Quickloop Basics - HP StorageWorks MSA 2/8 - SAN Switch User Manual

Introducing QuickLoop

QuickLoop Basics

A QuickLoop consists of multiple private arbitrated looplets (a set of devices
connected to a single port) that are connected by a fabric. All devices in a
QuickLoop share a single AL_PA bit-map and behave as if they are in one loop.
This allows private devices to communicate with other devices over the fabric,
provided they are in the same QuickLoop. A QuickLoop can be configured to
consist of selected devices or looplets connected to the ports of one switch, or to a
cascaded switch pair.
QuickLoop provides a possible migration path from a hub to a fabric-based SAN.
QuickLoop-enabled switches can be used to replace hubs when the SAN is first
deployed and has only private devices attached. Fabric switches can be added
without any detrimental effect to the QuickLoop-enabled switches.
12 QuickLoop Fabric Assist Version 3.1.x User Guide