697889-001 HP Fibre Channel Host Bus Adapter 8GB Single Port Bulk

The HP 697889-001 81E 8GB Single Port PCI Express Fibre Channel HBA is a crucial component in the realm of data storage and connectivity. In this detailed explanation, we will delve into the various aspects of this hardware, breaking down its key features, functions, and benefits in simple English. Whether you are a tech enthusiast, an IT professional, or someone seeking to understand the intricacies of Fibre Channel HBAs, this comprehensive guide is designed to provide you with valuable insights.

What is an HBA?

An HBA, or Host Bus Adapter, is a hardware component that allows communication between a computer and storage devices. In simpler terms, it acts as a bridge, facilitating the transfer of data between the computer and storage devices like hard drives or storage area networks (SANs).

The Significance of Fibre Channel

Fibre Channel is a high-speed networking technology commonly used in storage environments. It provides a reliable and efficient means of transmitting data between servers and storage devices. Fibre Channel HBAs, such as the HP 697889-001, play a crucial role in enabling Fibre Channel connectivity.

• Single Port Design: The "Single Port" designation indicates that this HBA is equipped with a solitary connection point. This design is suitable for scenarios where a single high-speed connection is sufficient, optimizing performance and simplifying installation.
• PCI Express Interface: The "PCI Express" aspect refers to the interface through which the HBA connects to the computer. PCI Express, or PCIe, is a high-speed serial computer expansion bus standard that offers enhanced performance compared to its predecessors. The use of PCIe ensures that data transfer between the HBA and the computer occurs swiftly and efficiently.
• 8GB Data Transfer Rate: The "8GB" specification denotes the data transfer rate of the HBA. In this context, it means the HBA is capable of transmitting data at a speed of 8 gigabits per second (Gbps). This high data transfer rate is crucial in environments where large amounts of data need to be quickly and reliably moved between the computer and storage devices.

• Enhanced Performance: With an 8GB data transfer rate and a PCI Express interface, the HP 697889-001 delivers enhanced performance, ensuring that data-intensive tasks are executed swiftly. This is particularly advantageous in scenarios where speed is of the essence, such as in enterprise-level applications or data centers.
• Scalability: The single-port design of this HBA offers scalability options. Depending on the specific requirements of a system, multiple HBAs can be installed to accommodate additional connections. This scalability is beneficial in environments where the storage infrastructure may need to expand in the future.
• Reliability and Stability: Fibre Channel technology is known for its reliability, and the HP 697889-001 HBA is no exception. It provides a stable and robust connection between the computer and storage devices, minimizing the risk of data loss or disruptions in data flow. This reliability is crucial in mission-critical applications where data integrity is paramount.
• Simplified Installation: The single-port design, coupled with the PCI Express interface, contributes to a simplified installation process. This is advantageous for both IT professionals and enthusiasts, making the setup of the HBA more straightforward and efficient.

• Data Centers: In the context of data centers, where large volumes of data are processed and stored, the HP 697889-001 81E 8GB HBA finds significant utility. Its high data transfer rate and reliability make it well-suited for the demands of data center environments, contributing to seamless operations and data accessibility.
• Enterprise Storage: For enterprises managing extensive storage systems, the scalability of the HP 697889-001 HBA proves invaluable. As storage needs grow, additional HBAs can be incorporated, ensuring that the infrastructure can adapt to evolving requirements without compromising performance.
• High-Performance Computing: In high-performance computing (HPC) environments, where computational tasks are intensive and time-sensitive, the enhanced performance of the HP 697889-001 HBA becomes a critical asset. The efficient transfer of data between servers and storage is essential in maximizing the capabilities of HPC systems.

Compatibility:

• Compatible with HP ProLiant servers and blades that have a PCI Express slot
• Compatible with Microsoft Windows Server, VMware, Linux, and other operating systems that support Fibre Channel host bus adapters

System Requirements:

• PCI Express slot
• 8GB Fibre Channel switch or SAN
• Fibre Channel cable (SFP+ or SFP28)
• Software and drivers for the operating system being used
• Administrator privileges for installation and configuration
• Minimum of 512MB of memory for optimal performance.

