초록 ▼

A data archival device having an embedded controller compatible with a host computer interface for disk drives having embedded controllers. The data archival device provides for simultaneous writing of data to a tape media coupled with an interface of a host computer while reading of data from a dis

A data archival device having an embedded controller compatible with a host computer interface for disk drives having embedded controllers. The data archival device provides for simultaneous writing of data to a tape media coupled with an interface of a host computer while reading of data from a disk coupled with the interface. This simultaneous access to both the tape and disk drives is accomplished through use of an application process for managing access to the tape drive, as well as controlling the tape drive to "own" the interface only during periods of time when information is being communicated over the interface. The tape drive may receive information over the interface into an on-board buffer and then release the interface to allow the host computer to access the disk drive. The tape drive may then continue "off-line" to write data to a tape media or to perform other functions not requiring communication of information over the interface.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A computer system comprising:(a) an interface for interfacing with at least a disk drive and a tape drive, wherein data can be transmitted over said interface by only one of said tape drive and said disk drive at any give time;(b) said disk drive coupled with said interfa

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A computer system comprising:(a) an interface for interfacing with at least a disk drive and a tape drive, wherein data can be transmitted over said interface by only one of said tape drive and said disk drive at any give time;(b) said disk drive coupled with said interface;(c) first indicator means coupled with said disk drive, said first indicator means having a first state for indicating said disk drive is executing a command and having a second state for indicating said disk drive is not executing a command;(d) said tape drive further coupled with said interface;(e) second indicator means coupled with said tape drive having a first state for indicating said tape drive is receiving information over said interface and having a second state for indicating said tape drive is not receiving information over said interface, wherein said interface is busy when either of said first and second indicator means are in said first state, and said interface is not busy when both said first and second indicator means are in said second state.