Introduction to redundant arrays of inexpensive disks (RAID)

The authors discuss various types of RAIDs (redundant arrays of inexpensive disks), a cost-effective option to meet the challenge of exponential growth in the processor and memory speeds. They argue that the size reduction of personal-computer (PC) disks is the key to the success of disk arrays. While large arrays of mainframe processors are possible, it is certainly easier to construct an array from the same number of microprocessors (or PC drives). With advantages in cost-performance, reliability, power consumption, and floor space, the authors expect RAIDs to replace large drives in future I/O systems.<>