Introduction; Edge Switch 2/24 Description - HP 316095-B21 - StorageWorks Edge Switch 2/24 Installation Manual

The HP StorageWorks Edge Switch 2/24 provides dynamic switched connections
between Fibre Channel servers and devices in a storage area network (SAN)
environment. SANs introduce the concept of server-to-device networking and
multi-switch fabrics, eliminate requirements for dedicated connections, and enable the
enterprise to become data centric.
A SAN provides speed, high capacity, and flexibility for the enterprise, and is
primarily based upon Fibre Channel architecture. The switch implements Fibre
Channel technology that provides a bandwidth of 2.125 Gbps, redundant switched
data paths, a scalable number of active ports, and long transmission distances.
This chapter describes the switch and attached HP StorageWorks HA-Fabric Manager
(HAFM) server. The chapter specifically discusses:
• Switch description including field replaceable units (FRUs) and front and rear
panel features.
• Switch management options.
• Operational features.
• Optional kits.

Edge Switch 2/24 Description

The Edge Switch 2/24 provides Fibre Channel connectivity through 24 generic mixed
ports (GX_Ports). Switch ports can be configured as:
• Fabric ports (F_Ports) to provide direct connectivity for up to 24 switched fabric
devices.
• Fabric loop ports (FL_Ports) to provide arbitrated loop connectivity and fabric
attachment for FC-AL devices. Each FL_Port can theoretically support the
connection of 126 FC-AL devices.
• Expansion ports (E_Ports) to proved interswitch link (ISL) connectivity to fabric
directors and switches.
edge switch 2/24 installation guide

Introduction

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