Method and system for sidefile status polling in a time zero backup copy process

摘要

A method and system disclosed for enhanced efficiency of backup copying of designated datasets stored within storage devices (61) coupled to the data processing system via a storage control unit (65) having memory (66) therein. Application execution is temporarily suspended to form a dataset logical-to-physical address concordance to be utilized to administer backup copying. Application initiated updates to uncopied portions of the designated datasets are temporarily deferred until sidefiles of the affected portions are written to memory (66). Portions of the designated datasets are then accessed and copied utilizing selected data retrieval command sequences. A sidefile status query is appended to said command sequences and the presence of data within memory (66) is determined. The sidefiles are then accessed and copied to alternate storage locations in a backup copy order defined by the address concordance.