HPE 572216-001 Virtual Connect 8GB 20-Port Fibre Channel Module

Detailed Specifications

The HPE 572216-001 is an integrated Virtual Connect Fibre Channel module designed specifically for the HPE c-Class BladeSystem enclosure. It addresses the critical need for simplified and flexible server-to-storage connectivity in demanding data center environments. This module is engineered to reduce the complexity and cost of connecting blade servers to a Storage Area Network (SAN) by minimizing cabling and streamlining network administration, making it an ideal solution for IT managers looking to optimize their blade infrastructure. At its core, this module leverages N_Port ID Virtualization (NPIV) technology, a key feature that allows a single physical Fibre Channel port to be partitioned into multiple virtual ports. This capability is especially beneficial in virtualized environments, where it enables granular, direct storage provisioning for up to 128 virtual machines per physical server. The module's 8 Gbps data transfer rate ensures that storage performance keeps pace with modern application workloads, preventing I/O bottlenecks and maintaining high throughput. Engineered as a hot-swappable plug-in module, the device simplifies both initial deployment and ongoing maintenance within a BladeSystem chassis. It is managed through the Virtual Connect Manager, which is embedded on an associated Virtual Connect Ethernet module, providing a unified interface for server and storage connectivity. By appearing as a simple pass-through device to the SAN fabric, it eliminates the need for separate SAN switch management and avoids adding complexity to switch domains, significantly reducing administrative overhead.