See "SNMP MIBs support (on page 42)" for more information on the SNMP agents. This section also describes how to use the MIBs to configure and monitor the switch using a generic SNMP manager, such as HP OpenView Network Node Manager or HP Systems Insight Manager.

Cabling the switch

CAUTION: Do not cable the switch until after configuration.

To connect the switch to the network:

1.Connect the network cables to the switch.

2.Gather the network cables for the right side of the rack.

3.Insert the end of the cable-retaining bracket (provided with the bus bar and power bus boxes) into the cable bracket (1).

4.Tighten the thumbscrew to secure the cable retaining bracket over the cables (2).

Supporting software and special considerations

Supporting software is available to assist in configuring and managing the switch.

Server Blade and Power Management Module Firmware—Provides firmware and installation instructions required for proper rack location operation.

Utilities package and documentation—Provides utilities and documentation for switch management.

Firmware Upgrade Smart Component (for Microsoft Windows only)—Provides quick and easy installation of the switch firmware, firmware upgrade tool, and readme file. A SoftPaq is available for use with Linux operating systems.

The utilities package and documentation, and the SoftPaq listed above, are available on the HP website (http://www.hp.com/go/bladesystem/documentation).

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HP GbE2c manual Cabling the switch, Supporting software and special considerations

GbE2c specifications

The HP GbE2c is a high-performance Ethernet Switch designed to meet the increasing demands of data center environments. As a critical component in Hewlett-Packard's networking lineup, the GbE2c provides a seamless blend of speed, reliability, and advanced networking capabilities, making it an essential tool for enterprises aiming to enhance their network infrastructure.

One of the standout features of the HP GbE2c is its support for Gigabit Ethernet, which allows for high-speed data transmission and reduced latency. This switch is designed to support the growing bandwidth needs of modern applications, ensuring that data is transmitted quickly and efficiently across the network. The GbE2c is particularly beneficial for organizations implementing virtualization technologies, as its Gigabit interfaces help in optimizing data flow between virtual machines.

The GbE2c also incorporates advanced Layer 2 and Layer 3 switching capabilities. This ensures that it can handle both basic and more complex networking tasks, such as routing traffic between different VLANs and enabling Internet Protocol (IP) addressing. The switch supports various protocols, enabling seamless integration into a wide range of network environments.

Additionally, the HP GbE2c is equipped with a robust management system that allows network administrators to easily configure and monitor network settings. With its user-friendly interface, administrators can gain insights into traffic patterns, performance metrics, and potential issues, helping to maintain optimal network performance.

Power efficiency is another key characteristic of the HP GbE2c. The switch is designed to minimize power consumption without sacrificing performance, making it a more sustainable choice for data centers aiming to reduce their carbon footprint. This energy-efficient design is crucial for enterprises looking to lower operational costs while maintaining a high level of service.

The HP GbE2c also boasts high availability features, including redundant power supplies and failover options, ensuring that the network remains operational even in the event of a component failure. This reliability is critical for businesses that require uninterrupted network access for their daily operations.

In summary, the HP GbE2c Ethernet Switch combines speed, versatility, and efficiency, making it an ideal choice for businesses seeking to enhance their networking capabilities. Its robust feature set, advanced management options, and focus on energy efficiency position it as a top-tier solution in the competitive networking landscape. Organizations can rely on the GbE2c to deliver high performance and reliability, thus meeting the demands of today's data-intensive environments.