Data Storage Device Logging With Host Absolute Time Correlation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data storage devices lack absolute time information, preventing precise correlation and comparison with BIOS logs for troubleshooting, leading to imprecise identification of error causes in host computers.
Innovation Solution
A data storage device equipped with a controller and memory to receive and store absolute time information and event logs, enabling precise correlation with BIOS logs for enhanced troubleshooting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If data storage devices use only relative time information (power-on hours), then the device complexity is reduced and ease of manufacture is improved, but the measurement precision of time correlation between devices deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces absolute time information from the host computer as an intermediary reference that mediates between the BIOS log and device log. This external time reference enables precise correlation between devices without requiring complex internal time synchronization mechanisms within the data storage device itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The data storage device is enhanced to perform multiple functions: it not only stores device operation logs with relative time but also receives, stores, and utilizes absolute time information from the host computer, enabling universal time correlation across different device types and systems.
2Loss of information
If data storage devices store only device-specific log information, then the loss of information is minimized for device operations, but the loss of information occurs in the ability to correlate events across different devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges device-specific log information with host computer absolute time information into a unified time-correlated log system. By combining these previously separate information sources, the system preserves all device operation details while adding the capability for cross-device event correlation through shared absolute time references.
3Productivity
If computer technicians manually compare device logs without absolute time information, then the ease of operation is maintained, but the productivity of troubleshooting deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides automated time correlation feedback by storing absolute time information alongside device logs. This feedback mechanism allows technicians to quickly determine event sequences and causal relationships between BIOS and device events, eliminating manual time-synchronization analysis and significantly improving troubleshooting efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
An event time recording method includes receiving an absolute time information sent from a computer host after a data storage device is powered on and the data storage device stores the absolute time information and the event log file in a specific storage area of the data storage device. The event time recording method can be used on the data storage device, and solves the problem of insufficient reference information in the confirmation and judgment of error analysis. A data storage device is also provided.