Robert F Gallagher

US Patent:

6381642, Apr 30, 2002

Filed:

Oct 21, 1999

Appl. No.:

09/422574

Inventors:

Michael E. ODonnell - Westminster CO
Robert John Gallagher - Hurley NY
Peter Holmes - Poughkeepsie NY
Harry Morris Yudenfriend - Poughkeepsie NY

Assignee:

McDATA Corporation - Broomfield CO
International Business Machines Corporation - Armonk NY

International Classification:

G06F 15173

US Classification:

709224, 710 16

Abstract:

An in-band method/apparatus whereby a host is enabled to secure predetermined operational information relative to predetermined ports of a fiber channel switch. A set command is generated at the host and sent in-band to the switch. The information content of the set command defines the ports for which operational-parameters are to be monitored. The information content of the set command also defines which operational parameters are to be monitored. In response to receiving the set command, the switch establishes statistical counters for monitoring port operational parameters in accordance with received operational parameter identifiers. An accept signal is then sent in-band to the host, and a time period of port monitoring begins. After a predefined time period has expired, the host sends a read command in-band to the switch. The switch now generates a monitor record in accordance with the count content of the statistical counters that were established in response to the set command.