Q-Logic 8C manual Multiple Chassis Fabrics, Domain ID, Principal Priority, and Domain ID Lock

Models: 8C

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3 – Planning

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Multiple Chassis Fabrics

3.2

Multiple Chassis Fabrics

By connecting switches together you can expand the number of available ports for devices. Each switch in the fabric is identified by a unique domain ID, and the fabric will automatically resolve domain ID conflicts. Because the ports are self-configuring, you can connect SANbox2-8c and other FC-SW-2 compliant switches together in a wide variety of topologies.

3.2.1

Domain ID, Principal Priority, and Domain ID Lock

The following switch configuration settings affect multiple chassis fabrics:

Domain ID

Principal priority

Domain ID lock

The domain ID is a unique number from 1–239 that identifies each switch in a fabric. The principal priority is a number (1–255) that determines the principal switch which manages domain ID assignments for the fabric. The switch with the highest principal priority (1 is high, 255 is low) becomes the principal switch. If the principal priority is the same for all switches in a fabric, the switch with the lowest WWN becomes the principal switch.

The domain ID lock allows (FALSE) or prevents (TRUE) the reassignment of the domain ID on that switch. Switches come from the factory with the domain ID set to 1, the domain ID lock set to FALSE, and the principal priority set to 254. Refer to the SANbox2-8c/16 Switch Management User’s Guide for information about changing the domain ID using SANbox Manager. Refer to the ”Set Config Command” on page B-25for information about changing the default domain ID, domain ID lock, and principal priority parameters.

An unresolved domain ID conflict means that the switch with the higher WWN will isolate as a separate fabric, and the Logged-In LEDs on both switches will flash to show the affected ports. If you connect a new switch to an existing fabric with its domain ID unlocked, and a domain ID conflict occurs, the new switch will isolate as a separate fabric. However, you can remedy this by resetting the new switch or taking it offline then back online. The principal switch will reassign the domain ID and the switch will join the fabric.

Note: Domain ID reassignment is not reflected in zoning that is defined by domain ID/port number pair or Fibre Channel address. You must reconfigure zones that are affected by domain ID reassignment. To prevent zoning definitions from becoming invalid, use the Set Config Switch command to lock the domain IDs. Refer to the ”Set Config Command” on page B-25.

3-2

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Q-Logic 8C manual Multiple Chassis Fabrics, Domain ID, Principal Priority, and Domain ID Lock

8C specifications

The Q-Logic 8C is a high-performance network interface card designed for data centers and enterprise environments, catering specifically to the needs of modern storage networking demands. This advanced product seamlessly integrates with both Fibre Channel and Ethernet networks, allowing for flexible and efficient storage management.

One of the standout features of the Q-Logic 8C is its support for both Fibre Channel over Ethernet (FCoE) and iSCSI protocols. This dual-protocol capability provides organizations with the flexibility to utilize their existing investment in storage while adopting new technologies as their needs evolve. The card’s ability to handle both protocols enhances overall operational efficiency and reduces costs.

The 8C also incorporates advanced virtualization technologies, which are essential for modern cloud environments. With built-in support for virtualized workloads, the Q-Logic 8C allows for optimal performance within virtual machine environments. It is designed to reduce CPU overhead, which can lead to improved application performance and resource utilization across the board.

In terms of characteristics, the Q-Logic 8C boasts an impressive data throughput rate, reaching up to 32 Gbps per port. This high bandwidth ensures that data-intensive applications can run smoothly without the bottlenecks often encountered in traditional storage networking setups. Additionally, the card supports multiple queues per port, facilitating efficient data processing and load balancing across applications.

Another key technology featured in the Q-Logic 8C is its advanced security protocols. It incorporates built-in encryption capabilities, ensuring that sensitive data remains secure during transmission. This is particularly important for organizations that handle confidential information and must comply with stringent data protection regulations.

The Q-Logic 8C is also designed with power efficiency in mind. Its energy-efficient architecture reduces power consumption, contributing to lower operational costs for data centers striving to minimize their carbon footprint.

In summary, the Q-Logic 8C is a versatile and high-performance network interface card that integrates seamlessly into modern data center architectures. With its dual-protocol support, advanced virtualization capabilities, high throughput, security features, and energy efficiency, it stands out as a comprehensive solution for organizations looking to enhance their storage networking infrastructure. Whether in traditional environments or complex cloud setups, the Q-Logic 8C provides the performance and flexibility required to meet today’s demanding data requirements.