Raptor Networks Technology, Inc., provider of the first distributed network switching architectures, announced the first sale of "distributed core" network switches to SGI for use in large scale NAS systems benchmarking. Ether-Raptor Switches are connected via 10Gb technology called RAST (Raptor Adaptive Switch Technology). RAST is an interconnect system that allows Ether-Raptor switches to distribute their switch elements over distances unheard of up to now.

    The RAST connection allows all of the individual elements of the cluster to virtually “merge” their cores into a single fabric, creating a large powerful switch that exceeds the power of any chassis based switch system built today. The geographical distribution of these elements allows highly resilient and robust networks to be created within a building, between buildings and across cities. Opportunities exist as designers tailor this powerful architecture to new realms, providing an economically viable solution where there was none.

    "We are pleased to announce our first sale and shipment into an ultra high-performance systems testing application, where high bandwidth and low latency are essential," stated Tom Wittenschlaeger, Raptor Networks Technology's Chairman and CEO. "It is encouraging to see industry leaders in clustered computing and storage now recognize the value in our non-blocking, wire-speed distributed core architectures."

    Imagine a 1G / 10G Ethernet switch where every stream gets the highest Quality of Service even at full “wire speed” on every port. The switching delay is so low it is transparent to latency-critical applications such as VoIP and streaming video. It comes in a chassis less than 2 inches tall that scales effortlessly by simply adding units, without disrupting service.

    RAST provides unparalleled flexibility by allowing chassis to be either co-located or geographically separated with each one “binding” to the others to form a single switch with inherent security, redundancy, and rapid fault recovery. Availability beyond 99.9999% is achievable and network management is greatly enhanced.

    For example, configurations such as VLANs, ACLs, QoS, etc. need only be set up at one node and RAST immediately propagates the settings to every other node which saves a lot of time and greatly reduces human error. Latency is a killer of certain types of application support. Often the fix is so expensive that it does not make financial sense, and the new application is shelved. When this shelving becomes excessive, companies cannot compete. As redundancy is introduced using Layer 3 industry standards, then latency is also greatly affected. All existing Layer 2 WAN methods or redundancy methods waste bandwidth because of the way VLANs operate.