2.3 IB6566 South Bridge, PCI Interface | Intel STL2 specification

STL2 Server Board Architecture Overview

STL2 Server Board TPS

2.4.2.3IB6566 South Bridge

The IB6566 South Bridge is a PCI device that provides multiple PCI functions in a single package: PCI-to-ISA bridge, PCI IDE interface, PCI USB controller, and power management controller. Each function within the IB6566 South Bridge has its own set of configuration registers. Once configured, each appears to the system as a distinct hardware controller sharing the same PCI bus interface.

On the STL2 baseboard, the primary role of the IB6566 South Bridge is to provide the gateway to all PC-compatible I/O devices and features. The STL2 server board uses the following IB6566 South Bridge features:

∙PCI interface

∙IDE interface

∙USB interface

∙PC-compatible timer/counters and DMA controllers

∙Baseboard Plug-and-Play support

∙General purpose I/O

∙Power management

∙APIC and 82C59 interrupt controller

∙Host interface for AT compatible signaling

∙Internal only ISA bus (no ISA expansion connectors) bridge for communication with Super I/O, BIOS flash and BMC

The following sections describe each supported feature as used on the STL2 server board.

2.4.2.3.1PCI Interface

The IB6566 South Bridge fully implements a 32-bit PCI master/slave interface, in accordance with Revision 2.2 of the PCI Local Bus Specification. On the STL2 server board, the PCI interface operates at 33 MHz, using the 5V-signaling environment.

2.4.2.3.2PCI Bus Master IDE Interface

The IB6566 South Bridge acts as a PCI-based enhanced IDE 32-bit interface controller for intelligent disk drives that have disk controller electronics on-board. The server board includes a single IDE connector, featuring 40 pins (2 x 20) that support a master and a slave device. The IDE controller provides support for an internally mounted CD-ROM.

The IDE controller has the following features:

∙PIO and DMA transfer modes

∙Mode 4 timings

∙Transfer rates up to 33 MBps

∙Buffering for PCI/IDE burst transfers

∙Master/slave IDE mode

∙Support for up to two devices

2-14

STL2 specifications

The Intel STL2, known as the Intel Storage Technology Level 2, is a robust solution designed to elevate storage management and performance for enterprise-level applications. This next-generation system is specifically tailored for organizations that demand high reliability, scalability, and efficiency in their storage solutions.

One of the primary features of the Intel STL2 is its advanced data protection mechanisms. With integrated RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) support, it ensures that data remains safe, even in the event of hardware failure. RAID configurations can be easily set up and managed, allowing businesses to choose the right balance between performance and redundancy based on their unique requirements.

In terms of performance, the STL2 leverages cutting-edge SSD (Solid State Drive) integration to provide high-speed data access and reduced latency. This capability is essential for modern applications that require quick retrieval of large volumes of data, making it suitable for environments like data analytics, AI, and cloud computing.

Scalability is another significant characteristic of the Intel STL2. It is designed to grow alongside an organization’s needs, supporting a diverse range of storage architectures. Whether a company is looking to expand its data center or transition to hybrid cloud solutions, the STL2 can accommodate additional storage resources effortlessly, ensuring that performance does not degrade as storage demands increase.

Moreover, the STL2 features advanced automation and management tools that simplify storage operations. The system allows for real-time monitoring and analytics, providing insights into storage health, performance metrics, and capacity forecasts. This level of visibility enables IT teams to optimize resource utilization and proactively address potential issues before they become critical.

Another notable technology integrated into the STL2 is Intel’s Open Storage Architecture, which promotes interoperability with various software and hardware platforms. This open approach facilitates seamless integrations with existing systems and enhances flexibility within dynamic IT environments.

Lastly, Intel STL2 prioritizes energy efficiency. Its design minimizes power consumption without sacrificing performance, helping organizations reduce their operational costs and carbon footprint.

In summary, the Intel STL2 stands out in the competitive landscape of storage solutions with its focus on data protection, high performance, scalability, advanced management features, open architecture compatibility, and energy efficiency. These characteristics make it an ideal choice for businesses looking to enhance their data storage capabilities in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.