Methods for enabling functionality in multi-modal data storage systems
AssigneeInternational Business Machines Corporation
InventorsRobert Glenn Biskeborn, Jason Liang, Calvin Shyhjong Lo
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A method for enabling different modes on a multi-modal data storage system such as a tape-based data storage system includes enabling a data storage system to operate in at least one of two modes, a first of the modes being different than a second of the modes. In one embodiment, the data storage system has all physical components required to operate in the first and second modes. An ability to operate in at least one of the modes is not allowed prior to enabling the data storage system to operate in the at least one of the modes.
Claims20
A method for enabling different modes on a multi-modal data storage system, the method comprising:
- enabling a data storage system to operate in a first of at least two modes, the first of the modes being different than a second of the modes, and
- allowing the data storage system to operate in the second of the modes only upon at least one of installation of additional computer instructions and receiving a key.
A method for enabling operation in different tape formats on a multi-modal tape-based data storage system, the method comprising:
- enabling a tape-based data storage system to operate in a second format different than a first format, the tape-based data storage system being enabled to operate in the first format but not in the second format prior to enabling the tape-based data storage system to operate in the second format,
- wherein enabling the data storage system to operate in the second format includes at least one of installation of computer instructions, and using a key to unlock functionality for enabling the data storage system to operate in the second format,
- wherein the operation in the second format includes at least one of reading and writing in the second format.
A method for on-demand enablement of functionality of a multi-modal data storage system, the method comprising:
- allowing a data storage system to operate in a first mode but not a second mode, the first mode being different than the second mode;
- allowing the data storage system to operate in the second mode upon occurrence of a first condition, wherein the first condition includes a purchase of computer instructions;
- and
- upon occurrence of a second condition, no longer allowing the data storage system to operate in the second mode.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.