C8R45A HP StoreFabric SN6500b 16GB 96-Port / 48-Port Active Fibre Channel Network Switch

HP StoreFabric SN6500b C8R45A

Build a fast, resilient storage network with the HP C8R45A, a 16Gb/s Fibre Channel switch for small to large Fibre Channel fabrics in the data center. This model is part of the Brocade-based B-Series Fibre Channel family and runs Brocade Fabric OS (FOS).

With 96 ports, it can connect multiple servers and storage targets in a single fabric or form part of a larger multi-switch SAN. Operating at up to 16Gb/s per port, it delivers the low-latency, lossless transport that block storage needs. Fibre Channel zoning lets administrators isolate storage traffic and control which hosts can see which LUNs. Inter-switch links let you expand the fabric as your storage footprint grows. A separate storage fabric means LAN congestion does not affect disk I/O. Use it to grow an existing SAN or replace an identical switch. Dual, independent fabrics are a common SAN design for redundant server-to-storage paths. Choose FC optics rated for the link speed you plan to run.

Standard switch models in each fabric make upgrades more predictable. Check your storage vendor's support matrix for recommended firmware levels. Fibre Channel was designed specifically for storage traffic and delivers consistent, in-order frame delivery. Part number C8R45A identifies this exact hardware configuration for straightforward purchasing and asset tracking. A clean SAN design simplifies growth, migrations and cluster expansion. Deploying switches in pairs allows non-disruptive maintenance. For anyone sourcing reliable storage networking, the C8R45A combines HP engineering with practical, everyday performance.

Key Benefits

• 96 ports
• Fibre Channel speed: 16Gb/s
• Brocade Fabric OS (FOS)

• No. Of Ports: 48-Ports
• Product Type: Fibre Channel

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