(51) Int Cl.: H04L 29/06 ( )

Transkript

1 (19) (11) EP B1 (12) EUROPEAN PATENT SPECIFICATION (4) Date of publication and mention of the grant of the patent: Bulletin 07/13 (21) Application number: (22) Date of filing: (1) Int Cl.: H04L 29/06 (06.01) (86) International application number: PCT/EP04/0281 (87) International publication number: WO 0/01 ( Gazette 0/24) (4) APPARATUS AND METHOD TO PROVIDE INFORMATION FROM A FIRST INFORMATION STORAGE AND RETRIEVAL SYSTEM TO A SECOND INFORMATION STORAGE AND RETRIEVAL SYSTEM VORRICHTUNG UND VERFAHREN ZUR BEREITSTELLUNG VON INFORMATIONEN AUS EINEM ERSTEN INFORMATIONSSPEICHER- UND ABRUFSYSTEM FÜR EIN ZWEITES INFORMATIONSSPEICHER- UND ABRUFSYSTEM DISPOSITIF ET PROCEDE DE TRANSFERT D INFORMATIONS D UN PREMIER SYSTEME DE STOCKAGE ET D EXTRACTION D INFORMATIONS À UN DEUXIEME SYSTEME DE STOCKAGE ET D EXTRACTION D INFORMATIONS (84) Designated Contracting States: AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IS IT LI LU MC NL PL PT RO SE SI SK TR () Priority: US (43) Date of publication of application: Bulletin 06/ (73) Proprietor: International Business Machines Corporation Armonk, N.Y. 04 (US) (72) Inventors: CHEN, Alex Tucson, Arizona 87 (US) CHEN, James c/o IBM UK Ltd. Intel. Prop. Law Hampshire, SO21 2JN (GB) GLUCK, Olympia 3269 Haifa (IL) HARRIS, JR, Theodore Tucson, Arizona 87 (US) HUYNH, Minh- Ngoc San Jose, California 9123 (US) WALDNER, Gabriel 262 K. Haim (IL) (74) Representative: Waldner, Philip IBM United Kingdom Limited, Intellectual Property Department, Hursley Park Winchester, Hampshire SO21 2JN (GB) (6) References cited: EP- A US- A US- A US- A EP B1 Note: Within nine months from the publication of the mention of the grant of the European patent, any person may give notice to the European Patent Office of opposition to the European patent granted. Notice of opposition shall be filed in a written reasoned statement. It shall not be deemed to have been filed until the opposition fee has been paid. (Art. 99(1) European Patent Convention). Printed by Jouve, 7001 PARIS (FR)

2 1 EP B1 2 Description Technical Field secondary storage system. Disclosure of Invention [0001] The invention relates to an apparatus and method to provide information from a first information storage and retrieval system to a second information storage and retrieval system. In certain embodiments, the invention relates to an apparatus and method to provide information from a primary information storage and retrieval system to a secondary information storage and retrieval system using a peer- to- peer remote copy operation. Background Art [0002] In hierarchical computer storage systems, fast and intensively used storage are paired with arrays of slower and less frequently accessed data devices. One example of high- speed, expensive memory is a direct access storage device file buffer (DASD). Slower storage devices include tape drives and disk drive arrays, which are less expensive than a DASD. [0003] Data disaster recovery solutions include various "peer- to- peer" copy routines where data is backedup not only remotely, but also continuously (either synchronously or asynchronously). In order to communicate duplexed data from one host processor to another host processor, or from one storage controller to another storage controller, or some combination thereof, a substantial amount of control data is required for realizing the process. A high overhead, however, can interfere with a secondary site s ability to keep up with a primary site s processing, thus threatening the ability of the secondary site to be able to recover the primary in the event a disaster occurs. [0004] Disaster recovery protection for the typical data processing system requires that primary data stored on primary DASDs be backed- up at a secondary or remote location. The physical distance separating the primary and secondary locations can be set depending upon the level of risk acceptable to the user, and can vary from several kilometers to thousands of kilometers. [000] In order to assure data consistency at both the primary information storage and retrieval system and the secondary information storage and retrieval system, particularly when using Peer- to- Peer Remote Copy (PPRC) asynchronous PPRC copy methods, it is desirable to communicate information expeditiously from the primary storage system to the secondary system. [0006] The present invention aims to provide a method to catalog and test communication pathways between a primary information storage and retrieval system and a secondary, i.e. remote, information storage and retrieval system. Preference embodiments provide a method to catalog established communication paths between the primary and secondary systems, and to determine the availability of those communication paths to communicate information from the primary storage system to the [0007] Applicants invention includes an apparatus and method to provide information from a first information storage and retrieval system to a second information storage and retrieval system. Applicants method provides a first information storage and retrieval system, where that first information storage and retrieval system comprises (N) PPRC adapters and information, and provides a second information storage and retrieval system, where that second information storage and retrieval system is capable of receiving said information from the first information storage and retrieval system via the one or more of the (N) PPRC adapters. [0008] The method generates and saves an Established Path Bitmap, where that Established Path Bitmap recites the (N) PPRC adapters. The method also generates an Available Path Bitmap. The method then determines, for each of the (N) PPRC adapters, if that PPRC adapter is in communication with the secondary information storage and retrieval system. [0009] If a PPRC adapter is in communication with the secondary information storage and retrieval system, then the method adds that adapter to the Available Path Bitmap. After testing all PPRC adapters recited on the Established Path Bitmap, and adding those adapters in communication with the secondary information storage and retrieval system in the Available Path Bitmap, the method saves the Available Path Bitmap. The Established Path Bitmap and the Available Path Bitmap are used for subsequent PPRC operations. Brief Description of the Drawings [00] The invention will be better understood from a reading of the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the drawings in which like reference designators are used to designate like elements, and in which: [0011] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the components of a preferred embodiment of a data storage and retrieval system; [0012] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a host computer, a primary data storage and retrieval system, and a secondary data storage and retrieval system; [0013] FIG. 3 is a flow chart summarizing the initial steps of a preferred embodiment of the method of the invention; [0014] FIG. 4 is a flow chart summarizing certain additional steps of the preferred embodiment of a method according to the invention; [00] FIG. is a flow chart summarizing certain additional steps of the preferred embodiment of a method according to the invention; and [0016] FIG. 6 is a flow chart summarizing certain additional steps of a preferred embodiment of the method of the invention. 2

