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For more information about the z15, see Chapter 2, “IBM z15 hardware overview” on page 19. For information about IBM z15 functions and features, see IBM z15 (8561) Technical Guide,  SG24-8851. 

## 1.2.2 Storage connectivity 

Storage connectivity is provided on the z15 by IBM Fibre Connection (FICON) and the IBM zHyperLink Express features. 

## FICON Express 

FICON Express features follow the established Fibre Channel (FC) standards to support data storage and access requirements, along with the latest FC technology in storage and access devices. FICON Express features support the following protocols: 

GLYPH<SM590000> Native FICON 

This enhanced protocol (over FC) provides for communication across channels, channel-to-channel (CTC) connectivity, and with FICON devices, such as disks, tapes, and printers. It is used in z/OS, IBM z/VM, IBM z/VSE, z/TPF, and Linux on IBM Z environments. 

GLYPH<SM590000> Fibre Channel Protocol (FCP) 

This standard protocol is used for communicating with disk and tape devices through FC switches and directors. The FCP channel can connect to FCP SAN fabrics and access FCP/SCSI devices. FCP is used by z/VM, KVM, z/VSE, and Linux on IBM Z environments. 

FICON Express16SA features are implemented by using PCIe cards, and offer better port granularity and improved capabilities over the previous FICON Express features. FICON Express16SA features support a link data rate of 16 Gbps (8 or 16 Gbps auto-negotiate), and is the preferred technology for new systems. 

For more information about the available FICON Express features, see 3.2.2, “FICON features” on page 37. 