• Manufacturer: HP
• Part Number or SKU# 697889-001
• Product Name: Controller
• Sub-Type: Fibre Channel

• Device Type: Host Bus Adapter
• Form Factor: Plug-in Card - Low Profile
• Interface (Bus) Type: PCI Express 2.0 x4 / PCI Express x8
• Ports: 8GB Fibre Channel
• Connectivity Technology: Wired
• Cabling Type: Fiber optic
• Data Link Protocol: 8Gb Fibre Channel (SW)
• Data Transfer Rate: 8.5 Gbps

• Expansion Slots: 1 (total) / 0 (free) x SFP+
• Interfaces: 1 x 8Gb Fibre Channel (short wave) - LC multi-mode x 2
• Compatible Slots: 1 x PCI Express 2.0 x4 / PCI Express x8

• Processor: Emulex

OS Required:

• SunSoft Solaris x86 10
• Microsoft Windows Server 2008 x86 Edition
• Red Hat Enterprise Linux 4 for x86/AMD64/EM64T
• Microsoft Windows Server 2008 R2
• SuSE Linux Enterprise Server 11 for x86/AMD64/Intel EM64T
• VMware ESXi 4.0
• SuSE Linux Enterprise Server 10 for x86/AMD64/Intel EM64T
• Microsoft Windows Server 2003 R2
• Red Hat Enterprise Linux 5 for x86
• Microsoft Windows Server 2008 x64 Edition
• Microsoft Windows Server 2003 (32/64-bits)
• VMware ESXi 4.1
• Red Hat Enterprise Linux 5 x64 Edition
• VMware ESX 3.5 update 4
• VMware ESX 3.5 update 5

• Min Operating Temperature: 32 °F
• Max Operating Temperature: 131 °F
• Humidity Range Operating: 5 - 95% (non-condensing)

Compatibility Information

Designed for HPE Modular Smart Array:

• 1040 Dual Controller SFF Bundle
• 2040 SAS Dual Controller LFF Storage
• P2000 Gen3 10GbE iSCSI Dual Controller SFF Array System
• P2000 Gen3 iSCSI Dual Controller SFF Bundle

Designed for HPE ProLiant DL Series:

• DL160 Gen6, Gen8, Gen8 Entry, Gen8 Performance
• DL165 Gen7, Gen7 Base, Gen7 Entry, Gen7 Performance
• DL180 Gen6
• DL360 Gen7, Gen7 Base, Gen7 Central Management Server, Gen7 Efficiency, Gen7 Entry, Gen7 Performance
• DL360e Gen8, Gen8 Entry, Gen8 Performance
• DL370 Gen6, Gen6 Base, Gen6 High Performance, Gen6 Performance
• DL380 Gen7, Gen7 Base, Gen7 Efficiency, Gen7 Entry, Gen7 Performance
• DL380p Gen8, Gen8 Base, Gen8 Entry, Gen8 High Performance, Gen8 Special
• DL385 Gen7, Gen7 Base, Gen7 Entry, Gen7 HE, Gen7 Performance
• DL385p Gen8, Gen8 Dedicated Workload, Gen8 Entry, Gen8 Maximized Consolidation, Gen8 Storage

Designed for HPE ProLiant ML Series:

• ML350 Gen6, Gen6 Base, Gen6 Entry, Gen6 Performance
• ML370 Gen6, Gen6 Base, Gen6 Entry
• SL210t Gen8 1U Node

In short, the HP 697889-001 81E 8GB Single Port PCI Express Fibre Channel HBA stands as a robust and efficient solution for enhancing data connectivity in various computing environments. Its single-port design, high data transfer rate, and compatibility with the HP ecosystem make it a valuable asset for data centers, enterprises, and high-performance computing scenarios. The simplified installation process, coupled with configuration options and diagnostic tools, ensures that IT professionals can seamlessly integrate and maintain this HBA for optimal performance. As technology continues to evolve, reliable and high-performance components like the HP 697889-001 HBA will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of data storage and connectivity.