JPH0855073A - Network system and information processor - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To perform the sleep processing and the resume processing in consideration of the whole of a network system. CONSTITUTION:In a client 10, the power source is turned off for the sleep processing after not only restoration information required for restoration to the state just before the execution of the sleep processing is saved in at least one server 20 but also server information indicating the server 20 is stored in a non-volatile storage part 101. When the power source is turned on for the resume processing, restoration information is acquired from the server 20 indicated by server information stored in the non-volatile storage part 101 to restore the state just before the execution of the sleep processing.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a technique capable of performing sleep processing and resume processing in consideration of the entire network system in a network system in which a plurality of information processing devices are connected to a network.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, information processing apparatuses are generally used in a form of being connected to a network. In a network system in which multiple information processing devices are connected to a network, each information processing device
It is positioned as either a client that consumes network resources such as a computing capacity or a storage device, or a server that supplies the network resources, depending on its capability or purpose of use. That is, the small information processing device
Positioned as clients, stationary information processing devices and large-sized information processing devices are positioned as servers.

By the way, as a small-sized information processing apparatus positioned as a client, a personal computer or a workstation that operates on a battery has been commercialized. Many of such information processing apparatuses are configured to perform sleep processing and resume processing in order to save battery consumption.

The sleep process is a process for shifting the state of the information processing apparatus to a power saving state (hereinafter referred to as a sleep mode) when a condition such as no key input for a predetermined time is satisfied. , At this time, necessary to return to the state immediately before shifting to the sleep mode,
Data such as display data and setting values of various registers (hereinafter referred to as return information) is saved in a storage device such as a hard disk built in the main body.

The resume process is a process for returning to the state immediately before the transition to the sleep mode when there is an instruction from the user in the sleep mode. At this time, the resume information saved in the storage device is stored. To get.

In the sleep mode, the power supply to the display device is cut off, or if the restoration information is saved in the non-volatile storage device, the power supply of the entire information processing device is cut off. .

For example, the electronic desk calculator disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2-294760 is equipped with an auto power-off section for cutting off the power when there is no key input for a predetermined time. Before turning off the power, the unit performs a sleep process for saving the display data in the nonvolatile storage unit, and when the power is turned on again, acquires the display data saved in the nonvolatile storage unit. It is designed to perform resume processing.

[0008]

As described above, there are conventional information processing apparatuses that perform sleep processing and resume processing. However, these sleep processing and resume processing are technologies relating to a single information processing apparatus and The entire network system in which one information processing device is connected to the network is not considered.

Considering the situation where the information processing apparatus is connected to a network and used, the appearance of sleep processing and resume processing in consideration of the entire network system is desired.

An object of the present invention is to enable sleep processing and resume processing in consideration of the entire network system.

[0011]

In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, the present invention is configured such that, in an information processing apparatus, the save destination of the return information is another information processing apparatus connected to the network.

Specifically, the present invention is a network system in which at least one client and at least one server are connected to a network, and when the client satisfies a predetermined condition,
Sleep means to turn off the power, and when the power is turned on,
Resuming means for returning the state of the client to the state immediately before the power is turned off is provided, and the sleep means is provided with return information necessary for the resume means to return the state of the client, At least one of the above servers via a network
The server is saved in the server and then the power is turned off, and the resume means acquires the return information from the server in which the return information is saved through the network.

Particularly, when the number of the servers is plural, the client has a non-volatile storage means having a server information storage area for storing server information indicating the server in which the return information is saved. The server may include a response unit that responds to the inquiry from the client. Then, the sleep means inquires of each of the servers whether it is possible to save the return information via the network, and based on the response from the response means of the inquired server, the return information is returned. Select at least one server to save the backup information to the selected server via the network and store the server information indicating the selected server in the server information storage area. The resume means acquires the return information from one of the servers indicated by the server information stored in the server information storage area via the network.

The server stores a client information storage area storing client information indicating one or more clients whose return information can be saved in the server, and a client return indicated by the client information. Storage means having a return information storage area for storing information may be provided. Then, when there is an inquiry from the client as to whether or not it is possible to save the return information, if the client information indicating the client is stored in the client information storage area. ,
It responds that it is possible, and if it is not stored, it responds that it is impossible.

The server has a client information storage area for storing a predetermined number of client information indicating a client whose return information is saved in the server, and a client indicated by the client information. A storage unit having a return information storage area for storing the saved return information; and, when the client saves the return information, stores client information indicating the client in the client information storage area, When the client acquires the return information, the client information indicating the client may be deleted from the client information storage area. Then, the response means receives the inquiry about whether or not the return information can be saved from the client, and the client information stored in the client information storage area is the predetermined number of times. If it has not reached, it responds that it is possible, and if it has reached it, it responds that it is impossible.

Furthermore, in particular, when there are a plurality of servers, the server may be provided with a response means for responding to an inquiry from the client. Then, the sleep means inquires of each of the servers whether it is possible to save the return information via the network, and based on the response from the response means of the inquired server, the return information is returned. At least one server for saving the return information is saved to the selected server via the network, and the resume means is provided to each of the servers via the network. Is evacuated, the server that evacuates the return information is detected based on the response from the response means of the inquired server, and one of the detected servers detects the network The return information is acquired via.

The server stores a client information storage area in which client information indicating one or more clients whose return information can be saved is stored in the server, and the client return indicated by the client information. Storage means having a return information storage area for storing information may be provided. Then, when there is an inquiry from the client as to whether or not it is possible to save the return information, if the client information indicating the client is stored in the client information storage area. ,
If it is not stored, the response is that it is not possible. If the client asks if the return information is saved, the return information of the client is returned. If it is stored in the return information storage area, a response indicating that it has been saved is returned, and if not stored, a response indicating that it has not been saved is returned.

