Cisco N2XX-AQPCI03 QLogic QLE2462 Fibre Channel Host Bus Adapter

CiscoSKU: 10003822

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Sale price$1,572.96

Description

Cisco N2XX-AQPCI03 QLogic QLE2462 Fibre Channel Host Bus Adapter

The Cisco N2XX-AQPCI03 combines Cisco reliability with QLogic’s proven Fibre Channel technology to deliver a robust, scalable solution for enterprise storage environments. This two-port Fibre Channel Host Bus Adapter (HBA) plugs into a PCI Express x4 slot, offering dependable, high-throughput connectivity for SAN fabrics, virtualization workloads, databases, and backup applications. Engineered for data integrity and consistent performance under heavy I/O, the N2XX-AQPCI03 is designed to simplify storage connectivity in data centers, branch offices, and remote sites while providing seamless integration with Cisco storage architectures. With dual Fibre Channel ports, you gain redundancy, multipathing options, and flexible zoning—essentials for maintaining business continuity in mission-critical environments. The plug-in card form factor keeps installation straightforward, enabling rapid deployment in a variety of server and storage configurations, whether scaling up an existing fabric or deploying new storage infrastructure.

  • Dual Fibre Channel ports for redundant connectivity: Equipped with 2 x FC ports to support high-availability configurations and load-sharing across fabrics, minimizing downtime and enabling seamless failover in demanding storage environments.
  • PCI Express x4 interface for ample bandwidth: Designed as a plug-in PCIe x4 card, delivering the bandwidth needed to handle large I/O bursts, virtualization VMs, and I/O-intensive workloads without bottlenecks.
  • High-speed FC per-port performance: Each port supports up to 4.24 Gbit/s, delivering solid throughput for bandwidth-hungry applications and ensuring efficient data transfer across the storage area network.
  • Strong data integrity with overlapping protection domains: The adapter guarantees overlapping protection domains on both control and data paths, enhancing data integrity and reducing the risk of data corruption in complex SAN fabrics.
  • Enterprise-grade reliability and compatibility: Built to interoperate within Cisco storage ecosystems and with standard Fibre Channel switches, HBAs, and operating systems, providing broad driver support and streamlined management for IT teams.

Technical Details of Cisco N2XX-AQPCI03 QLogic QLE2462 Fibre Channel Host Bus Adapter

  • Product family: Cisco N2XX series with QLogic QLE2462 technology
  • Host Interface: PCI Express x4
  • Ports: 2 x Fibre Channel ports (2 x total FC ports)
  • Fibre Channel speed: Up to 4.24 Gbit/s per port
  • Form factor: Plug-in PCIe card
  • Data integrity feature: Overlapping protection domains on control and data paths
  • Cable type: Fibre Channel copper/fiber support as dictated by FC fabric and switch capabilities
  • Compatibility: Enterprise storage environments, Cisco storage architectures, standard FC switches
  • Driver and management: QLogic/Cisco-supported drivers with enterprise SAN management compatibility

How to install Cisco N2XX-AQPCI03 QLogic QLE2462 Fibre Channel Host Bus Adapter

Installing the Cisco N2XX-AQPCI03 is a straightforward process designed to minimize downtime and ensure reliable connectivity to your SAN. Before you begin, ensure you have the proper server access, a grounded workspace, and the appropriate drivers for your operating system. Follow these steps to complete a standard installation:

  • Power down the server and disconnect power cables. Ground yourself to avoid static discharge that can damage components.
  • Open the server chassis and locate an available PCI Express x4 slot. Remove the slot cover on the chassis rear I/O plate, if required.
  • Carefully align the N2XX-AQPCI03 card with the PCIe slot and firmly press it into place until seated. Secure the card with the mounting screw or retention mechanism provided by the server chassis.
  • Connect the Fibre Channel cables to the two FC ports on the card, ensuring proper orientation and port labeling for your fabric topology. Route cables for minimal bend radius and optimal airflow.
  • Power on the server and boot the operating system. Install the appropriate QLogic/Cisco drivers for your OS (Windows, Linux, VMware, etc.). Follow on-screen prompts to complete driver installation and load the HBA firmware if required.
  • Configure the Fibre Channel fabric in your SAN management tools. Set up zoning, LUN mapping, and multipathing as needed to achieve desired redundancy and performance. Verify that both ports are visible to the fabric and that traffic flows as expected.
  • Perform a basic connectivity test by transmitting test I/O or running a storage workload to confirm stable performance and error-free operation. Monitor for link status, error counters, and throughput to ensure the installation meets your performance objectives.

Frequently asked questions

  • Q: What is the Cisco N2XX-AQPCI03 QLogic QLE2462 HBA? A: It is a two-port Fibre Channel host bus adapter that plugs into a PCIe x4 slot to provide high-speed FC connectivity for servers and storage networks, enabling reliable SAN access and virtualization support.
  • Q: How fast are the ports? A: Each Fibre Channel port supports up to 4.24 Gbit/s, offering solid throughput for typical enterprise storage workloads. Actual performance depends on fabric configuration, cabling, and workload characteristics.
  • Q: What is meant by overlapping protection domains? A: Overlapping protection domains are a data integrity feature that separates control and data paths to prevent cross-path interference, helping preserve data accuracy and reliability in busy SAN environments.
  • Q: Is this HBA compatible with Cisco storage architectures? A: Yes. The N2XX-AQPCI03 is designed to integrate with Cisco storage fabrics and enterprise-grade switches, providing reliable connectivity within Cisco-based environments.
  • Q: What should I consider regarding drivers and configuration? A: Install the appropriate QLogic/Cisco drivers for your operating system, then configure fabric zoning, multipathing, and LUN mappings using your SAN management tools. Always verify firmware and driver compatibility with your OS version.

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