The IBM Flex System™ FC3172 2-port 8Gb FC Adapter enables high-speed access for IBM Flex System compute nodes to connect to a Fibre Channel storage area network (SAN). This adapter is based on the proven QLogic 2532 8Gb ASIC design and works with the 8 Gb and 16 Gb IBM Flex System Fibre Channel switches and pass-thru modules. The performance bottleneck with Fibre Channel storage typically exists in the switching. By moving to 8 Gb adapters and switches, you can optimize the bottleneck to the storage controller, where it can be managed by expanding the disks attached to storage. When compared to the previous-generation 4 Gb adapters, the new-generation 8 Gb adapters double the throughput speeds for Fibre Channel traffic. As a result, you can manage increased amounts of data and possibly benefit from a reduced hardware expense. The adapter connects to the midplane directly, without having to use cables or small form-factor pluggable (SFP) modules. By eliminating these components for up to 14 servers, the resulting savings alone can cover the investment in the chassis.