller 300 and this redundant manipulator communications and liaison binding controller 236 all can be integrated into a single wafer integrated circuit.In this kind implemented aspect, this single wafer I/O device links controller can comprise port,input-output, and it can be used as host side port, device end port and in order to be connected these sas storage virtualization controllers 200 and 800 s' port,input-output.

Fig. 2 C is a calcspar, its show a sas storage virtualization controller 200 according to the present invention with and see through the 3rd embodiment of a backboard 320 and an expanded circuit 340 and the binding of this main frame and this DASD array.In this embodiment, this sas storage virtualization controller 200B comprises that a host side I/O device links controller 220, a central processing circuit 240, a memory body 280, the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem I/O device binding controller 300, a casing management service circuit 360 and redundant manipulator communications and liaison and links controller 236.Though it is described as other functional block of branch, several or all these functional block can be integrated into a wafer.

200B compares with this sas storage virtualization controller, in this sas storage virtualization controller 200C, the attached minicomputer system interface of this tandem I/O device links controller 300 and is connected to this switched circuit (switching circuit) 340 via this backboard (backplane) 320, is connected to this DASD array 400 then.This backboard 320 has connection line and provides wherein in order to be connected between this sas storage virtualization controller 200C and this expanded circuit 340 so that should be connected more strong and make the attached of these sas storage virtualization controllers and/or this DASD and remove the circuit board of easy implementation for one, for example: a printed circuit board (PCB).In the configuration shown in Fig. 2 B, should electrically connect between the entity that the attached minicomputer system interface of this tandem I/O device links

controller

300 and 340 of this expanded circuits and for example can be a cable (cable), then it is just not strong so as if backplane circuit board 320.In addition, this casing management service circuit 360 be provided in this sas storage virtualization controller 200 but not be located at this sas storage virtualization controller 200 outside.

In this configuration, should be provided in this backboard 320 between the entity electric connection that the redundant manipulator communications and liaison link controller 236 and 800 of this second sas storage virtualization controllers.

In these embodiment of Fig. 2 A to 2C, this host side I/O device links controller 220 and this device end I/O device and links the integrated circuit (IC) wafer that controller 300 (the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem I/O device links controller 300) can identical type and implement, and the I/O device binding port configuration and setting that this host side I/O device is linked in the controller 220 is that the host side I/O device links the port, and the I/O device binding port configuration and setting that this device end I/O device is linked in controller 300 links the port for the device end I/O device.In another kind of embodiment, a single wafer is configurable to be set at both that comprise that the host side I/O device links that port and device end I/O device link the port and to be coupled to this main computer unit 10 and this entity storage device array 400 respectively with the while.Moreover configurable being set at of a single wafer comprises that all these host side I/O devices link the port to be coupled to this main computer unit 10, this device end I/O device binding port to be coupled to this entity storage device array 400 and to be used to be coupled to virtual storage controller 800, port simultaneously respectively.

In another kind of embodiment, this casing management service circuit 360 can be integrated in the central processing circuit 240.Very and, this casing management service circuit 360 also may be implemented in this device end I/O device and links in controller 300.

Fig. 3 A to 3D show each different calcspar with example according to of the present invention should between between this main frame, this redundant sas storage virtualization controller, this host side I/O device links the connection configuration between controller 220 and this central processing circuit.Among first embodiment in Fig. 3 A, a main frame 10 sees through and divides other each port to be connected to two host side I/O devices binding controllers 220, and its grade all is connected to this identical central processing circuit 240.In one second embodiment of diagram 3B, two other main frames 10 of branch and 12 its each all be connected to one fen other host side I/O device link controller 220, its each all be connected to this identical central processing circuit 240.In one the 3rd embodiment shown in Fig. 3 C, one main frame 10 is connected to host side I/O device binding controller 220 and is connected to this central processing circuit 240 then, is connected to this identical central processing circuit 240 then yet one second sas storage virtualization controller 800 is connected to redundant manipulator communications and liaison binding controller 236.In one the 4th embodiment shown in Fig. 3 D, disclose an optical fiber to the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem (fibre-to-SAS) sas storage virtualization controller architecture.Two other main frames 10 of branch and 12 and one sas storage virtualization controller 800 its each all are connected to a fibre switch (fibre switch) 120 and one host side I/O device and link controller 220 and redundant manipulator communications and liaison and link controller 236 and be connected to this fibre switch 120.It is to be connected to this identical central processing circuit 240 with this redundant manipulator communications and liaison binding controller 236 that this host side I/O device links controller 220.This interchanger can a multiplexer be its enforcement.When linking controller 220, this host side I/O device is embodied as comprising the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem port being arranged when connecting the main frame port of this main computer unit, it is to be similar to be arranged on the situation that this device end I/O device links in controller 300 the attached minicomputer system interface of this tandem port, but its combo attitude is to be set to target pattern but not startup person's pattern.

Fig. 4 describes the calcspar according to an embodiment of this CPU (central processing unit) wafer set/coordination engine (CPUchipset/parity engine) 244 of the present invention.In the present embodiment, this CPU (central processing unit) wafer set/coordination engine 244A comprises that mainly coordination engine 260, CPU (central processing unit) interface 910, memory controller 920, peripheral element link extension (PCI-X) interface 930,932, X-bus (X-BUS) interface 940, the transmission control direct memory body access of agreement (TCP/IP DMA) 980, moderator (Arbiter) 982, inner mainly bus (IM BUS, Internal Main BUS) 950 and interior zone bus (IL Bus, Internal Local Bus) 990.For instance, the main bus 950 in this inside be one 128 bits, 133Mhz bus and this coordination engine 260, CPU (central processing unit) interface 910, memory controller 920, peripheral element are linked extend (PCI-X) interface 930,932, X-bus (X-BUS) interface 940 whole link together so that data signals and controlling signal communications and liaison in wherein.

The data and the controlling signal that link controller 220 from the host side I/O device enter CPU (central processing unit) wafer set/coordination engine 244A via peripheral element binding extension interface 930.For instance, the peripheral element that this host side I/O device is linked controller 220 links and extends interface 930 and can be 64 bit bandwidth, 133MHz. when this peripheral element links when extending interface 930 and having the main bus 950 in this inside, and these data and controlling signal are transferred into the one of this memory controller 920 and this CPU (central processing unit) interface 910.

Should the main bus 950 in inside be transferred into CPU (central processing unit) 242 further to handle from this by these data and the controlling signal that CPU (central processing unit) interface 910 receives.For example, the communications and liaison between this CPU (central processing unit) interface 910 and this CPU (central processing unit) 240 can be carried out via one 64 bit data circuits and one 32 bit address circuits.These data and controlling signal can be sent to the memory controller 920 of this one 64 bit bandwidth, 133Mhz.

One error correcting code (Error Correction Code) circuit also is arranged in this memory controller 920 to produce error correcting code.For example, this error correcting code can be by with 8 bit data mutual exclusions or (XOR) produce the error correcting code of 1 bit after the computing.This memory controller 920 stores these data and error correcting code in this memory body 280 then, for instance, and in the synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory.These data that are stored in this memory body 280 are transferred into inner main bus 950.This memory controller 920 has that a bit automatically corrects and the function of multidigit unit error detection and carry out these functions on these data when this when this memory body 280 is sent to the data of inner mainly bus 950.

This coordination engine 260 can be carried out the same bit function of some Redundant Array Of Independent Disks (RAID) kenel to respond the indication of this CPU (central processing unit) 242.Certainly, this coordination engine 260 can be turned off and not carry out same bit function in some cases, for example, and under the situation of Redundant Array Of Independent Disks (RAID) kenel 0.One interior zone bus 990 will be connected to this CPU (central processing unit) interface 910 and other low speed device interfaces.

One inner working storage 984 is to be arranged at wherein to flow with the state of temporary CPU (central processing unit) wafer set/coordination engine 244A and the signal of controlling on the main bus 950 in this inside.Be provided with by a pair of general asynchronous receiving-transmitting transmitter (UART) function square 986 in addition, so this CPU (central processing unit) wafer set/coordination engine 244A can pass to the external world via RS232 interface ditch.

Direct memory body access 980 blocks of this transmission control agreement provide to be checked and calculation function (checksum) and the directly operation of memory body access.The right to use of the inner main bus 950 of these moderator 982 arbitrations.

In the middle of another embodiment, peripheral element links this peripheral element of quick interface replaceable and links extension interface 930,932.In the middle of another embodiment, peripheral part connects interface (PCI) this peripheral element that can be used to replace and links and extend interface 930,932.In this technical field, have know usually the knowledgeable as can be known its etc. replacement can simple and easy reaching and do not have hell and high water.