3 3 EP B1 4 Mode for the Invention [0017] Referring to the illustrations, like numerals correspond to like parts depicted in the Figures. The invention will be described as embodied in a data processing system. The following description of Applicants method to provide information from a first information storage and retrieval system to a second information storage and retrieval system is not meant, however, to limit Applicants invention to use in a data processing system, as the invention herein can be applied to transmission of information between computer systems in general. [0018] FIG. 2 shows one embodiment of Applicants data processing system 0. Referring now to FIG. 2, system 0 includes host computer 2, primary information storage and retrieval system 2, and secondary information storage and retrieval system 2. [0019] Host computer 2 comprises a computer system, such as a mainframe, personal computer, workstation, and combinations thereof, including an operating system 212 such as Windows, AIX, Unix, MVS, LINUX, etc. (Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation; AIX is a registered trademark and MVS is a trademark of IBM Corporation; UNIX is a registered trademark in the United States and other countries licensed exclusively through The Open Group and LINUX is a trademark of Linus Torvalds in the United States, other countries, or both.) In certain embodiments, host computer 2 includes a storage management program 214. The storage management program 214 in the host computer 2 may include the functionality of storage management type programs known in the art that manage the transfer of data to a data storage and retrieval system, such as the IBM Data Facility Storage Management System (DFSMS) implemented in the IBM MVS operating system. [00] Storage management program 214 may include known storage management program functions, such as recall and migration. The storage management program 214 may be implemented within the operating system 212 of the host computer 2 or as a separate, installed application program 216. Alternatively, storage management program 214 may include device drivers, backup software, application programs 126, and the like. [0021] The illustrated embodiment of FIG. 2 includes a single host computer. In other embodiments, Applicants data processing system includes two or more host computers, where those two or more host computers are capable of communicating with primary information storage and retrieval system 2. [0022] Host computer 2 is capable of communicating with primary information storage and retrieval system 2 via communication link 2. In certain embodiments, communication link 2 is selected from the group consisting of a serial interconnection, such as RS- 232 or RS- 422, an Ethernet interconnection, a Small Computer System Interface (SCSI) interconnection, a Fibre Channel interconnection, an Enterprise Systems Connection (ES CON) interconnection, a Fiber Connection (FICON) interconnection, a Local Area Network (LAN), a private Wide Area Network (WAN), a public wide area network, Storage Area Network (SAN), Transmission Control Protocol/ Internet Protocol (TCP/IP), the Internet, or other interconnections and/or protocols as is known to those of skill in the art. [0023] Primary information storage and retrieval system 2 includes controller 227. Primary information storage and retrieval system 2 further includes non- volatile storage 228 [0024] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 2, primary information storage and retrieval system 2 is capable of communicating with secondary information storage and retrieval system 2 via one or more of communication links, 260, and 270. In certain embodiments, communication links, 260, and 270, are each independently selected from the group consisting of a serial interconnection, such as RS- 232 or RS- 422, an Ethernet interconnection, a SCSI interconnection, a Fibre Channel interconnection, an ESCON interconnection, a FICON interconnection, a Local Area Network (LAN), a private Wide Area Network (WAN), a public wide area network, Storage Area Network (SAN), Transmission Control Protocol/ Internet Protocol (TCP/IP), the Internet, or other interconnections and/or protocols as is known to those of skill in the art. [002] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 2, primary information storage and retrieval system 2 is capable of providing information to secondary information storage and retrieval system 2 via a first communication path which includes PPRC adapter 221, communication link, and PPRC adapter 231. PPRC adapter 221 includes microcode 222. [0026] Primary information storage and retrieval system 2 is capable of providing information to secondary information storage and retrieval system 2 via a second communication path which includes PPRC adapter 223, communication link 260, and PPRC adapter 233. PPRC adapter 223 includes microcode 224. [0027] Primary information storage and retrieval system 2 is capable of providing information to secondary information storage and retrieval system 2 via a third communication path which includes PPRC adapter 22, communication link 270, and PPRC adapter 23. PPRC adapter 22 includes microcode 226. [0028] As those skilled in the art will appreciate, PPRC adapters 221, 223, and/or 22, are sometimes referred to as "ports." As used herein, the terms PPRC adapter and PPRC port are interchangeable. [0029] The illustrated embodiment of FIG. 2 shows a 1: 1 correlation of primary adapters, i.e. PPRC adapters disposed in the primary system 2, and secondary adapters, i.e. PPRC adapters disposed in the secondary system 2. In other embodiments, Applicants system 0 includes (N1) PPRC adapters disposed in the primary system and (N2) PPRC adapters disposed in the secondary system, where (N1) does not equal (N2). In 3

