Storage Crossbar Array (SCA) [Solflower Computer, Inc.]

The Storage Crossbar Array (SCA) from Solflower Computer, Inc. is amulti-host storage subsystem for SBus-based workstations. Up to 16workstations can share direct data storage on 56 SCSI devices withoutaccessing the Network File System (NFS). A key feature of SCA is theShareable File System (SFS). SFS allows data to be concurrently shared bymultiple workstations on the same partition, directory, and file withoutcorrupting the disk's file system. Disks written with SCA are compatibleto Sun's file format and can be accessed from Sun's SCSI port and viceversa. High bandwidth applications stored on the SCA's disks appear toeach host as if they were stored on their local disks, thereby freeingthe network bandwidth for workstations with less intensive dataapplications. The SCA supports disk mirroring to ensure the safety ofimportant file systems. This is accomplished by SCA's hardware whicheliminates disk mirroring software overhead. The complete system servesas a deskside storage subsystem for multi-hosts and provides storagecapacity up to fifty-six 3.5 inch drives on an 18" by 20" footprint. TheSCA utility eases administrative tasks. SCA can be reconfigured in thesystem using a simple point-and-click menu. A Superhost can be assignedto control the system operations, such as: file locking, sharingpermission, and formatting. SCA supports Solaris 2.x. Storage CrossbarArray Components: The SCA contains one SX-16 Storage Crossbar controllerand four CROSSBARarrays. Each CROSSBARarray is capable of holding up to14 removable 3.5" disk drives or nine 3.5" and one full height 5.25"devices. A pedestal kit with wheels is designed to support the fivestacking Storage Crossbar Array components. SX-16 Storage Crossbar:Designed for high performance, the SX-16 Storage Crossbar (SX-16)incorporates a 32 bit microprocessor and has nine internal data paths foreight storage devices plus the cache. By providing separate internal databuses, the SX-16 allows multiple hosts to communicate to multiple storagedevices at the same time. The SX- 16 hardware gives up to 18 attachedSBus-based workstations access up to eight SCSI buses. SBus-basedworkstations equipped with an SX-16 SBus interface can transfer data at8.3MB/sec up to 200 feet over a standard RG-58 coaxial cable. All eightSCSI buses plus the internal 64MB cache can transfer simultaneously to orfrom the workstation. The SX-16 is supported by an N+1 power redundantsystem. In the event of a power supply failure, the warning LED turns onand an audible sound indicates that the power unit needs servicing. Theother unit automatically takes over the full load and the systemcontinues to function uninterrupted. The contents of the cache arewritten to an internal disk to prevent data loss when power failureoccurs. CROSSBARarray: Each CROSSBARarray is a dual SCSI channel storagesubsystem which provides space for up to fourteen 3.5 inch SCSI devicesand an optional one full-height 5.25 inch for SCSI tape or CD-ROM. Eachelement of the CROSSBARarray, such as disk drive modules and power supplymodules are hot swappable components. All of the modules are designed tobe field-upgradable and repairable. The modules are connected viabackplane technology for a fast replacement in case a component fails.There is no need to turn off the power, thus guaranteeing the up time ofthe total system. , * File systems can be simultaneously mounted andshared by multiple hosts without network overhead * Connects 16 SBus-based workstations to 8 SCSI buses and a transparent 64MB cache * Allhosts access all storage devices as local devices * Storage capacity upto 56 SCSI devices on a small foot print 18" x 20" with single SBusinterface * 64MB write back cache eliminates most mechanical access, hostwrites and run * All disks/tape and power supplies are hot swappable,replaced without turning off the system * Designed for easy maintenanceand field upgradeable * Point-and-click menu makes it easy toreconfigure, simplifying administrative tasks ,,

Source Avail: No
Product Special Handling: None.
Operating Systems: Solaris Sparc 2.3

Solflower Computer, Inc.
3350 Scott Blvd Bldg 9
Santa Clara, CA 95054
USA
Phone: 4089886326
Fax: 4089884609

AT-Bus Peripherals

Storage Crossbar Array (SCA)

Solflower Computer, Inc.