Computer Data Redundancy via External Storage Controller
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cost-conscious computer manufacturers face challenges in providing data redundancy to consumers without increasing costs, as incorporating multiple mass storage devices is expensive, while a single mass storage device does not meet the needs of customers seeking data redundancy.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves connecting one or more external mass storage devices directly to the computer, allowing a redundancy controller to implement data redundancy using the single internal mass storage device and external devices through mirroring or parity-based algorithms, enabling the use of redundancy algorithms that require more than the internal devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single mass storage device is provided in the computer, then the cost is reduced, but data redundancy is not available
Solution Approach 1:
A redundancy controller is introduced as an intermediary component that manages data redundancy between the single internal mass storage device and external mass storage devices. The redundancy controller implements redundancy algorithms (such as RAID) to provide data protection without requiring multiple internal storage devices, thus resolving the contradiction between reliability and device complexity.
2Reliability
If multiple mass storage devices are incorporated for data redundancy, then reliability is improved, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system is segmented into internal and external components. The computer contains a single internal mass storage device for primary data storage, while redundancy is achieved through external mass storage devices connected via standard interfaces. This segmentation allows manufacturers to keep the computer cost-effective while still providing redundancy capabilities through the external devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The redundancy controller is designed to work with standard external mass storage device interfaces, making the system universal and compatible with various external storage devices. This multi-functionality allows the same redundancy mechanism to work with different types of external storage devices without requiring custom hardware, thereby controlling manufacturing costs.
3Reliability
If external mass storage devices are connected for redundancy, then data redundancy is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The redundancy controller automatically detects the presence of external mass storage devices and configures redundancy relationships without requiring manual intervention from the user. The system self-manages the redundancy configuration, making the process simple for users while still achieving data redundancy.
Solution Approach 2:
The redundancy controller dynamically adjusts redundancy parameters such as the level of redundancy (e.g., RAID 1, RAID 5) and the allocation of storage space based on the detected external devices. This parameter flexibility allows the system to optimize redundancy while adapting to different external storage configurations, reducing the complexity of manual setup.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer includes an enclosure, an internal mass storage device within the enclosure, and a redundancy controller within the enclosure. At least one port enables direct connection of the computer to at least one external mass storage device. The redundancy controller is configured to provide data redundancy using the internal mass storage device and the at least one external storage device if the at least one external mass storage device is connected to the at least one port.