Fig. 5 A describes the calcspar that the attached minicomputer system interface of this tandem (SAS) device end I/O device in Fig. 2 A links one first embodiment of controller 300.According to present embodiment, 300 comprise that two peripheral elements link the extension interfaces to the attached minicomputer system interface controllor of tandem (PCI-X toSAS controller) 310 in the attached minicomputer system interfare device of this tandem end I/O device binding controller.It is to see through these peripheral elements binding extension interfaces the attached minicomputer system interface controllor of tandem (PCI-X to SAS controller) 310 is connected to this DASD array 400 and/or this sas storage virtualization controller 800 that the attached minicomputer system interface of this tandem (SAS) device end I/O device links controller 300.

This peripheral element that Fig. 6 A is described among Fig. 5 A links the calcspar of extension interface to an embodiment of the attached minicomputer system interface controllor 310 of tandem.Shown in 6A figure, its each peripheral element links the extension interface the attached minicomputer system interface controllor 310 of tandem is comprised that all a peripheral element that is connected to this CPU (central processing unit) 240 links extension interface 312 and and is connected to the attached minicomputer system interface of the tandem port 600 that interface 312 is extended in this peripheral element binding.This peripheral element links extension interface 312 and comprises that a bus interface 318 and that is connected to the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem port 600 stores this peripheral element and links the configuration initialization circuit 316 of extension interface to attached minicomputer system interface controllor 310 configuration and settings of tandem.The attached minicomputer system interface of this tandem port 600 can be connected to this DASD array 400 and/or this sas storage virtualization controller 800.

Fig. 8 A is that more sets forth in detail should be between the calcspar of the connection between the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem I/O device binding controller 300 and the DASD array 400 in Fig. 2 A.Data signals and controlling signal see through this peripheral element and link and extend interface the attached minicomputer system interface of the one tandem port 600 of the attached minicomputer system interface controllor 310 of tandem is sent to this DASD 420.The attached minicomputer system interface of this tandem port 600 can be connected directly to a tandem attached minicomputer system interface port of the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem DASD 420A and a tandem advanced technology that a tandem advanced technology accesses interface DASD 420S accesses on both one of interface port.In addition, because of on the attached minicomputer system interface of each tandem DASD 420A, two other ports of branch being arranged, port 1 and port 2, link at this peripheral element and to extend interface tandem (is extended interface to tandem on the attached minicomputer system interface controllor 310 even link at different peripheral elements in two the attached minicomputer system interface of different tandems ports on the attached minicomputer system interface controllor 310, it is not shown among Fig. 8 A) can be connected to the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem DASD 420A through two different ports, this two port forms and to be connected to one of this sas storage virtualization controller 200 to have a redundant redundant port that links right concerning the attached minicomputer system interface of single tandem DASD 420A.

In another embodiment, a peripheral element links quick interface and the tandem advanced technology is accessed interface controllor (PCI-E to SATA controller) (not shown) can link in order to this peripheral element of replacing and extend interface to the attached minicomputer system interface controllor 310 of tandem.Link quick interface at this peripheral element the tandem advanced technology is accessed in the interface controllor, a peripheral element links quick interface (not shown) and links extension interface 312 in order to this peripheral element that replaces.In an embodiment more, a peripheral part connects interface and the tandem advanced technology is accessed interface controllor (PCI to SATA controller) can extend interface to the attached minicomputer system interface controllor 310 of tandem in order to replace this peripheral element to link.Connect interface at this periphery part the tandem advanced technology is accessed in the interface controllor, a peripheral part connects interface and links extension interface 312 in order to this peripheral element that replaces.In this technical field, have know usually the knowledgeable as can be known its etc. replacement can simple and easy reaching and do not have hell and high water.

This peripheral element that Fig. 6 B describes among the 5A links the calcspar of extension interface to one second embodiment of the attached minicomputer system interface controllor 310 of tandem, and it comprises a combination attached minicomputer system interface of tandem expanded circuit (SAS expanding circuit) 340 wherein.The attached minicomputer system interface of one tandem expanded circuit 340 can an edge expander device (edgeexpander device) 315 be its enforcement, shown in Fig. 6 E, it can be connected to other or two border extended apparatuses and/or most end equipments (end device), for example: the attached minicomputer system interface of the tandem of one or more DASDs 420 port.And, the attached minicomputer system interface of one tandem expanded circuit 340 can comprise that one or more border extended apparatus groups (edge expander device set) are its enforcement, wherein, these border extended apparatus groups each be set to comprise the attached minicomputer system interface of a plurality of tandems expander device 315.In addition, the attached minicomputer system interface of one tandem expanded circuit 340 can one comprises that the fan-out expander device (fanout expander device) of plural edges expander device group is its enforcement, and each comprises the attached minicomputer system interface of a plurality of tandems expander device 315 these border extended apparatus groups.

The attached minicomputer system interface of this tandem expander device 315 comprises that an expansion connects square, a management function square, and a plurality of physical layer (PHY).This expansion connects square provides multiplex's function to connect each physical layer (PHY) with the output input signal.This management function square is carried out the tandem management agreement operation (SMP operation) of expanding unit.See through this expander device 315, a plurality of DASDs can be connected to the attached minicomputer system interface controllor 310 of a tandem, it improves the extendibility of this sas storage virtualization subsystem storage volume, when seeing through this fan-out expander device, a large amount of border extended apparatus groups can be attached on it, and this carries out on a large scale strengthening the extendibility of this virtual storage beggar power system capacity.

Fig. 6 D describes the calcspar of an embodiment at the attached minicomputer system interface of this tandem port, 600 of Fig., 6 A/6B/6C.As shown in 6D figure; The attached minicomputer system interface of this tandem port comprises five parts:this transport layer (transport layer) 690; The attached minicomputer system interface of tandem port layer (SAS port layer) 700; The attached minicomputer system interface link of tandem layer (SAS linklayer) 710; the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem physical layer ( SAS PHY layer ) 720 and the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem Physical layer ( SAS physical layer ) 730.The attached minicomputer system interface of this tandem Physical layer 730 comprises that the attached minicomputer system interface of the attached minicomputer system interface connector of this tandem, cable and tandem transmits receiving circuit.The attached minicomputer system interface of this tandem physical layer 720 is contained encoding mechanism ( encoding scheme ) and is comprised that the outer sender of band ( OOB signaling ) indicates and the physical layer of speed coordination is reseted sequence ( PHY resetsequence ) .The attached minicomputer system interface of the attached minicomputer system interface of this tandem link layer 710 this tandem of control physical layer is connected with management and the attached minicomputer system interfare device of other tandems.700 on the attached minicomputer system interface of this tandem port layer is chaining between the attached minicomputer system interface of one or more tandems between layer and the attached minicomputer system interface of the one or more tandem transport layer to receive and to analyze requirement and to chain layer to connect by the attached minicomputer system interface of correct tandem.690 ( SSP ( Serial SCSI Protocol ) transport layer ) 、ATA ( ) ( STP ( Serial ATA Tunneling Protocol ) transport layer ) ( SMP ( Serial Management Protocol ) transportlayer ) 。

The attached minicomputer system interface of one tandem port 600 comprises one or more physical layers.If when having more than one physical layer in this port, it can be a broad port (" wide " port), or its it is a narrow port (" narrow " port) when a physical layer is only arranged.The link that links between controller 300 and expanded circuit 340 or the DASD array 400 between the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem I/O device can be narrow link or broad link.One broad link is configurable between two ends being the bandwidth of the link at broad port with the expansion transmission.

This Physical layer 730 sees through pair of differential signal line (differential signall ine), and LTX+, LTX-transmission line transmit signal and via another differential signal line LRX+, LRX-DASD 420 controllers from this DASD 420 received signal.Two signal line that this arbitrary signal line is right, when for example being LTX+/LTX-, with reverse voltage synchronous driving signal TX+/TX-, for instance+V/-V or V/+V, relative respectively reference voltage Vref of these voltages system therefore this voltage difference will and can be influenced by environmental factor hardly for+2V or 2V, so can strengthen its signal quality.This reason can be used equally and receive line LRX+, LRX-in the transmission that receives signal RX+/RX-.

This physical layer 720 definition 8 bits/10 bits coding and outer signal of band.All data bit elements that receive from this Physical layer 730 will be decoded as this 8 bit/10 bit characters and remove SOF, CR, EOF.The outer signal of the attached minicomputer system interface of one tandem physical layer 720 these bands of use is with identification and open this operability link that this is connected to the attached minicomputer system interface of another tandem physical layer 720.The attached minicomputer system interface of tandem chain become can operate after, the attached minicomputer system interface of this tandem physical layer 720 sends signal and chains layer control that obtains the attached minicomputer system interface of this tandem physical layer 720 with the communications and liaison signal to this tandem attached minicomputer system interface link layer and the attached minicomputer system interface of this tandem, and it comprises identification sequence, connection management and framework (frame) transmission.The attached minicomputer system interface link of tandem layer is to use two important structures (structure), is to be the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem essence (SAS primitive) and the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem framework (SAS frame).

