Sub-Functions Field for EADM Compatibility Indication
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Solution Overview
Problem
In computing environments, there is a challenge in managing extended asynchronous data mover (EADM) functions compatibility, particularly when a specific set of new instructions and functions from one machine architecture are used by another architecture with a different interface, where the second machine interface may not have direct access to the query function to determine installed and available functions.
Innovation Solution
A method is introduced where a sub-functions field is defined in the response block of a call command, using a sub-functions flag to indicate the availability of EADM functions, allowing new EADM commands to be added to an existing EADM feature without requiring a new EADM feature, and utilizing an EADM sub-functions field to determine the validity of EADM commands, simplifying hardware and software design and reducing processing time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a second machine interface is used to access new instructions from a first machine architecture, then compatibility between different machine architectures is improved, but the interface cannot directly access the query function to determine installed and available functions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism by embedding a sub-functions field within the response block of a call command. This field acts as a mediator that carries function availability information from the first machine architecture to the second machine interface, allowing the latter to determine installed functions without direct access to the original query function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the function availability information into a dedicated sub-functions field within the response block. This segmentation allows the query function's output to be divided into distinct components, with the sub-functions field specifically containing the installed function information that can be independently accessed by the second machine interface.
2Device complexity
If new EADM commands are added to an existing EADM feature, then the number of EADM features is reduced, but the function definition space becomes more constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the existing EADM feature universal by enabling it to handle both original and new EADM commands through a common mechanism. The sub-functions field serves as a multi-functional indicator that can represent different function sets, allowing a single EADM feature to accommodate multiple command types without requiring separate feature structures for each.
3Loss of information
If a sub-functions field is defined in the response block, then function availability indication is improved, but the response block structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent nests the sub-functions field within the existing response block structure, similar to a nested doll. This nesting approach allows the function availability information to be embedded within the already-established response block framework, minimizing structural complexity while maximizing information delivery. The sub-functions field becomes an integrated component of the response block rather than a separate structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A method is provided that is executable by a processor of a computer. Note that the processor is communicatively coupled to a memory of the computer, and the memory stores a response block of a call command. In implementing the method, the processor defines a sub-functions field in the response block of the call command. Further the processor indicates that a set of functions of a set of instructions are installed and available at an interface based on a corresponding sub-functions flag within the sub-functions field being set. Note that the interface is also being executed on the computer and that the set of functions being represented by the corresponding sub-functions flag. The processor further indicates that the set of functions of the set of instructions are not installed based on the corresponding sub-functions flag not being set.