RAM-SAN Input-Output Interfaces
	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.
	An Interface for any Application
	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.
	RAM-SAN Interface Features
	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.