4 – Installation

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Installing Firmware

4.2.7

Configure the Ports

Configuring a port involves defining the port mode and setting the frame sequencing if necessary. For public devices and other switches, a switch automatically sets the port mode as each port discovers the type of device to which it is connected.

A GL_Port will self configure as an FL_Port when connected to a loop of public devices or an F_Port when connected to a single device. A G_Port will self configure as an F_Port when connected to a single public device. Both GL_Ports and G_Ports self configure as E_Ports when connected to another switch. The default port mode is GL_Port. Refer to the SANbox2-8c/16 Switch Management User’s Guide for more information about configuring ports. You can also configure ports using the CLI. Refer to Appendix B Command Line Interface for more information.

4.2.8

Cable Devices to the Switch

Connect cables to the SFP transceivers and their corresponding devices, and then energize the devices. Device host bus adapters can have SFP (or SFF) transceivers or GigaBit Interface Converters (GBIC). LC-type duplex fiber optic cable connectors are designed for SFP transceivers, while SC-type connectors are designed for GBICs. Duplex cable connectors are keyed to ensure proper orientation. Choose the fiber optic cable with the connector combination that matches the device host bus adapter.

4.3

Installing Firmware

The switch comes with current firmware installed. You can upgrade the firmware from the management workstation as new firmware becomes available. Firmware installation involves loading the firmware image file onto the switch, unpacking the image file, and then resetting the switch to activate the new firmware. New firmware can be loaded on the switch while the switch is operating without disrupting service. However, you must reset the switch to activate the new firmware, which does disrupt service.

You can use the SANbox Manager application or the CLI to install new firmware:

The SANbox Manager application loads and unpacks the firmware image file in one operation. Refer to ”Using SANbox Manager to Install Firmware” on page 4-15.

When using the CLI on a workstation that has an FTP server, you can open a Telnet session and load and unpack the firmware image file using the CLI Image command. Refer to ”Using the CLI to Install Firmware” on page 4-15.

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Q-Logic 8C manual Configure the Ports, Cable Devices to the Switch, Installing Firmware

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.