4-Port Gigabit Ethernet Switch Module

The IBM eServer BladeCenter 4-port Gigabit Ethernet Switch Module (13N0568) is a Layer 2 Ethernet Switch module that provides filtering and Virtual Local Area Networks (VLAN) capability. This switch module can be installed in the IBM eServer BladeCenter Chassis type 8677.This option replaces the current 4-port Gigabit Ethernet Switch Module (48P7054). Now, up to four high-performance Layer 2 Ethernet switch modules can be installed in a BladeCenter chassis. The IBM eServer BladeCenter Gigabit Ethernet Expansion Card is required if this option is installed in BladeCenter switch module bays 3 and/or 4. Installation of an Ethernet switch in switch module bays 3 and/or 4 excludes the use of Fibre Channel switches.This new option (13N0568) is functionally compatible with the current Option (48P7054). Switch firmware for these options supports both option part numbers and both option part numbers can reside in the same BladeCenter chassis. The total allowable configurations never exceeds a maximum of four switches and the current option (48P7054) can not exceed a maximum of two, located in switch module bays 1 and/or 2. Dongle cables shipped with the current option (48P7054) are not required or shipped for the new option (13N0568).From time to time, new firmware-based functions will be available for both option part numbers. As an example, Trunk Failover will be available March 1, 2004. Firmware updates will be available via the IBM product support Web site.Trunk Failover - Total loss of link connectivity on external Ethernet Switch Module ports can not be detected by the blade NIC drivers. A client-selectable option, Trunk Failover is an alternative to spanning tree protocol. This function allows the NIC teaming driver to auto failover to an alternate switch, on loss of link detection, when all links in a trunk are lost.