Storage Node Memory Hot-Swap for Downtime Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
In storage systems, memory failures often require nodes to be powered down for memory module replacement, leading to performance degradation.
Innovation Solution
A storage system design that includes a processor and two memory modules, where the first module stores the operating system and program, and the second module stores cache data, allowing the second module to be replaced without shutting down the node, with data mirrored to a third module for seamless operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If memory module replacement is performed in conventional storage systems, then memory failure is resolved, but node downtime occurs and system performance degrades
Solution Approach 1:
The memory system is divided into two independent modules: first memory module (non-replaceable, stores OS and programs) and second memory module (replaceable, stores cache data). This segmentation allows the replaceable module to be swapped without affecting the non-replaceable module, enabling memory replacement without node downtime and thus resolving the contradiction between reliability improvement and performance maintenance.
2Productivity
If memory module replacement is performed without shutting down power supply, then system availability is improved, but data loss may occur
Solution Approach 1:
Before replacing the second memory module, the system performs preliminary actions: detecting the replacement requirement, identifying the first memory module as the data source, and preparing for data copying. This preliminary preparation ensures that data can be accurately copied from the first memory module to the new second memory module, maintaining data integrity while enabling hot replacement and thus resolving the contradiction between system availability and data integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
A storage system includes a CPU, a first memory module, a second memory module, and a storage device. The processor and the first memory module are installed in the same node. The second memory module are replaceable without shutting down power supply of the node. The first memory module stores an operating system and a program for managing user data to be stored in the storage device. The second memory module stores cache data of the user data to be stored in the storage device. The processor is configured to store a copy of data to be stored in the second memory module in the third memory module.