Q-Logic 59096-04 Switch User Manual


 
59096-04 A 3-1
Section 3
Planning
Consider the following when planning a fabric:
Devices
Device Access
Performance
Feature Licensing
Multiple Chassis Fabrics
Switch Services
Fabric Security
Fabric Management
3.1
Devices
When planning a fabric, consider the number of devices and the anticipated
demand. This will determine the number of ports that are needed and in turn the
number of switches. Consider how many and what types of switches are needed.
The switch uses SFP transceivers in the 1/2/4-Gbps ports, but the device host bus
adapters you are using may not. Consider whether the device adapters use SFP
or Gigabit Interface Converters (GBIC) transceivers, and choose fiber optic cables
accordingly. Use LC-type cable connectors for SFP transceivers and SC-type
cable connectors for GBIC transceivers. Also consider the transmission speed
compatibility of your devices, HBAs, switches, and SFPs.
Consider the distribution of targets and initiators. An F_Port supports a single
device. An FL_Port can support up to 126 devices in an arbitrated loop.
NOTE: This document refers to ports 0–15 as 1/2/4-Gbps ports for
convenience though SANbox 5200 Series switches do not support
4-Gbps transmission.