Patent ID: 8583863
Filing Date: 2013-11-12
Classification: G06F

Abstract:
1. A storage expander apparatus for accessing a plurality of storage units, comprising: a plurality of first interfaces for accessing the plurality of storage units; a second interface for accessing subordinate expander apparatus; and a processor for executing: receiving from an external apparatus a first request for obtaining first information indicative of a state of a connection to be connected with the plurality of first interfaces and the second interface, transmitting a second request for obtaining second information indicative of a state of a connection of the subordinate expander apparatus, measuring an elapsing time that has elapsed since transmitting the second request, setting the state of the connection of the subordinate expander apparatus as a normal state upon the elapsing time exceeding a specified time without receiving a first response corresponding to the second request from the subordinate expander apparatus, starting a process for obtaining third information indicative of a state of a connection to be connected with the plurality of first interfaces upon the elapsing time exceeding a specified time without receiving the first response corresponding to the second request from the subordinate expander apparatus, and transmitting a second response including the third information to the external apparatus upon obtaining the third information.