Cache protection for RAID controller cards

Protection against data loss during power outages

RAID controller cards temporarily store data from the host system in the cache until it is successfully written to the storage medium. During caching, data can be lost in the event of a power failure, jeopardizing the permanent integrity of the data.

RAID caching is a cost-effective way to improve I/O performance by writing data to a controller's cache before it is written to the hard drive. However, during a power or server failure, write operations in the cache can be lost.

CacheVault® flash cache protection modules and battery backup units (BBUs) protect the integrity of cached data by storing cached data in non-volatile flash cache memory or by providing battery power to the controller.

CacheVault technology prevents data loss by supplying critical components of the card with power long enough to automatically transfer the cached data to NAND flash. Once power is restored, the data in the cache is recovered, and normal operation resumes. By using a supercapacitor instead of lithium-ion batteries, CacheVault technology virtually eliminates the hardware maintenance costs associated with batteries, reduces the total cost of ownership over the lifespan of the controller card, and provides a more environmentally friendly cache protection while maintaining optimal RAID performance.