Patent ID: 7279856

Claim:
A hot-pluggable I/O annex module for use in a storage processor assembly, the storage processor assembly including (i) a power source operative to generate primary power, (ii) a partition between a storage processor mounting area having a storage processor module mounted therein and an I/O annex mounting area in which the I/O annex module is to be mounted, and (iii) at least one main cooling fan powered by the primary power and located adjacent to the storage processor mounting area to provide cooling airflow thereto, the I/O annex module comprising: interface circuitry to be connected to the storage processor module, the interface circuitry being operative to provide a connection between the storage processor module and an optional I/O interface module; redundant I/O annex cooling fans operative to provide a cooling airflow to the I/O annex mounting area; main power conversion circuitry operative to convert the primary power from the power source into main operating power for the interface circuitry; auxiliary power conversion circuitry operative to convert the primary power from the power source into auxiliary power; a controller operative to monitor and control the operation of the I/O annex cooling fans; and monitoring circuitry powered by the auxiliary power, the monitoring circuitry being operative to monitor correct operation of the controller and, upon detecting incorrect operation, to disable the main power conversion circuitry.