Section 3

Planning

Consider the following when planning a fabric:

„Devices

„Device access

„Performance

„Multiple chassis fabrics

„Fabric security

„Fabric management

3.1

Devices

When planning a fabric, consider the number of devices and the anticipated demand. This will determine the number of ports that are needed and the number of switches. Consider how many and what types of switches are needed.

The switch uses SFP optical transceivers, but the device host bus adapters you are using may not. Consider whether the device adapters use SFP transceivers or Gigabit Interface Converters (GBIC), and choose fiber optic cables accordingly. Use LC-type cable connectors for SFP transceivers and SC-type cable connectors for GBIC transceivers.

SANbox2 switches support public initiator and target devices. Consider the distribution of target and initiator devices. An F_Port supports a single public device. An FL_Port can support up to 126 public devices in an arbitrated loop.

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3-1

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Q-Logic 2-8C manual Planning, Devices

2-8C specifications

The Q-Logic 2-8C is a cutting-edge connectivity solution designed for enterprise environments that require robust performance and scalability in storage networking. This versatile product serves as a bridge between various storage devices and servers, ensuring seamless data transfer and high availability across complex IT infrastructures.

One of the standout features of the Q-Logic 2-8C is its advanced Fibre Channel technology. Supporting speeds of up to 32 Gbps, this adapter significantly enhances data transfer rates, allowing businesses to efficiently handle large volumes of information. The high bandwidth capability is particularly beneficial for data-intensive applications, including databases and virtualization environments, where speed and reliability are paramount.

The architecture of the Q-Logic 2-8C is built around a dual-port design, which promotes redundancy and load balancing. This means that even if one port encounters issues, the other can seamlessly take over, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity. Furthermore, the dual-port architecture provides the flexibility to connect to multiple storage arrays, maximizing resource utilization and minimizing downtime.

Another notable feature is the support for advanced management protocols and interoperability standards. The Q-Logic 2-8C is compatible with a wide array of operating systems and virtualization platforms, making it an ideal choice for heterogeneous environments. This broad compatibility ensures that organizations can integrate the adapter with their existing infrastructure without significant modifications, thus preserving their overall investment.

The Q-Logic 2-8C also incorporates sophisticated security features, such as end-to-end data encryption and access control mechanisms. These features are essential in today’s data-sensitive landscape, where organizations face increasing threats from cyberattacks. The added layer of security ensures that data remains protected during transit, giving businesses peace of mind.

In terms of energy efficiency, the Q-Logic 2-8C adheres to modern standards, consuming less power compared to its predecessors. This not only reduces operational costs but also aligns with sustainability initiatives that many organizations are pursuing.

With its powerful combination of speed, reliability, security, and energy efficiency, the Q-Logic 2-8C represents a robust solution for organizations looking to enhance their storage connectivity. Its advanced features cater to the demands of modern data centers, making it a strategic asset for businesses aiming to maintain a competitive edge in the ever-evolving digital landscape.