Further, the server has a client information storage area for storing a predetermined number of client information indicating a client whose return information is saved in the server, and a client indicated by the client information. A storage unit having a return information storage area for storing the saved return information; and, when the client saves the return information, stores client information indicating the client in the client information storage area, When the client acquires the return information, the client information indicating the client may be deleted from the client information storage area. Then, the response means receives the inquiry about whether or not the return information can be saved from the client, and the client information stored in the client information storage area is the predetermined number of times. If it has not reached, reply that it is possible, if it has reached, reply that it is impossible,
Further, when an inquiry is made from the client as to whether or not the return information is saved, if the client information indicating the client is stored in the client information storage area, a response that the save information is saved is returned. ,
If it is not stored, a response notifying that it has not been saved is sent.

[0019]

According to the present invention, since the client saves the return information to the server via the network, it becomes possible to perform sleep processing and resume processing in consideration of the entire network system. The client does not need a storage area for saving the return information, and can further reduce the size and cost of the device.

Further, according to the present invention, since the return information is saved in the server, the sleep mode is actually the same as the state in which the power is cut off, and the power saving effect is high.

[0021]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

First, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of the network system of the first embodiment, in which 10 is a client and 20 is a server.

As shown in FIG. 1, the client 10 is
Nonvolatile storage unit 101 and network control unit 102
And a main memory 103.

The non-volatile storage unit 101 stores a server table, a boot program, an operating system (OS), and a sleep program which will be described later. The network control unit 102 establishes a connection with the server 20 under the control of the boot program and the sleep program.

As shown in FIG. 1, the server 20
It has a network control unit 201 and a main memory 202.

The main memory 202 stores a client table, a return information storage area, an OS, and a client management program, which will be described later. Network control unit 201
Establishes a connection with the client 10 under the control of the client management program.

In the server 20, the client table, the return information storage area, and the client management program are stored in the server 20 instead of the main memory 202, for example.
It may be stored in a file device connected to.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a server table stored in the non-volatile storage unit 101 of the client 10.

As shown in FIG. 2, the server table 30
For each of the n servers 20 to which the client 10 can connect, the address field 301 storing the server address of the server 20 and whether or not the return information is saved in the server 20 are determined. Valid / invalid field 3 that stores the valid / invalid flag that indicates
02.

The return information is data that is saved when the operating client 10 shifts to the sleep mode and is necessary for returning to the state immediately before the shift to the sleep mode. These are the contents of the main memory 103 and the setting values of various registers.

FIG. 3 is a configuration diagram of a client table and a return information storage area stored in the main memory 202 of the server 20.

As shown in FIG. 3, the return information storage area 40
Is the client 1 for each of the m clients 10 for which the server 20 can store return information.
Return information field 40 for storing return information of 0
1 is comprised.

As shown in FIG. 3, the client table 50 has an address in which the client address of each of the m clients 10 for which the server 20 can store the return information is stored. A field 501 and a return information field 40 of the return information storage area 40 corresponding to the client 10.
And a pointer field 502 in which a pointer indicating 1 is stored.

In this embodiment, when a predetermined condition is satisfied during operation, the client 10 performs a sleep process for changing the state of the client 10 to a sleep mode, and the sleep process changes to the sleep mode. The return information necessary for returning to the state immediately before the transition is saved in the return information storage area 40 of the server 20 via the network. Further, when a predetermined condition is satisfied in the sleep mode, the client 10 performs a resume process of returning to the state immediately before the transition to the sleep mode, and the resume process is stored in the return information storage area 40 of the server 20. The saved return information is acquired via the network.

As will be described later, in this embodiment, the sleep mode is actually the same as the state in which the power supply is cut off.

The operation of this embodiment will be described below.

When the client 10 shifts to the sleep mode, the sleep program is executed in the client 10 and the client management program is executed in the server 20.

FIG. 4 is a processing flowchart of the sleep program, and FIG. 6 is a processing flowchart of the client management program.

In the client 10, the sleep program is loaded into the main memory 103 and activated by the OS.

As in the prior art, the OS may activate the sleep program when there is no key input for a predetermined time while the client 10 is operating, or the client 10 is operating. In the above, the sleep program may be activated when the user instructs the transition to the sleep mode. Regarding the condition for activating the sleep program, that is, the condition for transitioning to the sleep mode, not regulated.

As shown in FIG. 4, when the sleep program is activated, it executes the processes of steps 401 to 409 to determine the server 20 for saving the return information.

That is, the sleep program refers to the address field 301 of the server table 30 and controls the network control unit 102 to request the connection to the i-th server 20 indicated by the “server address i”, and the i-th server 20. When the connection with the server 20 is established, it sends a return information storage request and its own client address via the network. Where 1 ≦
i ≧ n.

When a connection is established with the i-th server 20 and a response indicating that the return information can be stored is returned, the server 20 saves the return information. To determine.

If the connection with the i-th server 20 is not established due to a failure in the network, or if the connection is established, the return information cannot be stored. If a response to that effect is returned, the server 2
The valid / invalid flag corresponding to 0 is set to "invalid" (step 408).

Note that for all n servers 20,
When the connection with the server 20 is not established, or even when the connection with the server 20 is established, a response indicating that the return information cannot be stored is returned. (Step 407) Then, the user is notified that the sleep mode cannot be entered (Step 410).

Thereafter, the return information is transmitted to the determined server 20 via the network (step 411),
The valid / invalid flag corresponding to the server 20 is set to "valid" (step 412).

