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RAM-SAN Input-Output Interfaces
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All input-output operations are very
important to RAM-SAN users. RAM-SAN interfaces are specially designed to provide the
advanced features required for high-speed data transfers with almost no latency or
software overhead. All interfaces incorporate a quick command bus and command queuing with
fast data buffers. The RAM-SAN I/O subsystem has the bandwidth capacity needed to handle
multiple high performance channels without slowing the transfer rate of other interfaces.
The implementation method for tight control of RAM-SAN interfaces is just as important as the
bandwidth. The RAM-SAN has a real-time Executive that runs on the MCP (Master Control
Processor) and a fast command bus (SAMNET) to facilitate sending control messages quickly.
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An
Interface for any Application
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The RAM-SAN product line is designed for maximum I/O throughput and supports a
variety of high-performance interface options. The Fibre Channel
interface offers performance and connectivity in
traditional LAN/WAN applications. The TexLink interface provides
an ideal solution when a PCI-based dedicated link from an external device to the
RAM-SAN is required. For data acquisition applications requiring
maximum performance, the ELK-141 interface combines a simple interface
protocol with a sustained bandwidth of up to 560 Megabytes per second.
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RAM-SAN Interface Features
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While the RAM-SAN I/O bus is not an IEEE
standard, it has the advantage of not being designed by a committee of competitors. Each
RAM-SAN interface incorporates an ASIC that performs as a DMA controller and data FIFO. This
ASIC arbitrates RAM-SAN memory accesses with the RAM-SAN I/O bus, generates and checks
ECC, and
buffers data at a transfer rate of 700 MB/sec. Each interface can continually transfer
data while switching buffers and synchronizing with other interfaces with support from the
MCP. Each RAM-SAN interface can run autonomously or under the supervision and synchronization
of the MCP. Also, the MCP can coordinate overall file management operations between
multiple interfaces for permission to access shared data files.
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