Storage Area Network Buffer Credit Allocation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage area network resource allocation methods, such as buffer credit allocation, often result in improper allocations due to user errors or reliance on inaccurate information, leading to insufficient buffer capacity during network congestion, which can halt data transfer.
Innovation Solution
Automatically configuring buffer credit allocation for ports in a storage area network based on measured communication link length and current link speed, using minimum command response time to determine link length and retrieving link speed data to calculate target resource allocation, with options for warning or reconfiguration if current allocation differs from the target.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual buffer credit allocation is used based on user estimation of link speed and length, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to user errors and inaccurate information
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically measures link length and determines buffer credit allocation without requiring manual user input. The switch performs self-measurement of communication link characteristics and self-configuration of buffer credits, eliminating user errors while maintaining operational simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual estimation methods with automated electronic measurement and calculation systems. The switch uses embedded measurement mechanisms to objectively determine link length and calculate optimal buffer credits, substituting human judgment with precise computational methods
2Ease of operation
If automatic buffer credit allocation based on current operating conditions is used, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to transitory network conditions affecting measurements
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs buffer credit allocation measurements and calculations during link initialization or idle periods, before actual data transfer begins. This preliminary action ensures that buffer credits are configured based on stable link characteristics rather than transient conditions during active data transmission
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors link performance and buffer credit utilization, using feedback mechanisms to verify that the allocated buffer credits are adequate. If transitory conditions cause measurement errors, the feedback loop allows for detection and correction of improper allocations
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a computer program product, system, and method for resource allocation in accordance with one embodiment of the present description, in which a resource allocation such as a buffer credit allocation for a port in a storage area network is initialized as a function of a measurement of a length of a communication link for the port of the storage area network. In one embodiment, the length measurement is a function of a minimum command response time of a command issued over the communication link. Other aspects of resource allocation in accordance with the present description are described.