4 EP B1 6 certain embodiments, (N1) is greater than (N2). In other embodiments, (N1) is less than (N2). In either embodiment, one or more switches disposed in either the primary system and in communication with the (N1) PPRC adapters disposed in that primary system, and/or one or more switches disposed in the secondary system and in communication with the (N2) PPRC adapters disposed in the secondary system, are set such that the (N1) primary PPRC adapters can communicate with the (N2) secondary PPRC adapters, even where (N1) does not equal (N2). [00] In certain embodiments, Applicants primary information storage and retrieval system comprises an automated media library comprising a plurality of tape cartridges, one or more robotic accessors, and one or more tape drives. IBM s U.S. Pat.,970,0, describes such an automated media library. In certain embodiments, Applicants primary information storage and retrieval system comprises a virtual tape system. IBM s U.S. Pat. No. 6,269,423, describes such a virtual tape system. In certain embodiments, Applicants primary information storage and retrieval system comprises information storage and retrieval system 0 (FIG. 1). [0031] Document D1 = US02/ (Teodosin et al.) constitutes the closest prior art to the present application since it discloses a networking environment according to which a resource naming service (RNS) server receives peer resource requests from peer platforms. [0032] The RNS server in cooperation with peer registrars generates a response to the request to enable the peer platforms to access the requested peer resources. A requesting device can choose to access the resource from one or more of listed peer locations where a ressource is expected to be available. [0033] In certain embodiments, Applicants secondary information storage and retrieval system comprises an automated media library comprising a plurality of tape cartridges, one or more robotic accessors, and one or more tape drives. In certain embodiments, Applicants primary information storage and retrieval system comprises a virtual tape system. In certain embodiments, Applicants secondary information storage and retrieval system comprises information storage and retrieval system 0 (FIG. 1). [0034] Referring now to FIG. 1, Applicants information storage and retrieval system 0 includes a first cluster 1A and a second cluster 1B Each cluster includes a processor portion 1 / 1 and an input/ output portion 160/170. Internal PCI buses in each cluster are connected via a Remote I/O bridge / 16 between the processor portions 1 / 1 and I/O portions 160 / 170, respectively. [003] Information storage and retrieval system 0 further includes a plurality of host adapters 2 -, 7-1, 112-1, and 117-1, disposed in four host bays 1, 6, 111, and 116. Each host adapter may comprise one Fibre Channel port, one FICON port, two ESCON ports, or two SCSI ports. Each host adapter is connected to both clusters through one or more Common Platform Interconnect buses 121 and 0 such that each cluster can handle I/O from any host adapter. [0036] Processor portion 1 includes processor 132 and cache 134. Processor portion 1 includes processor 142 and cache 144. I/O portion 160 includes nonvolatile storage ("NVS") 162 and NVS batteries 164. I/O portion 170 includes NVS 172 and NVS batteries 174. [0037] I/O portion 160 further comprises a plurality of device adapters, such as device adapters 16, 166, 167, and 168, and sixteen disk drives organized into two disk arrays, namely array "A" and array "B". In certain embodiments, hard disk arrays "A" and "B" utilize a RAID protocol. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, a RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) rank combines multiple inexpensive disk drives into an array of disk drives to obtain performance, capacity and reliability that exceeds that of a single large drive. [0038] In certain embodiments, arrays "A" and "B" comprise what is sometimes called a JBOD array, i.e." J ust a B unch O fd isks" where the array is not configured according to RAID. The illustrated embodiment of FIG. 1 shows two hard disk arrays. In other embodiments, Applicants information storage and retrieval system includes more than two hard disk arrays. [0039] Hard disk array "A" includes disk drives 181, 182, 183, 184, 191, 192, and 193. Hard disk array "B" includes disk drives 18, 186, 187, 188, 19, 196, 197, and 198. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 1, each loop includes at least two spare disks, namely disks 184 and 19. Each of the hard disk arrays includes one of those spare disks. [00] A first aspect of the invention includes a method to provide information from a primary information storage and retrieval system to a secondary information storage and retrieval system, such as secondary system 2. FIG. 3 summarizes certain initial steps in a preferred embodiment of Applicants method. [0041] Referring now to FIG. 3, in step 3 the preferred embodiment provides a primary information storage and retrieval system, such as primary system 2 (FIG. 2). In step 3, Applicant s method generates an Established Path Bitmap. In certain embodiments, step 3 is performed by a system user via an operator input panel. In certain embodiments, step 3 is performed by a host computer in communication with the primary information storage and retrieval system. [0042] In step 3, Applicant s method installs a communication path, such as the communication path which includes adapter 221 (FIG. 2), communication link (FIG. 2), and adapter 231 (FIG. 2), between a primary information storage and retrieval system, such as primary system 2 (FIG. 2), and a secondary information storage and retrieval system, such as system 2 (FIG. 2). In certain embodiments, step 3 is performed by a system user. [0043] In step 3, Applicants method adds the communication path installed in step 3 to the Established 4

5 7 EP B1 8 Path Bitmap created in step 3. In certain embodiments, step 3 is performed by a system user. In step, Applicants method determines if additional PPRC communication paths are to be installed between the primary system and the secondary system. In certain embodiments, step is performed by a system user. [0044] If Applicants method determines in step that additional PPRC paths are to be installed, then Applicants method transitions from step to step 3 and continues. Alternatively, if Applicants method determines in step that no additional PPRC paths remain to be installed at the present time, then Applicants method transitions from step to step 360 wherein the method saves the Established Path Bitmap. [004] In certain embodiments of Applicants method, one or more PPRC adapters may be later installed in, or later removed from, the primary information storage and retrieval system. In these embodiments, each newly added PPRC adapter is added to the Established Path Bitmap, and each newly removed PPRC adapter is deleted from the Established Path Bitmap. [0046] FIG. 4 summarizes additional steps in Applicants method, wherein those steps use the Established Path Bitmap saved in step 360 (FIG. 3). Referring now to FIG. 4, in step 4 Applicants method retrieves the Established Path Bitmap saved in step 360, where that Established Path Bitmap includes information regarding (N) PPRC adapters disposed in that primary system. In certain embodiments, step 4 is performed by a controller, such as controller 227 (FIG. 2) disposed in a primary information storage and retrieval system, such as primary system 2 (FIG. 2). [0047] In step 4, Applicants method creates an Available Path Bitmap. In certain embodiments, step 4 is performed by a system user. In certain embodiments, step 4 is performed by a controller disposed in the primary information storage and retrieval system, such as controller 227 (FIG. 2). [0048] In step 4, Applicants method selects one of the PPRC adapters from the Established Path Bitmap, i.e. the (j) th adapter where (j) is initially set to 1. In certain embodiments, step 4 is performed by a controller, such as controller 227 disposed in a primary information storage and retrieval system, such as primary system 2. [0049] Applicants method transitions from step 4 to step 4 wherein Applicants method determines if the adapter selected in step 4 is in communication with the secondary information storage and retrieval system, i.e. determines if the selected PPRC communication path is operational. In certain embodiments, step 4 is performed by a controller, such as controller 227 disposed in a primary information storage and retrieval system, such as primary system 2. In certain embodiments, step 4 is performed by the selected PPRC adapter, such as adapter 221 (FIG. 2). In certain embodiments, step 4 is performed using microcode, such as microcode 222 (FIG. 2), disposed in the selected adapter. [000] If Applicants method determines in step that the adapter selected in step 4 is in communication with the secondary information storage and retrieval system, then the method transitions from step 4 to step wherein the method adds the selected adapter to the Available Path Bitmap created in step 4. Applicants method transitions from step to step 460. [001] If Applicants method determines in step 4 that the adapter selected in step 4 is not in communication with the secondary information storage and retrieval system, then the method transitions from step 4 to step 460 wherein the method determines if all of the (N) adapters have been tested, i.e. if (j) equals (N). In certain embodiments, step 460 is performed by a controller disposed in the primary information storage and retrieval system. In certain embodiments, step 460 is performed by a host computer. [002] If Applicants method determines in step 460 that all (N) adapters recited in the Established Path Bitmap have been tested, then Applicants method transitions from step 460 to step 470 wherein the method saves the Available Path Bitmap. In certain embodiments, step 470 is performed by a controller disposed in the primary information storage and retrieval system. In certain embodiments, step 470 is performed by a host computer. [003] Alternatively, if Applicants method determines in step 460 that all (N) adapters recited in the Established Path Bitmap have not been tested, then Applicants method transitions from step 460 to step 480 wherein the method increments (j). In certain embodiments, step 480 is performed by a controller disposed in the primary information storage and retrieval system. In certain embodiments, step 480 is performed by a host computer. Applicants method transitions from step 480 to step 4 and continues. [004] FIG. summarizes certain additional steps in Applicants method to provide information from a primary information storage and retrieval system, such as primary system 2 (FIG. 2) to a secondary information storage and retrieval system, such as secondary system 2 (FIG. 2), using the Available Path Bitmap saved in step 470 (FIG. 4) and/or the Established Path Bitmap saved in step 360 (FIG. 3) [00] Referring now to FIG., in step 0 the primary information storage and retrieval system, such as primary system 2 (FIG. 2) receives a new or updated file from one or more host computers, such as host computer 2 (FIG. 2). In certain embodiments, the file of step is provided by an application, such as application 216, running on the host computer. Applicants method transitions from step 0 to step wherein Applicants primary information storage and retrieval system, such as system 2, generates a peer- to- peer remote ("PPRC") copy operation, wherein the PPRC operation includes providing the file of step 0 to a secondary information storage and retrieval system, such as system 2. In certain embodiments, step is performed by a controller disposed in the primary information storage and retrieval system.