One essence comprises single double word tuple (double-word) and its simplest position for communications and liaison information between a main frame and a device.When the bit in the essence was encoded, the style of its generation (pattern) was not easy to be misinterpreted as other essences or random numerical expression sample.Essence mainly in order to transport the immediate status message, the information of control between between this main frame and this device transmits and the coordination of communications and liaison.The first bit group (byte) of one essence is a special character (special character).

One framework comprises a plurality of double word tuples (double-words) and finishes essence (end primitive) with essence (startprimitive) beginning at the beginning with one and finish.When a connection is not set up, use the attached minicomputer system interface of this tandem address framework (SAS address frame), and begin framework (SOAF, Start ofAddress Frame) beginning and finish framework (EOAF, Endof Address Frame) end with address with address.

The attached minicomputer system interface of this tandem is supported three types connection, and it comprises the tandem minicomputer system interface agreement framework (SSPf rame) that is used for the attached minicomputer system interfare device of tandem, be used for the multi-processor framework (SMP frame) that tandem advanced technology that the tandem advanced technology accesses interfare device accesses interface tunnelling agreement framework (STP frame) and is used to manage.Tandem minicomputer system interface agreement framework and multi-processor framework finish with SOF (Start of Frame) beginning and with EOF (End of Frame).The tandem advanced technology accesses interface tunnelling agreement framework and begins with SATA_SOF and finish with SATA_EOF.These framework and transmission structures that accord with the attached minicomputer system interface agreement of tandem demonstrate in Fig. 9.

One Cyclical Redundancy Check sign indicating number (CRC, Cyclic-Redundancy Check Code) is that the end essence is right after the last non-essence double word tuple thereafter.The Cyclical Redundancy Check sign indicating number calculates with the content of whole this framework, all see through this peripheral element link extend interface to attached minicomputer system interface controllor 310 communications and liaison of tandem the output between central processing circuit 240 and this DASD 420 go into the requirement information and will carry out the Cyclical Redundancy Check sign indicating number and check.Therefore, the data corruption (as: because of noise) that takes place accidentally from this sas storage virtualization controller to the transmission of entity storage device can be detected and be recovered, prevented possibility of the calamitous data corruption situation of potential data write error mistake medium section, the situation of this kind data write error mistake medium section may be to go into the breaking-up of media areas, destination segment base plinth address in the requirement data and/or media areas segment length and cause because of being included in initial output.

Fig. 6 F describes peripheral element among Fig. 5 A and links and extend the calcspar of interface to one the 3rd embodiment of the attached minicomputer system interface controllor of tandem.Among this embodiment, the attached minicomputer system interface of part tandem port 600 is connected to this expanded circuit 340 and the attached minicomputer system interface of part tandem port 600 is connected directly to this DASD 420, and/or the attached minicomputer system interface of part tandem port 600 is connected to this sas storage virtualization controller 800.In addition, this expanded circuit 340 can further be connected to this be connected directly to this DASD 420 with and/or sas storage virtualization controller 800.

Fig. 5 B describes a calcspar according to one second embodiment of the attached minicomputer system interface controllor of this tandem among Fig. 2 B of the present invention, and wherein this expanded circuit 340 is to be arranged to link between this peripheral element to extend interface to tandem between attached minicomputer system interface controllor 310 and this DASD array 400.

400 pairs of these peripheral elements of this DASD array that Fig. 6 C is illustrated among Fig. 5 B or Fig. 6 A link the extension interface to the block diagram of one first embodiment of the connection configuration of the attached minicomputer system interface controllor 310 of tandem; Wherein link at this peripheral element and extend interface and tandem is not provided the attached minicomputer system interface of this tandem expanded circuit 340 in the attached minicomputer system interface controllor 310, but with one can be additional to peripheral element link extend interface to the self-contained unit of the attached minicomputer system interface controllor 310 of tandem provide as an interface for this DASD array 400 or the attached minicomputer system interface of another tandem expanded circuit 340/control.

400 pairs of these peripheral elements of this DASD array that Fig. 6 G is illustrated among Fig. 5 B or Fig. 6 A link the calcspar of extension interface to one second embodiment of the connection configuration of the attached minicomputer system interface controllor 310 of tandem, wherein linking the extension interface at this peripheral element does not provide the attached minicomputer system interface of this tandem expanded circuit 340 in the attached minicomputer system interface controllor 310 to tandem, but provide it as an autonomous device.In this embodiment, part these tandems attached minicomputer system interface port 600 is connected to this expanded circuit 340 and the attached minicomputer system interface of these tandems of part port 600 in order to being connected directly to this DASD 420, and/or the attached minicomputer system interface of these tandems of part port 600 is connected to this sas storage virtualization controller 800.In addition, this expanded circuit 340 can further be connected to this DASD 420 and/or this sas storage virtualization controller 800.

Fig. 8 B one explains the calcspar of describing among Fig. 2 B and Fig. 5 B or Fig. 6 B/6C/6G that is connected with other function squares between this expanded circuit 340 more in detail.This expanded circuit 340 can receive from the attached minicomputer system interface of this tandem I/O device link the command of controller 300 and transmit its etc. to this DASD array 400 and/or to this sas storage virtualization controller 800.

Fig. 5 C illustrates a calcspar according to one the 3rd embodiment of the attached minicomputer system interface controllor of this tandem among Fig. 2 C of the present invention, and wherein this peripheral element links and extends interface and the attached minicomputer system interface controllor 310 of tandem is connected to a backboard 320 and then is connected to this expanded circuit 340 and finally to this DASD array 400.Fig. 8 C is a calcspar that connects between this backboard, this expanded circuit and other functional block among further explanatory drawings 2C and Fig. 5 C more.Under this kind configuration, this expanded circuit 340 and its identical in Fig. 5 B, yet this backboard 320 provides the strong circuit board of an electric wiring on it and connector, link connection between controller 300 and this expanded circuit 340 to strengthen between the attached minicomputer system interface of this tandem I/O device, and make with the attached minicomputer system interface of this tandem I/O device link controller 300 relevant attached with separate more convenient.

Though be exposed in these embodiment of this tandem attached minicomputer system interface controllor 300 of Fig. 5 A in the 5C includes two peripheral elements and links and extend interfaces to the attached minicomputer system interface controllor 310 of tandem according to the present invention, the attached minicomputer system interface controllor 300 of this tandem according to the present invention also can comprise one or more than two controller 310 in wherein, end relies that usefulness is considered, engineering is considered and/or consider in cost or market.In this technical field, have know usually the knowledgeable as can be known its etc. replacement can simple and easy reaching and do not have hell and high water.

In Fig. 7 A, first embodiment of this central processing circuit square represents with this central processing circuit 240A, it comprises this CPU (central processing unit) wafer set/coordination engine 244A, this CPU (central processing unit) 242, a ROM (ROM, Read Only Memory) 246, one non-volatility memory (NVRAM, Non-volatile RAM) 248, one a liquid crystal display module 350 and a casing management service circuit 360.This CPU (central processing unit) can be a PowerPC CPU (central processing unit).This ROM 246 can be a fast flash memory bank (FLASH) to store ROM-BIOS (BIOS) and/or other formulas, for example: the core formula (kernel) of controller and each formula module, wherein core formula (kernel) is in order to carry out the operation with control subsystem after start.This non-volatility memory stores several and exports information into the operation executing state about this magnetic disc, and it can the back take place and this is exported operation and takes place to carry out under the still unclosed situation and be verified simultaneously in a undesired power breakdown.This liquid crystal display module 350 shows the operation of this subsystem.The power supply of this DASD array of casing management service circuit 360 may command and do some other management.This ROM 246, this nonvolatile memory 248, this liquid crystal display module 350 and this casing management service circuit 360 see through an X-bus and are connected to this CPU (central processing unit) wafer set/coordination engine 244A.This CPU (central processing unit) wafer set/coordination engine 244A is in explaining than Fig. 4 early.

Among Fig. 7 B, one second embodiment of this central processing circuit square shows it with this central processing circuit 240B, it comprises a CPU (central processing unit) wafer set 244B, this coordination engine 260, this CPU (central processing unit) 242, a ROM 246, one nonvolatile memory, 248, one liquid crystal display modules 350 and a casing management service circuit 360.The central processing circuit 240B of this second embodiment and this central processing circuit 240A are except this CPU (central processing unit) wafer set 244B in central processing circuit 240B and coordination engine 260 are that all the other are all identical two individual wafers.

