Dell PowerVault MD3600f and
MD3620f Storage Arrays
Deployment Guide
Notes, Cautions, and Warnings
NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of
your computer.
CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates potential damage to hardware or loss of data if
instructions are not followed.
WARNING: A WARNING indicates a potential for property damage, personal
injury, or death.
____________________
Information in this publication is subject to change without notice.
© 2011 Dell Inc.Allrightsreserved.
Reproduction of these materials in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc.
is strictly forbidden.
Trademarks used in this text: Dell™, the DELL logo, and PowerVault™ are trademarks of Dell Inc.
®
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Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this publication to refer to either the entities claiming
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®
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2011 - 09 Rev. A01
Contents
1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
System Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Introduction to Storage Arrays
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2 Hardware Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Planning the Storage Configuration. . . . . . . . . . . 11
Connecting the Storage Array
Cabling the Storage Array
Redundant and Non-Redundant
Configurations
Cabling PowerVault MD1200 Series
Expansion Enclosures
Expanding With Previously Configured
PowerVault MD1200 Series Expansion
Enclosures
Expanding With New PowerVault
MD1200 Series Expansion Enclosures . . . . . . . 15
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
3 Installing MD Storage Software . . . . . . . 19
Installing Host Bus Adapters and Drivers. . . . . . . . 20
Graphical Installation (Recommended)
Console Installation
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
. . . . . . . . . 20
Contents 3
Silent Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Enabling Premium Features (Optional)
Upgrading PowerVault MD Storage Software
. . . . . . . . . 22
. . . . . 22
4 Post Installation Tasks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Verifying Storage Array Discovery . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Initial Setup Tasks
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
5 Uninstalling MD Storage Software . . . . 27
Uninstalling MD Storage Software From Windows. . . 27
Uninstalling MD Storage Software From Linux
. . . . . 28
A Appendix—Load Balancing . . . . . . . . . . 29
Windows Load Balance Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Round Robin With Subset
Least Queue Depth With Subset
Changing Load Balance Policies in
Windows Sever 2008
Setting Load Balance Policies in Linux
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
. . . . . . . . . . 30
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
. . . . . . . 31
B Appendix—Working With SFP
Modules and Fiber Optic Cables . . . . . . . . . 33
4 Contents
Guidelines for Using SFP Modules . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Installing and Removing SFP Modules
Guidelines for Using Fiber Optic Cables
. . . . . . . . . 34
. . . . . . . . 35
Installing and Removing Fibre Channel Cables. . . . . 36
C Appendix—Hardware Cabling
Best Practices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Handling Static-Sensitive Components . . . . . . . . . 37
Host Cabling for Remote Replication
Cabling for Performance
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
. . . . . . . . . . 37
Single-Controller and Dual-Controller Topologies . . . 38
Labeling Cables
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Contents 5
6 Contents
1
Introduction
NOTE: Throughout the document, Dell PowerVault MD3600f series storage array
refers to both Dell PowerVault MD3600f and Dell PowerVault MD3620f.
This guide provides information about deploying Dell PowerVault MD3600f
and MD3620f storage arrays. The deployment process includes:
• Hardware installation
• Modular Disk Storage Manager (MDSM) software installation
• Initial system configuration
Other information provided include system requirements, storage array
organization, and utilities.
NOTE: For more information on product documentation, see
support.dell.com/manuals.
MDSM enables an administrator to configure and monitor storage arrays for
optimum usability. The version of MDSM included on the PowerVault MD
series resource media can be used to manage both the PowerVault MD3600f
series and the earlier PowerVault MD series storage arrays. MDSM is
compatible with both Microsoft Windows and Linux operating systems.
System Requirements
Before installing and configuring the PowerVault MD3600f series hardware
and software, ensure that the supported operating system is installed and
minimum system requirements are met. For more information, see the
Support Matrix at support.dell.com/manuals.
Management Station Requirements
A management station uses MDSM to configure and manage storage arrays
across the network. A management station must meet the following
minimum system requirements:
• Intel Pentium or an equivalent processor (1333 MHz or faster) with 512
MB RAM (1024 MB recommended)
• 1 GB disk space
Introduction 7
• Display resolution of 1024x768 with 16 million colors (1280x1024 32-bit
recommended)
• Microsoft Windows, Red Hat Enterprise Linux, or SUSE Linux Enterprise
Server.
NOTE: Operating system installations can be either native or hypervisior
guest configurations.
NOTE: Supported hypervisors include Microsoft Hyper-V, Citrix XenServer,
and VMware. For information about the supported versions, see the
Matrix
at support.dell.com/manuals.
• Administrator or equivalent permissions.
