Setting the qfe Device Driver

Parameters

This section describes how to set the qfe device driver parameters in three ways:

Using the ndd utility

Using the qfe.conf file

To set device driver parameters dynamically while the system is running, use the ndd utility. For example, on a hot-swap system, you can use the ndd utility to display and set parameters for qfe devices without rebooting the system. However, if you reboot the system, or if the system shuts down, the parameters revert back to their default settings. Using the ndd utility is a good way to display the current configuration and to test different parameter settings.

To set parameters for a single qfe device (or a subset of qfe devices) in the system permanently, set the parameters in the /kernel/drv/qfe.conf file. While the parameters values set in the qfe.conf file persist after the system is rebooted, you do not need to reboot the system in order for the parameter changes to take effect. You can use your system’s hot-swap commands to apply the qfe.conf changes to the qfe devices.

Using the ndd Utility to Set and Display Parameters

The following sections describe how you can use the ndd utility to modify (with the -setoption) or display (without the -setoption) the parameters for each SUNW,qfe device.

Identifying Device Instances

Before you use the ndd utility to display or to set a parameter for a qfe device, you must specify the device instance number for the utility, because there will be at least four SUNW,qfe devices. You can find the instance numbers of the qfe devices in the /etc/path_to_inst file.

Appendix B Configuring the Sun Quad FastEthernet Device Driver Parameters 65

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Sun Microsystems 6U manual Setting the qfe Device Driver Parameters, Using the ndd Utility to Set and Display Parameters

6U specifications

Sun Microsystems, a prominent player in the computing industry, made significant contributions to the development of high-performance hardware and software solutions. One of the notable products from the company is the 6U form factor, which refers to a specific standard for rack-mounted equipment. The 6U standard is particularly relevant in the context of server architecture, storage solutions, and other critical systems used in enterprise environments.

The 6U form factor typically stands at 10.5 inches in height, accommodating various configurations of hardware components while ensuring a compact footprint. This size makes it ideal for data centers and server rooms, where space is often at a premium. Sun Microsystems effectively utilized this form factor in its server lineup, catering to performance and density requirements.

A defining feature of Sun Microsystems' 6U models is their modular architecture. These servers support a range of powerful processors, including the UltraSPARC series, renowned for their high processing capabilities and energy efficiency. The use of the UltraSPARC architecture allows for robust multitasking and parallel processing, making these systems suitable for demanding applications such as database management and enterprise resource planning.

Moreover, Sun Microsystems integrated advanced memory technologies within their 6U designs. The servers support large amounts of RAM, utilizing technologies like ECC (Error-Correcting Code) memory to enhance data integrity. This is crucial for mission-critical applications where data loss can result in substantial operational impact.

In terms of connectivity, the 6U form factor features a variety of interfaces, including high-speed Ethernet ports, Fibre Channel connections, and USB ports. These options enable seamless integration into existing network infrastructures, facilitating efficient data transfer and storage management.

Storage solutions within the 6U framework include support for multiple RAID configurations and high-capacity disk drives. Sun Microsystems provided options for both SSD and traditional HDD storage, allowing organizations to tailor their systems to meet specific performance and capacity needs.

In addition to hardware characteristics, Sun Microsystems placed a strong emphasis on software compatibility. Their systems were designed to run a variety of operating systems, including Solaris, Linux, and Windows, thereby providing flexibility for enterprises to deploy their preferred software environments.

Overall, the 6U form factor from Sun Microsystems symbolizes the company's commitment to delivering high-performance, reliable, and scalable computing solutions. By combining innovative technology with practical design, Sun Microsystems created servers that met the diverse needs of businesses and paved the way for advancements in enterprise computing.