Abstract: A method and system for managing cache levels based on battery backup level are described. In one embodiment, the method comprises measuring the level of charge stored in an exhaustible power source. The method further comprises monitoring the level of charge stored in the exhaustible power source. The method further comprises adjusting the storage level of the cache in response to a detected change in the level of charge. In this way, the method ensures that adequate battery power is available to transfer the contents of the cache to a non-volatile data storage medium.

Abstract: A method and system for managing cache levels based on battery backup level are described. In one embodiment, the method comprises measuring the level of charge stored in an exhaustible power source. The method further comprises monitoring the level of charge stored in the exhaustible power source. The method further comprises adjusting the storage level of the cache in response to a detected change in the level of charge. In this way, the method ensures that adequate battery power is available to transfer the contents of the cache to a non-volatile data storage medium.

Abstract: A current operating system such as Solaris.RTM. X86 is adapted to run a user program such as a Common Object File Format (COFF) executable program which was designed to run on a retrograde operating system such as an older version of UNIX.RTM.. The operating system is adapted to include an emulator module or COFF interpreter which emulates retrograde system calls that are unique to the COFF system. A Local Descriptor Table (LDT) which is constructed for the COFF program includes a main system call gate and an alternate system call gate that initially both point to a system call entry point in the operating system kernel. Prior to running a COFF program, the main system call gate is revectored to point to the COFF interpreter, such that all system calls generated by the COFF program are directed to the COFF interpreter. The COFF interpreter redirects current system calls which are compatible with the current operating system to the kernel via the alternate call gate.

Abstract: A computer system program including an operating system and a plurality of system service modules generates a number of status messages representing selected milestone events while it is being loaded and run, including progress advisories and technical advisories. User-friendly icons are displayed on a display monitor in response to the progress advisories, indicating which milestone event is occurring and how much of the event has been completed. If there is a failure in loading the system program, a user can provide service personnel with an accurate evaluation of the system condition by reporting which icon was displayed last on the monitor. Technical advisories such as audit records which are not relevant to a user are stored as entries in a silent log for possible later use by service personnel.