Replacement, upgrade and/or addition of hot-pluggable components in a computer system

Abstract

A computer system adapted for hot-pluggable components such as memory modules that may be replaced, upgraded and / or added without disturbing normal operation of the computer system. A failing memory module may be replaced by copying its contents to a new memory module in a background operation while the computer system runs its operating system and applications programs. When all contents are copied to the new memory module, the failing memory module may be removed without having to shut down the computer system. Computer system memory may be upgraded or added to by inserting the new memory module(s) into vacant disconnected memory connectors, whereupon the computer system automatically recognizes the new memory module(s), synchronously connects the new memory module(s) to the computer system memory bus, initializes the new memory module(s), and then notifies the operating system that the new memory module(s) is available, all without disturbing normal operation of the computer system.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001] 1. Field of the Invention[0002] The present invention relates to a computer system having hot-pluggable components such as memory modules, and more particularly, to replacing, upgrading and / or adding the hot-pluggable memory modules without disturbing operation of the computer system.[0003] 2. Description of the Technology[0004] Use of computers, especially personal computers, in business and at home is becoming more and more pervasive because the computer has become an integral tool of most information workers who work in the fields of accounting, law, engineering, insurance, services, sales and the like. Rapid technological improvements in the field of computers have opened up many new applications heretofore unavailable or too expensive for the use of older technology mainframe computers. These personal computers may be used as stand-alone workstations (high end individual personal computers) or linked together in a network by a "network server" ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0022] An advantage of the present invention is that a faulty memory module may be replaced without disturbing the normal operation of the computer system, requiring specially designed memory modules, or modifying the operating system software or drivers.

[0023] Another advantage is that additional memory modules may be added to the computer system without having to shut down or disturb the normal operation thereof.

[0024] A feature of the present invention is that standard memory modules may be utilized.

[0025] Another feature is that standard memory module connectors may be utilized.

[0026] Still another feature is that LEDs may be used to indicate the location and status of faulty and / or new memory modules, and the location of an appropriate empty memory connector.

Problems solved by technology

Correctable memory errors are the most prevalent errors encountered in a computer system having ECC memory.

Due to the correctable nature of ECC memory, the faulty memory module will still continue to return correct data to the computer system.

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