HP StorageWorks 4000/6000/8000 - Enterprise Virtual Arrays, Reference Manual

Page: 157 / 456

7 M-series switches and fabric rules
This chapter describes the M-series switches and the fabric rules for building M-series fabrics. It
describes the following topics:
• M-series switches , page 157
• Fibre Channel fabric rules , page 161
NOTE:
See “ SAN fabric connectivity and switch interoperability rules ” on page 167 for information about
using switches from the different series in the same SAN or the same fabric.
M-series switches
M-series switches:
• Can be core or edge switches. When configured in a core-edge fabric topology, a core switch
typically connects to other switches in the SAN; an edge switch typically connects to servers and
storage.
• Have 10, 12, 24, 32, 64, or 140 ports.
• Include entry-level and high-availability switches.
• Use the same level of internal firmware for the same switch models.
• Support plug-and-play compatibility.
• Support iSCSI (see “ iSCSI storage ” on page 355) and FCIP (see “ SAN extension ” on page 279).
Contact an HP storage representative for information about switch model support with iSCSI and
FCIP.
The M-series switches offer:
• High availability
• Scalability
• Cost efficiency
SAN Design Reference Guide 157