1.2.2 The Intelligent Cooling Subsystem

The cooling subsystem consists of 3 fans, each of which cools a specific area of the hub. Each of the fans has a sensor to detect a slow or stopped condition and a temperature sensor to detect an over temperature condition. In conjunction with the Controller module and the DMM the hub environment can be monitored and controlled for over temperature conditions. Fan and Temp LEDs on the Controller module can also alert the user to potential problems. The intelligent cooling subsystem is described in detail in Chapter 6, ª8260 Intelligent Cooling Subsystemº on page 91.

1.2.2.1 Distributed Management Architecture

To fully manage the 8260 and the installed modules, the 8260 uses a distributed management architecture. In this architecture, the various tasks of managing the various elements of the hub are distributed across the following elements:

Distributed management module

MAC daughter cards

Controller module

There are 2 types of distributed management module (DMM):

Stand-alone DMM

EC-DMM

In terms of management functions, DMM and EC-DMM are identical. The only difference between these two cards is their ability to house Ethernet MAC daughter cards.

The DMM, along with the fault-tolerant Controller module, manages and controls the 8260 hub and its modules. However, to perform certain management functions such as network traffic monitoring, there is a need for a daughter card to assist DMM. There are two types of daughter cards:

Ethernet Media Access (E-MAC) daughter card

Token-ring Media Access (T-MAC) daughter card

The combination of DMM and daughter cards provides a cost efficient management architecture that consolidates media management into a single card, while distributing network monitoring across a series of protocol dependent daughter cards. Detailed information about the distributed management architecture of the 8260 and the management modules and daughter cards is provided in Chapter 4, ª8260 Distributed Management Architectureº on page 35.

1.2.3 8260 Model 010

The 8260 Model 010 is a 10-slot intelligent hub that shares many of the advanced features of the 8260 Model 017. It differs from the Model 017 in the following areas:

It offers 10 payload slots, rather than 17.

It allows up to three power supplies, rather than four. The basic 8260 Model 010 is shipped with a single power supply, and up to two additional power supplies can be added later. The same power supplies are used on both models.

Chapter 1. An Overview of the IBM 8260 Hub 7

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IBM manual Intelligent Cooling Subsystem, 3 8260 Model, Distributed Management Architecture

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.