Support
Introduction to Storage Arrays
An enclosure containing physical disks accessed through RAID controller
modules is called a storage array. A storage array includes various hardware
components, such as physical disks, RAID controller modules, fans, and
power supplies, gathered into enclosures.
One or more host servers attached to the storage array can access the data on
the storage array. You can also establish multiple physical paths between the
host(s) and the storage array so that loss of any single path (for example,
through failure of a host server port) does not result in loss of access to data
on the storage array.
The storage array is managed by MDSM running on a:
• Host server—On a host server system, MDSM and the storage array
communicate management requests and event information using
SAS connections.
• Management station—On a management station, MDSM communicates
with the storage array either through an Ethernet connection to the
storage array management port or through an Ethernet connection to a
host server. The Ethernet connection passes management information
between the management station and the storage array using SAS
connections.
Using MDSM, you can configure the physical disks in the storage array into
logical components called disk groups and then divide the disk groups into
virtual disks. Disk groups are created in the unconfigured capacity of a storage
array. Virtual disks are created in the free capacity of a disk group.
8 Introduction
Unconfigured capacity comprises physical disks not already assigned to a disk
group. When a virtual disk is created using unconfigured capacity, a disk
group is automatically created. If the only virtual disk in a disk group is
deleted, the disk group is also deleted. Free capacity is space in a disk group
that is not assigned to any virtual disk.
Data is written to the physical disks in the storage array using RAID
technology. RAID levels define the way in which data is written to physical
disks. Different RAID levels offer different levels of accessibility, redundancy,
and capacity. You can set a specified RAID level for each disk group and
virtual disk on your storage array.
For more information about using RAID and managing data in your storage
solution, see the
Owner’s Manual at
support.dell.com/manuals
.
Introduction 9
10 Introduction
2
Hardware Installation
Before using this guide, ensure that you review the instructions in the:
•
Getting Started Guide
storage array provides information to configure the initial setup of the system.
• Planning section of the
information
your storage solution. See the
support.dell.com/manuals
•
Configuring Fibre Channel With the Dell PowerVault MD3600f Series
Storage Array
host bus adapter (HBA) installation, and zoning. See
support.dell.com/manuals
about important concepts you should know before setting up
—This document provides information about configurations,
Planning the Storage Configuration
Consider the following before installing your storage array:
• Evaluate data storage needs and administrative requirements.
• Calculate availability requirements.
• Decide the frequency and level of backups, such as weekly full backups
with daily partial backups.
• Consider storage array options, such as password protection and e-mail
alert notifications for error conditions.
• Design the configuration of virtual disks and disk groups according to a data
organization plan. For example, use one virtual disk for inventory, a second
for financial and tax information, and a third for customer information.
• Decide whether to allow space for hot spares, which automatically replace
failed physical disks.
—The
Getting Started Guide
Owner’s Manual—
Owner’s Manual
.
.
that shipped with the
The planning section provides
at
Hardware Installation 11
Connecting the Storage Array
The storage array is connected to a host using two hot-swappable RAID
controller modules. The RAID controller modules are identified as RAID
controller module 0 and RAID controller module 1.
Each RAID controller module has four FCIN (host) port connectors that
provide FC connections to the host or node. Each RAID controller module
also contains an Ethernet management port and a SAS Out port connector.
The Ethernet management port allows you to install a dedicated
management station (server or stand-alone system). The SAS Out port allows
you to connect the storage array to optional expansion enclosures for
additional storage capacity.
For more information, see the
support.dell.com/manuals.
NOTE: When you connect a host server to a storage array FCIN port connector,
any Out port connector of the host bus adapter (HBA) of the server can be used.
Getting Started Guide
at
Cabling the Storage Array
You can cable the storage array to host servers with:
• Single path data configuration—A single path configuration allows you to
connect a maximum of eight hosts. This is a non-redundant configuration.
• Dual path data configuration—A dual path configuration allows you to
connect a maximum of four hosts.
You choose the data configuration based on:
• Number of hosts required
• Level of data redundancy required
Redundant and Non-Redundant Configurations
Non-redundant configurations are configurations that provide only a single
data path from a host to the storage array. This type of configuration is only
recommended for non-critical data storage. Path failure from a failed or
removed cable, a failed HBA, or a failed or removed RAID controller module
results in loss of host access to storage on the storage array.
12 Hardware Installation
Redundancy is established by installing separate data paths between the host
and the storage array, in which each path is to one of the two RAID controller
modules installed in the storage array. Redundancy protects the host from
losing access to data in the event of path failure, because both RAID
controller modules can access all the disks in the storage array.
