While IBM direct attached storage remains a primary storage offering for iSeries, some iSeries customers have or are planning to adapt Storage Area Network (SAN) strategy. With the introduction of Fibre Channel connectivity to selected storage devices beginning with V5R1, iSeries signficantly enhances its SAN capabilities.

For information about connecting your iSeries to IBM ESS with #2766 fibre channel adapter, see redbook SG24-6220: "iSeries Storage Area Networks - A Guide to Implementing Fibre Channel Disk and Tape".

Beginning with OS/400 V5R1, the iSeries extends fibre channel connectivity through two fibre channel adapters. Feature code #2765 Fibre Channel Adapter is required for connecting tape devices such as IBM MagStar 3590-E11, and the IBM Ultrium LTO Tape Subsystems 3583 and 3584. Likewise feature code #2766 Fibre Channel Adapter is used to connect an external storage subsystems such as the IBM Enterprise Storage Server. These adapters support speeds of up to 1 Gigabits per second with V5R1 and up to 2 Gigabits per second beginning with V5R2. The adapters require a minimum of OS/400 V5R1 and are supported on iSeries i270, i820, i830, i840 and i890 systems.

The iSeries host bus adapter will automatically detect the attached configuration. There are multiple options available for connectivity.

Call or email your Midrange Support & Service representative to discuss your iSeries or AS/400 storage area network needs.