Patent ID: 6381674
Filing Date: 2002-04-30
Classification: G06F

Abstract:
In a data storage subsystem having a plurality of data storage elements, an apparatus comprising:a plurality of storage controllers which receive and process I/O requests generated by a host computer; an intelligent central cache dedicated to use by the data storage subsystem, said central cache being cooperatively engaged with said plurality of storage controllers to provide management of said plurality of data storage elements, wherein said intelligent central cache contains more cache memory than any of said plurality of storage controllers and wherein said intelligent central cache does not receive or process I/O requests generated by said host computer; and a controller communication medium operable for exchange of information among said plurality of storage controllers and said intelligent central cache and said data storage elements, wherein said intelligent central cache and said plurality of storage controllers exchange cache control information to coordinate cache management among said plurality of storage controllers and wherein said intelligent central cache includes a general purpose processor to process said exchange of said cache control information within said intelligent central cache.