572018-B21 HP Virtual Connect 8GB 20-Port Fibre Channel Module Switch For C-Class. New Factory Sealed 3 Years HP Warranty.

The HP Virtual Connect 8GB 20-Port Fibre Channel Module Switch is a type of interconnect module that is used in HP BladeSystem c-Class enclosures to provide connectivity between blade servers and storage arrays. The module features 20 Fibre Channel ports that can be used to connect servers to storage arrays for high-speed data transfer.

The Virtual Connect switch acts as a bridge between the server blades and the storage arrays, allowing the blades to access storage resources as if they were directly connected to the arrays. The switch also provides a centralized point of management for the network, making it easier to manage and configure the network connections for multiple server blades.

The 20-Port Fibre Channel Module Switch supports 8 Gbps Fibre Channel technology, providing high-speed data transfer for demanding applications. The switch also supports advanced features such as virtual SANs, allowing administrators to create virtual storage networks for better control and management of storage resources.

Installation and Setup

Installing and setting up the HP Virtual Connect 8GB 20-Port Fibre Channel Module Switch is a straightforward process that involves several steps. The basic steps for installing and setting up the Virtual Connect switch are as follows:

• Prepare the environment: Before installing the Virtual Connect switch, you should ensure that you have all the necessary equipment and cables, and that the HP BladeSystem c-Class enclosure is properly configured.
• Install the Virtual Connect module: The Virtual Connect module is inserted into an available interconnect bay in the HP BladeSystem c-Class enclosure. The module is then secured in place using screws.
• Connect the power cables: Connect the power cables to the Virtual Connect module, ensuring that they are properly seated and secure.
• Connect the network cables: Connect the network cables to the Virtual Connect module and the appropriate networking equipment.
• Power on the Virtual Connect module: Power on the Virtual Connect module, which will automatically begin its boot process.
• Configure the Virtual Connect module: Once the module has finished booting, you can access its management interface to configure the module’s settings, such as IP addresses, network settings, and security settings.
• Configure server blades: After the Virtual Connect module has been configured, you can configure the server blades in the enclosure to use the Virtual Connect module for network connections. This typically involves configuring the server’s NICs to use the Virtual Connect module as the default gateway.
• Verify operation: Finally, you should verify that the Virtual Connect module is operating correctly by testing network connectivity and performing any other necessary tests.