Shared channel overview

MIF allows channels to be shared among multiple LPs. Shared channels are configured to an LP giving the LP a channel image of the shared channel that it can use. Each channel image allows an LP to independently access and control the shared channel as if it were a physical channel assigned to the LP.

By providing the logical equivalent of multiple physical channels dedicated to multiple LPs, a shared channel can reduce hardware requirements without a corresponding reduction in I/O connectivity. This reduction in hardware requirements can apply to physical channels, Director ports, and control unit ports, depending on the configuration.