Ethernet Port

Port Types

Switch modules support generic ports (G_Port, GL_Port), fabric ports

(F_Port, FL_Port), and expansion ports (E_Port). Switch modules come from the factory with all Fibre Channel ports configured as GL_Ports. Generic, fabric, and expansion ports function as follows:

A GL_Port self-configures as an FL_Port when connected to a public loop device, as an F_Port when connected to a single public device, or as an E_Port when connected to another switch. If the device is a single device on a loop, the GL_Port will attempt to configure first as an F_Port, then if that fails, as an FL_Port.

A G_Port self-configures as an F_Port when connected to a single public device, or as an E_Port when connected to another switch.

An FL_Port supports a loop of up to 126 public devices. An FL_Port can also configure itself during the fabric login process as an F_Port when connected to a single public device (N_Port).

An F_Port supports a single public device.

E_Ports enable you to expand the fabric by connecting switch modules with other switches. Switch modules self-discover all inter-switch connections. Refer to “Multiple Chassis Fabrics” on page 2-6for more information about multiple chassis fabrics. Refer to the EFCM Basic Management Guide for information about defining port types.

Ethernet Port

The Ethernet port shown in Figure 1-7is an RJ-45 connector that provides a connection to a management workstation through a 10/100 Base-T Ethernet cable. A management workstation can be a Windows® or a Linux® workstation that is used to configure and manage the switch fabric. You can manage the switch module over an Ethernet connection using EFCM BASIC, the Command Line Interface (CLI), or SNMP. The switch through which the fabric is managed is called the fabric management switch.

The Ethernet port has two LEDs: the Link Status LED (green) and the Activity LED (green). The Link Status LED illuminates continuously when an Ethernet connection has been established. The Activity LED illuminates when data is being transmitted or received over the Ethernet connection.

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McDATA 4314 Fibre Channel Switch Module Installation Guide

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McDATA 4314 manual Ethernet Port, Port Types

4314 specifications

The McDATA 4314 is a highly regarded Fibre Channel switch designed for enterprise storage area networks (SANs). This switch is particularly known for its reliability, high performance, and scalability. As part of McDATA's extensive range of networking products, the 4314 stands out for its ability to meet the demands of modern data centers, providing seamless connectivity for numerous storage and server devices.

One of the main features of the McDATA 4314 is its robust architecture, which supports up to 32 ports. This enables a flexible configuration that can easily scale as the needs of the organization grow. The switch is characterized by its ability to handle both FC-AL and FC-SW protocols, thus providing compatibility with a wide range of existing Fibre Channel devices. This versatility makes it ideal for organizations looking to enhance their existing infrastructure without the need for a complete overhaul.

In terms of performance, the McDATA 4314 supports high bandwidth requirements, with each port capable of delivering up to 4 Gbps. This high throughput is critical for data-intensive applications, ensuring low latency access to data stored on SAN devices. Additionally, the switch incorporates advanced technologies such as dynamic load balancing and intelligent pathing, which further optimize traffic flow and enhance overall system performance.

Security is a key consideration in any data center environment, and the McDATA 4314 addresses this with features such as zoning and masking. These capabilities ensure that only authorized devices can access specific data, safeguarding sensitive information from potential breaches. Moreover, the switch supports management protocols like SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol), allowing for seamless integration into existing network management systems and enabling administrators to monitor performance and troubleshoot efficiently.

In terms of characteristics, the McDATA 4314 is designed for high availability, with redundant components that minimize downtime in critical environments. Furthermore, its compact form factor allows for efficient rack space utilization, making it a practical choice for organizations with space constraints.

Overall, the McDATA 4314 Fibre Channel switch provides a combination of performance, reliability, and scalability, making it an ideal choice for enterprise environments. Its advanced features and robust design ensure that organizations can maintain high levels of performance while effectively managing their storage networks. Whether supporting virtualized environments or managing extensive data storage, the McDATA 4314 is a valuable asset for any data center infrastructure.