When the sleep program finishes processing,
The OS shifts the state of the client 10 to the sleep mode.

On the other hand, when the client 10 sends a return information storage request and a client address in the server 20, the client management program returns O
It is activated by S.

As shown in FIG. 6, when the client management program is started, it first executes the processing of steps 601 to 605 to store the return information storage request and the return information of the client 10 which has transmitted the client address. It is determined whether the data can be stored.

That is, the client management program uses the address field 5 of the client table 50.
Reference is made to 01 to check whether or not the transmitted client address is stored. If the sent client address is stored, it is determined that it is possible to store the return information, and if it is not stored,
It is determined that it is impossible to store the return information.

When it is determined that the return information cannot be stored (step 604), the client 1
A response indicating that the return information cannot be saved is returned to 0 via the network (step 606).

When it is determined that the return information can be stored (step 603), a response indicating that the return information can be saved is returned to the client 10 via the network ( In step 607), the return information transmitted from the client 10 is stored in the return information field 401 indicated by the pointer corresponding to the client address of the client 10 (step 608).

As described above, in this embodiment, the client 10 stores the return information in the return information storage area 40 of the server 20.
Therefore, in order to enhance the power saving effect, it is possible to turn off the power of the entire client 10 in the sleep mode.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, in the sleep mode, the power of the entire client 10 is turned off, and the condition for returning from the sleep mode is that the power of the client 10 is turned on. Thus, in this embodiment, the sleep mode is actually the same as the state in which the power is cut off.

When the client 10 returns from the sleep mode, the boot program is executed in the client 10 and the client management program is executed in the server 20.

FIG. 5 is a processing flow chart of the boot program, and FIG. 7 is a processing flow chart of the client management program.

In the client 10, the boot program is automatically started when the power is turned on.

As shown in FIG. 5, the boot program is
When activated, the processing of steps 501 to 505 is performed to perform normal power-on (power-on when the return information is not saved) or power-on for returning from sleep mode. If it is determined (when the power is turned on when the return information is saved), and if it is determined that the power should be returned from the sleep mode, the server 20 that saves the return information is further determined. To detect.

That is, the boot program refers to the valid / invalid field 302 of the server table 30 and
It is determined whether the valid / invalid flag corresponding to the th server 20 is set to "valid". Where 1 ≦
i ≧ n.

If the valid / invalid flag corresponding to the i-th server 20 is set to "valid", it is determined that the power supply should be restored from the sleep mode, and the server 20 returns the return information. Is detected as the server 20 that has been evacuated.

When the valid / invalid flags corresponding to all n servers 20 are set to "invalid" (step 504), it is determined that the power is turned on normally, and normal startup is performed. Processing is performed (step 506).

Thereafter, the address field 301 of the server table 30 is referred to, the server address of the detected server 20 is acquired (step 507), and the network control unit 102 is controlled to request the server 20 for connection. (Step 508). And the server 2
When the connection with 0 is established (step 509), a return information transmission request and its own client address are transmitted to the server 20 via the network (step 510). Is acquired (step 511), and the state immediately before transitioning to the sleep mode is restored. Finally, the valid / invalid flag corresponding to the server 20 is set to "invalid" (step 512).

If the connection with the detected server 20 is not established due to a network failure or the like (step 509), an error report is sent to the user indicating that the sleep mode cannot be restored (step 509). Step 51
3). However, after the error report, it is preferable to perform a normal startup process depending on the instruction from the user.

When the boot program completes the processing,
Start the OS.

On the other hand, when the client 10 sends a return information transmission request and a client address in the server 20, the client management program returns O
It is activated by S.

As shown in FIG. 7, when started, the client management program stores in the return information field 401 indicated by the pointer corresponding to the client address in the client 10 that has transmitted the return information transmission request and client address. The returned return information is transmitted via the network (step 701).

In the present embodiment, the boot program uses the valid / invalid field 302 of the server table 30.
By referring to, it is determined whether it is the normal power-on time or the power-on time to recover from the sleep mode. Therefore, the server table 30 is valid even when the normal power-on is performed. / Invalid field 3
02 is to be referred to.

However, the resume program or O
If S stores the information indicating that it is in the sleep mode in the nonvolatile storage unit 101 when the state of the client 10 shifts to the sleep mode, the boot program refers to this information when the power is turned on. By doing so, it is possible to determine whether it is the normal power-on time or the power-on time for returning from the sleep mode. Therefore, at the normal power-on time, the server table 30 is enabled / disabled. It is not necessary to perform the process of referring to the field 302.

In addition, the resume program or OS
However, if the server address of the server 20 in which the return information is saved is stored in the non-volatile storage unit 101 when the state of the client 10 is shifted to the sleep mode, the boot program will be able to store If it is stored, it is possible to determine that it is time to turn on the power supply to recover from the sleep mode, and further it is possible to know the server 20 that saves the recovery information.
The valid / invalid field 302 of the server table 30 becomes unnecessary.

Further, in the present embodiment, it is assumed that at least one of the n servers 20 is in operation,
When the client 10 shifts to the sleep mode,
The return information is saved in the return information storage area 40 of one server 20, and the server table 30 manages the server 20 in which the return information is saved, so that when returning from the sleep mode, The return information can be acquired.

However, in the network system in which the server 20 is likely to be stopped frequently, the client 10 may have a problem that if the server 20 that saves the return information is stopped at the time of returning from the sleep mode,
The return information cannot be acquired.

Therefore, when the client 10 shifts to the sleep mode, a plurality of predetermined servers 2 are used.
A method may be considered in which the return information is saved in each return information storage area 40 of 0.

