Sun Microsystems StorageTek SL500 Reference Manual

Topologies
96122 • Revision: F Chapter 4 Fibre Channel Physical Interface 35
Arbitrated Loop with Hub
Arbitrated loops become more viable when they include a hub, a device containing
bypass circuitry for configurations of 8 to 16 ports. See FIGURE 4-1.
Hubs
Sun StorageTek libraries are designed to work with hubs that create an arbitrated
loop with the following capabilities:
■ Provides port bypass functionality for port failures
■ Centralizes the attachment—within the arbitrated loop—of the tape drives in the
library
■ Establishes connections with either copper or fiber optic cables
■ Provides translation of physical media (such as copper to optical fiber)
■ Provides an external power supply for the port bypass
■ Allows cascading to increase tape drive/library and initiator attachment
■ Supports the ability to power on and off, install or deinstall tape drives or
libraries
■ Provides a central point of port management and monitoring of the tape drives
and libraries
■ Extends the distances between tape drives/libraries and initiators
FIGURE 4-1 Arbitrated Loop with Hub
SERVER LIBRARY
ENCLOSURE
TAPE
DRIVE
TAPE
DRIVE
TAPE
DRIVE
SL500
LIBRARY
HUB
FIBRE
CHANNEL
ARBITRATED
LOOP
1
2
3
4
5
6

Sun Microsystems StorageTek SL500 Specifications

General

Brand	Sun Microsystems
Model	StorageTek SL500
Category	Storage
Language	English