Add an iSCSI Bridge to an Existing Library

The Scalar i3 iSCSI bridge offers an integrated, scalable solution enabling you to connect SAS drives to Ethernet networks using the iSCSI protocol. iSCSI allows SAS to be used where SAS cable distances previously prevented the uses of SAS tape drives.

The iSCSI bridge available in two (2) configuration options; two (2) 10 GbE SFP+ Optical or two (2) 10 GbE RJ45 SFP Copper ports.

Tape Library and Drive Support

  iSCSI Bridge SFP+ Optical iSCSI Bridge RJ45 Copper
Input Connectors Two (2) 10 Gb Ethernet Two (2) 10 Gb Ethernet
Connector Type SFP+ Optical RJ45 SFP Copper
Number of Bridges One (1) bridge per module, maximum of six (6) bridges per library
Number of Supported Drives Up to 4 tape drives per bridge
Tape Drive Generation LTO-6 and above (SAS only)
Tape Drive Connectivity One (1) 12Gb Mini-SAS HD SFF 8644 port on bridge; negotiates to 6Gb as needed Tape Drive Connectivity
Management Connectivity One (1) 1Gb Ethernet RJ45 port
Power Supply Requires 440W power supply to be installed. 315W power supply is not supported.

Item Name Description

1

Power Supply

LED indicates the following:

  • Green LED - Indicates power is applied to the iSCSI bridge.
2 Ready Alert

Status of iSCSI bridge.

LED indicates the following:

  • Green LED - Indicates initialization completed and is ready for use.

  • Yellow LED - Indicates an alert or fault condition in the unit.
3 Ethernet Ports

Connects to Ethernet networks. Two different options:

  • Two 10 GbE SFP+ Optical

  • Two 10 GbE RJ45 SFP Copper ports

LEDs indicate the following:

  • DP1 - Solid Green LED indicates valid link. Blinking LED indicates port activity.

  • DP2 - Solid Green LED indicates valid link. Blinking LED indicates port activity.
4 Ethernet Management Port

One 1GbE RJ45 port.

LEDs indicate the following:

  • Link LED (left) - Solid green when linked at 1Gbps, off when linked at 100 Mbps or not linked.

  • Activity LED (right) - Blinks green to indicate port activity.
5 SAS Port

Provides tape drive connectivity. 12Gb Mini-SAS HD SFF 8644 port on bridge; negotiates to 6Gb as needed.

LED indicate the following:

  • A blinking LED indicates SAS activity.

Important Information

  1. Remove the cover plate from the iSCIS bridge slot.

  2. Slide the new iSCSI bridge in until you feel the connector slip into the library connector.

  3. Tighten the iSCSI thumbscrew.

  4. Connect the Ethernet cables and SAS cable to the iSCSI bridge.

iSCSI Bridge Configuration

To configure the iSCSI bridge, refer to the Scalar iSCSI Bridge Installation and Configuration Guide.