Fibre channel computer hubs are used to connect networked devices. They are a flexible alternative that can utilize optical fiber to connect devices up to six miles apart. For shorter distances, fibre channel can use twisted pair and coaxial cable. Fibre channel is often used to connect network attached storage devices to a network.

A fibre channel network hub is used on fibre channel networks that transmit data between computers and other devices at very high speeds. A fibre channel Ethernet hub is often used to combine Ethernet ports into a single high-speed port. Some things to consider when setting up fibre channel networking and choosing a fibre channel Ethernet hub are:

1. Browse a selection of fibre channel hubs online to find the number of ports and speeds that meet your networking needs.

2. Find fibre channel support resources to help set up and maintain your network.

3. Update your network to fibre channel with modules, adapters and accessories.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Locate a fibre channel hubs provider online

Find a fibre channel hub online to connect and aggregate your network devices. Some fibre channel hubs can perform special functions, like aggregating multiple ports into a single high-speed uplink.

I recommend: Server Supply provides fibre channel hubs from HP, Sun and other manufacturers. Super Warehouse offers the IMC Access Converter, a multi-port fibre media converter that aggregates three Ethernet ports into a high-speed uplink. It can be used to connect and aggregate multiple devices, such as servers, printers, computers and VoIP phone systems.

Get support for fibre channel network hubs

Setting up fibre channel can be challenging for a small company. The right support resources can help keep your fibre channel hub and network running at optimal levels.

I recommend: FixYa offers documents, downloads and forums to help troubleshoot and repair a fibre channel hub. Get more detailed setup and infrastructure information from the Fibre Channel Industry Association.

Find fibre channel hubs information, accessories, modules and adapters

When moving to fibre channel, you may need to upgrade some of your computers and devices with fibre network interface cards and adaptors. The standard network interface cards need to be replaced with cards that contain fibre channel adapters.

I recommend: CDW offers modules and adapters for many fibre channel network hubs. Find fibre network interface cards and card bus adapters at PC Connection. Hewlett-Packard carries adapters for StorageWorks fiber products. Memory4Less provides software and accessories for Compaq, HP and Sun fibre channel hubs.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Find out about warranty and return options before you buy a fibre channel Ethernet hub or accessories from an online retailer. The company may offer very limited warranty options and there may be shipping and restocking fees if you return the items.
• •  Get a fibre channel hub that is the right size for your current network and also allows for growth. Plan for the future, so you don't buy more than what you'll need, but have enough ports and space for future needs.