Among Fig. 7 C, one the 3rd embodiment of this central processing circuit square shows it with this central processing circuit 240C, and it mainly comprises this CPU (central processing unit) wafer set 244C, this CPU (central processing unit) 242 and this ROM 246.Though in Fig. 7 C, omitted this nonvolatile memory 248 and this liquid crystal display module 350, its each can be the part of this central processing circuit 240C.Omitted this coordination engine in this embodiment.When supposing that this sas storage virtualization controller 200 or sas storage virtualization subsystem 20 do not need this kind coordination engine function, this central processing circuit 240 can be carried out under the coordination engine not needing.For example, concerning the controller or its sas storage virtualization subsystem of the JBOD analog controller of a No Parity engine or its sas storage virtualization subsystem or a Redundant Array Of Independent Disks (RAID) kenel 1, do not need same bit function, and therefore can omit same bit function.In another case, wherein should carry out several CPU (central processing unit) and carry out this same bit function, but not, similarly be a coordination engine, therefore can omit the coordination engine by a special-purpose hardware with bit function formula or source code.With bit function, it can be a low usefulness but settling mode cheaply for this.

Among Fig. 7 D; this central processing circuit square is the demonstration of one the 4th embodiment with this central processing circuit 2400, and it mainly comprises this CPU (central processing unit) wafer set 244D, a data protection engine 250, this CPU (central processing unit) 242 and this ROM 246.Though in Fig. 7 D, omit this non-volatility memory 248 and this liquid crystal display module 350, its each can be the part of this central processing circuit 240D.240C compares with this central processing circuit, and central processing circuit 240D more includes a data protection engine 250, and compared to this coordination engine shown in Fig. 7 B, it can carry out a data protection function with better function and/or different than coordination.For example say that this data protection engine 250 can have an error correction code function.

Among Fig. 7 E, one the 5th embodiment of this central processing circuit square shows it with this central processing circuit 240E, and it mainly comprises this CPU (central processing unit) wafer set/ROM 244E, this coordination engine 260, this CPU (central processing unit) 242 and this ROM 246.Though in Fig. 7 E, omit this non-volatility memory 248 and this liquid crystal display module 350, its each can be the part of this central processing circuit 240E.240C compares with central processing circuit, and central processing circuit 240E more comprises this coordination engine 260.This ROM is embedded to be manufactured in this CPU (central processing unit) wafer set/ROM 244E wafer.Perhaps, this ROM is integrated and is arranged in this CPU (central processing unit) wafer set/ROM 244E wafer.

Among Fig. 7 F, one the 6th embodiment of this central processing circuit square shows it with this central processing circuit 240F, and it mainly comprises this embedded CPU (central processing unit)/CPU (central processing unit) wafer set 242F, this coordination engine 260 and this ROM 246.Though in Fig. 7 F, omit this non-volatility memory 248 and this liquid crystal display module 350, its each can be the part of this central processing circuit 240F.240E compares with central processing circuit, and this central processing circuit 240F more comprises this coordination engine 260 and this ROM 246, its each be independent of outside this embedded CPU (central processing unit)/CPU (central processing unit) wafer set 242F.This CPU (central processing unit) is embedded to be manufactured in this embedded CPU (central processing unit) wafer set/ROM 242F wafer.

Fig. 7 A to 7F only shows the calcspar of this central processing circuit 240 of several examples, and all the other can be to have in this technical field knows that usually the knowledgeable changes and/or the reviser should be considered as one one of the present invention.For example, according to the trend of SoC (SOC, System On Chip), all these functional block can be integrated and form or be embedded in the single wafer.

The further details of operating process of the present invention and several detailed structure is explained in Figure 12 to Figure 22 subsequently.

Please refer to Figure 12, it is the another diagrammatic sketch according to the attached minicomputer system interface of a tandem of the present invention storage virtualization computer system one embodiment.The details of its most of hardware framework was described in Fig. 1 to Figure 11 B early.

According to the present invention, go into crossfire and the output between this sas storage virtualization controller 200 and this entity storage device array 400 between the output between this main computer unit 10 and this sas storage virtualization controller 200 and go into the example of crossfire and will introduce in the lump.

Please refer to Figure 13 and Figure 14, wherein describe between this of 200 of this main computer unit 10 and this sas storage virtualization controllers and export a example into crossfire.At first, this host prepares IO request and sends it to SVC.This SVC sees through these to export to receive from the output of this main computer unit 10 into one of binding person and go into requirement.Analyze this and export into requirement to carry out which operation, and for asynchronous device operation and synchronous device operation, decision is carried out this and operated on which section of this logical medium unit with decision.If this operation only comprises the words of internal simulation and asynchronous device child-operation, this sas storage virtualization controller 200 is carried out this relevant child-operation, it comprise transmit any related data to/certainly this main computer unit 10 then with one whether point out should operation success or fail and for the status report response of which kind of reason to this main computer unit 10.If this operation comprises synchronous device when operation, be to produce the proper device end to export into requirement and be sent to this suitable entity storage device 420 and think response.The content of requirement and these are gone in each single output, and to export into requirement be that mapped specific essence by relative this certain logic media units is determined to the distribution of different entities storage device 420.Export before the execution of requirement at device end or simultaneously, anyly will obtain to be sent to this sas storage virtualization controller 200 from this main computer unit 10 from this main computer unit 10 to export into the part of execution as this host side and after carrying out, will be transferred into the effective load data of this entity storage device 420.

Export when completing successfully at this device end into requirement, send back and should device end export the data that read into requirement to the unit that requires its grade, wherein when getting real the work soon, this unit may be got soon for this, and any data that are sent to this main computer unit 10 by this main frame requirement are to be transferred into this main computer unit 10.Produce a status report of indicating successfully operation then and be sent to this main computer unit 10.Do not complete successfully if there is device end to export into requirement, this sas storage virtualization controller 200 can be engaged in redundant operation and make child-operation complete successfully, even to export when failing into requirement also be like this facing a device end.Comprise that these operate typical producing other device ends exports into requirement to different medium sections, when reading, replying this data, or fashionable the redundant data are write writing.Redundant Array Of Independent Disks (RAID) kenel 5 for the data of using other entity storage devices 420 to produce an example of the data that can not read from a special entity storage device 420 again.In another kind of embodiment, this sas storage virtualization controller 200 can select to make this child-operation to lose efficacy to abandon giving this main computer unit 10 to the data transfer of this main computer unit and the status report of passing a correspondence back.

Figure 15 and Figure 16 example one are exported example into crossfire between this of 420 of this sas storage virtualization controller 200 and the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem entity storage devices.Being used as a device end that installs the part of child-operation synchronously for each generation exports into requirement, with the agreement of tandem minicomputer system interface the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem hard disc is set up a connection earlier, and will define this specific output goes into the output of this parameter of operation and (for example: media areas, destination segment base plinth address goes into the requirement information, the media areas segment length, the order that indication operation is carried out, etc.) wrap into tandem minicomputer system interface agreement framework and on the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem that the entity storage device of this appointment is connected links, transmit this tandem minicomputer system interface agreement framework to this related entities storage device 420 then.Each framework comprises a Cyclical Redundancy Check yardage value, this numerical value is calculated by the data in this framework, if the therefore words in the way of going to destination entity Storage Media, revised by any way of data in this framework, will fail by the performed consistency check when receiving this framework of this entity storage device 420, wherein this consistency check is that Cyclical Redundancy Check sign indicating number with these data and this framework is contrasted, and thinks that along with this entity storage device 420 after the reception of this framework will be sent to this sas storage virtualization controller 200 with a NAK essence response is to point out that this framework is not intactly to receive.Then this sas storage virtualization controller 200 can by its select heavily to give this framework or its can abandon this transaction also loopback one corresponding status report to the unit of this requirement.

If intactly receive this framework, think that along with this entity storage device after the reception of this framework 420 transmits an ACK essence to these sas storage virtualization controllers 200 response points out that with this this framework is intactly to receive.The essence that 420 analyses of this entity storage device are included in the operation that the requirement in this framework will carry out with decision with and to carry out the medium section of this operation.Suppose this operation be not one on specified medium valid function or the section of these medium be not an effective section, this entity storage device 420 is responded this sas storage virtualization controller 200 with a corresponding status report, it to be to produce a RESPONSE order that comprises the state information, packs its grade in tandem minicomputer system interface agreement framework and transmit this sas storage virtualization controller 200 of its time and finish.Otherwise, carry out the operation of this requirement.