NOTE: For detailed information about all cabling configurations including direct
and SAN-attached hosts, cabling for remote replication environments, the use of
zoning, and HBA installation, see
Series Storage Array
, at support.dell.com/manuals.
Configuring Fibre Channel With the Dell MD3600f
Cabling PowerVault MD1200 Series Expansion Enclosures
You can expand the capacity of your PowerVault MD3600f series storage array
by adding PowerVault MD1200 series expansion enclosures. You can expand
the physical disk pool to a maximum of 120 (or 192, if enabled using
Premium Feature activation) physical disks using a maximum of seven
expansion enclosures.
Expanding With Previously Configured PowerVault MD1200 Series Expansion Enclosures
Use this procedure if your expansion enclosure is directly attached to and
configured on a Dell PowerEdge RAID Controller (PERC) H800 adapter.
Data from virtual disks created on a PERC H800 adapter cannot be directly
migrated to a PowerVault MD3600f series storage array or to a PowerVault
MD1200 series expansion enclosure connected to a PowerVault MD3600f
series storage array.
CAUTION: If a PowerVault MD1200 series enclosure that was previously attached
to PERC H800 adapter is used as an expansion enclosure to a PowerVault MD3600f
series storage array, the physical disks of the expansion enclosure are
reinitialized and data is lost. You must backup all data on the expansion
before attempting the expansion.
To attach previously configured PowerVault MD1200 series expansion
enclosures to the PowerVault MD3200 series storage array:
1
Back up all data on the expansion enclosure(s).
Hardware Installation 13
enclosure
2
Upgrade the expansion enclosure firmware to the latest version available
at
support.dell.com
while the enclosure is still attached to the PERC H800
controller.
Windows systems users can reference the
kernel users can reference the
3
Ensure that the storage array software is installed and up to date before
DUP.bin
DUP.exe
package.
package and Linux
adding the expansion enclosure(s).
For more information, see the
support.dell.com/manuals
a
Install the software and driver package included on the PowerVault
Support Matrix
.
at
MD series resource media.
For information about installing the software, see "Installing MD
Storage Software" on page 19.
b
Update the storage array RAID controller module firmware and
NVSRAM to the latest versions available at
PowerVault MDSM
c
Click
Tools Upgrade RAID Controller Module Firmware
Enterprise Management Window
4
Stop all I/O and turn off the system and attached units.
a
Stop all I/O to the array and turn off the host systems attached to the
.
(EMW).
support.dell.com,
storage array.
b
Turn off the storage array.
c
Turn off the expansion enclosure(s) in the affected system.
5
Cable the expansion enclosure(s) to the storage array.
6
Turn on attached units:
a
Turn on the expansion enclosure(s). Wait for the enclosure status
LED to turn blue.
b
Turn on the storage array and wait for the status LED to indicate that
the unit is ready:
• If the status LEDs are solid amber, the storage array is still coming
online.
using
in the
14 Hardware Installation
• If the status LEDs are blinking amber, there is an error that can be
viewed using the PowerVault MDSM.
• If the status LEDs are solid blue, the storage array is ready.
c
When the storage array is online and ready, turn on any attached host
systems.
7
After the PowerVault MD1200 series expansion enclosure is configured as
an expansion enclosure of the storage array, restore the data that was
backed up in step 1.
After the PowerVault MD1200 series expansion enclosures are online, they
can be accessed as a part of the storage array.
Expanding With New PowerVault MD1200 Series Expansion Enclosures
Perform the following steps to attach new PowerVault MD1200 series
expansion enclosures to a PowerVault MD3600f series storage array:
NOTE: Before adding the expansion enclosure(s), ensure that the storage array
software is installed and up to date. For more information, see the
support.dell.com/manuals.
1
Before adding the expansion enclosure(s), ensure that the storage array
Support Matrix
software is installed and is up to date. For more information, see the
Support Matrix
a
Install the software and driver package included on the PowerVault
MD series
at
support.dell.com/manuals
resource media.
.
For information about installing the software, see "Installing MD
Storage Software" on page 19.
at
b
Set up the PowerVault MD1200 series expansion enclosure(s).
For information about setting up the PowerVault MD1200 series
expansion enclosure(s), see the
support.dell.com/manuals
c
Using PowerVault MDSM, update the RAID controller module
firmware and NVSRAM to the latest versions available on
support.dell.com
d
Click
Tools Upgrade RAID Controller Module Firmware
.
Enterprise Management Window (EMW).
2
Stop I/O and turn off all systems:
Owner’s Manual
.
at
from the
Hardware Installation 15
a
Stop all I/O to the storage array and turn off affected host systems
attached to the storage array.
b
Turn off the storage array.
c
Turn off any expansion enclosure(s) in the affected system.
