FC Host Connection Prerequisites
3-1
Chapter 3
Subsystem Connection
This chapter outlines some general configuration rules you should use when
configuring a storage system and introduces basic information about Fibre
optical cables and Fibre Channel topologies for the subsystem. You can set
up the subsystem using these topologies or use them as a guide for
developing your own unique topologies. A complete description of the
power on and power off procedures is also given in this chapter.
3.1 FC Host Connection Prerequisites
3.1.1 Choosing the Fibre Cables
The Fibre Channel standard allows for both copper and optical connections.
Copper cable is cheaper but limited to lengths of less than 30m (33 yards).
Optical cable can be used over longer distances and have been shown to be
more reliable. Due to the extreme demands of high data transfer rates,
optical cables are preferred for 4Gbps Fibre connectivity. Optical cables are
also less susceptible to EMI.
Fibre cables are expensive components that need to be purchased separately.
You may order Fibre optical cables (GAL-9270CFCCab01, GAL-
9270CFCCab02, GAL-9270CFCCab03) of different lengths from Rorke
Data or your subsystem vendor. These cables have been tested and proven to
be compatible with your subsystems.
The Fibre host ports connect to Fibre Channel host adapters (HBA) that
features a 4Gbps transfer rate, SFP interface, and support for full-duplex
transfer, best capable of operating with 64-bit/133MHz PCI-X or higher
standard interfaces.
HBA performance is closely related to the best performance this subsystem
can bring you. If HBA is inadequately configured, for example, installed on
a slow system bus, the host link bandwidth will be limited.
