Abstract: A method for retrieving information from a database includes identifying a cylinder. The cylinder includes a plurality of data segments. The method also includes retrieving the plurality of data segments from the cylinder during a single retrieval operation. In addition, the method includes storing the plurality of data segments in a cache.

Abstract: A technique for use in identifying a failing storage device from a plurality of such storage devices involves the use of an inconsistency map. This inconsistency map is maintained by selecting one or more protected objects and identifying the storage devices on which the protected objects are stored. Copies of the protected objects on the identified storage devices are compared. On detecting a mismatch between copies of one of the protected objects, details are stored in an inconsistency map of the mismatched protected object and details of the storage devices on which the mismatched protected object is stored.