In this way, the client 10
When returning from the sleep mode, it is possible to avoid a risk that the return information cannot be acquired because the server 20 that saves the return information is stopped.

In this case, in the client 10, the resume program repeats the process shown in FIG. 4 for the number of servers for which the return information is saved, and the client management program is executed in each server 20. The processing shown in FIG. 5 may be performed.

Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described.

The block diagram of the network system of the second embodiment is similar to that of FIG.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a server table stored in the non-volatile storage unit 101 of the client 10.

As shown in FIG. 8, the server table 31
Is composed of only an address field 311 in which server addresses of n servers 20 to which the client 10 can be connected are stored.

The configuration diagram of the client table and the return information storage area stored in the main memory 202 of the server 20 is similar to that of FIG.

Also in this embodiment, similarly to the above-mentioned embodiment,
When a predetermined condition is satisfied during operation, the client 10 performs a sleep process that shifts the state of the client 10 to a sleep mode, and this sleep process restores the state immediately before the shift to the sleep mode. The return information necessary for this is saved in the return information storage area 40 of the server 20 via the network. Further, when a predetermined condition is satisfied in the sleep mode, the client 10 performs a resume process of returning to the state immediately before the transition to the sleep mode, and the resume process is stored in the return information storage area 40 of the server 20. The saved return information is acquired via the network.

Even in this embodiment, the sleep mode is
In reality, it is the same as when the power is off.

The operation of this embodiment will be described below.

When the client 10 shifts to the sleep mode, the client 10 executes the sleep program and the server 20 executes the client management program.

FIG. 9 is a processing flowchart of the sleep program.

The processing flow chart of the client management program is the same as that shown in FIG.

In the client 10, the sleep program is loaded into the main memory 103 and activated by the OS.

In the present embodiment as well, similar to the above-mentioned embodiment, the conditions for shifting to the sleep mode are not particularly specified.

As shown in FIG. 9, when the sleep program is activated, it executes the processing of steps 901 to 908 to determine the server 20 for saving the return information.

That is, the sleep program refers to the address field 311 of the server table 31 and controls the network control unit 102 to request the connection to the i-th server 20 indicated by the “server address i”, and the i-th server 20. When the connection with the server 20 is established, it sends a return information storage request and its own client address via the network. Here, the value of i is 1 ≦ i ≧ n.

When a connection is established with the i-th server 20 and a response indicating that the return information can be stored is returned, the server 20 that saves the return information To determine.

For all n servers 20,
The server 20 is damaged due to a network failure or the like.
If the connection with the server is not established, or if the response indicating that the return information cannot be stored is returned even if the connection with the server 20 is established (step 90).
7) Report to the user that the sleep mode cannot be entered (step 909).

Then, the return information is transmitted to the determined server 20 via the network (step 91).
0).

When the sleep program finishes processing,
The OS shifts the state of the client 10 to the sleep mode.

Also in this embodiment, as in the above-described embodiment, in the sleep mode, the power of the client 10 is turned off so that the power of the entire client 10 is turned off. Will be done. As described above, also in this embodiment, the sleep mode is actually the same as the state in which the power supply is cut off.

When the client 10 returns from the sleep mode, the boot program is executed in the client 10 and the client management program is executed in the server 20.

FIG. 10 is a processing flowchart of the boot program, and FIG. 11 is a processing flowchart of the client management program.

In the client 10, the boot program is automatically started when the power is turned on.

As shown in FIG. 10, when the boot program is started, steps 1001 to 100
Performing the process of step 8 to perform normal power-on (power-on when the return information is not saved) or power-on to restore from sleep mode (when the return information is saved) (When the power is turned on), and when it is determined that the power is to be returned from the sleep mode, the server 20 that saves the return information is further detected.

That is, the boot program refers to the address field 311 of the server table 31 and controls the network control unit 102 to request the connection to the i-th server 20 indicated by the “server address i”, and the i-th server 20. When the connection with the server 20 is established, it sends a return information transmission request and its own client address via the network.

When the connection with the i-th server 20 is established and a response indicating that the return information can be transmitted is returned, it is when the power is turned on to return from the sleep mode. It is determined that the server 20 is the server 20 that saves the return information.

Note that for all n servers 20,
The server 20 is damaged due to a network failure or the like.
If the connection with the server 20 is not established, or if a response indicating that the return information cannot be transmitted is returned even if the connection with the server 20 is established (step 10).
07), it is determined that the power is turned on normally, and normal startup processing is performed (step 1009).

However, in this case, since the case where the connection with the server 20 in which the return information is saved is not established is included, it is preferable to report to the user that normal startup has been performed. .

Thereafter, the return information is acquired from the detected server 20 (step 1010), and the state immediately before the shift to the sleep mode is restored.

When the boot program finishes the processing,
Start the OS.

On the other hand, in the server 20, when the client 10 sends the return information transmission request and the client address, the client management program returns O
It is activated by S.

As shown in FIG. 11, when started, the client management program performs the processing of steps 1101 to 1106 to store the return information transmission request and the return information of the client 10 that has transmitted the client address. Check whether or not

That is, referring to the address field 502 of the client table 50, the transmitted client address is stored, and the return information field 401 indicated by the pointer corresponding to the client address stores the return information. In this case, it is determined that the return information is stored. If the transmitted client address is not stored, or if the return information is not stored in the return information field 401 indicated by the pointer corresponding to the client address, it is determined that the return information is not stored. .

