MSL6480 Getting Started Guide (rev 3) (QU625-96331, April 2014)

Planning the module and rack layout
When possible, install the base module near the middle of the rack at a convenient height for
viewing and operating the OCP and accessing the mailslot. If the library will be sharing the rack
with other equipment, place heavy devices, such as disk arrays, in the bottom of the rack to reduce
the chance of the rack tipping.
The library supports up to three expansion modules above and three modules below the base
module, for a total of seven modules. Each module occupies 6U.
For maximum library expansion, install the base module as the centered module of the rack,
allowing 18U above the top of the base module and 18U below the bottom of the base module.
Table 2 Rack layout for fully expanded library in a 42U rack
ModuleU Volumes
Expansion module37 — 42
Expansion module31 — 36
Expansion module25 — 30
Base module19 — 24
Expansion module13 — 18
Expansion module7 — 12
Expansion module1 — 6
Planning the Fibre Channel configuration
You can connect the library directly to the server with a host bus adapter (HBA) or indirectly through
a storage area network (SAN) with a switch.
You must provide a Fibre Channel cable for each tape drive in the library. The tape drive has an
LC-style connector.
Most supported tape drives have two FC ports. Only one port may be used at a time, but both
ports can be connected for path fail over if your application supports path fail over. If you are
using only one port, you can use either port.
Direct connection
If you plan to connect the library directly to the server, you will need a 2 Gb, 4 Gb, 8 Gb, or 16
Gb Fibre Channel HBA. An 8 Gb or faster HBA is recommended for LTO-5 or LTO-6 tape drives
for optimal performance. Check the EBS matrix at http://www.hp. com/go/ebs to verify that your
HBA is supported on your server and qualified for the library.
A server that uses FC disks needs at least two FC ports. Using the same port for disk and tape
access will cause performance degradation.
SAN connection
All switches between the host and the library must be of the appropriate type. A 2 Gb switch in
the path may result in performance degradation when backing up highly compressible data.
Configure zoning on the Fibre switch so only the backup servers may access the library. See the
switch manual for information on zoning.
Planning the module and rack layout 11