Sun Microsystems StorageTek StreamLine SL8500, System Assurance Manual

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TCP/IP Connectivity
202 SL8500: Systems Assurance Guide • July 2011 E24254-01
Diagnosing TCP/IP Problems
If communication problems arise, problems can be diagnosed by using the
following methods:
1. Use a “sniffer” (a device or program used to trace the network traffic for the
library).
2. Display the port statistics on the switch or hub to which the library is
connected. Search for any errors that were encountered.
3. Run a trace with the library management software that displays host-to-
library packets and transmissions.
Solutions
If possible, use a dedicated private network for host management software-to-
library communication.
If, however, a shared network is required, possible solutions are:
1. Directly connect the library to a switch that filters out undirected
(broadcast) traffic.
2. Place the library on its own subnet—this may protect the library from
receiving broadcast messages.
3. Use a managed switch—this can:
- Set priorities on ports to supply the host and library with higher priority
- Provide dedicated bandwidth between the host and library
- Create a virtual local area network (VLAN) between the host and
library
4. A virtual private network (VPN) can also insulate host-to-library traffic from
other interference, such as irrelevant broadcasts.
Gigabit Ethernet Connections
The SL8500 library does not support native Gigabit Ethernet (Gig-E)
connections.
Remember, the SL8500 network is only between the ACSLS server or ELS/
HSC host and Gig-E communications and speed is not necessary.
When connecting to Gig-E networks, choose a switch or router that can
convert to 100 Mbps for the library.
There is not an issue of what the customer puts on the other side of the server,
host, or library to their clients.