When it is determined that the return information is stored, a response indicating that the return information can be transmitted is returned to the client 10 via the network (step 1107), and then the client is returned. 10, the return information stored in the return information field 401 indicated by the pointer corresponding to the client address is transmitted to the server 10 (step 1108), and the return information is deleted from the return information field 401 (step 1108). 1109).

If it is determined that the return information is not stored, a response indicating that the return information cannot be transmitted is returned to the client 10 via the network (step 1110).

Also in this embodiment, as described above, when the resume program or the OS shifts the state of the client 10 to the sleep mode, information indicating that the client is in the sleep mode is stored in the non-volatile storage unit 101. You may do it.

Also in this embodiment, as described above, when the client 10 shifts to the sleep mode, the return information is saved in the return information storage area 40 of each of the plurality of predetermined servers 20. You may allow it.

By the way, in the above-described embodiment, the server 2
In the return information storage area 0 of 0, m return information fields 401 corresponding to the m clients 10 capable of storing return information by the server 20 are prepared. When the return information is saved in the return information storage area 40 of a certain server 20, the return information is stored in the return information field 401 corresponding to the client 10 in the return information storage area 40 of the server 20 other than the server 20. Cannot be saved, and the return information field 401 becomes useless.

Therefore, a method is conceivable in which, when the client 10 saves the return information, the server 20 secures the return information field corresponding to the client 10 in the return information storage area.

Hereinafter, such a case will be described as a third embodiment of the present invention.

The block diagram of the network system of the third embodiment is similar to that of FIG.

The configuration of the server table stored in the non-volatile storage unit 101 of the client 10 is the same as that shown in FIG.

FIG. 12 is a configuration diagram of a client table and a return information storage area stored in the main memory 202 of the server 20.

In the above embodiment, the return information storage area 4
0 means that the server 20 can store the return information.
The client 10 for each client
The return information storage area 41 has m return information fields 401 for storing the return information of the server 20 as shown in FIG. It is composed of m pieces of return information fields 411 for storing return information of the minute client 10.

Further, as shown in FIG. 12, the client table 51 has the number m of return information fields 411 of the return information storage area 41, that is, the number of clients 10 capable of storing return information. A valid / invalid field 511 storing valid / invalid flags indicating whether or not m pieces of return information of the client 10 are currently stored, and a client address of the client 10 storing return information. Of the return information storage area 41 and a pointer field 513 for storing m pointers indicating each of the return information fields 411 of the return information storage area 41.

Also in this embodiment, similarly to the above-mentioned embodiment,
When a predetermined condition is satisfied during operation, the client 10 performs a sleep process that shifts the state of the client 10 to a sleep mode, and this sleep process restores the state immediately before the shift to the sleep mode. The return information necessary for this is saved in the return information storage area 41 of the server 20 via the network. Further, in the sleep mode, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, the client 10 performs a resume process for returning to the state immediately before the transition to the sleep mode. This resume process is stored in the return information storage area 41 of the server 20. The saved return information is acquired via the network. However,
When the client 10 saves the return information, the server 20 reserves the return information field 401 in which the return information should be stored in the return information storage area 41.

Also in this embodiment, the sleep mode is
In reality, it is the same as when the power is off.

The operation of this embodiment will be described below.

When the client 10 shifts to the sleep mode, the client 10 executes the sleep program and the server 20 executes the client management program.

FIG. 13 is a processing flowchart of the client management program.

The processing flow chart of the sleep program is the same as that shown in FIG.

Also in this embodiment, the conditions for shifting to the sleep mode are not particularly specified, as in the above-mentioned embodiments.

Also in this embodiment, similarly to the above-described embodiments, in the sleep mode, the power of the client 10 is turned off so that the client 10 as a whole is powered off and the client 10 is powered on. Will be done. As described above, also in this embodiment, the sleep mode is actually the same as the state in which the power supply is cut off.

In the server 20, the client management program is activated by the OS when the client 10 sends a return information storage request and a client address.

As shown in FIG. 13, when the client management program is started, first, in steps 1301 to 1301.
The client 1 that has sent the return information storage request and the client address after performing the processing of step 1305
It is determined whether the return information of 0 can be stored.

That is, the client management program can store the return information when it refers to the valid / invalid field 511 of the client table 51 and detects the valid / invalid flag set to “invalid”. If it is determined that there is no valid / invalid flag set to “invalid”, it is determined that the return information cannot be stored.

When it is determined that the return information cannot be stored (step 1304), a response indicating that the return information cannot be saved is returned to the client 10 via the network ( Step 1306).

When it is determined that the return information can be stored (step 1303), a response indicating that the return information can be saved is sent back to the client 10 via the network. (Step 130
7), the valid / invalid flag set to "invalid" is set to "valid" (step 1308), and the client address of the client 10 is set to the address field corresponding to the valid / invalid flag set to "valid". 512
(Step 1309). Then, the return information transmitted from the client 10 is stored in the return information field 411 indicated by the pointer corresponding to the valid / invalid flag set to "valid" (step 131).
0).

When the client 10 returns from the sleep mode, the boot program is executed in the client 10 and the client management program is executed in the server 20.

FIG. 14 is a processing flowchart of the client management program.

The processing flow chart of the boot program is similar to that shown in FIG.

In the server 20, the client management program is started by the OS when the client 10 sends a return information transmission request and a client address.

As shown in FIG. 14, when the client management program is started, the client 10 which sent the return information transmission request and the client address is
The return information stored in the return information field 411 indicated by the pointer corresponding to the client address is transmitted via the network (step 1401).

Thereafter, the client address is deleted from the address field 512 (step 1402),
The valid / invalid flag corresponding to the client address is set to "invalid" (step 1403).

