Sun Microsystems SL8500 Computer Drive User Manual


 
96154 Revision K 39
CHAPTER
3
Host to Library Communications
This chapter describes host and server support, the connections from the library to the
server.
Host Interfaces
Host interface connections to the library are done with one of two methods:
TCP/IP protocol over an Ethernet 10/100-baseT physical interface.
Fibre Channel physical interface using SCSI commands and protocol.
TCP/IP
The SL8500 library uses TCP/IP protocol over an Ethernet physical interface to manage
and communicate with the library. This interface enables both enterprise-level (HSC)
and open system platforms (ACSLS) to connect to and communicate with the SL8500.
Note – A private network connection to an Ethernet hub or switch is recommended for
maximum throughput and minimum resource contention.
The HBC card is the library controller responsible for coordinating all component
operations within the library and providing the interface connection with the host.
There are two separate Ethernet connections on the HBC card for host to library
communications—Ports 2A and 2B.
Port 2A provides the Dual TCP/IP host connection—this is an optional feature for
SL8500 libraries..
Port 2B provides the primary connection for host communications—this is the
standard connection for SL8500 libraries.