edge switch 2/32 product manager user guide

Glossary–2 edge switch 2/32 product manager user guide
Glossary
application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC)
A circuit designed for a specific application or purpose, such as implementing the lower-layer
Fibre Channel protocol (FC-0). ASICs differ from general purpose devices such as memory
chips or microprocessors.
alias server
Fabric software facility that supports multicast group management.
arbitrated loop
One of the three connection topologies offered by Fibre Channel. Up to 126 node ports and
one fabric port can communicate without the need for a separate switched fabric. See also
point-to-point.
arbitration
Process of selecting one device from a collection of devices that request service
simultaneously.
audit log
Log summarizing actions (audit trail) made by the user.
authentication
Verification of identity for a person or process.
backplane
The backplane provides 48 VDC power distribution and connections for all logic cards.
backup FRU
When an active FRU fails, an identical backup FRU takes over operation automatically
(failover) to maintain Switch and Fibre Channel link operation.
beaconing
Use of light-emitting diodes on ports, port cards, field-replaceable units, and Switches to aid in
the fault-isolation process; when enabled, active beaconing will cause LEDs to flash for faulty
components.
BB_Credit
Also known as Buffer-to-Buffer Credit. Indicates the maximum number of frames a port can
transmit without receiving a receive ready signal from the receiving device.
ber
See bit error rate.