The term of execution that this requires operation or before, send effective load data from this sas storage virtualization controller 200 if desired to this entity storage device 420, this entity storage device 420 will produce and send a tandem minicomputer system interface agreement XFER_RDY framework (SSP XFER_RDY frame) that requires to transmit the first stroke data.To cut apart these data be section to this sas storage virtualization controller 200 then, and these section length are no more than the maximum length limit that single framework that the attached minicomputer system interface agreement of this tandem allowed transmits.Each section is wrapped in the data framework (DATA frame) then in next a mode is sent to this entity storage device 420.Along with the transmission of each framework, this sas storage virtualization controller 200 waits reception before transmitting next data framework be to get the more multidata XFER_RDY framework of reception in advance ready from this entity storage device 420 of pointing out of this entity storage device 420.Each data framework comprises a Cyclical Redundancy Check yardage value that is produced by this data, and checks the consistance of itself and data by this entity storage device 420 at each framework in receiving.If when generation is inconsistent between the Cyclical Redundancy Check sign indicating number of the data in this framework and this framework, abandon this and export into operation and this entity storage device 420 and produce a corresponding status report, this is to have the tandem minicomputer system interface agreement RESPONSE framework (SSPRESPONSE frame) of this status data and be transmitted back to this sas storage virtualization controller 200 and finish by producing one.When receiving this state, this sas storage virtualization controller 200 can, look it and select, resend this initial output and go into to require perhaps to abandon this transaction and pass a corresponding status report back requiring the unit to this with this operation of retry.

During the operation execution that requires and/or after this operation is finished, when sending effective load data from this entity storage device 420 if desired to this sas storage virtualization controller 200, this entity storage device 420 prepare these data (it may need to read this data from Storage Media) and cut apart its etc. be the section that length is no more than the maximum length limit that single framework that the attached minicomputer system interface agreement of this tandem allowed transmits.Each section is wrapped in the data framework and is sent to this sas storage virtualization controller 200 in next a mode then.Again, a Cyclical Redundancy Check yardage value is to produce it by the data in this framework, and is sent to this sas storage virtualization controller 200 in this framework, and checks the consistance of itself and data by this sas storage virtualization controller 200 at each framework in receiving.Suppose between the Cyclical Redundancy Check sign indicating number of the data of this framework and this framework, to take place when inconsistent, after the framework reception, this sas storage virtualization controller 200 is a NAK essence to be delivered to this entity storage device 420 think that response is to point out that this framework is not intactly to receive.This entity storage device 420 is typically abandoned horse back this and is exported into operation and produce a corresponding state information then, and this is to comprise the tandem minicomputer system interface agreement RESPONSE framework (SSPRESPONSE frame) of this status data and pass this information back and reach to this sas storage virtualization controller 200 by producing one.When receiving this state, this sas storage virtualization controller 200 can, look it and select, resend this initial output and go into to require perhaps to abandon this transaction and pass the unit of a corresponding status report back to this requirement with this operation of retry.

When if this sas storage virtualization controller 200 intactly receives whole data, this sas storage virtualization controller 200 will be responded each data framework with an ACK essence.When all need be passed to this sas storage virtualization controller 200 when being transferred into this sas storage virtualization controller 200 with the data of exporting a part of carrying out into requirement as this, this entity storage device 420 will produce a status report, and point out whether this operation completes successfully, and if be why to plant reason when unsuccessful.This status report is with the formatting of tandem minicomputer system interface agreement RESPONSE framework and return to this sas storage virtualization controller 200.These sas storage virtualization controller 200 this status report of analysis success or failures then to determine this requirement.If this report is when requiring to fail, this sas storage virtualization controller 200 can, look its selection, resend this initial output and go into to require perhaps to abandon this execution and send the unit of a corresponding status report back to this requirement with this operation of retry.

Accessing between interface entity storage device this for being situated between in this sas storage virtualization controller 200 and a tandem advanced technology exports into crossfire, to go into crossfire similar to the output between this sas storage virtualization controller 200 and the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem entity storage device for it, except for the following main difference.One, access the interface hard disc for the tandem advanced technology, this connection accesses interface tunnelling agreement foundation with the tandem advanced technology but not reaches an agreement on tandem minicomputer system interface.Two, to set up after this connection, data access the interface agreement according to the tandem advanced technology and transmit.Three, when a tandem advanced technology accesses that the interface hard disc is connected to that the attached minicomputer system interfare device of tandem end I/O device links the attached minicomputer system interface controllor 310 of tandem of controller 300 and during not through an expanded circuit 340, data need not to set up a connection before transmitting.

In a traditional parallel minicomputer system interface, this crossfire is whole to above-mentioned similar, yet this exports this definition into the initial installation end of operating parameter and into the requirement information (for example: the order that the destination of media areas segment base plinth address, media areas segment length, indication operation are carried out exports, Deng) be not as the Cyclical Redundancy Check sign indicating number of the framework in the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem, but do not wrap into one in order to check the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem in the framework that transmits data validity.Therefore, this kind data its transfer to by the sas storage virtualization controller entity storage device during in damage immodestly (for example: because of noise so) may not can be detected, might cause the catastrophic data corruption situation of data write error mistake medium section, wherein to write the erroneous section of medium may be because of being included in due to this initially exports media areas, destination breaking-up segment base plinth address and/or the media areas segment length in the requirement data to these data.In the real work of the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem, this kind breaking-up will will be detected with these data are inconsistent because of its framework Cyclical Redundancy Check sign indicating number, and this entity storage device will be abandoned this order but not these data write or read from the erroneous section of these medium.Compared to parallel minicomputer system interface, this is with one of real principal benefits of doing of the attached minicomputer system interface of a tandem at a sas storage virtualization controller.

In practical operation, this sas storage virtualization controller 200 will typically be handled and carry out complex operation simultaneously and export into requirement with the host side in waiting in response to plural number.These requirements can be from a single main frame or plural main frame.These operations can comprise the synchronous device child-operation of carrying out simultaneously.Each this kind child-operation can produce the device end I/O device requirement that plural number is addressed to different entities storage device 420.Each this kind I/O device requires and can relate to, and links at the device end I/O device of 420 of the entity storage devices that connects this sas storage virtualization controller 200 and institute's addressing, transmits lot of data between the two.Typically, this sas storage virtualization controller 200 will be to make the I/O device requirement be distributed on the different entity storage devices 420 and different device end I/O devices links by configuration and setting, so that the sum total bandwidth that whole entity storage devices 420 and I/O device are linked increases to maximum.An example of improving the sum total bandwidth with configuration and setting is to use the mode of a Redundant Array Of Independent Disks (RAID) kenel 5 to merge into the logical medium unit but not with the merging of Redundant Array Of Independent Disks (RAID) kenel 4 entity storage device 420.In Redundant Array Of Independent Disks (RAID) kenel 4, be to specify a special-purpose coordination magnetic disc and make whole coordinatioies upgrade all to carry out at it.For writing, wherein each writes needs a coordination to upgrade, and compared with other data hard discs, this coordination hard disc at last can be as busy as a bee.For reading, this coordination magnetic disc is not by access, and it has meant a hard disc to transmitting not contribution of datamation.Redundant Array Of Independent Disks (RAID) kenel 5 average these coordinatioies that disperse are to all hard discs, thereby, if requirement is carried out addressing in a homodisperse mode to tangible media words are gone in supposition output, then write fashionable, the neither one hard disc is more busy than other any hard discs, and when reading, all hard discs all logarithm reportedly send work to contribute to some extent.

On the other hand, this sas storage virtualization controller 200 can be equipped and be adjusted at dynamically that different entities storage device 420 and/or the I/O device I/O device between linking requires the mechanism that distributes and intelligence so that the bandwidth of sum total entity storage device/binding optimization further.Example is for export the load balance between binding between these that are connected to 420 groups of same entity storage devices.But this sas storage virtualization controller 200 wisdom ground record is transmitted in that each I/O device that links requires and thus the information decision should on which links, transmit next I/O device and require so that the sum total bandwidth of this binding increases to maximum.Another example is gone into requirement for the load balancing data between an entity storage device 420 mirror set reads output.Again, but this sas storage virtualization controller 200 wisdom ground record is addressed to that I/O device on each entity storage device 420 requires and thus the information decision should send on which links that next I/O device requires so that the sum total bandwidth of these entity storage device 420 mirror set increases to maximum.

When the sum total bandwidth of device end I/O device binding has the ability of the maximum of increasing to, play the part of whole effect in the sas storage virtualization subsystem of a pivotal player at a sas storage virtualization controller, export at some main frame under the kenel of requirement load, can be lived by this sum total bandwidth constraints.Under this kind situation, increase the sum total bandwidth and can cause the usefulness of significantly promoting.Overall apparatus end I/O device links usefulness and determined by two factors: requirement execution/rate of data signalling is gone in the output of this binding and the binding number that requirement/data transmit assignment is gone in output.It is high more that requirement execution/rate of data signalling is gone in the output of this binding, and whole effect is big more.Similarly, device end is exported into requirement and data and is transmitted distributable binding more for a long time, and this device end is exported into the whole effect of linker system big more.

