Replacement, upgrade and/or addition of hot-pluggable components in a computer system
US6487623B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 30, 1999 |
| Grant date | Nov 26, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 30, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06F13/4081
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A computer system adapted for hot-pluggable components such as memory modules that may be replaced, upgraded and/or added without disturbing normal operation of the computer system. A failing memory module may be replaced by copying its contents to a new memory module in a background operation while the computer system runs its operating system and applications programs. When all contents are copied to the new memory module, the failing memory module may be removed without having to shut down the computer system. Computer system memory may be upgraded or added to by inserting the new memory module(s) into vacant disconnected memory connectors, whereupon the computer system automatically recognizes the new memory module(s), synchronously connects the new memory module(s) to the computer system memory bus, initializes the new memory module(s), and then notifies the operating system that the new memory module(s) is available, all without disturbing normal operation of the computer system.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.