Link Speed Recovery in Data Storage Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data storage systems face challenges in consistently achieving and maintaining full link speed due to unsuccessful link training and retraining processes, particularly when no lanes are established, leading to suboptimal data transfer rates.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a multi-loop link speed recovery method that repeats sequential link speed recovery commands, with a subloop performing more frequent repetitions than the main loop, and includes conditional termination based on target speed achievement, along with out-of-band signaling and disable-enable cycles to enhance the success rate of achieving full link speed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If link training is performed to negotiate data transfer rate, then link speed is improved, but link reliability deteriorates due to unsuccessful training and retraining processes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by establishing a single lane connection before attempting multi-lane link training. The system first negotiates and establishes a baseline single-lane connection, then progressively adds lanes through controlled retraining sequences. This preliminary single-lane establishment ensures that communication channels are available before complex multi-lane training is attempted, thereby improving training success rates while eventually achieving full link speed.
2Speed
If multiple lanes are assigned to increase data transfer rate, then link speed is improved, but link stability deteriorates due to data transmission loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by making the link configuration adaptive rather than static. The system dynamically adjusts the number of active lanes based on real-time performance monitoring and retraining outcomes. When data transmission loss is detected, the system can reduce to fewer stable lanes; when conditions improve, it can progressively increase lanes. This dynamic adaptation allows the link to maintain optimal stability while achieving maximum achievable speed under varying conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies periodic action through scheduled link retraining and status verification cycles. Instead of attempting to establish all lanes simultaneously, the system periodically retrains links in controlled sequences, verifying stability at each stage. This periodic retraining approach allows the system to progressively build up to full link speed while monitoring for transmission losses, thereby maintaining stability during the transition to higher speeds.
3Speed
If link retraining is initiated by setting configuration bit, then link speed recovery is attempted, but operation complexity increases when no lanes are established
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by ensuring that a single lane connection is established before attempting configuration bit-based retraining operations. The system first maintains or establishes this baseline communication channel, then uses it to coordinate and initiate retraining sequences. This preliminary connection simplifies operation by providing a reliable communication path for control signals, avoiding the complexity of initiating retraining when no lanes are established.
4Reliability
If sequential link speed recovery commands are repeated multiple times, then link speed achievement reliability is improved, but time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by implementing structured, repeated sequences of link speed recovery commands with defined intervals and termination conditions. Instead of continuous or random retry attempts, the system executes periodic recovery command sequences that systematically progress through training stages. This periodic approach improves reliability by ensuring thorough attempts at each stage while controlling time consumption through defined repetition limits and early termination when success is achieved.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by establishing preliminary success criteria and termination conditions before executing repeated recovery commands. The system defines target link speeds and success thresholds in advance, allowing recovery command sequences to terminate early when objectives are met. This preliminary planning reduces unnecessary time consumption by avoiding continued retries after successful link speed achievement, while maintaining high reliability through predetermined comprehensive recovery sequences.
Data Source
AI summary
Link speed recovery in a data storage system in accordance with the present description includes, in one aspect of the present description, repeating performance of a main loop of sequential link speed recovery commands a predetermined maximum number of times. In one embodiment, main loop performance of link speed recovery commands includes repeating performance of a subloop of sequential link speed recovery commands within each main loop performance a predetermined maximum number of times. As a result of repeating performance of a subloop of sequential link speed recovery commands within each main loop performance, and repeating performance of a main loop of sequential link speed recovery commands in accordance with one embodiment, reliability of link speed recovery to full link speed may be improved. Other aspects and advantages may be realized, depending upon the particular application.