As previously mentioned, the number that parallel minicomputer system interface links can't rise on a certain degree, because of being subjected to the restriction in order to the number (68) that forms each different essential special-purpose signal circuits that link.In addition, access interface or the tandem advanced technology accesses interface compared to parallel advanced technology, its also expensive and on a printed circuit board (PCB) every binding take a more much bigger area occupied.One typical sas storage virtualization controller maybe can be implemented 4 to 8 the parallel minicomputer system interface of different device ends I/O devices and link, its each link the cost that is spent and be several times as much as parallel advanced technology and access interface or tandem advanced technology and access interface and link.Therefore the number of optical fiber binding is difficult for promoting, because the area occupied size on printed circuit board (PCB) and the cost of each binding typically access interface than parallel advanced technology or the tandem advanced technology accesses the big order of magnitude of interface (an order of magnitude).

Because the attached minicomputer system interface of each tandem I/O device links permissible heights such as only comprising 4 signal circuits and its and integrates, thereby make the attached minicomputer system interface of single tandem control integrated circuit can support 8 bindings, parallel minicomputer system interface of this standard and optical fiber can be supported 2 bindings under equivalent stitch number and size relatively, so the number lifting of the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem I/O device binding is fine.Further, the cost of the every binding of the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem is enough low is included in the single sas storage virtualization controller with low cost to the attached minicomputer system interface of the device end tandem I/O device binding that allows a large amount of numbers.

In order to increase the entity storage device quantity that can be connected to this sas storage virtualization controller, the present invention comprises that optionally one or more expanding unit ends install I/O device more and link, be referred to herein as device end expansion port, for example parallel minicomputer system interface or the fibre channel arbitrated loop on this sas storage virtualization controller.Typically these bindings wire laying modes even are to make the outside expand being able in the outside connection thereon of support.These supports can be and are connected directly to this binding and do not have any simple between the intermediate conversion circuit " primary " JBODs or can be intelligent JBODs analog subsystem, this intelligent JBODs analog subsystem is to access the merging of interface entity storage device and a sas storage virtualization controller single or redundancy group with attached minicomputer system interface of tandem or tandem advanced technology to simulate primary JBODs and arrive, wherein this sas storage virtualization controller provides from many devices I/O device and is attached to the transformation that the device end I/O device links (attached minicomputer system interface of tandem or tandem advanced technology access interface), provide of the connection of this JBOD subsystem and should many device I/O devices link to this main sas storage virtualization subsystem, this device end I/O device link (attached minicomputer system interface of tandem or tandem advanced technology access interface) then provide between this JBOD sas storage virtualization controller with and the entity storage device managed between the attached minicomputer system interface of connection tandem.

Though in Figure 12, only the attached minicomputer system interface binding 201 of tandem is connected to each DASD 420, yet in another kind of embodiment, when the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem DASD, when for example the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem hard disc has two ports on it, the attached minicomputer system interface of each tandem hard disc can have two bindings to be connected to this sas storage virtualization controller 200, each binding is by one of them port, so as configuration be between between each tandem attached minicomputer system interface hard disc and sas storage virtualization controller one redundant port/binding is right.

See also shown in Figure 17ly, it is the embodiment diagram of the sas storage virtualization subsystem at assisting system end expansion port.In Figure 17, this sas storage virtualization controller is to have plural devices end expansion port, and the storage element that each this expansion port connects is all single port and is connected on the device end expansion port.So, if should expand the storage element of port connection is two ports, and a sas storage virtualization controller that is equiped with the expansion port of one or more pairs of redundant configuration and settings can make redundant right port, this expansion port be connected to a port at two ports in the storage element and make this another right port of redundancy, expansion port be connected to another port at pair ports in the storage element.Figure 18 describes this kind configuration.In the case, if this sas storage virtualization controller expansion port redundancy is during to the one port fault in the port, when perhaps this storage element redundancy is to the one port fault in the port, link redundant right wherein one interrupt or when interrupted even a port of this sas storage virtualization controller is connected to the I/O device at a port of this storage element, still can realize of the access of this sas storage virtualization controller via another path that binding constituted that connects this another sas storage virtualization controller expansion port to this another storage element port to this storage element.

Please refer to Figure 19, it is another embodiment diagram of sas storage virtualization subsystem at assisting system end expansion port.This sas storage virtualization controller 200 can have plural devices end expansion port on it, its each be connected to one in the expanded circuit of these sas storage virtualization controller 200 outsides, the DASD at single port then wherein one is connected with these expanded circuits.Because of an outside expanded circuit can be connected to many DASDs, the DASD number that therefore can add to this storage subsystem increases.Please refer to Figure 20, it still is another embodiment diagram of sas storage virtualization subsystem at assisting system end expansion port.This sas storage virtualization controller 200 wherein can have one or more device end expansions port, and it all is connected to one in the expanded circuit of these sas storage virtualization controller 200 outsides, and the DASD at single port then is connected with this expanded circuit.

Please refer to Figure 21, it is another embodiment diagram of sas storage virtualization subsystem that a support company is connected to DASD device end expansion port, two ports.This sas storage virtualization controller 200 wherein can have one or more pairs of device ends expansion port, each to each of device end expansion port connect all respectively as for a pair of expanded circuit of these sas storage virtualization controller 200 outsides one on.The DASD at the two ports of plural number then is connected with these expanded circuits, and wherein a port at two ports is to be connected with one of a pair of expanded circuit, and another port is to be connected with this another person to expanded circuit.Please refer to Figure 22, it still is another embodiment diagram of sas storage virtualization controller that a support company is connected to DASD device end expansion port, two ports.This sas storage virtualization controller 200 wherein can have one or more device end expansions port, and it all is connected to one in the expanded circuit of these sas storage virtualization controller 200 outsides, and all ports of these pairs port DASD all are connected in this expanded circuit.

Again, embodiment according to sas storage virtualization subsystem of the present invention, it is the function with the hot plug of entity storage device, and when wherein sas storage virtualization controller when reaching the standard grade, an entity storage device that is attached at sas storage virtualization subsystem can separate with this sas storage virtualization controller and remove in this sas storage virtualization subsystem, or entity storage device can be installed on this sas storage virtualization subsystem when reaching the standard grade attached with this sas storage virtualization controller at the sas storage virtualization controller; In addition, the embodiment according to computer system of the present invention also has the function of aforementioned entity storage device hot plug.

One sas storage virtualization controller may another practical characteristic be that redundant host side links typically, is identical comprising on this sas storage virtualization controller that the plurality of hosts end links the port and links the logical medium unit of presenting to this main frame at two or more these wherein.Even this kind has this main frame to interrupt, be blocked at the one at these bindings and/or port or keeps during other faults ability to this logical medium cell access through the characteristic of design.

In this embodiment, other sas storage virtualization controller host side port of these two branches is connected to two distinct host side I/O devices and links and main frame port (not shown).Support in the embodiment that the redundant host end connects one, this sas storage virtualization controller will present the same logical medium unit group in an identical mode on both of main frame port.

Sas storage virtualization subsystem comprises also that typically the device that makes in this subsystem can be by the function of this sas storage virtualization controller management and monitoring, for example: electric power supply device, fan, temperature monitoring, etc.As previously mentioned, this function is commonly referred to casing management service circuit.Casing management service circuit comprises a CPU (central processing unit) with use often and moves a software formula and is its enforcement with the intelligent circuit of tool of the function of reaching requirement.The traditional parallel minicomputer system interface and the sas storage virtualization subsystem of fiber interface typically are dependent on this standard small computer system interface agreement SAF-TE and SES respectively and are the main communication mechanism of this sas storage virtualization controller in order to link up with the casing management service circuit of this sas storage virtualization subsystem.These agreements are dependent on one successively between being connected between this sas storage virtualization controller and sas storage virtualization subsystem, and this connection is to provide the I/O device that transmits minicomputer system interface order agreement to link (for example parallel minicomputer system interface or optical fiber link) by one to be constituted.Except aforesaid method, more provide one to use a low-cost solution with low cost that links and on this links, use proprietary agreement (proprietary protocol).

Bus between wafer (I2C bus) is that a support links in the low cost that can accept two-way transfer of data under the transfer rate.It is used in the state that allows this CPU (central processing unit) management in the personal computer and monitor motherboard and other devices usually.It extremely is suitable for providing in the regional sas storage virtualization subsystem communication medium between between this sas storage virtualization controller and this casing management service circuit, especially connects this sas storage virtualization controller attached minicomputer system interface/tandem advanced technology accesses in the interface sas storage virtualization controller to the tandem of this sas storage virtualization subsystem not having one.With standard, it does not support the transmission of standard small computer system interface order agreement, therefore bus will be linked up with another agreement as the embodiment of the main communication medium between between these sas storage virtualization controllers and this casing management service circuit in this regionality sas storage virtualization subsystem between this wafer of any use, typically be a proprietary agreement.

