| Q1. |
I understand that Cisco has announced an external Fabric Switch called the Cisco MDS 9124 Multilayer Fabric Switch. How does this embedded switch differ? |
| A1. |
The embedded Cisco Fabric Switch (9124e) will be based on the same new ASIC technology as the Cisco MDS 9124 Multilayer Fabric Switch and will be functionally equivalent in an embedded form factor. Both switches are supported by the same version of SAN-OS and manageable by the Cisco MDS 9000 family CLI and management software packages. |
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| Q2. |
Is the Cisco MDS 9124e Fabric Switch for HP c-Class BladeSystem a Cisco or HP switch? |
| A2. |
The Cisco MDS 9124e Fabric Switch for HP c-Class BladeSystem is a co-developed Fibre Channel (FC) switch designed specifically for the HP BladeSystem c-Class. The switch is sold and supported exclusively by HP and HP partners. |
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| Q3. |
Why would a customer use this Cisco switch instead of the stand-alone version? |
| A3. |
This embedded solution offers numerous advantages including a lower cost of deployment, a smaller footprint, and a truly integrated design resulting in better rack space utilization, easy installation, higher levels of availability, lower operational costs, and simplified management. |
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| Q4. |
How many ports does the Cisco MDS 9124e Fabric Switch for HP c-Class BladeSystem have? |
| A4. |
There are two port-count options for greater flexibility, as well as the option of an upgrade license for lower cost of entry, where needed. The Cisco MDS 9124e 12-port Fabric Switch offers 8 internal ports and 4 fabric facing ports. The Cisco MDS 9124e 24-port Fabric Switch offers 16 internal ports and 8 fabric facing ports. The Cisco MDS 9124e 12-port upgrade license option enables an additional 8 internal ports and 4 fabric facing ports on the 12-port model, for a total of 16 internal ports and 8 fabric facing ports. This option allows customers a low entry cost with a ‘pay as you grow’ model. |
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| Q5. |
Are the management tools for the embedded SAN switch integrated with the BladeSystem management tools? |
| A5. |
Yes, there is an increased level of integration between the switch management tools and the new Onboard Administrator for HP BladeSystem -- the simple, unified, and automated tool for managing the HP BladeSystem c-Class. In addition, basic fault management for the switch is available using HP Systems Insight Manager and HP Storage Essentials modules can be optionally purchased for more advanced server/storage management features. |
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| Q6. |
Is support for this switch provided by Cisco or HP? |
| A6. |
HP Services provides the support for the Cisco MDS 9124e Fabric Switch. Hardware warranty support is 1-1-1 (one-year on-site, normal business hours, next business day response). The hardware warranty covers firmware and embedded non-saleable software. Additional services are available and include Support Plus, Support Plus 24, Pro-active 24, Critical Services and 6 hour CTR (All To Repair). These services are offered for 1, 3, 4 and 5 years. Installation is not included, but is available as a separately orderable option. |
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