Batch RAID Configuration via IF Agent
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current RAID configuration methods are inefficient and labor-intensive, often requiring manual intervention and individual BIOS entry for each server, which hinders scalability and resource utilization.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that utilize a server managing device to send batch IF start commands to candidate servers, enabling them to start an Integrated Fast Intelligent Scalable Toolkit (IF) and perform RAID configuration through an Agent, with IP address assignment and network connection for batch RAID configuration, thereby eliminating the need for individual BIOS entry and enhancing efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manual RAID configuration is performed through Smart Storage Administrator for each server individually, then configuration accuracy is ensured, but configuration efficiency and productivity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple individual RAID configuration operations into a single batch operation. The server managing device consolidates configuration tasks for multiple candidate servers into one unified process, where a single RAID configuration command simultaneously configures all selected servers, eliminating the need for repeated manual operations while maintaining configuration accuracy through centralized control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-selecting candidate servers that require RAID configuration before executing the configuration process. The server managing device identifies and prepares the target servers in advance, establishing the configuration parameters and readiness state beforehand, which enables the subsequent batch configuration to proceed efficiently without individual server preparation overhead.
2Reliability
If individual BIOS entry is required for each server to configure RAID, then configuration reliability is maintained, but time consumption and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer - the server managing device - that acts as a mediator between the administrator and multiple servers. This intermediary receives a single RAID configuration command and distributes it to all candidate servers through their respective IF instances and Agents, eliminating the need for individual BIOS entries while maintaining reliability through centralized verification and control of the configuration process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service by enabling servers to automatically receive and execute RAID configuration commands without manual BIOS intervention. Each candidate server's Agent autonomously processes the configuration instruction from the server managing device, configuring its local RAID settings automatically, which dramatically reduces time consumption while maintaining configuration reliability through standardized automated procedures.
3Productivity
If batch configuration is implemented through network commands, then productivity and efficiency improve, but system complexity and device architecture worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the batch configuration system into distinct functional modules: the server managing device for command issuance, IF instances for communication interfacing, and Agents for local execution. This segmentation allows the complex batch configuration task to be broken down into manageable, independent components that can operate autonomously yet cooperatively, improving productivity while containing system complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality through the design of a multi-functional server managing device that can handle multiple candidate servers simultaneously through a unified interface. The device performs diverse functions including server selection, command generation, network communication, and configuration verification, all through a single centralized system, which improves productivity by eliminating the need for separate configuration tools for each server while managing complexity through consolidated functionality.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method and a device for configuring RAID are provided. When a RAID configuration is required, an Integrated Fast Intelligent Scalable Toolkit (IF) start command is sent to each server to perform a RAID configuration in a batch manner. Each server completes the start of the IF based on the received IF start command and sends a RAID configuration command to an Agent in the IF for RAID configuration.