6 9 EP B [006] Applicants method transitions from step to step wherein the method copies the Available Path Bitmap saved in step 470 (FIG. 4) as a Working Bitmap, where that Working Bitmap recites (M) tested adapters. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, the number of tested adapters, i.e. (M), is less than or equal to (N), i.e. the total number of PPRC adapters disposed in the primary information storage and retrieval system. In certain embodiments, step is performed by a controller disposed in the primary information storage and retrieval system. [007] Applicants method transitions from step to step wherein the method selects one of the (M) tested adapters to provide information from the primary information storage and retrieval system to the secondary information storage and retrieval system. In certain embodiments, step is performed by a controller disposed in the primary information storage and retrieval system. In certain embodiments, step is performed by a host computer. [008] Applicants method transitions from step to step wherein the method determines if the information was successfully transferred from the primary system to the secondary system using the adapter selected in step. In certain embodiments, step is performed by a controller disposed in the primary information storage and retrieval system. In certain embodiments, step is performed by a host computer. In certain embodiments, step is performed by the selected adapter using microcode disposed therein. [009] If Applicants method determines in step that the information was successfully transferred from the primary system to the secondary system using the adapter selected in step, then the method transitions from step to step 0 and ends. Alternatively, if Applicants method determines in step that the information was not successfully transferred from the primary system to the secondary system using the adapter selected in step, then the method transitions from step to step 60 wherein the method updates the Working Bitmap to indicate that the (i) th adapter is not in communication with the secondary system. [0060] Applicants method transitions from step 60 to step 70 wherein the method determines if all the adapters recited in the Working Bitmap of step have been unsuccessfully used to provide information from the primary system to the secondary system, i.e. if (i) equals (M). In certain embodiments, step 70 is performed by a controller disposed in the primary information storage and retrieval system. In certain embodiments, step 70 is performed by a host computer. [0061] If Applicants method determines in step 70 that all the adapters recited in the Working Bitmap of step have not been unsuccessfully used to provide information from the primary system to the secondary system, then Applicants method transitions from step 70 to step 80 wherein the method increments (i). In certain embodiments, step 80 is performed by a controller disposed in the primary information storage and retrieval system. In certain embodiments, step 80 is performed by a host computer. Applicants method transitions from step 80 to step and continues. [0062] If Applicants method determines in step 70 that all the adapters recited in the Working Bitmap of step have been unsuccessfully used to provide information from the primary system to the secondary system, then Applicants method transitions from step 70 to step 6 (FIG. 6). [0063] Referring now to FIG. 6, in step 6 Applicants method copies the Established Path Bitmap saved in step 360 (FIG. 3) as the Working Bitmap, where that Established Path Bitmap recites (N) adapters. In certain embodiments, step 6 is performed by a controller disposed in the primary information storage and retrieval system. In certain embodiments, step 6 is performed by a host computer. [0064] Applicants method transitions from step 6 to step 6 wherein the method selects a first one of the (N) adapters to provide information from the primary information storage and retrieval system to the secondary information storage and retrieval system. In certain embodiments, step 6 is performed by a controller disposed in the primary information storage and retrieval system. In certain embodiments, step 6 is performed by a host computer. [006] Applicants method transitions from step 6 to step 6 wherein the method determines if the information was successfully transferred from the primary system to the secondary system using the adapter selected in step 6. In certain embodiments, step 6 is performed by a controller disposed in the primary information storage and retrieval system. In certain embodiments, step 6 is performed by a host computer. In certain embodiments, step 6 is performed by the selected adapter using microcode disposed therein. [0066] If Applicants method determines in step 6 that the information was successfully transferred from the primary system to the secondary system using the adapter selected in step 6, then the method transitions from step 6 to step 6 and ends. Alternatively, if Applicants method determines in step 6 that the information was not successfully transferred from the primary system to the secondary system using the adapter selected in step 6, then the method transitions from step 6 to step 60 wherein the method updates the Working Bitmap to indicate that the adapter selected in step 6 is not in communication with the secondary information storage and retrieval system. In certain embodiments, step 60 is performed by a controller disposed in the primary information storage and retrieval system. In certain embodiments, step 670 is performed by a host computer. [0067] Applicants method transitions from step 60 to step 660 wherein the method determines if all the adapters recited in the Working Bitmap of step 6 have been unsuccessfully used to provide information from the pri- 6

