STORAGE SYSTEM AND METHOD

摘要

Efficient and convenient storage systems and methods are presented. In one embodiment a storage system includes a plurality of storage nodes and a master controller. The storage nodes store information. The storage node includes an upstream communication buffer which is locally controlled at the storage node to facilitate resolution of conflicts in upstream communications. The master controller controlls the flow of traffic to the node based upon constraints of the upstream communication buffer. In one embodiment, communication between the master controller and the node has a determined maximum latency. The storage node can be coupled to the master controller in accordance with a chain memory configuration.