When mainly linking up medium with bus between wafer for it, casing management service circuit can be implemented in two ways.First kind for using the intelligent circuit of tool of linking up with the intelligent agreement of having of a similar SAF-E/SES and this sas storage virtualization controller.Second for to be integrated into bus bolt between existing basic model wafer (" dumb " off-the-shelf I2C latches) and/or status monitoring integrated circuit one management/observation circuit and to give this sas storage virtualization controller with all wisdom.The former selection has the advantage that makes this casing management service circuit that more advanced persons' service, value and customized service can be provided.Yet its enforcement is generally difficulty and expensive.Being embodied as of selection is simple and cheap, but typically can not support advanced function.

Entity storage device subsystem in the sas storage virtualization subsystem is designed to typically simulate and can be being implemented at the casing management service circuit that uses the I/O device that links to link directly management and monitoring as main access the entity storage device in this subsystem by a main frame.In these are implemented, this casing management service circuit be intelligent and the agreement of implementation criteria minicomputer system interface with management with monitor this casing management service circuit, for example SAF-TE and SES, its grade can be used to link and transmit in this main access.In these are implemented, casing management service circuit controller is permitted to use I/O device to link directly to link up with this main frame if not be connected directly to one or more mainly depositing, be called herein " directly connect " a configuration, be dependent on exactly (typically by these devices that are connected directly to this main access use binding, the entity storage device) saturating logical mechanism is given this casing management service circuit controller to deliver requirement and related data from this main frame, from the response of this main frame with related data is given this casing management service circuit controller and only respond with related data from this this casing management service circuit controller and to give this main frame, be referred to herein as " device delivers ".Independence outside the entity storage device can be provided when implementing direct connect box management service circuit controller, therefore one or even whole entity storage device failure or not the time this casing management service circuit controller operation or use unaffected.The shortcoming of implementing direct connect box management service circuit controller is typically more expensive and implementation complexity of getting up for it.The advantage that device for carrying out said is delivered casing management service circuit controller be to carry out easily and cost relatively cheap, but can be subjected to that the entity storage device lost efficacy or not can cause this main frame to this casing management service circuit controller can't access shortcoming.

In order to strengthen and the consistance of design and actual entities storage device subsystem interface main frame, the one controller sas storage virtualization subsystem that is equipped with casing management service circuit can be supported the agreement of one or more standard small computer system interface casing management service Circuit managements and one or two above-mentioned connection configuration, that is: directly connect and device is delivered.Concerning direct connection simulation, this sas storage virtualization controller will link upward in a host side I/O device and present this casing management service circuit service with one or more I D/LUNs (logical unitnumber).This casing management service circuit can have the specific binders ID that distributes to it or only distribute to it and presented to LUN on the ID of other LUN.Concerning the SAF-TE simulation, this sas storage virtualization controller must present casing management service circuit SAF-TE device on special I D.Concerning directly connecting the SES simulation, this casing management service circuit SAF-TE device can be present on the special I D or present on the ID of other LUN.Concerning device was delivered simulation, this sas storage virtualization controller only comprised that this one function of being responsible for delivering this entity storage device of this main frame of indication is the information of delivering in the INQUIRY word string of the pseudo-entity storage device that requires to give this casing management service circuit as this.Typically, multiple pseudo-entity storage device and even whole pseudo-entity storage devices that may be presented in this binding will present with the person of delivering that casing management service Circuit management requires, therefore one or more pseudo-entity storage devices not or lost efficacy will can not influence this casing management service circuit can't access.

The above, it only is preferred embodiment of the present invention, be not that the present invention is done any pro forma restriction, though the present invention discloses as above with preferred embodiment, yet be not in order to limit the present invention, any those skilled in the art, in not breaking away from the technical solution of the present invention scope, when the method that can utilize above-mentioned announcement and technology contents are made a little change or be modified to the equivalent embodiment of equivalent variations, but every content that does not break away from technical solution of the present invention, according to technical spirit of the present invention to any simple modification that above embodiment did, equivalent variations and modification all still belong in the scope of technical solution of the present invention.

Claims

1, a kind of storage virtualization computer system is characterized in that it comprises:

One main computer unit is gone into requirement to send output;

One external storage virtualization controller is coupled to this main computer unit and goes into to operate to export into requirement in response to this to carry out output; And

At least one entity storage device, its each is to link via the attached minicomputer system interface of a tandem to be coupled to this sas storage virtualization controller, to provide the data storing space to this storage virtualization computer system via this sas storage virtualization controller.

2, computer system according to claim 1 is characterized in that wherein said at least one entity storage device comprises at least one entity storage device described as follows: the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem entity storage device, a tandem advanced technology accesses interface entity storage device and a parallel advanced technology accesses interface entity storage device.

3, computer system according to claim 1, it is characterized in that wherein when above-mentioned sas storage virtualization controller when reaching the standard grade, at least one above-mentioned entity storage device can separate with the sas storage virtualization controller or be thereon attached.

4, computer system according to claim 1, it is characterized in that wherein said sas storage virtualization controller by configuration and setting to define the section that at least one logical medium unit comprises at least one entity storage device.

5, computer system according to claim 1 is characterized in that wherein said sas storage virtualization controller comprises:

One central processing circuit is gone into operation and is exported into requirement in response to this of this main computer unit to carry out output;

At least one I/O device links controller and is coupled to this central processing circuit;

At least one host side I/O device links the port and is arranged at least one above-mentioned I/O device binding controller to be coupled to this main computer unit; And

The attached minicomputer system interfare device of at least one tandem end I/O device links the port and is arranged at least one above-mentioned I/O device binding controller to be coupled at least one above-mentioned entity storage device.

6, storage virtualization computer system according to claim 5 is characterized in that a host side I/O device wherein links port and the attached minicomputer system interfare device of tandem end I/O device and links the port and be set at same I/O device and link in the controller.

7, storage virtualization computer system according to claim 5 is characterized in that a host side I/O device wherein links port and the attached minicomputer system interfare device of tandem end I/O device and links the port and be set at different I/O devices and link in the controller.

8, computer system according to claim 1 is characterized in that wherein said sas storage virtualization controller comprises that at least one host side I/O device links port, and its each is to be coupled to a host side I/O device to link.

9, computer system according to claim 8 is characterized in that wherein said sas storage virtualization controller is presented a logical medium unit by configuration and setting for linking on the port at least two at least one above-mentioned host side I/O devices redundantly.

10, computer system according to claim 5 is characterized in that wherein said host side I/O device links the port and comprises at least one port described as follows type: the optical-fibre channel of supporting point-to-point connection in target pattern, in target pattern, support the optical-fibre channel of private loop line, in target pattern, support the optical-fibre channel of dissipating public loop line, operate in the parallel minicomputer system interface in the target pattern, operate in the Ethernet of supporting the agreement of Internet minicomputer system interface in the target pattern, operate in the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem in the target pattern, the tandem advanced technology that operates in the target pattern accesses interface, U.S. Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers IEEE 1394A interface/U.S. Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers IEEE 1394B interface, and universal serial bus interface/universal serial bus 2.0 interfaces.

11, a kind of sas storage virtualization subsystem that is used to provide the data storing space is characterized in that it comprises:

One external storage virtualization controller is in order to be linked to a main computer unit and to carry out to export to go into to operate in response to the output that sends from this main computer unit and go into requirement; And

At least one entity storage device, its each is to link via the attached minicomputer system interface of a tandem to be coupled to this sas storage virtualization controller, to provide the data storing space to this main computer unit via this sas storage virtualization controller.

12, sas storage virtualization subsystem according to claim 11 is characterized in that wherein said sas storage virtualization controller comprises:

One CPU (central processing unit) is gone into operation and is exported into requirement in response to this of this main frame to carry out output;

At least one host side I/O device links the port and is arranged in this at least one I/O device binding controller to be coupled to this main computer unit; And

The attached minicomputer system interfare device of at least one tandem end I/O device links the port and is arranged in this at least one I/O device binding controller to be coupled to this at least one entity storage device.

13, sas storage virtualization subsystem according to claim 12 is characterized in that a host side I/O device wherein links port and the attached minicomputer system interfare device of above-mentioned tandem end I/O device and links the port and be set at same I/O device and link in the controller.

14, sas storage virtualization subsystem according to claim 12 is characterized in that a host side I/O device wherein links port and the attached minicomputer system interfare device of this tandem end I/O device and links the port and be set at different I/O devices and link in the controller.

15, sas storage virtualization subsystem according to claim 12, it is characterized in that wherein said at least one entity storage device comprises at least one entity storage device described as follows: the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem entity storage device, a tandem advanced technology accesses interface entity storage device and a parallel advanced technology accesses interface entity storage device.

16, sas storage virtualization subsystem according to claim 12 is characterized in that wherein said sas storage virtualization controller comprises that at least one host side I/O device links port, its each be coupled to a host side I/O device and link.