7 11 EP B1 12 mary system to the secondary system, i.e. if (k) equals (N). In certain embodiments, step 660 is performed by a controller disposed in the primary information storage and retrieval system. In certain embodiments, step 680 is performed by a host computer. [0068] If Applicants method determines in step 660 that all the adapters recited in the Working Bitmap of step 6 have not been unsuccessfully used to provide information from the primary system to the secondary system, then Applicants method transitions from step 660 to step 680 wherein the method increments (k). In certain embodiments, step 680 is performed by a controller disposed in the primary information storage and retrieval system. In certain embodiments, step 680 is performed by a host computer. Applicants method transitions from step 680 to step 6 and continues. [0069] If Applicants method determines in step 660 that all the adapters recited in the Working Bitmap of step 6 have been unsuccessfully used to provide information from the primary system to the secondary system, then Applicants method transitions from step 660 to step 670 wherein the method provides an error message. In certain embodiments, step 670 is performed by a controller disposed in the primary information storage and retrieval system. [0070] The embodiments of Applicants method recited in FIGs. 3, 4,, and/or 6, may be implemented separately. Moreover, in certain embodiments, individual steps recited in FIGs. 3, 4,, and/or 6, may be combined, eliminated, or reordered. [0071] In certain embodiments, Applicants invention includes instructions residing in non- volatile memory 228 (FIG. 2), where those instructions are executed by controller 227 (FIG. 2) to performs steps 3 and 360 recited in FIG. 3, steps 4 through 480 recited in FIG. 4, steps 0 through 80 recited in FIG., and steps 6 through 680 recited in FIG. 6. In other embodiments, Applicants invention includes instructions residing in any other computer program product, where those instructions are executed by a computer external to, or internal to, system 0, to perform steps 3 and 360 recited in FIG. 3, steps 4 through 480 recited in FIG. 4, steps 0 through 80 recited in FIG., and steps 6 through 680 recited in FIG. 6. In either case, the instructions may be encoded in an information storage medium comprising, for example, a magnetic information storage medium, an optical information storage medium, an electronic information storage medium, and the like. By "electronic storage media," Applicants mean, for example, a device such as a Programmable Read- Only Memory (PROM), Erasable PROM (EPROM), Electrically EPROM (EEPROM), Flash PROM, compactflash, smartmedia, and the like. [0072] While the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated in detail, it should be apparent that modifications and adaptations to those embodiments may occur to one skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention as set forth in the following claims [0073] The scope of the present disclosure includes any novel feature or combination of features disclosed herein. The applicant hereby gives notice that new claims may be formulated to such features or combination of features during prosecution of this application or of any such further applications derived therefrom. In particular, with reference to the appended claims, features from dependent claims may be combined with those of the independent claims and features from respective independent claims may be combined in any appropriate manner and not merely in the specific combinations enumerated in the claims. [0074] For the avoidance of doubt, the term "comprising", as used herein throughout the description and claims is not to be construed as meaning "consisting only of". Claims 1. A method to provide information from a first information storage and retrieval system to a second information storage and retrieval system, comprising the steps of: providing a first information storage and retrieval system, wherein said first information storage and retrieval system comprises (N) PPRC adapters and information; providing a second information storage and retrieval system, wherein said second information storage and retrieval system is capable of receiving said information from said first information storage and retrieval system via one or more of said (N) PPRC adapters; generating an Established Path Bitmap, wherein said Established Path Bitmap recites said (N) PPRC adapters; generating an Available Path Bitmap; ascertaining, for each value of (j), if the (j) th PPRC adapter is in communication with said second information storage and retrieval system, wherein (j) is greater than or equal to 1 and less than or equal to (N); operative if the (j) th PPRC adapter is in communication with said second information storage and retrieval system, adding said (j) th adapter to said Available Path Bitmap; saving said Available Path Bitmap, wherein said Available Path Bitmap recites (M) PPRC adapters, wherein each of said (M) PPRC adapters is in communication with said second information storage and retrieval system, and wherein (M) is less than or equal to (N). 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising the steps of: 7

8 13 EP B1 14 generating a PPRC task; copying said Available Path Bitmap as a Working Bitmap; selecting the (i) th adapter from said Working Bitmap, wherein (i) is greater than or equal to 1 and less than or equal to (M), and wherein (i) is initially set to 1; attempting to provide information to said second information storage and retrieval system using said (i) th adapter and optionally wherein said first information storage and retrieval system is capable of communication with one or more host computers, further comprising the steps of: receiving said information by said first storage and retrieval system information from said one or more host computers; and generating a PPRC request comprising providing said information to said second information storage and retrieval system. 3. The method of claim 2, further comprising the steps of: determining if said information was received by said second information storage and retrieval system using said (i) th adapter; operative if said information was not received by said second information storage and retrieval system using said (i) th adapter, establishing if (i) equals (M); operative if (i) does not equal (M): incrementing (i); repeating said selecting step, said attempting step, said determining step, and optionally incrementing step. 4. The method of claim 3, further comprising the steps of: operative if said information was not received by said second information storage and retrieval system using said (i) th adapter, updating said Working Bitmap to indicate that said (i) th adapter is not in communication with said second information storage and retrieval system of: choosing the (k) th adapter from said Working Bitmap, wherein (k) is greater than or equal to 1 and less than or equal to (N), and wherein (k) is initially set to 1; sending said information to said second information storage and retrieval system using said (k) th adapter. 7. The method of claim 6, further comprising the steps of: verifying that said information was received by said second information storage and retrieval system using said (k) th adapter; operative if said information was not received by said second information storage and retrieval system using said (k) th adapter: comparing (k) with (N); operative if (k) does not equal (N): increasing (k) by 1; repeating said choosing step, said sending step, said verifying step, and optionally said increasing step and further optionally comprising the step of: operative if said information was not received by said second information storage and retrieval system by sending said information using said (k) th adapter, updating said Working Bitmap to indicate that said (k) th adapter is not in communication with said second information storage and retrieval system. 8. The method of claim 7, further comprising the steps of: operative if said information was not received by said second information storage and retrieval system by sending said information using said (k) th adapter, and if (k) equals (N), providing an error message.. The method of claim 3 or 4, further comprising the steps of: operative if said information was not provided to said second information storage and retrieval system using any of said (M) adapters, copying said Established Path Bitmap as said Working Bitmap. 6. The method of claim, further comprising the steps 0 9. A system for providing information from a first information storage and retrieval system to a second information storage and retrieval system, wherein said first information storage and retrieval system comprises (N) PPRC adapters and information, and wherein said second information storage and retrieval system is capable of receiving said information from said first information storage and retrieval system via one or more of said (N) PPRC adapters, the system providing: 8

