Abstract: Disclosed is a method for creating a large-scale storage array by combining multiple mid-range storage arrays via a host based aggregation engine software application. Each mid-range storage array, also call a storage building block, consists of one or more RAID volumes. Each mid-range storage array has equivalent configuration and property settings including number of drives, RAID level, volume segment sizes, and volume cache settings, but not including the volume label. The complex combination of mid-range storage arrays appears as a single storage system to a data management application of a host computer system. Once the mid-range storage arrays are aggregated into a large-scale storage array, or storage complex array, common features may be modified as a collection of items so that a common modification need only be entered one time for all items in the collection.

Abstract: A method of gating a fence starts with providing an exit that has spaced-apart first and second enclosure portions joined by upper and lower cross-members and at least one anchor joined to at least one of said enclosure portions; a mostly solid door between said enclosure portions and openable, said door and said enclosure portions having inward-facing surfaces; a latch coupling said door to one enclosure portion, said latch securing said door closed, said latch only operable from said inward-facing surface; and a guard attached to one of said enclosure portions and projecting inwardly proximate said latch. The next steps are digging holes for the enclosure portions and at least one anchor sufficiently deep to permit the lower cross-member to sit in the ground; placing the exit; pouring concrete up to about the ground surface; and attaching the fence to the enclosure portions.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method for creating a large-scale storage array by combining multiple mid-range storage arrays via a host based aggregation engine software application. Each mid-range storage array, also call a storage building block, consists of one or more RAID volumes. Each mid-range storage array has equivalent configuration and property settings including number of drives, RAID level, volume segment sizes, and volume cache settings, but not including the volume label. The complex combination of mid-range storage arrays appears as a single storage system to a data management application of a host computer system. Once the mid-range storage arrays are aggregated into a large-scale storage array, or storage complex array, common features may be modified as a collection of items so that a common modification need only be entered one time for all items in the collection.

Abstract: Methods and associated structure for updating and propagating firmware updates in a multiple redundant controller storage subsystem. The methods of the present invention assure that the storage subsystem remains operable processing host system I/O requests while the redundant controllers manage the firmware update process. At least one controller of a plurality of redundant controllers in the system remains available for processing of host I/O requests as the controllers manage the firmware update process. A management client process operable on an administrative system coupled to the first of the redundant storage controllers transfers a structured firmware file to the first redundant controller. The management client need perform no further management of the update process. Rather, the controller themselves manage the process in accordance with metadata stored within the firmware file along with the programmed instructions to be updated.

Abstract: Methods and associated structure for on the fly (dynamic) transition between versions among a management application process and an associated I/O subsystem. A management application program operable on a management system coupled to the I/O subsystem instantiates a script engine to execute script language commands for communicating with the I/O subsystem on behalf of the management application. The particular script engine instantiated is one that is compatible with the present revision of firmware operable in the I/O subsystem. When a script command execution causes a firmware upgrade in the I/O subsystem, the present script engine saves its state of operation, notifies the management application of the upgrade and resultant incompatibility and terminates. The management application then instantiates a new script engine compatible with the newly upgraded firmware version in the I/O subsystem.