Flex System FC3172 2-port 8Gb FC Adapter
Product Guide
The Flex System™ FC3172 2-port 8Gb FC Adapter enables high-speed access for Flex System compute
nodes to connect to a Fibre Channel storage area network (SAN). This adapter is based on the proven
QLogic 2532 8Gb ASIC design and works with the 8 Gb and 16 Gb Flex System Fibre Channel switches
and pass-thru modules.
Figure 1 shows the Flex System FC3172 2-port 8Gb FC Adapter.
Figure 1. Flex System FC3172 2-port 8Gb FC Adapter
Did you know?
The performance bottleneck with Fibre Channel storage typically exists in the switching. By moving to 8 Gb
adapters and switches, you can optimize the bottleneck to the storage controller, where it can be managed
by expanding the disks attached to storage. When compared to the previous-generation 4 Gb adapters, the
new-generation 8 Gb adapters double the throughput speeds for Fibre Channel traffic. As a result, you can
manage increased amounts of data and possibly benefit from a reduced hardware expense.
The adapter connects to the midplane directly, without having to use cables or small form-factor pluggable
(SFP) modules. By eliminating these components for up to 14 servers, the resulting savings alone can cover
the investment in the chassis.
Flex System FC3172 2-port 8Gb FC Adapter
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