Automated Performance Data Collection for Storage Area Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current performance data collection techniques in storage area networks are complex and prone to user error, especially when I/O data paths change, requiring manual configuration updates which can be time-consuming and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A system that automatically identifies criteria for performance data collection, determines member objects, and updates membership in a criteria group, using separate controllers for identification and data collection, allowing for scheduled intervals and object type-based collection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual configuration updates are used to track I/O data path changes, then performance data collection can be maintained, but the system becomes complex and prone to user error
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically monitors I/O data path changes and updates performance data collection configurations without requiring manual user intervention. The controller autonomously detects when data paths change and adjusts the collection parameters accordingly, making the system self-configuring and eliminating manual complexity while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors the storage area network for changes in I/O data paths and uses this feedback to automatically update performance data collection configurations. This closed-loop approach ensures that the collection process remains synchronized with actual system changes, maintaining accuracy without manual intervention
2Reliability
If manual configuration updates are used when I/O data paths change, then performance data collection can continue, but time is lost due to manual intervention requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system proactively monitors for I/O data path changes before they impact performance data collection integrity. By detecting changes as they occur and automatically updating configurations in real-time, the system eliminates the time delay associated with manual detection and configuration updates, ensuring continuous reliable monitoring
3Measurement precision
If performance data collection is configured for each individual object, then detailed monitoring is achieved, but the system becomes complex and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a universal performance data collection mechanism that automatically adapts to different object types and I/O data path configurations. Rather than requiring separate manual configurations for each object, the system uses a unified approach that handles multiple object types and path configurations through automated rule-based logic, maintaining detailed monitoring capability while dramatically simplifying operation
Data Source
AI summary
A system for controlled-tuning path performance data collection is provided according to group membership controlled using a tool or application. In an embodiment, criteria may be established for groups that are populated by member objects that satisfy the criteria, and performance data collection is performed for such criteria groups may be turned on or off from an interface of the tool. The tool may automatically update group membership and performance data collection characteristics according to user controlled settings but without requiring further user intervention during the updating. The described system may thereby be advantageously used in connection with management of performance data collection based on a defined groups framework in which selected groups are created, based on specified criteria, that contain objects (e.g., hosts, arrays, switches etc.) for which performance data should be collected.