17, sas storage virtualization subsystem according to claim 16 is characterized in that wherein said sas storage virtualization controller is presented a logical medium unit by configuration and setting to link on the port at least two at least one above-mentioned host side I/O devices redundantly.

18, sas storage virtualization subsystem according to claim 12 is characterized in that wherein said sas storage virtualization controller is comprised the section of this at least one entity storage device with the logical medium unit that defines at least one by configuration and setting.

19, sas storage virtualization subsystem according to claim 12, it is characterized in that wherein when this sas storage virtualization controller be that at least one above-mentioned entity storage device can separate with this sas storage virtualization controller or thereon attached when reaching the standard grade.

20, sas storage virtualization subsystem according to claim 12 is characterized in that wherein said sas storage virtualization controller comprises that more at least one expansion port is to dispose at least one entity storage device of another group.

21, sas storage virtualization subsystem according to claim 12 is characterized in that wherein said sas storage virtualization controller comprises that more at least one many device device end expansions port is to dispose at least one entity storage device of another group.

22, sas storage virtualization subsystem according to claim 12 is characterized in that wherein said sas storage virtualization controller comprises that more at least one expansion port is to dispose at least one entity storage device of another group via an expanded circuit.

23, sas storage virtualization subsystem according to claim 12 is characterized in that wherein at least one this host side I/O device links the port and comprises the port type that at least one is following: the optical-fibre channel of supporting point-to-point line in target pattern, in target pattern, support the optical-fibre channel of private loop line, in target pattern, support the optical-fibre channel of dissipating public loop line, operate in the parallel minicomputer system interface in the target pattern, operate in the Ethernet of supporting the agreement of Internet minicomputer system interface in the target pattern, operate in the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem in the target pattern, the tandem advanced technology that operates in the target pattern accesses interface, U.S. Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers IEEE 1394A interface/U.S. Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers IEEE 1394B interface, and universal serial bus interface/universal serial bus 2.0 interfaces.

24, sas storage virtualization subsystem according to claim 12 is characterized in that it more comprises a casing management service circuit mechanism.

25, sas storage virtualization subsystem according to claim 24 is characterized in that wherein said casing management service circuit mechanism management and monitors at least one as the following device that belongs to this sas storage virtualization subsystem: power supply unit, fan, temperature-sensitive sticker, voltmeter, uninterruptible power supply provider, battery, light emitting diode, siren, the ccontaining casket lock of entity storage device, door lock.

26, sas storage virtualization subsystem according to claim 24, it is characterized in that wherein said casing management service circuit configurations are set at the following configuration of support: directly connect box management service circuit configurations and device are delivered casing management service circuit configurations.

27, sas storage virtualization subsystem according to claim 24 is characterized in that wherein said casing management service circuit mechanism configuration and setting is for supporting a following agreement: agreement of SES casing management service circuit and the agreement of SAF-TE casing management service circuit.

28, sas storage virtualization subsystem according to claim 24, it is characterized in that wherein this casing management service circuit mechanism of configuration and setting more comprise a following circuit with and this sas storage virtualization controller link up: bus bolt and status monitoring circuit between wafer.

29, a kind of external storage virtualization controller is characterized in that it comprises:

A central processing circuit goes into to operate in response to going into requirement from the output of a main computer unit in order to carry out output;

At least one host side I/O device links port and is arranged at this at least one I/O device and links in controller to be coupled to this main computer unit: and

The attached minicomputer system interfare device of at least one tandem end I/O device links the port and is arranged at least one I/O device binding controller to be coupled at least one entity storage device and to carry out point-to-point tandem signal with this at least one entity storage device and transmit.

30, external storage virtualization controller according to claim 29 is characterized in that a host side I/O device wherein links port and the attached minicomputer system interfare device of above-mentioned tandem end I/O device and links the port and be set at same I/O device and link in the controller.

31, external storage virtualization controller according to claim 29 is characterized in that a host side I/O device wherein links port and the attached minicomputer system interfare device of above-mentioned tandem end I/O device and links the port and be set at different I/O devices and link in the controller.

32, external storage virtualization controller according to claim 29 is characterized in that wherein said device end I/O device links controller and comprises that a more peripheral part connects interface/peripheral element and links the extension interface to be connected to this central processing circuit.

33, external storage virtualization controller according to claim 29 is characterized in that wherein said device end I/O device links controller and comprises that more a peripheral element links quick interface to be connected to this central processing circuit.

34, external storage virtualization controller according to claim 29 is characterized in that wherein said sas storage virtualization controller comprises that at least one host side I/O device links port, its each be coupled to a host side I/O device and link.

35, external storage virtualization controller according to claim 29 is characterized in that wherein said sas storage virtualization controller is comprised the section of at least one entity storage device with the logical medium unit that defines at least one by configuration and setting.

36, external storage virtualization controller according to claim 35 is characterized in that wherein said sas storage virtualization controller is presented a logical medium unit by configuration and setting to link on the port at least two at least one above-mentioned host side I/O devices redundantly.

37, external storage virtualization controller according to claim 29, it is characterized in that wherein at least one this entity storage device is that a direct accessing storing device and this sas storage virtualization controller are comprised that with the logical medium unit that defines at least one section of at least one this DASD and this logical medium unit are the merging of a Redundant Array Of Independent Disks (RAID) kenel or Redundant Array Of Independent Disks (RAID) kenel by configuration and setting, this logical medium unit can be this main computer unit addressing continuously by this.

38, external storage virtualization controller according to claim 29 is characterized in that it comprises that more at least one expansion port is to dispose at least one entity storage device of one second group.

39, external storage virtualization controller according to claim 29 is characterized in that it comprises that more at least one many device device ends expansions port is to dispose at least one entity storage device of one second group.

40, external storage virtualization controller according to claim 29 is characterized in that it comprises that more at least one expansion port is to dispose at least one entity storage device of one second group via an expanded circuit.

41, external storage virtualization controller according to claim 29 is characterized in that wherein at least one this host side I/O device binding port comprises at least one port described as follows kenel: the optical-fibre channel of supporting point-to-point line in target pattern, in target pattern, support the optical-fibre channel of private loop line, in target pattern, support the optical-fibre channel of dissipating public loop line, operate in the parallel minicomputer system interface in the target pattern, operate in the Ethernet of supporting the agreement of Internet minicomputer system interface in the target pattern, operate in the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem in the target pattern, the tandem advanced technology that operates in the target pattern accesses interface, U.S. Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers IEEE 1394A interface/U.S.'s Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers IEEE 1394B interface and universal serial bus interface/universal serial bus 2.0 interfaces.

42, external storage virtualization controller according to claim 29 is characterized in that it more comprises a casing management service circuit mechanism.

43, according to the described sas storage virtualization controller of claim 42, it is characterized in that wherein said casing management service circuit mechanism configuration and setting is for supporting the one of following configuration: directly connect box management service circuit configurations and device are delivered casing management service circuit configurations.

44, according to the described sas storage virtualization controller of claim 42, it is characterized in that wherein said sas storage virtualization configurable controller is set at the one of supporting following agreement: agreement of SES casing management service circuit and the agreement of SAF-TE casing management service circuit.

45, a kind of have in the computer system of an external storage virtualization controller in order to carry out the method for sas storage virtualization in one, it is characterized in that it comprises:

Go into requirement with this sas storage virtualization controller reception one from the output of a main computer unit of this computer system;

Analyzing this with this sas storage virtualization controller exports into requirement and carries out and export into requirement in response to this to determine at least one to export into operation; And

Carry out at least one with this sas storage virtualization controller and export at least one the entity storage device that uses this computer system into operation with the point-to-point tandem signal load mode access that meets the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem.

46,, it is characterized in that it more comprises the step that a casing management service circuit mechanism is provided according to the described method of claim 45.

47, according to the described method of claim 46, it is characterized in that it more comprises when casing management service circuit mechanism configuration and setting to carry out this machine-processed step for the moment for its of supporting following configuration: directly connect box management service circuit configurations and device are delivered casing management service circuit configurations.

48, according to the described method of claim 45, it is characterized in that wherein at least one entity storage device comprises the entity storage device that at least one is following: the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem entity storage device, a tandem advanced technology accesses interface entity storage device and a parallel advanced technology accesses interface entity storage device.

49, according to the described method of claim 45, it is characterized in that wherein carrying out at least one step of exporting operation and comprise that sending at least one device end exports requirement and link controller to the attached minicomputer system interfare device of a tandem end I/O device that is arranged in this sas storage virtualization controller, and by the attached minicomputer system interfare device of this tandem end I/O device link controller again this device end of layout export requirement and follow output to go into the form of data and the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem and it is become at least one packet that meets the attached minicomputer system interface of tandem transfer protocol.