Manuals / IBM / Computer Equipment / Switch

IBM 8260 manual Fault Tolerant Controller Module Overview

Models: 8260

1 354
Download 354 pages 1.89 Kb
Page 51
Image 51

Chapter 3. 8260 Fault Tolerant Controller Module

The 8260 Fault Tolerant controller module is a critical component of the 8260. One active controller module is always required in order to keep the 8260 hub operational and running. Unlike the 8250 controller module, the 8260 Fault Tolerant Controller module does not occupy any of the payload slots because it resides on either slot 18 and/or 19 in the hub which are reserved for the controller modules. This chapter provides you with detailed information about the 8260 Fault Tolerant Controller module.

3.18260 Fault Tolerant Controller Module Overview

The controller module is an essential component of the 8260 and provides the following functions:

∙

∙

Clock generating and its distribution across Enhanced TriChannel and ShuntBus

This provides the clocking to the backplane and synchronizes the operation of all the installed modules.

Monitoring the hub temperature and taking appropriate action in overheated conditions

When the hub temperature rises in a particular area, the overheated condition is signaled to the controller module. Then, the controller module may power down 8260 modules within that area according to the power classes assigned to the modules. This will be done to bring down the temperature of the hub to an acceptable limit.

∙Inventory and intelligent power management

Each 8260 module has a serial EEPROM which is used for power management and inventory purposes. The EEPROM is programmed at manufacturing and includes information about how much power the module requires, its serial number, model number, the vendor ID, and its hardware revision level. Upon insertion into the hub, the 8260 modules will send Vital Product Data (VPD) and their power requirements over the control bus (SCI) to the controller module.

The controller module also has knowledge of how many power supplies are installed in the hub and how much of the power is used by the currently installed modules; therefore, it is able to determine if there is enough power left in the hub to power up the new module. If the answer is yes, the controller module will apply full power to the module allowing it to operate normally. The controller module will also update its internal power tables to take into account the power consumption of the new module. Finally, the controller module informs the DMM of the VPD of the newly inserted module. Via the DMM command, you can also display information about the power supplies installed and the amount of power used by the existing modules. More details about the intelligent power subsystem and the role the controller module plays in managing the power for the hub is found in Chapter 5, ª8260 Intelligent Power Management Subsystemº on page 73.

© Copyright IBM Corp. 1995

29

Page 50 Page 52
Page 51
Image 51
IBM 8260 manual Fault Tolerant Controller Module Overview
Page 50 Page 52

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.