Abstract: A method of automatically detecting errors in computer program caused by erroneous memory allocations and deallocations, flawed logic structure, and/or hardware malfunctions. The inventive method uses a pre-defined first table structure to monitor all data storage allocations and deallocations of a computer program. Another aspect of the invention is the use of a second table to track existing memory allocations that are not properly deallocated at the end of a program. The invention also includes a method for detecting program errors that inadvertently overwrite memory locations whose values should remain constant during the execution of a program.

Abstract: An automated concurrent data backup system and method. The architecture of the present invention includes a CPU coupled to a primary controller. The primary controller is coupled by separate logical buses to at least a set of paired mirrored or shadowed primary data storage devices. On one of the logical buses, a backup device controller is attached. Attached to the backup device controller is a backup device. In normal operation, the primary controller writes data to both of the primary data storage devices. When a backup is desired, the primary controller is programmed to detect a specified "trigger" signal from the CPU. The primary controller stops writing data from the CPU to both of the primary data storage devices. The backup device controller becomes the "bus master" over one of the logical buses, in known fashion, and starts a backup operation with respect to the data stored on the primary storage device designated for being backed up.