HP Surestore Disk Array FC60 HP SureStore E Disk Array 12H User's and Service - Page 93

Concepts and Management Disk Array Hardware Disk Array Hardware This section describes the operation and design of the disk array hardware. This information is provided for those users who desire to gain a better understanding of how the disk array hardware operates. Disk Array Controller Module The disk array controller contains the intelligence and functionality required to manage the operation of the entire disk array. The major responsibilities of the disk array controller include: • Implementing Hewlett-Packard AutoRAID™ to ensure optimum performance and cost-efficient data storage. • Managing all data transfers between the host and the disks. • Maintaining data integrity by automatically correcting any data errors that occur. • Rebuilding the array in the event of a disk failure. • Monitoring the operation of all hardware components, including itself. • Alerting the host in the event of a problem with the disk array. The disk array is operated with both a primary array controller and a secondary array controller for controller hardware redundancy. The use of two controllers allows the disk array to have controller redundancy, which protects against a single controller failure. In dual controller configurations, both controllers may be active, thus allowing a possible increase in disk array performance while simultaneously providing redundancy. The contents of controller NVRAM is updated on both controllers simultaneously. By maintaining a mirror image of all vital operating information, the secondary array controller can take over immediately should a controller fail. 93 Concepts