traffic associated with it is switched to the redundant (secondary) controller. This switching occurs without any user intervention. When the primary link is restored to an operational state, the Ethernet traffic switches back to the primary Ethernet controller.

High Performance Ethernet Modes: Your Ethernet controller supports optional modes, such as teaming, priority packets, and virtual LANs, which provide higher performance and throughput for your server.

Teaming Mode: Your Ethernet controller provides options, called teaming options. These options increase throughput and fault tolerance when running with Windows NT 4.0 or NetWare 4.1x or later.

•Adapter fault tolerance (AFT) provides automatic redundancy for your adapter. If the primary adapter fails, the secondary adapter takes over. Adapter fault tolerance supports from 2 to 4 adapters per team.

•Adaptive load balancing (ALB) allows you to balance the transmission data flow among 2 to 4 adapters. ALB also includes the AFT option. You can use ALB with any 100BASE-TX switch.

•Cisco Fast EtherChannel (FEC) creates a team of 2 to 4 adapters to increase transmission and reception thoughput. FEC also includes the AFT option. You can only use FEC with a switch that has FEC capability.

Teaming requires you to use both of the integrated Ethernet controllers. For additional information about the teaming modes, refer to the documentation that comes with these additional adapters.

Priority Packet Mode: Priority Packet is a traffic-prioritization utility that enables you to set up filters to process high-priority traffic before normal traffic. You can send information from critical nodes or applications with an indicated priority. Because you set this priority at the host or entry point of the network, the network devices can base forwarding decisions on priority information defined in the packet.

Priority Packet information is available on the IBM Networking Web site at:

http://www.ibm.com/networking/support

Priority Packet prioritizes traffic based on priority filters. These are parameters you assign to outgoing (transmit) packets. Using the Priority Filter Wizard, you can set up predefined or custom priority filters based on a node (MAC) address, Ethernet type, or by various properties of the protocol and port. Priority Packet provides two different methods for prioritizing traffic: IEEE 802.1p tagging and High Priority Queue.

IEEE 802.1p is a new IEEE standard for tagging, or adding additional bytes of information to packets with different priority levels. Packets are tagged with 4 additional bytes, which increase the packet size and indicate a priority level. When you send these packets out on the network, the higher priority packets are transferred first. Priority packet tagging (also known as Traffic Class Expediting) allows the adapter to work with other elements of the network (such as switches and routers) to deliver priority packets first. You can assign specific priority levels from 0 (low) to 7 (high).

You can assign values to packets based on their priority when you use the IEEE 802.1p standard for packet tagging. This method requires a network infrastructure that supports packet tagging. The routing devices receiving and transferring these packets on your network must support 802.1p for tagging to be effective.

After you set up the priority filter in Priority Packet, you must launch IBMSet and select 802.1p/802.1Q Tagging on the Advanced tab.

68 Hardware Maintenance Manual: xSeries 330

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xSeries 330 specifications

The IBM xSeries 330 is a versatile and reliable server designed to meet the demands of small to medium-sized businesses and enterprise environments. This server model, part of IBM’s xSeries line, is known for its solid performance, expandability, and robust features.

One of the main highlights of the xSeries 330 is its scalability. The server supports multiple configurations, with options for single or dual Intel Pentium III processors, allowing it to handle various workloads efficiently. It can accommodate up to 8GB of RAM, which is essential for running memory-intensive applications smoothly. This capacity ensures that businesses can upgrade their systems rather than replace them, providing a cost-effective solution for managing growing data needs.

In terms of storage, the xSeries 330 offers flexible options with up to six hot-swap hard drives. This feature enhances the server's uptime, as drives can be replaced without shutting down the system. The server supports RAID configurations, including RAID 0, 1, and 5, enhancing data protection and performance.

Connectivity is another critical aspect of the xSeries 330. It comes equipped with multiple PCI slots, allowing for the addition of various expansion cards to improve functionality, such as network controllers, graphics cards, and storage controllers. The server also provides integrated network management tools, which enable efficient monitoring and comprehensive troubleshooting, reducing downtime and maintenance efforts.

The xSeries 330 is supported by IBM's advanced management technologies, including the IBM Director. This software simplifies remote management, enabling IT personnel to monitor system health, perform updates, and automate tasks without the need to be physically present at the server location. Additionally, the server includes features like Automatic Server Restart and Predictive Failure Analysis, which help to predict and prevent potential hardware failures.

The design of the xSeries 330 emphasizes ease of use, with tool-less access to components, making upgrades and maintenance straightforward. Its compact form factor ensures that it can fit into diverse server environments, from traditional server rooms to modern data centers.

In summary, the IBM xSeries 330 stands out for its powerful performance, scalability, and management capabilities. These features make it a valuable asset for businesses looking to enhance their operational efficiency and prepare for future growth. With its reliability and versatile architecture, the xSeries 330 continues to be a respected choice among IT professionals.
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