4 – Installation

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Loading Firmware

4.2.8

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. Refer to the SANbox2 Switch Management User’s Guide for more information about configuring ports. You can also configure ports using the CLI. Refer to Appendix B for information about the CLI.

4.2.9

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

Loading Firmware

The switch comes with current firmware installed. However, you can upgrade switch firmware from a Windows, Solaris, or Linux workstation. 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.

4.3.1

Using File Transfer Protocol to Load Firmware

To load and activate new firmware, do the following:

1.Connect a workstation to the switch through the Ethernet port.

2.Move to the folder or directory that contains the new firmware image file.

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Q-Logic SANBOX2-8C manual Configure the Ports, Cable Devices to the Switch, Loading Firmware

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.