FC-AL devices employ a high-performance serial interface, which supports multiple standard protocols such as Small Computer Systems Interface (SCSI) and Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM). By supporting these standard protocols, FC- AL preserves any investment in legacy systems, firmware, applications, and software.

The unique features of FC-AL provide many advantages over other data transfer technologies. For additional information about FC-AL technology, visit the Fibre Channel Association Web site at http://www.fibrechannel.org.

The following table lists the features and advantages of FC-AL technology.

TABLE 3-4FC-AL Features and Advantages

FC-AL Features

Advantages

 

 

Supports 100-Mbyte per second data transfer rate (200 Mbytes per second with dual porting).

Capable of addressing up to 127 devices per loop (controlled by a single controller)1.

Provides for reliability, availability, and serviceability (RAS) features such as hot- pluggable and dual-ported disks, redundant data paths, and multiple host connections.

Supports standard protocols.

Implements a simple serial protocol over copper or fiber cable.

Supports redundant array of independent disks (RAID).

High throughput meets the demands of current generation high-performance processors and disks.

High connectivity controlled by one device allows flexible and simpler configurations.

RAS features provide improved fault tolerance and data availability.

Migration to FC-AL produces small or no impact on software and firmware.

Configurations that use serial connections are less complex because of the reduced number of cables per connection.

RAID support enhances data availability.

1 The 127 supported devices include the FC-AL controller required to support each arbitrated loop.

42 Sun Fire V490 Server Administration Guide • August 2004

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V490 specifications

Sun Microsystems V490 is a robust, high-performance server that was launched in the mid-2000s. It is part of Sun's Enterprise line of servers, specifically designed to meet the needs of businesses requiring reliability, scalability, and efficiency in their computing environments. The V490 is well-regarded for its versatility and ability to handle demanding applications.

At the heart of the V490 is its support for the UltraSPARC IV processor. The server can be configured to contain up to four processors, allowing it to deliver exceptional parallel processing capabilities. The UltraSPARC IV architecture enhances throughput and efficiency, making it suitable for enterprise applications and database management tasks.

One of the standout features of the V490 is its memory capacity. The server can support up to 64 GB of RAM, which allows for extensive caching and improved performance for memory-intensive applications. Coupled with a high bandwidth architecture, the V490 ensures that data can be processed quickly and effectively.

The V490 also emphasizes storage flexibility. It comes equipped with multiple disk drive bays, allowing for a combination of SATA and SAS drives. This flexibility enables businesses to tailor their storage solutions according to their specific performance and redundancy requirements. The V490 supports hot-swappable drives, making maintenance and upgrades considerably easier without taking the server offline.

In terms of connectivity, the Sun V490 features a variety of networking options. It includes multiple Gigabit Ethernet ports, ensuring high-speed data transfer and redundancy. Additionally, the server supports advanced input/output capabilities, making it compatible with various peripherals and external storage solutions.

Sun Microsystems V490 runs on the Solaris operating system, known for its stability and security. This OS enhances the server's performance while providing a reliable platform for mission-critical applications. The V490 also supports virtualization technologies, allowing organizations to run multiple operating systems and applications on a single hardware platform, thus optimizing resource utilization.

Another key characteristic of the V490 is its thermal efficiency. The server is designed with an advanced cooling system that minimizes energy consumption while maximizing performance. This focus on power efficiency aligns with modern data center requirements for sustainability and reduced operational costs.

In summary, the Sun Microsystems V490 is a powerful enterprise server that combines the latest processing technologies, substantial memory and storage capabilities, and robust networking options. Its scalability, along with advanced virtualization support and energy-efficient design, makes it a suitable choice for organizations looking to enhance their IT infrastructure. The V490 remains a testament to Sun Microsystems' commitment to delivering high-quality, reliable computing solutions.
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