FC SAN for longer distances

[estech25]

Hi,
As far as I know single-mode fiber can cover distances of up to 10km. Single-Mode SFPs can also be used on the FC switch (right?). But can HBA's provide for single-mode fiber? or do HBA's only support multi-mode? Is there any simple way to make FC span distances of less than 10km without going to protocol conversions?

 

[comtec17]

The protocol of single mode does not change, it only received a greater number of buffer credits on a switch. The single mode should only be used if you are going to use your own dark fibre to ISL a switch. With todays technology, you can use FCIP or iFCP to achieve long distance SAN. For a host to be 10km away is not really practical, but if needed, an iSCSI solution is where you may want to look.