HP 3PAR VMware ESX Implementation Guide

HP 3PAR OS Persistent Ports for FC
The HP 3PAR OS Persistent Ports (or virtual ports) feature minimizes I/O disruption during an
HP 3PAR StoreServ Storage online upgrade or node-down event (online upgrade, node reboot,
or cable pull test). Port shutdown or reset events do not trigger this feature.
Each FC target storage array port has a partner array port automatically assigned by the system.
Partner ports are assigned across array node pairs.
HP 3PAR OS Persistent Ports allows an HP 3PAR StoreServ Storage FC port to assume the identity
of a failed port while retaining its own identity. Where a given physical port assumes the identity
of its partner port, the assumed port is designated as a persistent port. Array port failover and
failback with HP 3PAR OS Persistent Ports is transparent to most host-based multipathing software,
which can keep all of its I/O paths active.
NOTE: Use of HP 3PAR OS Persistent Ports technology does not negate the need for properly
installed, configured, and maintained host multipathing software.
For a more complete description of the HP 3PAR OS Persistent Ports feature, its operation, and a
complete list of required setup and connectivity guidelines, see:
• The HP Technical white paper HP 3PAR StoreServ Persistent Ports (HP document
#F4AA4-4545ENW)
This document is available on the following HP SC website:
HP Support Center
• The HP 3PAR Command Line Interface Administrator’s Manual, “Using Persistent Ports for
Nondisruptive Online Software Upgrades”
This document is available on the HP Storage Information Library at:
www.hp.com/go/storage/docs
Fibre Channel
HP 3PAR OS Persistent Ports Setup and Connectivity Guidelines for FC
Starting with HP 3PAR OS 3.1.2, the HP 3PAR OS Persistent Ports feature is supported for FC
target ports.
Starting with HP 3PAR OS 3.1.3, the Persistent Port feature has additional functionality to minimize
I/O disruption during an array port “loss_sync” event triggered by a loss of array port connectivity
to fabric.
Follow the specific cabling setup and connectivity guidelines so that HP 3PAR OS Persistent Ports
function properly:
• HP 3PAR StoreServ Storage FC partner ports must be connected to the same FC fabric, and
preferably to different FC switches on the fabric.
• The FC fabric must support NPIV, and NPIV must be enabled.
• Configure the host-facing HBAs for point-to-point fabric connection (there is no support for
direct-connect “loops”).
For information regarding the Persistent Ports feature for an FCoE initiator to FC target configuration
(FCoE to FC switched), see “Configuring the HP 3PAR StoreServ Storage for Fibre Channel” (page
8).
14 Configuring the HP 3PAR StoreServ Storage for Fibre Channel