Patent ID: 7558915
Filing Date: 2009-07-07
Classification: G06F

Abstract:
1. A method for managing data access commands directed to at least one storage drive of a drive array during a period that a firmware update process is being performed on the at least one storage drive, wherein the drive array is coupled to a storage controller comprising the steps of: upon initiation of the firmware update process, issuing a command from a firmware update utility to the storage controller to enter a guard period; wherein the firmware update utility is not built into the storage controller; entering the guard period in a firmware handling utility stored on the storage controller to indicate that the at least one storage drive coupled to the storage controller is undergoing the firmware update process; initiating the firmware update process on the at least one storage drive coupled to the storage controller, wherein the firmware update process is initiated by the firmware update utility; receiving a data access command at the storage controller; determining if the data access command is directed to the at least one storage drive that is undergoing the firmware update process; if it is determined that the data access command is directed to the at least one storage drive that is undergoing the firmware update process, processing the data access command in a manner that is transparent to an issuer of the data access command; upon completion of the firmware update process, issuing a command from the firmware update utility to the storage controller to leave the guard period; and leaving the guard period in the firmware handling utility on the storage controller.