Specifications

28 Implementing IBM System Networking 10Gb Ethernet Switches
Using the CEE and FCoE functionality, you can transfer storage, network, Voice over IP
(VoIP), video, and other data over the common Ethernet infrastructure. With the use of the
QLogic Virtual Fabric Extension Module, clients can achieve FCoE gateway functionality
inside the BladeCenter chassis.
The IBM Virtual Fabric 10Gb Switch Module can be used both in IBM Virtual Fabric Mode and
Switch Independent Mode. The switch module can be managed by using a command-line
interface (CLI) or web browser interface.
If you have a chassis with multiple servers, several operating at 1 Gbps, several at 10 Gbps,
and several transmitting converged packets, this single switch can handle all of these
workloads and can connect to a 1 Gb infrastructure, to a 10 Gb infrastructure, or both. Also
after initial installation, this switch, along with all other IBM System Networking RackSwitches
or IBM BladeCenter Switches, can be managed through IBM System Networking
Element Manager.
With the extreme flexibility of this switch, you can take advantage of the technologies that are
required for multiple environments. For 1 Gbps uplinks, they can take advantage of SFP
transceivers. For 10 Gbps uplinks, they have a choice of either SFP+ transceivers (short
range or long range for longer distances, or direct-attached copper (DAC) cables (also known
as Twinax active cables) for shorter distances. DAC cables are more cost-effective, consume
less power, and can be up to 7 m in length. They are ideal for connecting chassis together,
connecting to a Top-of-Rack switch, or even connecting to an adjacent rack.
Figure 1-16 shows the IBM Virtual Fabric 10Gb Switch Module.
Figure 1-16 IBM Virtual Fabric 10Gb Switch Module
Table 1-9 lists the part number and feature code to use to order the module.
Table 1-9 IBM Virtual Fabric 10Gb Switch Module part number and feature code
The part number includes the following items:
򐂰 One IBM Virtual Fabric 10Gb Switch Module
򐂰 One 3 m mini-USB-to-DB9 serial console cable
򐂰 One filler module
򐂰 Virtual Fabric 10Gb Switch Module Installation Guide
򐂰 User license agreement
Description Part
number
Feature
code
IBM Virtual Fabric 10Gb Switch Module for IBM BladeCenter 46C7191 1639