Battery-backed computer system with externally replaceable battery module

Abstract

A battery-backed cache system with a pluggable battery module. The system includes a RAID controller and a cache. A back up power board is provided upon which a second power connector is provided and the two power connectors are connected. A socket assembly is mounted on the board and is connected to the second power connector. The socket assembly is a standard socket for use with PC Cards and includes a bulkhead adapter for mounting to a case wall with a slot of the socket assembly accessible through the case wall. A battery module is included having a body with dimensions corresponding to the slot. A battery is positioned within the body and a connection interface is provided in the battery module for mating with the socket assembly. The body and connection interface of the battery module comply with PCMCIA specifications for card bodies and interfaces.

1 . A battery module for use with computer systems housed within a case having an externally accessible socket, comprising:
 a body having sides and walls with interior surfaces defining an enclosed space, the body having an external form factor for mating with the socket in the case;   a battery positioned within the enclosed space of the body; and   a connection interface adjacent the enclosed space, the connection interface comprising a plurality of leads connected to a plurality of pin receptacles positioned on an external surface of the body, wherein the battery is connected to a set of the leads;   wherein the body and the connection interface are configured based on Personal Computer Memory Card International Association (PCMCIA) specifications for a body and a connection interface for a card, respectively.   
     
     
         2 . The battery module of  claim 1 , wherein the card is a Type I, II, III, or IV PCMCIA PC Card or PCMCIA Express Card. 
     
     
         3 . The battery module of  claim 1 , wherein the specifications for the body include defining the external form factor including a thickness of the body of less than about 18 mm and a width of the body of less than about 54 mm and further wherein the battery has a thickness less than the thickness of the body. 
     
     
         4 . The battery module of  claim 1 , wherein the socket in the case is configured based on PCMCIA specifications for a socket, the socket specifications selected based on the card specifications.