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Ethernet-Host Connections
Ethernet cable requirements:
Ethernet cables are user-supplied. Cat5e shielded STP type network
cables or better performance types (important for meeting the
requirements imposed by emission standards).
Straight-through Ethernet cables with RJ-45 plugs.
Use of cross-over cables can also be automatically detected and
re-routed for a valid connection.
Connection types:
Directly to iSCSI initiators (software or hardware) or via Gigabit
Ethernet switches.
To servers equipped with iSCSI HBA
– preferably a hardware TOE
(TCP/IP Offload Engine) card, and then to client stations with an
Ethernet NIC or iSCSI HBA.
The system presents its logical volumes through SCSI-like IDs and
LUNs. These RAID volumes then appear as iSCSI targets through the
network.
NOTE
Even though iSCSI initiator software is a cost-effective way of building an
iSCSI SAN, software initiator adds additional workload to the server CPU. It is
recommended to apply iSCSI HBAs that come with TCP/IP offload engines in
order to reduce overhead.
