An adapter for converting an interface of a data storage device is
provided. The adapter includes a first interface for connection to the
interface of the data storage device and a second interface for connection
to a plurality of host systems. The first interface may be an ATA or SCSI
interface and the second interface may be a SSA or FC-AL interface
suitable for attachment to multiple host systems. Conversion means are
provided by the adapter for converting commands and data between the first
and second interfaces. The adapter also has means for sorting commands and
data to and from the plurality of host systems. The adapter acts as a
single host system for the data storage device and includes means for
retrieving error information from the data storage device in the event of
a command terminating in an error. The adapter also comprises means for
entering an error handling state with one of the plurality of host systems
that persists until terminated by the host system and means for
transferring the retrieved error information to the host system.
