HP StorageWorks MSA 2/8 HP StorageWorks QuickLoop Fabric Assist V3.1.x User Gu - Page 20

Using QuickLoop QuickLoop Implementation QuickLoop is implemented by a combination of hardware and software components, and requires no actions on the part of the user once it is installed and configured. Topics in this section include: ■ Terminology, page 20 ■ Dual-switch QuickLoop, page 21 ■ QuickLoop Initialization, page 22 Terminology The terms and concepts introduced in this section are fundamental to understanding the use of QuickLoop mode with StorageWorks SAN switches. Topics include: ■ Storage Devices ■ Switch Ports Storage Devices The following two port types are on host or storage devices, not on switches. ■ N_port-(Node port) An equipment port that is not loop capable. Used to connect the equipment to the fabric. ■ NL_port-An equipment port that is loop capable. Used to connect an equipment port to the fabric in a loop configuration through the FL_Port on a switch. Switch Ports Each port can be independently configured as one of various types: ■ F_port-A fabric port that is not in loop mode. Able to transmit under fabric protocol, and interface over links. N_Ports on equipment connect to F_Ports on switches. ■ FL_port-A fabric port on a switch that is in loop mode. Used to connect loop capable NL_Ports to the switch in a loop configuration. ■ L_port-A node port (NL_port) or fabric port (FL_port) that has arbitrated loop capabilities. 20 QuickLoop Fabric Assist Version 3.1.x User Guide