9 EP B1 16 retrieving means for retrieving an Established Path Bitmap, wherein said Established Path Bitmap recites said (N) PPRC adapters; generating means for generating an Available Path Bitmap; ascertaining, for each value of (j), if the (j) th PPRC adapter is in communication with said second information storage and retrieval system, wherein (j) is greater than or equal to 1 and less than or equal to (N); addition means, operative if the (j) th PPRC adapter is in communication with said second information storage and retrieval system, adding said (j) th adapter to said Available Path Bitmap; saving means for saving said Available Path Bitmap, wherein said Available Path Bitmap recites (M) PPRC adapters, wherein each of said (M) PPRC adapters is in communication with said second information storage and retrieval system, and wherein (M) is less than or equal to (N).. A computer program product usable with a programmable computer processor having computer readable program code embodied therein to provide information from a first information storage and retrieval system to a second information storage and retrieval system, wherein said first information storage and retrieval system comprises (N) PPRC adapters and information, and wherein said second information storage and retrieval system is capable of receiving said information from said first information storage and retrieval system via one or more of said (N) PPRC adapters, comprising: computer readable program code which causes said programmable computer processor to retrieve an Established Path Bitmap, wherein said Established Path Bitmap recites said (N) PPRC adapters; computer readable program code which causes said programmable computer processor to generate an Available Path Bitmap; computer readable program code which causes said programmable computer processor to ascertain, for each value of (j), if the (j) th PPRC adapter is in communication with said second information storage and retrieval system, wherein (j) is greater than or equal to 1 and less than or equal to (N); computer readable program code which, if the (j) th PPRC adapter is in communication with said second information storage and retrieval system, causes said programmable computer processor to add said (j) th adapter to said Available Path Bitmap; computer readable program code which causes said programmable computer processor to save said Available Path Bitmap, wherein said Available Path Bitmap recites (M) PPRC adapters, wherein each of said (M) PPRC adapters is in communication with said second information storage and retrieval system, and wherein (M) is less than or equal to (N). Patentansprüche 1. Verfahren für die Bereitstellung von Daten von einem ersten System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten an ein zweites System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten, wobei das Verfahren folgende Schritte umfasst: Bereitstellen eines ersten Systems für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten, wobei das erste System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten (N) PPRC- Adapter und Daten umfasst; Bereitstellen eines zweiten Systems für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten, wobei das weite System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten in der Lage ist, die Daten über einen oder mehrere der (N) PPRC- Adapter von dem ersten System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten zu empfangen; Erzeugen einer Momentaufnahme der hergestellten Pfade, wobei diese Momentaufnahme der hergestellten Pfade die (N) PPRC- Adapter aufführt; Erzeugen einer Momentaufnahme der verfügbaren Pfade; für jeden Wert (j) Überprüfen, ob der j- te PPRC- Adapter Daten mit dem zweiten System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten austauscht, wobei (j) größer als oder gleich 1 und kleiner als oder gleich (N) ist; wenn der j- te PPRC- Adapter Daten mit dem zweiten System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten austauscht, Hinzufügen des j- ten Adapters zu der Momentaufnahme der verfügbaren Pfade; Speichern der Momentaufnahme der verfügbaren Pfade, wobei die Momentaufnahme der verfügbaren Pfade (M) PPRC- Adapter aufführt, wobei jeder der (M) PPRC- Adapter Daten mit dem zweiten System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten austauscht und wobei (M) kleiner als oder gleich (N) ist. 2. Verfahren nach Anspruch 1, das weiter die folgenden Schritte umfasst: Erzeugen einer PPRC- Aufgabe; Kopieren der Momentaufnahme der verfügbaren Pfade als eine Arbeitsmomentaufnahme; Auswählen des i- ten Adapters aus der Arbeitsmomentaufnahme, wobei (i) größer als oder 9

10 17 EP B1 18 gleich 1 und kleiner als oder gleich (M) ist und wobei (i) anfänglich auf 1 gesetzt wird; Versuchen, dem zweiten System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten unter Verwendung des i- ten Adapters Daten bereitzustellen, wobei das erste System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten in der Lage ist, mit einem oder mehreren Hostcomputern Daten auszutauschen und wobei das verfahren weiter die folgenden Schritte umfasst: Empfangen der Daten von dem ersten System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten von dem einen oder mehreren Hostcomputern; und Erzeugen einer PPRC- Anforderung, welche das Bereitstellen der Daten an das zweite System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten umfasst. 3. Verfahren nach Anspruch 2, das weiter die folgenden Schritte umfasst: Ermitteln, ob die Daten unter Verwendung des i- ten Adapters von dem zweiten System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten empfangen wurden; wenn die Daten unter Verwendung des i- ten Adapters nicht von dem zweiten System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten empfangen wurden, Ermitteln, ob (i) nicht gleich (M) ist; wenn (i) nicht gleich (M) ist: Erhöhen von (i); Wiederholen des Auswahlschritts, des Versuchsschritts, des Ermittlungsschritts und wahlweise des Erhöhungsschritts. 4. Verfahren nach Anspruch 3, das weiter die folgenden Schritte umfasst: wenn die Daten unter Verwendung des i- ten Adapters nicht von dem zweiten System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten empfangen wurden, Aktualisieren der Arbeitsmomentaufnahme, um anzuzeigen, dass der i- te Adapter keine Daten mit dem zweiten System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten austauscht.. Verfahren nach Anspruch 3 oder 4, das weiter die folgenden Schritte umfasst: wenn die Daten unter Verwendung eines beliebigen der (M) Adapter nicht dem zweiten System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten bereitgestellt wurden, Kopieren der Momentaufnahme der hergestellten Pfade als die Arbeitsmomentaufnahme. 6. Verfahren nach Anspruch, das weiter die folgenden Schritte umfasst: Auswählen des k- ten Adapters aus der Arbeitsmomentaufnahme, wobei (k) größer als oder gleich 1 und kleiner als oder gleich (N) ist und wobei (k) anfänglich auf 1 gesetzt wird; Senden der Daten an das zweite System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten unter Verwendung des k- ten Adapters. 7. Verfahren nach Anspruch 6, das weiter die folgenden Schritte umfasst: Überprüfen, ob die Daten unter Verwendung des k- ten Adapters von dem zweiten System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten empfangen wurden; wenn die Daten unter Verwendung des k- ten Adapters nicht von dem zweiten System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten empfangen wurden: Vergleichen von (k) mit (N); wenn (k) nicht gleich (N) ist: Erhöhen von (k) um 1; Wiederholen des Auswahlschritts, des Sendeschritts, des Überprüfungsschritts und wahlweise des Erhöhungsschritts, wobei das Verfahren wahlweise den folgenden Schritt umfasst: wenn die Daten nicht von dem zweiten System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten empfangen wurden, indem sie unter Verwendung des k- ten Adapters gesendet wurden, Aktualisieren der Arbeitsmomentaufnahme um anzuzeigen, dass der k- te Adapter keine Daten mit dem zweiten System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten austauscht. 8. Verfahren nach Anspruch 7, das weiter die folgenden Schritte umfasst: wenn die Daten nicht von dem zweiten System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten empfangen wurden, indem sie unter Verwendung des k- ten Adapters gesendet wurden, und wenn (k) gleich (N) ist, Bereitstellen einer Fehlermeldung. 9. System für das Bereitstellen von Daten von einem

