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 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 Switch Management User’s Guide for information about changing the domain ID using SANbox Manager. Refer to the ”Set Config Command” on page B-24for information about changing the default domain ID domain ID lock, and principal priority settings.

If you connect a set of SANbox2 switches then power them up together, the principal switch will reassign any domain ID conflicts and establish the fabric. For any switch with a domain ID conflict and a domain ID lock set to TRUE, that switch will isolate as a separate fabric.

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 with its domain ID unlocked (domain ID lock = FALSE) to an existing fabric 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.

3-2

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Q-Logic SANBOX2-8C manual Multiple Chassis Fabrics, Domain ID, Principal Priority, and Domain ID Lock

SANBOX2-8C specifications

The Q-Logic SANBOX2-8C is a high-performance Fibre Channel switch designed for enterprise-level storage area networks (SANs). This product stands out due to its remarkable features and technologies that cater to the evolving demands of data center environments. The SANBOX2-8C is specifically engineered to optimize storage efficiency, enhance performance, and provide a robust infrastructure for various applications.

One of the key features of the SANBOX2-8C is its 8-Gbps Fibre Channel ports, which deliver exceptional bandwidth and reduced latency for critical data transactions. The switch supports a non-blocking architecture, ensuring that data can flow seamlessly across all connected devices without bottlenecks. This architecture is crucial for organizations that require high availability and reliability, such as those in the financial sector or healthcare industries.

Another significant characteristic of the SANBOX2-8C is its scalability. With support for multiple interconnectivity options, the switch can easily be expanded to accommodate growing storage needs. Users can integrate additional ports as demand increases without necessitating a complete infrastructure overhaul. This flexibility makes the SANBOX2-8C an attractive investment for organizations looking to future-proof their SAN.

Moreover, the SANBOX2-8C is equipped with advanced management tools that simplify network configuration and monitoring. Features such as automatic zoning and path management enhance the overall performance and security of the storage network. Integrated diagnostic tools help identify and troubleshoot issues swiftly, reducing downtime and optimizing operational efficiency.

The switch also incorporates cutting-edge technologies, including Quality of Service (QoS) capabilities that prioritize critical data traffic. This ensures that mission-critical applications receive the bandwidth they need, regardless of overall network load. Additionally, with support for virtualized environments, the SANBOX2-8C is well-suited for organizations leveraging cloud technologies or virtualization solutions, enabling efficient resource allocation and management.

Overall, the Q-Logic SANBOX2-8C is a robust Fibre Channel switch that combines high performance, scalability, and advanced management features. Its ability to adapt to dynamic environments while ensuring high availability and data integrity makes it an ideal choice for businesses aiming to enhance their storage networks. With these technologies and characteristics, the SANBOX2-8C remains a leading solution in the SAN infrastructure market.