Also in the present embodiment, as described above, when the resume program or the OS shifts the state of the client 10 to the sleep mode, information indicating that the client is in the sleep mode is stored in the non-volatile storage unit 101. You may do it.

Also in this embodiment, as described above, when the resume program or the OS shifts the state of the client 10 to the sleep mode, the server address of the server 20 in which the return information is saved is stored in the nonvolatile storage unit. You may make it memorize | store in 101.

Also in this embodiment, as described above, when the client 10 shifts to the sleep mode, the return information is saved in the return information storage area 41 of each of the plurality of predetermined servers 20. You may allow it.

Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described.

The block diagram of the network system of the fourth embodiment is similar to that of FIG.

In this embodiment, similarly to the third embodiment, the server 20 sets the return information field of the return information storage area in which the return information should be stored when the client 10 saves the return information. However, the difference from the third embodiment is that the client 10
However, similarly to the second embodiment, only the information indicating the server 20 to which the client 10 can connect is held, and the information indicating the server 20 for which the return information is saved is held. There is no point.

Nonvolatile storage unit 101 of client 10
The configuration diagram of the server table stored in is similar to FIG. The configuration diagram of the client table and the return information storage area stored in the main memory 202 of the server 20 is the same as that of FIG.

Also in this embodiment, similarly to the above-mentioned embodiment,
When a predetermined condition is satisfied during operation, the client 10 performs a sleep process that shifts the state of the client 10 to a sleep mode, and this sleep process restores the state immediately before the shift to the sleep mode. The return information necessary for this is saved in the return information storage area 41 of the server 20 via the network. Further, in the sleep mode, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, the client 10 performs a resume process for returning to the state immediately before the transition to the sleep mode. This resume process is stored in the return information storage area 41 of the server 20. The saved return information is acquired via the network. However,
Similar to the third embodiment, the server 20 secures the return information field 401 in which the return information should be stored in the return information storage area 41 when the client 10 saves the return information. .

In this embodiment also, the sleep mode is
In reality, it is the same as when the power is off.

The operation of this embodiment will be described below.

When the client 10 shifts to the sleep mode, the client 10 executes the sleep program and the server 20 executes the client management program.

The processing flow chart of the sleep program is the same as that of FIG. 9, and the processing flow chart of the client management program is the same as that of FIG.

Also in this embodiment, the conditions for shifting to the sleep mode are not particularly specified, as in the above-mentioned embodiments.

Also in the present embodiment, as in the above-described embodiments, in the sleep mode, the power of the client 10 is turned off so that the client 10 as a whole is powered off and the client 10 is powered on. Will be done. As described above, also in this embodiment, the sleep mode is actually the same as the state in which the power supply is cut off.

When the client 10 returns from the sleep mode, the client 10 executes the boot program and the server 20 executes the client management program.

The processing flow chart of the boot program is the same as that shown in FIG.

FIG. 15 is a processing flowchart of the client management program of the server 20.

In the server 20, the client management program is activated by the OS when the client 10 sends a return information transmission request and a client address.

As shown in FIG. 15, when started, the client management program performs the processing of steps 1501 to 1505 to store the return information transmission request and the return information of the client 10 which has transmitted the client address. Check whether or not

That is, by referring to the address field 512 of the client table 51, it is checked whether or not the transmitted client address is stored. If the sent client address is stored in any of the m address fields 512, it is determined that the return information is stored, and the sent client address is stored in any of the m address fields 512. If the address is not stored, it is determined that the return information is not stored.

When it is determined that the return information is stored, a response indicating that the return information can be transmitted is returned to the client 10 via the network (step 1506) and then the client is returned. 10, a return information field 41 indicated by a pointer corresponding to the client address of the client 10 via the network.
The return information stored in 1 is transmitted (step 15).
07).

Thereafter, the client address of the client 10 is deleted from the address field 512 of the client table 51 (step 1508), and the valid / invalid flag corresponding to the client address of the client 10 is set to "invalid" (step). 150
9).

If it is determined that the return information is not stored, a response indicating that the return information cannot be transmitted is returned to the client 10 via the network (step 1510).

Also in this embodiment, as described above, when the resume program or the OS shifts the state of the client 10 to the sleep mode, the information indicating the sleep mode is stored in the non-volatile storage unit 101. You may do it.

Also in this embodiment, as described above, when the client 10 shifts to the sleep mode, the return information is saved in the return information storage area 41 of each of the plurality of predetermined servers 20. You may allow it.

By the way, in this embodiment, further,
When the server 20 cuts off its power supply and stops it, it transfers all the return information stored in itself to another server 20 which is operating at that time via the network. , The recovery information save destination is multiple servers 2
It can be managed dynamically between 0s. That is, the return information of the client 10 that has transitioned to the sleep mode can be stored in any one of the operating servers 20.

The operation of the server 20 in this case will be described below.

In the server 20, when the user inputs a stop instruction, the OS transfers all the return information stored in itself to another server 20 which is operating at that time via the network. After performing the processing, the power is turned off and the server 20 is stopped.

FIG. 16 is a processing flowchart of the OS.

As shown in FIG. 16, the OS first refers to the valid / invalid field 511 of the client table 51 to check all valid / invalid flags (step 1
(601 to step 1604, step 1616), it is determined whether each valid / invalid flag is set to "valid" (step 1603).

When the valid / invalid flag set to "valid" is detected, it means that the return information of the client 10 is stored. Therefore, the address field 512 corresponding to the valid / invalid flag is stored. From the above, the client address of the client 10 is acquired (step 1605), and then, similarly to steps 901 to 908 of FIG. 9, steps 1606 to 1613.
Is performed to determine the server 20 to which the return information of the client 10 is transferred.

