Removable memory cartridge system for use with a server or other processor-based device

#The present invention relates generally to a processor-based system, such as a server, and particularly to such a system designed to utilize memory cartridges that are removable/replaceable during use of the overall system.

#In certain computer-based systems, such as servers, there may be items that require upgrades, repair or replacement. For example, servers commonly use a plurality of memory modules that must be upgraded or replaced periodically. In conventional systems, the server is shut down while the appropriate memory modules are removed or replaced. This can be problematic when the server or other computer-based system is utilized in an application that requires or benefits from continuous operation. Accordingly, it would be advantageous to design a system that permitted upgradeable/replaceable items, such as memory modules, to be mounted on a plurality of removable cartridges. Such cartridges would be designed to permit at least one cartridge to be removed without interrupting the operation of the overall server or other device. Thus, memory modules, for example, could be upgraded or replaced while the server continues to run.

#The present invention features an overall system that utilizes a plurality of “hot pluggable” cartridges in, for example, a server. The present invention also encompasses a variety of subsystems that facilitate operation of the overall cartridge-based system.

#The invention will hereafter be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals denote like elements, and:

#FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a processor-based device;

#FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a processor-based device, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

#Referring generally to FIG. 1, a block diagram is illustrated depicting an exemplary electronic device, generally designated by the reference numeral 50. Electronic device 50 may be any of a variety of different types, such as a server, a personal organizer, a notebook computer, a personal computer, a workstation, an Internet server, a minicomputer, etc. In a typical electronic device, a processor controls many of the functions of the device. In the illustrated embodiment, processor 52 controls the functions of electronic device 50.

#Electronic device 50 typically includes a power supply 54. If device 50 is portable, power supply 54 includes permanent batteries, replaceable batteries, and/or rechargeable batteries. Power supply 54 may also include an A/C adapter, so that the device may be plugged into a wall outlet, for instance. In fact, power supply 54 may also include a D/C adapter, so that device 50 may be plugged into the D/C voltage of a vehicle.

#Various other devices may be coupled to processor 52, depending upon the functions that device 50 performs. For example, a user interface 56 may be coupled to processor 52. Examples of user interfaces 56 include buttons, switches, a keyboard, a light pen, a mouse, and/or a voice recognition system. A display 58 may also be coupled to processor 52. Examples of displays 58 include: a television screen, a computer monitor, LEDs, or even an audio display. A communications port 60 may also be coupled to processor 52. Communications port 60 may be adapted to be coupled to a peripheral device 62, such as a printer, a computer or an external modem.