Abstract: In a high-performance data storage system, an enclosure contains a multiplicity of disk drives, each of which has two high-speed serial data ports. Respective data lines are provided which connect each of the data ports with a respective high-speed data multiplexer. Importantly, each of the multiplexers is also connected with each of two distinct I/O modules. Failure of either I/O module still permits the remaining I/O module to have serial high-speed connectivity with each of the multiplexers, and thus with each of the data ports on each disk drive. Finally, the overall function of the system may be selected as JBOD (Just a Bunch Of Drives), as SAN (Storage Area Network), or NAS (Network Attached Storage), without requiring any mechanical or electronic change other than the I/O modules.

Abstract: A system and method for determining the physical presence, proper electrical coupling and predetermined identifying characteristics and attributes of various computer system elements and components, including both fixed and removable modules such as field replaceable units ("FRUs"), utilizing a minimum number of signal lines per component. In a preferred embodiment, a voltage divider is established between a first resistance in an environmental monitoring unit ("EMU") and a second resistance in an associated FRU wherein a voltage level taken intermediate the first and second resistances is indicative of a particular FRU attribute.

Abstract: This disclosure pertains to an apparatus and method of providing EMI shielding for an electrical component. The apparatus includes an elastomeric gasket, which is coated with a conductive jacket, and which is mounted on the backplane of a cabinet, the backplane providing EMI shielding. The cabinet is adapted for the insertion of a plurality of electrical components, such as disk drives, tape drives, and power supplies, which themselves are mounted in a rigid frame member. The frame member includes EMI shielding for the components on five of their six sides. The sixth side is unshielded, due to the fact that it contains the electrical connector used to connect the component to the backplane of the cabinet, when the frame member is inserted in the cabinet. With the frame member providing shielding on five sides, and the backplane providing shielding for the sixth side, the gasket serves the purpose of establishing an electrical seal between the frame member and the backplane of the cabinet.