Abstract; Introduction; Hp Bladesystem C-Class Architecture - HP BL685c - ProLiant - 4 GB RAM Connectivity Manual

Abstract

Storage Area Network (SAN) connectivity with HP BladeSystem c-Class server blades is distinctly
different from SAN connectivity with other HP ProLiant servers. This paper describes the hardware and
software required to connect BladeSystem c-Class server blades to SANs
interconnect technology.

Introduction

By centralizing data storage, Storage Area Networks (SANs) make it easier to manage stored data
than in a Direct Attached Storage environment. SANs also support disaster recovery solutions that are
easier to implement. HP BladeSystem c-Class architecture offers unique flexibility for connecting server
blades to storage systems to provide high-performance, robust, and manageable SANs. Both HP
BladeSystem c7000 and c3000 enclosures support SAN connectivity over Fibre Channel.

HP BladeSystem c-Class architecture

The HP BladeSystem c-Class architecture is modular and flexible enough to easily accommodate
changing business needs. The BladeSystem c-Class architecture was first implemented in the HP
BladeSystem c7000 Enclosure, a 10U-sized unit that can support half-height and full-height server
blades, storage blades, and single-wide and double-wide interconnect modules (Figure 1). Front-
loading server or storage blades and rear-loading interconnect modules slide into the enclosure and
mate with a signal midplane that provides data connections, including those for optional interfaces.
The enclosure also houses power supplies and HP Active Cool Fans. An HP Insight Display on the
front of the enclosure provides convenient local access to determine system status.
Figure 1. Architecture of the HP BladeSystem c7000 Enclosure
1 For information about supported HP StorageWorks SAN configurations, refer to the "HP StorageWorks SAN
design reference guide" at
http://h20000.www2.hp.com/bc/docs/support/SupportManual/c00403562/c00403562.pdf.
1 using Fibre Channel (FC)
2