That is, the OS is the network control unit 1
By controlling 02, the other servers 20 are sequentially
When a connection is requested and the connection with the server 20 is established, the return information storage request and the acquired client address are transmitted via the network. When the connection with the j-th server 20 is established and a response indicating that the return information can be stored is returned from the j-th server 20, the server 2 to which the return information is transferred by the server 20
It is determined to be 0. Here, the value of j is 1 ≦ j ≧ m−
It is 1.

Thereafter, the return information field 41 indicated by the pointer corresponding to the valid / invalid flag set to "valid" is provided to the determined server 20 via the network.
The return information stored in 1 is transmitted (step 16
14). Finally, the valid / invalid flag set to "valid" is set to "invalid" (step 161).
5), power off (step 1617), server 20
To stop.

If all of the other servers 20 are not connected to the server 20 due to a network failure or the like, or
Even if the connection with 0 is established, if a response indicating that the return information cannot be stored is returned, the return information cannot be transferred, but the power is cut off (step 1617). ), The server 20 is stopped.

For all valid / invalid flags,
If none of the valid / invalid flags set to "valid" can be detected, it means that the return information of the client 10 is not stored, so the power is cut off as it is (step 1617). ), The server 20 is stopped.

At this time, the client management program is executed in the operating server 20 among the other servers 20, and the processing flowchart of this client management program is the same as that in FIG.

In this way, when the server 20 shuts down by shutting down the power supply, the other server 20 which is in operation at that time
If all of the return information stored in itself is transferred to the server via the network, the return information of the client 10 that is in the sleep mode is stored in any one of the operating servers 20. Since it is stored in the server 20, the boot program in the client 10 can always detect the server 20 in which the return information is saved.

Therefore, in step 1007 of FIG.
When a response indicating that the return information cannot be transmitted is returned from all the servers 20 that have established connection among all the n servers 20, it is determined that the power is turned on normally, and Can be started. However, in this case, when connection with the server 20 is not established for all n servers 20 due to a network failure, that is, even one server 20 is in operation. If not, it is not possible to judge whether it is the power-on time for returning from sleep mode or the normal power-on time, so normal startup processing is performed, but report to that effect to the user. Preferably.

As described above, when the server 20 cuts off the power and stops, all of the return information stored by itself to the other server 20 which is operating at that time via the network. If it is set, the return information of the client 10 that has entered the sleep mode is stored in any one of the servers 20 that are in operation. Similarly, the sleep process and the resume process can be performed. Conversely, client 1
Similarly to the server 20, 0 may store the return information.

In other words, it is possible to construct a network to which an information processing device that serves both as the client 10 and the server 20 is connected.

[0180]

As described above, the present invention can perform sleep processing and resume processing in consideration of the entire network system.

Therefore, the information processing apparatus positioned as the client does not need a storage area for saving the return information, and the apparatus can be further downsized and the price can be reduced. Further, since the return information is saved in the server, the sleep mode is actually the same as the state in which the power is turned off, and the power saving effect is high.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of a network system according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram of a server table according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a configuration diagram of a client table and a return information storage area according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a processing flowchart of a sleep program according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a processing flowchart of a boot program according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a processing flowchart of a client management program according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a processing flowchart of a client management program according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a configuration diagram of a server table in the second embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a processing flowchart of a client management program according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a processing flowchart of a boot program according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a processing flowchart of a client management program in the second embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a configuration diagram of a client table and a return information storage area according to the third embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a processing flowchart of a client management program according to the third embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a processing flowchart of a client management program according to the third embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a processing flowchart of a client management program according to the fourth embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a processing flowchart of the OS according to the fourth embodiment.

[Explanation of symbols]

10 ... Client, 20 ... Server, 101 ... Nonvolatile storage unit, 102, 201 ... Network control unit, 10
3, 202 ... Main memory, 30, 31 ... Server table,
40, 41 ... Return information storage area, 50, 51 ... Client table, 301, 311, 501 ... Address field, 301, 511 ... Valid / invalid field, 40
1, 411 ... Return information field, 502, 513 ... Pointer field.

 ─────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continued Front Page (72) Inventor Hideki Kammaki 1099 Ozenji, Aso-ku, Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa Stock Company Hitachi Systems Development Laboratory (72) Inventor Takayuki Tamura 1099 Ozenji, Aso-ku, Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa Stock Company Hitachi Systems Development Laboratory

Claims (12)

