Mellanox Technologies MTS3600

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Summary

MTS3600 InfiniBand Switch Overview

Installation and Configuration

Installation Topics

Details on hot-swapping power supplies, fan units, connecting interfaces, and updating firmware are covered in the user manual.

Firmware and Software

Firmware Updates

Information on checking for the latest firmware releases and management tools for the Mellanox switch.

Recommended Software

Guidance on installing Mellanox OpenFabrics software stacks for Linux and Windows environments.

Customer Support

Contacting Support

Methods for obtaining assistance, including reseller contact, technical support via web, email, and phone.

The Mellanox MTS3600 is a 36-port InfiniBand Switch, part of the InfiniScale® IV series. This Quick Start Guide provides essential information for its installation, setup, and support.

Function Description:

The Mellanox MTS3600 is designed to provide high-performance InfiniBand connectivity for data centers and high-performance computing (HPC) environments. As a 36-port InfiniBand switch, it facilitates communication between servers, storage systems, and other InfiniBand-enabled devices, enabling low-latency and high-bandwidth data transfer. The InfiniScale IV architecture ensures efficient and scalable network performance. The switch supports the installation of Mellanox OpenFabrics software stacks on all connected nodes, which include a subnet manager, network management tools, and connectivity software for servers and storage. These software packages, such as MLNX_OFED for Linux and MLNX_WinOF for Microsoft® Windows®, are crucial for optimizing the switch's functionality within a larger network infrastructure.

Important Technical Specifications:

The MTS3600 is a 36-port InfiniBand switch, indicating its capacity for connecting up to 36 InfiniBand devices. The "InfiniScale IV" designation refers to the generation of Mellanox's InfiniBand switch silicon, which typically implies advancements in performance, power efficiency, and feature set compared to previous generations. While specific bandwidth per port (e.g., SDR, DDR, QDR, FDR) is not explicitly stated in this document, the InfiniScale IV series generally supports high-speed InfiniBand standards. The switch is designed to operate with hot-swappable components, including power supply units and fan units, which are critical for maintaining continuous operation and simplifying maintenance. It comes with either one or two hot-swappable auto-sensing power supply units and one hot-swappable fan unit. The inclusion of a CD ROM with a User's Manual suggests comprehensive documentation for detailed technical specifications and configuration options.

Usage Features:

The MTS3600 is designed for straightforward installation and initialization, particularly in rack-mounted environments. The Quick Start Guide emphasizes the importance of following normal mechanical, power, and thermal precautions during installation. The switch is compatible with Mellanox OpenFabrics software stacks, which provide essential tools for network management, subnet management, and server/storage connectivity. Users are encouraged to install these software packages (MLNX_OFED for Linux and MLNX_WinOF for Windows) on all nodes connected to the switch to leverage its full capabilities. The user manual, available on an enclosed CD and online, provides detailed instructions for connecting to optional management interfaces, allowing for remote configuration and monitoring of the switch. The auto-sensing power supply units simplify power management, adapting to available power sources.

Maintenance Features:

The MTS3600 incorporates several features to facilitate easy maintenance and ensure high availability. Key among these are the hot-swappable components:

Hot-swappable power supply units: The switch is equipped with one or two hot-swappable auto-sensing power supply units. This allows for the replacement of a faulty power supply without powering down the entire switch, minimizing downtime and ensuring continuous operation. The user manual provides instructions for hot-swapping these units.
Hot-swappable fan unit: The inclusion of a hot-swappable fan unit similarly allows for the replacement of a fan without interrupting the switch's operation, which is crucial for maintaining optimal thermal conditions and preventing overheating. Instructions for hot-swapping the fan unit are also found in the user manual.
Firmware updates: Mellanox provides regular firmware updates to enhance performance, add new features, and address any issues. Users are advised to check the Mellanox website for the latest firmware releases to ensure their switch is running with the most up-to-date software. The user manual includes instructions for updating the firmware.
Software updates: Similarly, Mellanox OpenFabrics software stacks are regularly updated. Users are encouraged to download the latest versions of MLNX_OFED for Linux and MLNX_WinOF for Windows from the Mellanox website to benefit from improved functionality and bug fixes.
Comprehensive documentation: The Quick Start Guide, along with the detailed User's Manual (provided on CD and online), offers extensive instructions for installation, configuration, troubleshooting, and maintenance, empowering users to manage the device effectively.
Technical support: Mellanox offers multiple channels for technical support, including web resources, email support, and phone support in both the US and Israel, ensuring that users can get assistance when needed. This includes support for product issues, configuration challenges, and general inquiries.