HP Surestore 6.140 Tape Library - Manual (Page 196)

C-12 Appendix C
Introduction to Fibre Channel
Fibre Channel Technology
Advantages of Fibre Channel
Fibre Channel offers significant speed, distance, and cost advantages.
Fibre Channel works with existing systems and software, with the
addition of a Fibre Channel HBA. Although current HBA drivers use
SCSI commands, future HBA driver enhancements will support other
protocols specified for Fibre Channel, including IP. Additional Fibre
Channel enhancements are available using Fibre Channel software.
Distributed Devices
Computer and storage systems can be separated and distributed more
efficiently with Fibre Channel without the addition of support servers. In
contrast, SCSI requires additional servers.
When supporting distributed configurations, Fibre Channel improves
disaster recovery and planning. Faster speeds and greater transmission
distances allow for remotely located backup systems.
Cabling Advantages
Because Fibre Channel cabling is smaller and lighter than SCSI cables,
it can run through wall conduits. Optical cables, although more
expensive, carry data farther than copper and are not susceptible to
electromagnetic interference. Optical cables also reduce electromagnetic
radiation to help meet FCC regulations.
Addressing
Fibre Channel addressing has the following advantages over SCSI:
• Provides a larger number of addresses: 16 million (Fabric) or 127 (FC
loop) compared to 16 (SCSI).
• Detects address conflicts; can automatically assign new addresses
when conflicts occur.
• Tracks devices or nodes via the WWN.