8.9.3 Beacon Recovery in the 8260

Beacon recovery in the 8260 has been improved by distributing the beacon recovery process to each of the 8260 token-ring media modules (both active and passive). This allows you to manage an 8260 consisting of multiple token-ring segments using a single DMM and protect multiple rings from beacon problems without the need to have one DMM for each segment.

Each 8260 token-ring media module has a built-in chip called Recovery ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) which provides beacon recovery for the stations attached to that media module.

8.9.3.1 Recovery ASIC

The recovery ASIC has two entities. These two entities are called ″Upstream Recovery ASIC″ or URA and ″Downstream Recovery ASIC″ or DRA. Both entities have a burnt-in MAC address. These MAC addresses are only used for beacon recovery and do not limit the maximum number of MAC addresses on a ring.

In the case of module switching modules, the Recovery ASIC is always attached to the ring configured for that module and the URA is located between the backplane and the first port of the module while DRA is located between the backplane and the last port of that module. This is shown in Figure 93.

Figure 93. Recovery ASIC in Module Switching Module

In the case of per-port switching modules, as the ports on the module can be attached to multiple backplane segments, the Recovery ASIC is not connected to any of the backplane rings under normal operating conditions. Instead, associated with each port is a function called Ring Monitor (see 8.9.3.2, ªRing Monitor on the Per-Port Switching Moduleº on page 157 for details) which is placed upstream of its associated port and monitors for beaconing condition. As soon as a beacon condition is detected on one of the rings to which this module′s ports are attached, then the Recovery ASIC will be inserted into that ring to provide the beacon recovery function. In this case, the DRA will be placed between the backplane and the last port of this module on the beaconing ring. Also, the URA will be inserted into the backup path if ports 17 and 18 are configured as trunk ports. This is shown in Figure 94 on page 156.

Chapter 8. 8260 Token-Ring Support 155

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IBM 8260 manual Recovery Asic in Module Switching Module
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8260 specifications

The IBM 8260 is a significant entry in the realm of enterprise servers, recognized for its performance, scalability, and robust features designed to cater to demanding business environments. It primarily serves as a high-capacity server for large organizations, capable of handling extensive workloads and complex applications without compromising speed or efficiency.

One of the standout features of the IBM 8260 is its powerful processing capabilities. It typically comes equipped with multiple processor units based on the IBM POWER architecture, which is renowned for its high-performance computing. This architecture allows the server to execute numerous simultaneous tasks, making it ideal for environments that require multitasking and high throughput.

Memory capacity is another key characteristic of the IBM 8260. Depending on the specific configuration, it can support substantial amounts of RAM, ensuring that applications can run effectively without the bottlenecks often associated with data-intensive tasks. This is crucial for enterprises that rely on real-time data analytics, large database management, and resource-heavy applications.

In terms of storage, the IBM 8260 offers flexible options. It supports a variety of storage solutions, including solid-state drives (SSDs) and traditional hard drives, catering to different performance and capacity needs. This scalability in storage helps organizations manage their data effectively while ensuring quick access and retrieval times.

Connectivity is also a prominent feature of the IBM 8260. The server includes advanced networking capabilities, supporting various protocols and technologies that facilitate fast data transfer and communication between devices. This enhances overall network performance, essential for businesses that depend on cloud computing and distributed computing environments.

Additionally, the IBM 8260 is designed with a focus on reliability and availability. It incorporates redundant components, such as power supplies and cooling systems, minimizing the risk of downtime. This is critically important for enterprises that require continuous availability of services.

The server’s management features are also noteworthy. IBM provides a suite of management tools that allow IT administrators to monitor performance, configure hardware settings, and troubleshoot issues seamlessly. This ease of management is bolstered by automation capabilities, enabling organizations to enhance operational efficiency.

In conclusion, the IBM 8260 stands out in the competitive server landscape due to its high processing power, extensive memory and storage options, advanced connectivity, reliability features, and robust management tools. Such attributes make it a viable choice for organizations seeking to enhance their IT infrastructure and streamline their operations effectively.
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