Abstract: A storage controller, such as a RAID controller arbitrates storage tasks between a hard disk drive and a solid state drive based on predetermined factors, such as the type of information associated with a read or a write or the power available for running the storage devices. For example, a RAID controller on a portable information handling system performs writes and reads for sequential information with a hard disk drive. If power is limited, such as from a battery, the storage controller powers down the hard disk drive and performs storage tasks with the solid state drive with periodic power ups of the hard disk drive to mirror stored information.

Abstract: A data transfer system is provided for use with a computer. The computer includes a drive controller for controlling at most a predetermined maximum number of nonvolatile data storage devices. A drive bank is provided which includes a plurality of independently operable nonvolatile data storage devices. Each data storage device may be used to read data from, or copy data to, separate storage media such as computer floppy disks, magnetic tape, and optical storage devices. The plurality of nonvolatile data storage devices exceeds the predetermined maximum number of nonvolatile data storage devices within the range of control of the drive controller of the computer. A control interface is provided and electrically coupled between the drive bank and the computer. The control interface receives signals from the computer, including signals from the drive controller, for selectively enabling and disabling selected ones of said plurality of nonvolatile data storage devices of the drive bank.