Abstract: A method, system and computer program for text-based controller configuration is disclosed. Storage is divided into a reserved disk area and a customer data area. Each reserved disk area contains two copies of the configuration and a directory. The reserved disk area also contains an identifier/locator that identifies the configuration in use by computer system. The identifier/locator is stored in either the first block or last block of each disk. Configuration information is transferred between the disk and controller or between the controller and host computer in text form, i.e. strings, to avoid big-endian/little-endian problems that may exist between controllers made by different manufacturers. The text-based configuration information is expressed in strictly defined keywords and attributes associated with the keywords.

Abstract: A method, system and computer program for text-based controller configuration is disclosed.

Abstract: Apparatus, system, and method for a new direct commands including a Write Signature command and a Read Signature Command for use in a computer system. The Write Signature Command and associated hardware structure allow an external configurator to write a signature to a controller. The Read Signature Command allows the signature to be read from the controller that was previously written to for verification, and with appropriate parameters selected (for example, a different ID), to read the signature from the partner of the addressed controller. The signature is retained by each partner of the controller-pair for reading by the host and by its partner. Provision of this capability advantageously provides the external configurator the means for determining the partner of a particular controller.

Abstract: A disk controller and associated method where conventional disk drive size files stored in the host computer are replaced with a drive size list maintained in the disk drive device controller. The disk size list structure permits the controller to do the disk drive sizing and provides a simplified list of disk drive size ranges that can be applied to all disk drives on the system regardless of disk drive make, model, or manufacturer. A disk drive size list can be generated from the existing disk drive configuration and maintained and updated with a minimum of user interaction.