The TippingPoint Modular Zero Power High Availability (ZPHA) device is designed for use with IPS/TPS devices that do not have integrated ZPHA or the ability to use Smart ZPHA modules. This device enables the network traffic to continue to flow if the IPS system has a loss in power.
The ZPHA device receives power through the USB connection to the IPS. If the USB power connection to the IPS is interrupted by a power supply failure, power loss, or unplugging, the ZPHA instantly switches to route network traffic, bypassing the IPS connections. It provides two USB ports for connecting two IPS devices. In addition, the ZPHA chassis may be daisy-chained by connecting them through their USB ports.
The ZPHA bypass system comes in two different models;
- Fixed ZPHA chassis, five segments (copper only), two USB-B type ports
- Modular ZPHA chassis, five segments (copper/fiber), one each USB-A/USB-B type ports
ZPHA daisy-chaining
In order to protect more than five Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) segments, two separate ZPHA bypass systems have to be utilized. The issue with this configuration is that the ZPHA bypass system utilizes the USB power available from the IPS device and due to energy consumption of the ZPHA modules, a specific configuration has to be enabled if a combination of copper and fiber ports is being configured between the IPS and the multiple ZPHA devices.
TThe options available for ZPHA daisy-chaining are as follows;
Option 1: Both ZPHA systems are Modular with a combination of copper and fiber ports.
- USB cable, A/B connection between IPS and Modular ZPHA.
- USB cable, A/B connection between both Modular ZPHA systems.
Note: Modular ZPHA system with fiber modules must be installed first in the chain.
Option 2: Fixed ZPHA (copper only) with Modular ZPHA system and a combination of copper and fiber ports.
- USB cable, A/B connection between IPS and Modular ZPHA.
- USB cable, A/B connection between Modular ZPHA and Fixed ZPHA (copper only).
Note: Modular ZPHA system with fiber modules must be installed first in the chain.
Option 3: Both ZPHA systems are Fixed ZPHA (copper only).
- USB cable, A/B connection between IPS and first ZPHA.
- USB cable, B/B connection between first ZPHA and second ZPHA.
Option 4: Both Modular ZPHA with all copper modules.
- USB cable A/B connection between IPS and first ZPHA.
- USB cable B/B connection between first ZPHA and second ZPHA.
Note: In this configuration either ZPHA system can be installed first as all ports are copper and as such power consumption is the same.
