Patent ID: 6463504
Filing Date: 2002-10-08
Classification: G06F

Abstract:
A method for reassigning unused logical volumes on a storage subsystem to an open systems host that uses logical unit numbers (LUNs), wherein the storage subsystem and the open systems host execute respective software processes, the method comprising the steps of:(a) connecting the open systems host to the storage subsystem via a SCSI adapter, wherein the open systems host accesses the storage subsystem through LUNs; (b) connecting a mainframe to the storage subsystem via a mainframe adapter, wherein the mainframe accesses the storage subsystem through logical volumes; (c) connecting a support controller to the SCSI adapter and to the mainframe adapter, wherein the support controller and the mainframe adapter run a common operating system; (d) sending a communication message from the support controller to the mainframe SCSI adapters, wherein the communication message reassigns the unused logical volumes to LUNs; and (e) updating a logical-to-physical mapping stored within the mainframe and SCSI adapters in response to receiving the communication message, thereby increasing storage capacity of the open systems host without needing to suspend the software processes.