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.]1. A storage device, comprising:a memory buffer;a storage medium; anda controller circuit coupled to the memory buffer and the storage medium, the storage device and a separate storage device to couple to a host computer through a same physical port having an Intelligent D

[ What is claimed is:] [1.]1. A storage device, comprising:a memory buffer;a storage medium; anda controller circuit coupled to the memory buffer and the storage medium, the storage device and a separate storage device to couple to a host computer through a same physical port having an Intelligent Drive Electronics (IDE) interface, the controller circuit to receive data through the same physical port having the IDE interface and to store the data into the buffer, the controller circuit to transmit the data from the buffer to the storage medium simultaneously at least in part with the separate storage device transmitting and/or receiving data using the same physical port having the IDE interface.