Hot-upgrade/hot-add memory

Abstract

A method of adding memory capacity to a computer system. The computer system comprises a redundant memory system including a plurality of memory cartridges. By powering-down a memory cartridge, adding an additional memory module to the memory cartridge, and powering-up the memory cartridge for each memory cartridge in the system, the system can transition from a redundant mode of operation to a non-redundant mode of operation for each power-down, thus allowing the computer system to remain functional during the addition of the memory module. Alternatively, memory cartridges with higher memory capacity than those currently present in the computer system can be used to replace existing memory cartridges in the computer system, using the same techniques.