Dual Memory Controller Data Replication for Storage Performance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data replication methods in multi-site computer systems often disrupt storage system performance during synchronization, particularly in high-performance computing environments, where data access is critical and must remain uninterrupted.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a dual memory controller architecture with a microcontroller that manages data replication across two levels (local and remote) using RAID technology, allowing for asynchronous replication and minimizing performance impact by duplicating data streams and using redundancy mechanisms to maintain system reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If data replication is performed using traditional remote control methods, then data synchronization is achieved, but storage system performance degrades due to command flow management overhead
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the storage system into multiple independent controllers (first controller and second controller), each capable of autonomously managing data replication. This segmentation eliminates the need for centralized remote control, reducing command overhead and improving storage system performance while maintaining data synchronization reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage system implements self-service through autonomous controllers that can independently perform data replication and synchronization operations without requiring external remote control. The controllers autonomously manage data flows, detect changes, and replicate data to remote sites, eliminating performance degradation associated with centralized command management.
2Reliability
If synchronous backup mode is used for data replication, then data integrity is maintained, but storage device performance is significantly impacted during write operations
Solution Approach 1:
The invention implements dynamic backup modes that can switch between synchronous and asynchronous operations. The system adaptively selects the appropriate mode based on current system conditions, allowing it to maintain data integrity when needed while minimizing performance impact during normal operations. This dynamic approach resolves the contradiction between reliability and productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters by implementing multiple backup modes (synchronous, asynchronous, and selective replication). By adjusting the replication parameter based on system state and requirements, the invention maintains data integrity while optimizing storage device performance, avoiding the constant performance degradation associated with strict synchronous backup.
3Productivity
If asynchronous backup mode is used for data replication, then storage device performance is maintained, but data synchronization consistency is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The invention implements dynamic backup modes that can switch between synchronous and asynchronous operations. The system adaptively selects the appropriate mode based on current system conditions, allowing it to maintain data integrity when needed while minimizing performance impact during normal operations. This dynamic approach resolves the contradiction between reliability and productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms that monitor data change frequencies and system state, using this information to dynamically adjust replication strategies. When data changes are frequent, the system can switch to synchronous mode to maintain consistency; when changes are infrequent, it operates in asynchronous mode to maintain performance. This feedback-driven approach balances productivity and synchronization consistency.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates in particular to data backup in a computer infrastructure offering business continuity capabilities. For this purpose, a backup system is provided with at least one first (405-1) and a second (405-2) set of storage means and at least one first (CTL1) and a second (CTL2) memory controllers associated with said first and second storage means, respectively. The backup system is further provided with a microcontroller (µP) configured to duplicate a command and data stream from said first memory controller to said second memory controller in a normal operating mode, enabling local data replication in said second set of storage means, and to address a separate command and data stream to each of said first and second memory controllers in a remote replication mode.