11 19 EP B1 ersten System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten an ein zweites System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten, wobei das erste System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten (N) PPRC- Adapter und Daten umfasst und wobei das zweite System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten in der Lage ist, die Daten über einen oder mehrere der (N) PPRC- Adapter von dem ersten System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten zu empfangen, wobei das System Folgendes bereitstellt: ein Abrufmittel für das Abrufen einer Momentaufnahme der hergestellten Pfade, wobei die Momentaufnahme der hergestellten Pfade (N) PPRC- Adapter aufführt; ein Erzeugungsmittel für das Erzeugen einer Momentaufnahme der verfügbaren Pfade; Überprüfen für jeden Wert (j), ob der j- te PPRC- Adapter Daten mit dem zweiten System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten austauscht, wobei (j) größer als oder gleich 1 und kleiner als oder gleich (N) ist; wenn der j- te PPRC- Adapter Daten mit dem zweiten System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten austauscht, ein Hinzufügemittel, das den j- ten Adapter in die Momentaufnahme der verfügbaren Pfade aufnimmt; ein Speichermittel für das Speichern der Momentaufnahme der verfügbaren Pfade, wobei die Momentaufnahme der verfügbaren Pfade (M) PPRC- Adapter aufführt, wobei jeder der (M) PPRC- Adapter Daten mit dem zweiten System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten austauscht und wobei (M) kleiner als oder gleich (N) ist. 2 3 computerlesbaren Programmcode, der veranlasst, dass der programmierbare Computerprozessor eine Momentaufnahme der verfügbaren Pfade erzeugt; computerlesbaren Programmcode, der veranlasst, dass der programmierbare Computerprozessor für jeden Wert (j) überprüft, ob der j- te PPRC- Adapter Daten mit dem zweiten System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten austauscht, wobei (j) größer als oder gleich 1 und kleiner als oder gleich (N) ist; computerlesbaren Programmcode, der, wenn der j- te PPRC- Adapter Daten mit dem zweiten System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten austauscht, veranlasst, dass der programmierbare Computerprozessor den j- ten Adapter in die Momentaufnahme der verfügbaren Pfade aufnimmt; computerlesbaren Programmcode, der veranlasst, dass der programmierbare Computerprozessor die Momentaufnahme der verfügbaren Pfade speichert, wobei die Momentaufnahme der verfügbaren Pfade (M) PPRC- Adapter aufführt, wobei jeder der (M) PPRC- Adapter Daten mit dem zweiten System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten austauscht und wobei (M) kleiner als oder gleich (N) ist. Revendications 1. Un procédé pour fournir de l information depuis un premier système de stockage et d extraction d informations à un deuxième système de stockage et d extraction d informations, comprenant les étapes consistant à :. Computerprogrammprodukt, das mit einem programmierbaren Computerprozessor verwendet werden, der über darin vorhandenen computerlesbaren Programmcode verfügt, um so Daten von einem ersten System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten einem zweiten System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten bereitzustellen, wobei das erste System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten (N) PPRC- Adapter und Daten umfasst und wobei das zweite System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten in der Lage ist, die Daten über einen oder mehrere der (N) PPRC- Adapter von dem ersten System für die Speicherung und den Abruf von Daten zu empfangen, wobei das Computerprogrammprodukt Folgendes umfasst: computerlesbaren Programmcode, der veranlasst, dass der programmierbare Computerprozessor eine Momentaufnahme der hergestellten Pfade abruft, wobei die Momentaufnahme der hergestellten Pfade (N) PPRC- Adapter aufführt; 4 0 fournir un premier système de stockage et d extraction d informations, dans lequel ledit premier système de stockage et d extraction d informations comprend (N) adaptateurs PPRC et une information ; fournir un deuxième système de stockage et d extraction d informations, dans lequel ledit deuxième système de stockage et d extraction d informations est capable de recevoir ladite information depuis ledit premier système de stockage et d extraction d informations, via un ou plusieurs (N) adaptateurs) PPRC ; générer une Image en Mode Point de Chemins Etablis, dans lequel ladite Image en Mode Point de Chemins Etablis énumère lesdits (N) adaptateurs PPRC ; générer une Image en Mode Point de Chemins Disponibles ; s assurer, pour chaque valeur de (j), du fait que le (j) ème adaptateur PPRC est en communication avec ledit deuxième système de stockage 11

