Expand Configuration and Management Manual (G06.24+)

Planning a Network Design
Expand Configuration and Management Manual—523347-008
3-13
Variable Packet Size Feature
Variable Packet Size Feature
The variable packet size feature is a performance enhancement designed to increase
bulk transfers over all connection types.
The variable packet size feature provides the following benefits:
•
Reduces per-message processor cost for large message sizes
•
Reduces network bandwidth used for Expand overhead for large messages
•
Increases potential throughput in high-bandwidth Expand paths
The variable packet size feature allows you to configure a maximum packet size, which
is used for both single-packet and multipacket frames, on a per-path basis. This
feature effectively overrides the packet size calculated from the FRAMESIZE modifier
value.
For a complete technical overview of the variable packet size feature, refer to Variable
Packet Size Feature on page 18-68.
Congestion Control Feature
Congestion control provides improved throughput over LANs and other networks that
are subject to varying delays. It also improves the response time for message transfers
and provides a more efficient error-recovery mechanism. HP recommends that the
congestion control feature be enabled for Expand-over-IP connections and for Expand
line-handler processes that are members of a multi-CPU path.
For a complete technical overview of the congestion control feature, refer to
Congestion Control Feature on page 18-71.
Designing the Network Topology
The pattern of interconnection of systems in a network is called the network topology.
Your goals when designing a network topology should include
•
Minimizing communications costs
•
Minimizing response time
•
Satisfying the throughput requirements of networked applications
•
Achieving a satisfactory level of network reliability
Common Network Topologies
Several topologies can be used in the design of computer networks:
•
Star
•
Split-Star
•
Tri-star
•
Tree
•
Ring
•
Bus