[Claims] 1. At least one functioning as a client
In a network system in which one information processing device (hereinafter, referred to as a client) and at least one information processing device (hereinafter, referred to as a server) that functions as a server are connected to a network, The sleep means includes sleep means for turning off the power when a predetermined condition is satisfied, and resume means for returning the state of the client to the state immediately before the power is turned off when the power is turned on. Shuts down the power after saving the restoration information necessary for the resume means to restore the state of the client to at least one of the servers via the network, and the resume means , Retrieve the above return information from the server that is saving the above return information via the network. Network system, characterized by. 2. The network system according to claim 1, wherein when there are a plurality of servers, the client stores a server information storage area for storing server information indicating a server that saves the return information. The sleep means inquires of each of the servers as to whether or not it is possible to save the return information via the network, and sends the response from the inquired server. On the basis of this, at least one server for saving the return information is selected, the return information is saved to the selected server via the network, and the server information indicating the selected server is stored in the server information storage area. The resume means is a server indicated by the server information stored in the server information storage area. Of the return information from one of the servers via the network, and the server responds to an inquiry from the client as to whether or not the return information can be saved. A network system comprising a response means. 3. The network system according to claim 2, wherein the server stores a client information storage area storing client information indicating one or more clients whose return information can be saved in the server, and , A storage unit having a return information storage area for storing the return information of the client indicated by the client information, and the response unit inquires whether or not the return information can be saved from the client. If there is, the client information indicating the client is stored in the client information storage area, and if it is not stored, a response that it is possible is returned. Network system. 4. The network system according to claim 2, wherein the server stores a predetermined number of client information storage areas for storing client information indicating a client whose return information is saved in the server. And storage means having a return information storage area for storing the return information saved by the client indicated by the client information, and the client information indicating the client when the return information is saved by the client. Storage means for storing the client information in the client information storage area, and deleting the client information indicating the client from the client information storage area when the client obtains the return information, and the response means is the return information from the client. Whether it is possible to evacuate When an inquiry is made, if the number of client information stored in the client information storage area has not reached the predetermined number, it responds that it is possible. A network system characterized by responding. 5. The network system according to claim 1, wherein, when the number of the servers is plural, the sleep means can save the return information to each of the servers via the network. Inquiry is made, and based on the response from the response means of the inquired server, at least one server for which the restoration information is to be saved is selected, and the restoration information is saved to the selected server via the network. Then, the resume means inquires of each of the above-mentioned servers via the network whether or not the return information is saved, and based on the response from the inquired server, the server that saves the return information is instructed. Detecting the return information via a network from one of the detected servers, The server has a response means for inquiring whether the return information can be saved from the client and for responding to the inquiry as to whether the return information is saved. And network system. 6. The network system according to claim 5, wherein the server stores a client information storage area storing client information indicating one or more clients whose return information can be saved in the server, and , A storage unit having a return information storage area for storing the return information of the client indicated by the client information, and the response unit inquires whether or not the return information can be saved from the client. If there is, the client information indicating the client is stored in the client information storage area, a response indicating that it is possible is made, and if not stored, a response indicating that it is not possible is transmitted. When a client inquires whether the return information is saved, the client If return information is stored in the return information storage area, a network system, characterized in that in response to the effect that retracts, if not stored, in response to the effect that not retracted. 7. The network system according to claim 5, wherein the server stores a predetermined number of client information storage areas for storing client information indicating clients whose return information is saved in the server. And storage means having a return information storage area for storing the return information saved by the client indicated by the client information, and the client information indicating the client when the return information is saved by the client. Storage means for storing the client information in the client information storage area, and deleting the client information indicating the client from the client information storage area when the client obtains the return information, and the response means is the return information from the client. Whether it is possible to evacuate When an inquiry is made, if the number of client information stored in the client information storage area has not reached the predetermined number, a response indicating that it is possible is given. If the number is reached, it is not possible. If the client information indicating the client is stored in the client information storage area when the client makes an inquiry as to whether or not the return information is saved, it is saved. A network system characterized by responding to the effect and, if not stored, responding that it has not been saved. 8. The network system according to claim 7, wherein, even if at least one return information is stored in the return information storage area before the power is turned off, the server stores the return information in the network. A network system comprising return information transfer means for transferring to at least one other server via the network. 9. The network system according to claim 8, wherein said response means also responds to an inquiry from another server as to whether or not the return information can be saved, and said return information. The transfer means inquires of each of the other servers via the network whether or not it is possible to save the return information stored in the return information storage area, and the other means of inquiry from the other server Based on the response, select at least one server to transfer the return information, and to the selected server via the network,
A network system which transfers the return information. 10. An information processing device connected to a network together with one or more other information processing devices, wherein a sleep means for turning off the power when a predetermined condition is satisfied and a power supply for turning on the power supply. And a resume means for returning the state of the information processing apparatus to the state immediately before the power is turned off, the sleep means is provided with return information necessary for the resume means to return the state of the information processing apparatus, After saving the information to at least one of the other information processing devices via the network, the power supply is cut off, and the resume means is connected to the network from the information processing device saving the return information. An information processing apparatus, characterized in that the return information is acquired via the. 11. The information processing apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the sleep means inquires of each of the other information processing apparatuses whether or not the return information can be saved via the network. By doing so, at least one information processing apparatus for saving the return information is selected, the return information is saved to the selected information processing apparatus via the network, and the resume means is set for the other information processing apparatus. Each of the above, via the network, to inquire whether or not the return information is saved, and based on the response from the other information processing device of the inquiry destination, detect the information processing device for which the return information is saved, Information characterized in that the return information is acquired from one of the detected information processing apparatuses via a network. Management apparatus. 12. An information processing apparatus connected to a network together with at least one other information processing apparatus, saving return information necessary for returning to a state immediately before the power is cut off to itself. Device information storage area for storing a predetermined number of device information items indicating the information processing device, and return information storage for storing the return information saved by the information processing device indicated by the device information item When the storage unit having the area and the other information processing apparatus save the return information, the apparatus information information indicating the information processing apparatus is stored in the apparatus information storage area, and the other information processing apparatus stores the return information. A storage unit that, when acquired, deletes the device information indicating the information processing device from the device information storage area, and whether the return information can be saved from another information processing device. In case of inquiry,
If the number of device information stored in the device information storage area has not reached the predetermined number, it responds that it is possible, and if it has reached, it responds that it is not possible. If there is an inquiry from the information processing device of whether the return information is saved or not, and if the device information indicating the information processing device is stored in the device information storage area, the information indicating that the information is saved is displayed. An information processing device, comprising: a response unit that responds and, if not stored, responds that the evacuation is not performed.