12 21 EP B1 22 et d extraction d informations, dans lequel (j) est supérieur ou égale à 1 et inférieur ou égal à (N) ; si le (j) ème adaptateur PPRC est en communication avec ledit deuxième système de stockage et d extraction d informations, agir pour additionner ledit (j) ème adaptateur à ladite Image en Mode Point de Chemins Disponibles ; sauvegarder ladite Image en Mode Point de Chemins Disponibles, dans lequel ladite image en mode point Disponibles énumère (M) adaptateurs PPRC, dans lequel chacun desdits (M) adaptateurs PPRC est en communication avec ledit deuxième système de stockage et d extraction d informations, et dans lequel (M) est inférieur ou égal à (N). répéter ladite étape de sélection, ladite étape de tentative, ladite étape de détermination, et ladite étape d incrémentation optionnelle. 4. Le procédé selon la revendication 3, comprenant en outre les étapes consistant à : si ladite opération n avait pas été reçue par ledit deuxième système de stockage et d extraction d informations en utilisant ledit (i) ème adaptateur, agir en mettant à jour ladite Image en Mode Point de Travail, pour indiquer que ledit (i) ème adaptateur n est pas en communication avec ledit deuxième système de stockage et d extraction d informations. 2. Le procédé selon la revendication 1, comprenant en outre les étapes consistant à :. Le procédé selon la revendication 3 ou 4, comprenant en outre les étapes consistant à : générer une tâche PPRC ; copier ladite Image en Mode Point de Chemins Disponibles en tant qu Image en Mode Point de Travail ; sélectionner le (i) ème adaptateur d après l Image en Mode Point de Travail, dans lequel (i) est égal ou supérieur à 1 et inférieur ou égal à (M) et dans lequel (i) est initialement fixé à 1 ; tenter de fournir une information audit deuxième système de stockage et d extraction d informations en utilisant ledit (i) ème adaptateur et, en option, dans lequel ledit première système de stockage et d extraction d informations est capable de communiquer avec un ou plusieurs ordinateurs hôtes, comprenant en outre les étapes consistant à : recevoir ladite information par ledit premier système de stockage et d extraction d informations depuis ledit un ou plusieurs ordinateurs hôtes ; et générer une requête PPRC comprenant la fourniture de ladite information audit deuxième système de stockage et d extraction d informations. 3. Le procédé selon la revendication 2, comprenant en outre les étapes consistant à : déterminer si ladite information avait été reçue par ledit deuxième système de stockage et d extraction d informations, en utilisant ledit (i) ème adaptateur ; vérifier si ladite information n avait pas été reçue par ledit système de stockage et d extraction d informations en utilisant ledit (i) ème adaptateur, en établissant si i égal à (M) ; vérifier si (i) n est pas égal à (M); incrémenter (i) ; si ladite opération n avait pas été fournie audit deuxième système de stockage et d extraction d informations, agir en utilisant l un quelconque desdits (M) adaptateurs, copier ladite Image en Mode Point de Chemins Etablis en tant que Image en Mode Point de Travail. 6. Le procédé selon la revendication, comprenant en outre les étapes consistant à : choisir le (k) ème adaptateur d après ladite Image en Mode Point de Travail, dans lequel (k) est supérieur ou égal à 1 et inférieur ou égal à (N), et dans lequel (k) est initialement fixé à 1 ; envoyer lesdites informations audit deuxième système de stockage et d extraction d informations en utilisant ledit (k) ème adaptateur. 7. Le procédé selon la revendication 6, comprenant en outre les étapes consistant à : vérifier que ladite information avait été reçue par ledit deuxième système de stockage et d extraction d informations, en utilisant ledit (k) ème adaptateur ; si ladite information n avait pas été reçue par ledit deuxième système de stockage et d extraction d informations, agir en utilisant ledit (k) ème adaptateur ; comparer (k) à (N) ; vérifier si (k) n est pas égal à (N) ; augmenter (k) de 1 ; répéter ladite étape de choix, ladite étape d envoi, ladite étape de vérification et, en option, ladite étape d augmentation, et comprenant en outre, en option, l étape consistant à : si ladite information n avait pas été reçue par ledit deuxième système de stockage et 12

13 23 EP B1 24 d extraction d informations, par envoi de ladite information en utilisant ledit (k) ème adaptateur, agir en mettant à jour ladite Image en Mode Point de Travail pour indiquer que ledit (k) ème adaptateur n est pas en communication avec ledit deuxième système de stockage et d extraction d informations. 8. Le procédé selon la revendication 7, comprenant en outre les étapes consistant à : si ladite information n avait pas été reçue par ledit deuxième système de stockage et d extraction d informations, agir par envoi de ladite information en utilisant ledit (k) ème adaptateur et, si (k) égale à (N), agir en fournissant un message d erreur. 9. Un système de fourniture d une information depuis un premier système de stockage et d extraction d informations à un deuxième système de stockage et d extraction d informations, dans lequel ledit premier système de stockage et d extraction d informations comprend (N) adaptateurs PPRC et une information, et dans lequel ledit deuxième système de stockage et d extraction d informations est capable de recevoir ladite information depuis ledit premier système de stockage et d extraction d informations via un ou plusieurs desdits (N) adaptateurs PPRC, le système fournissant: des moyens de récupération, pour récupérer une Image en Mode Point de Chemins Etablis, dans lequel ladite Image en Mode Point de Chemins Etablis énumère lesdits (N) adaptateurs PPRC ; des moyens de génération, pour générer une Image en Mode Point de Chemins Disponibles ; s assurer pour chaque valeur de (j) du fait que le (j) ème adaptateur PPRC est en communication avec ledit deuxième système de stockage et d extraction d informations, dans lequel (j) est supérieur ou égal à 1 et inférieur ou égal à (N) ; des moyens d addition qui, si le (j) ème adaptateur PPRC est en communication avec ledit deuxième système de stockage et d extraction d informations, agissent en aditionnant ledit (j) ème adaptateur à ladite Image en Mode Point de Chemins Disponibles ; des moyens de sauvegarde pour sauvegarder ladite Image en Mode Point de Chemins Disponibles, dans lequel ladite Image en Mode Point de Chemins Disponibles énumère (M) adaptateurs PPRC, dans lequel chacun desdits (M) adaptateurs PPRC est en communication avec ledit deuxième système de stockage et d extraction d informations et dans lequel (M) est inférieur ou égal à (N).. Un produit de programme pour ordinateur utilisable avec un processeur pour ordinateur programmable, comprenant un code de programme lisible par ordinateur y étant incorporé, pour fournir de l information venant d un premier système de stockage et d extraction d informations à un deuxième système de stockage et d extraction d informations, dans lequel ledit premier système de stockage et d extraction d informations comprend (N) adaptateurs PPRC et une information, et dans lequel ledit deuxième système de stockage et d extraction d informations est capable de recevoir ladite information venant dudit premier système de stockage et d extraction d informations, via un ou plusieurs desdits (N) PPRC adaptateurs, comprenant : un code de programme lisible par ordinateur, provoquant la récupération, par ledit processeur d ordinateur programmable, d une Image en Mode Point de Chemins Etablis, dans lequel ladite Image en Mode Point de Chemins Etablis énumère lesdits (N) PPRC adaptateurs; un code de programme lisible par ordinateur, provoquant la génération, par ledit processeur d ordinateur programmable, d une Image en Mode Point de Chemins Disponibles ; un code de programme lisible par ordinateur, faisant que ledit processeur d ordinateur programmable s assure du fait que, pour chaque valeur de (j), le (j) ème adaptateur PPRC est en communication avec ledit deuxième système de stockage et d extraction d informations, dans lequel (j) est supérieur ou égal à (1) et inférieur ou égal à (N) ; un code de programme lisible par ordinateur, qui, si le (j) ème adaptateur PPRC est en communication avec ledit deuxième système de stockage et d extraction d informations, fait que ledit processeur d ordinateur programmable agit sur ledit (j) ème adaptateur à ladite Image en Mode Point de Chemins Disponibles ; un code de programme lisible par ordinateur faisant que ledit processeur d ordinateur programmable sauvegarde ladite Image en Mode Point de Chemins Disponibles, dans lequel ladite Image en Mode Point de Chemins Disponibles énumère (M) adaptateurs PPRC, dans lequel chacun desdits (M) adaptateurs PPRC est en communication avec ledit deuxième système de stockage et d extraction d informations, et dans lequel (M) est inférieur ou égal à (N). 13

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