The workload test, which produced results that showed 11X performance improvement in small block random read workloads, also showed a 4X performance improvement for file server workloads and OLTP workloads. These results were measured using a combination of real Web Server and database applications and a variety of Iometer test scripts.

In scalability tests, the I/O throughput of the server system scaled beyond 5X for both Web server and file server workloads because SSDs are included with the server as cache. A Web server throughput test was also conducted by emulating clicks on Web sites from several hundred people to generate the Web site traffic. With MaxIQ enabled, the transaction completion rate and throughput of the Web server was 4X better.

Learned-Path Algorithm

The MaxIQ SSD Cache Performance Kit is able to achieve such high performance is by combining Intel powered SSDs with MaxIQ SSD caching software and incorporating a technology called Learned-Path Algorithm, which is engineered to discover frequently accessed data. The patent-pending algorithm moves that data to the SSD cache so it can be quickly retrieved at a later date.

To maximize the storage efficiency of the MaxIQ SSD Caching Software, frequently accessed cached data is updated on later writes to the same blocks. The real-world Web server application tests confirmed the algorithm’s ability to recognize the most frequently read data and cache it for future use.

Hybrid Array

MaxIQ SSD Cache Performance Kit works with Adaptec Series 2, Series 5, and Series 5Z storage controllers for SATA and SAS drives and combines the best of both solid-state and hard disk drives into a technology called HPHA (High-Performance Hybrid Array). This enables the MaxIQ SSD Cache Performance Kit to benefit from both solid-state and hard disk drives for higher read bandwidth, higher I/Ops, and greater mechanical reliability. It also assuages the SSD’s limited capacity and lower streaming write bandwidth.

By combining the use of SSDs and SATA or SAS HDDs, the HPHA creates an array with a large, scalable capacity, along with low latency and efficient energy use. Also, an SSD-aware storage controller uses intelligent storage processing that establishes how best to store data between the HDDs and the SSDs without affecting the applications or operating system.

HPHAs put frequently accessed data on an SSD cache pool, where the ability to quickly read data can be beneficial. Data that is accessed less frequently is copied to rotating disks. MaxIQ SSD Cache Performance Kit then familiarizes itself with the data to learn how frequently blocks of data are used and which location would be most advantageous for each of the data blocks. Over time, the HPHAs stay updated and become more accurate.

According to Adaptec, capital and operating expenses can be cut by as much as 50% with MaxIQ, because the number of users per server has increased and the number of servers needed to supply end users with service quality levels is reduced. MaxIQ is transparent to any operating system and compatible with all industry-standard platforms to allow for caching in any application. This also means that MaxIQ won’t require storage architectures, operating systems, or application software to be modified in any way.

With a High-Performance Hybrid Array and MaxIQ SSD Cache Performance Kit, you’ll benefit from:

• Reduced capital expenditures. Increase the number of transactions and users hosted per server and lessen the need for additional equipment.

• Reduced operating expenses. By deploying fewer servers and storage systems, you can cut maintenance and energy costs.

• Uncompromised data protection. All data is stored on hard disk drives with data protection algorithms; data stored in the SSD cache is simply a copy of stored data.

• Simplified integration. No application-specific tuning, software rewrites, or user intervention needed.

• Improved SSD consistency and reliability. Data is written to the hard drive and copied to SSD only when there’s a potential benefit to the application, reducing wear on the SSDs.

Better Performance, Lower Costs

Rather than purchase new hardware, let MaxIQ SSD Cache Performance Kit optimize the storage in your industry-standard servers for your I/O intensive data center and cloud computing environments. You can reduce capital expenses by 50% and increase I/Ops without adding equipment. This enables users to cut energy and maintenance costs, which adds to the bottom line of your enterprise.

by Tessa Warner Breneman & Seth Colaner

About Adaptec Adaptec has been providing data storage hardware and software tools designed to boost performance, data reliability, and manageability for more than 26 years. At its Milpitas, Calif., headquarters, Adaptec devotes itself to producing products for the data storage I/O market, including ASICs, host-bus adapters, SATA/SAS and SCSI RAID controllers, and storage software for IP storage area networks. As a member of the Green Grid (a global association working to improve energy efficiency in data centers and business computing ecosystems), Adaptec has also launched a Green Power initiative to produce more energy-efficient technology.

Adaptec MaxIQ SSD Cache Performance Kit Features • Trims capital and operating expenses by as much as 50% • Powered by Intel SSDs • Learned-Path Algorithm engineered to discover frequently accessed data • High-Performance Hybrid Array technology combines best of solid-state and hard disk drives • Maximum performance of 30,000 I/Ops • 5X faster than hard drive-only arrays • Compatible with Adaptec Series 2, Series 5, Series 5Z Storage Controllers • Ideal for Web servers, file servers, databases, and other applications with read-intensive workloads