Ix-Brick - Silicon Graphics Origin 3900 User Manual

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Chapter 4

IX-brick

The IX-brick is an I/O expansion subsystem that connects I/O devices to your server by
using either the PCI or PCI-X protocol. The PCI-X protocol enables I/O devices to
operate at clock speeds of up to 133 MHz, or 1 GB/s. This protocol also enables I/O
devices to operate more efficiently, thereby providing a higher sustained bandwidth at
any clock frequency. By supporting this protocol, the IX-brick addresses the need for
increased bandwidth of PCI devices.
The IX-brick also has the components (SCSI disk drives and DVD-ROM) that are
required to install your operating system and other software applications.
This chapter describes the function and physical components of the IX-brick. Specifically,
it includes the following information:
• "Product Overview" on page 66
• "External Components" on page 70
• "PCI and PCI-X Card Configuration Guidelines" on page 74
• "Technical Specifications" on page 76
Note: Throughout this chapter, the term "PCI card" refers to cards with PCI or PCI-X
capabilities. When necessary, distinctions between the cards are noted.
Note: For information about installing or replacing a PCI card, see "Installing or
Replacing PCI or PCI-X Card" on page 202.
Note: For information about installing or replacing a SCSI disk drive, see "Installing or
Replacing Disk Drives in IX-brick" on page 211.
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