IBM 520Q User Manual

IBM System p5 520 and 520Q Technical Overview and Introduction

The iSCSI protocol can also be used over standard Gigabit Ethernet adapters. To utilize this 
approach, download the appropriate iSCSI Host Support Kit for your operating system from 
the IBM NAS support Web site at:

The iSCSI Host Support Kit on AIX 5L and Linux acts as a software iSCSI initiator and allows 
you to access iSCSI target storage devices using standard Gigabit Ethernet network 
adapters. To ensure the best performance, enable the TCP Large Send, TCP send and 
receive flow control, and Jumbo Frame features of the Gigabit Ethernet Adapter and the 
iSCSI Target. Tune network options and interface parameters for maximum iSCSI I/O 
throughput on the operating system.

The combination of IBM System p5 and IBM System Storage™ N series as the first of a 
whole new generation of iSCSI-enabled storage products provides an End-to-End set of 
solutions. Currently, the System Storage N series feature three models: N3700, N5200, and 
N5500. 

All models provide:

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Support for entry-level and midrange clients requiring Network Attached Storage (NAS) or 
Internet Small Computer System Interface (iSCSI) functionality

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Support for Network File System (NFS), Common Internet File System (CIFS), and iSCSI 
protocols 

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Data ONTAP software (at no charge), with plenty of additional functions such as data 
movement, consistent snapshots, and NDMP server protocol, some available through 
optional licensed functions

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Enhanced reliability with optional clustered (2-node) failover support

The p5-520 and p5-520Q servers support direct or SAN connection to devices using Fibre 
Channel adapters. Single-port Fibre Channel adapters are available in 2 Gbps and 4 Gbps 
speeds. A dual-port 4 Gbps Fibre Channel adapter is also available. Table 2-7 provides a 
summary of the available Fibre Channel adapters.

All of these adapters have LC connectors. If you are attaching a device or switch with an SC 
type fibre connector, then an LC-SC 50 Micron Fiber Converter Cable (FC 2456) or an LC-SC 
62.5 Micron Fiber Converter Cable (FC 2459) is required.

Supported data rates between the server and the attached device or switch are as follows: 
Distances of up to 500 meters running at 1 Gbps, distances up to 300 meters running at 
2 Gbps data rate, and distances up to 150 meters running at 4 Gbps. When these adapters 
are used with IBM supported Fibre Channel storage switches supporting long-wave optics, 
distances of up to 10 kilometers are capable running at 1 Gbps, 2 Gbps, and 4 Gbps data 
rates.