Importance

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Abstract

Network bridge circuit, logic, chip, and method that enables a host computer to access a storage device or a plurality of storage devices directly from the network. Hardware architecture includes protocol layer handler, DMA, storage device interface, command execution unit, and optional error handler. Bridge circuit logic implemented on a single chip in hard wired fashion without resorting to a programmable architecture. Generic command wrapper in which new commands added later time than the time of fabrication of the hardware chip can be executed without revising the hardware chip. Bridge apparatus enabling direct access by at least one host to a raw storage device over network, comprising: command execution unit, memory controller, network interface, device interface controller, and wherein bridge apparatus couples the raw storage device to network directly such that host accesses raw storage device as if local storage device even though only available over network.

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First Claim