3
Cable the expansion enclosure(s) to the storage array.
4
Turn on attached units:
a
Turn on the expansion enclosure(s). Wait for the enclosure status
LED to turn blue.
b
Turn on the storage array and wait for the status LED to indicate that
the unit is ready:
• If the status LEDs are solid amber, the storage array is still coming
online.
• If the status LEDs are blinking amber, there is an error that can be
viewed using PowerVault MDSM.
• If the status LEDs are solid blue, the storage array is ready.
c
After the storage array is online and ready, turn on any attached host
systems.
5
Using PowerVault MDSM, update all attached expansion enclosure
firmware if it is out of date:
a
From the EMW, select the enclosure that you want to update and
b
c
enter the
Click
Select
Array Management Window
AdvancedMaintanence
Select All
to update all the attached expansion enclosures
(AMW).
DownloadEMM Firmware
simultaneously.
.
16 Hardware Installation
Hardware Installation 17
18 Hardware Installation
3
Installing MD Storage Software
The PowerVault MD series resource media contains software and drivers for
both Linux and Microsoft Windows operating systems.
The root of the media contains a readme.txt file covering changes to the
software, updates, fixes, patches, and other important data applicable to both
Linux and Windows operating systems. The readme.txt file also specifies
requirements for accessing documentation, information regarding versions of
the software on the media, and system requirements for running the software.
For more information on supported hardware and software for Dell PowerVault
systems, see the Support Matrix located at support.dell.com/manuals.
NOTE: It is recommended that you install all the latest updates available at
support.dell.com.
The PowerVault MD3600f series storage software installer provides features that
include the core software and providers. The core software feature includes the
host-based storage agent, multipath driver, and MD Storage Manager
application used to configure, manage and monitor the storage array solution.
The providers feature include providers for the Microsoft Virtual Disk Service
(VDS) and Microsoft Volume Shadow-Copy Service (VSS) framework.
NOTE: For more information about the Microsoft VDS and Microsoft VSS providers,
Owner's Manual
see the
NOTE: To install the software on a Windows or Linux system, you must have
administrative or root privileges.
The PowerVault MD series resource media offers the following installation
methods:
• Graphical Installation (Recommended)—This is the recommended
installation procedure for most users. The installer presents a graphical
wizard-driven interface that allows customization of which components
are installed.
• Console Installation—This installation procedure is useful for Linux users
that do not desire to install an X-Window environment on their supported
Linux platform.
at support.dell.com/manuals.
Installing MD Storage Software 19
• Silent Installation—This installation procedure is useful for users that
prefer to create scripted installations.
Installing Host Bus Adapters and Drivers
NOTE: Ensure that you read the
Series Storage Array
1
Install the host bus adapters (HBAs).
2
Connect the cables.
3
Install the HBA drivers and the operating system HBA patches/hotfixes.
4
Ensure that the recommended HBA settings are applied.
document before continuing with this procedure.
Configuring Fibre Channel With the Dell MD3600f
Graphical Installation (Recommended)
The MD Storage Manager application configures, manages, and monitors the
storage array. To install the MD storage software:
1
Insert the PowerVault MD series resource media.
Depending on your operating system, the installer may launch
automatically. If the installer does not launch automatically, navigate to
the root directory of the installation media (or downloaded installer
image) and run the
navigate to the root of the resource media and run the autorun file.
NOTE: By default, Red Hat Enterprise Linux mounts the resource media with the
–noexec mount option which does not allow you to run executable files. To change
this setting, see the Readme file in the root directory of the installation media.
2
Select
Install MD Storage Software.
3
Read and accept the license agreement.
4
Select one of the following installation options from the Install Set
dropdown menu:
• Full (recommended)—Installs the MD Storage Manager (client)
software, host-based storage agent, multipath driver, and hardware
providers.
• Host Only—Installs the host-based storage agent and multipath
drivers.
md_launcher.exe
file. For Linux-based systems,
20 Installing MD Storage Software
• Management—Installs the management software and hardware
providers.
• Custom—Allows you to select specific components.
5
Select the PowerVault MD storage array model(s) you are setting up to
serve as data storage for this host server.
6
Choose whether to start the event monitor service automatically when the
host server reboots or manually.
NOTE: This option is applicable only to Windows client software installation.
7
Confirm the installation location and choose
8
If prompted, reboot the host server once the installation completes.
9
Start
MD Storage Manager
NOTE: If Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) is not used on the
network where the PowerVault MD storage array’s management ports are
connected, it is recommended that you enable IPv6 on the management
station to discover the storage array(s).
10
Configure single initiator and multiple target zoning on your Fibre
and discover the array(s).
Install
.
Channel switches.
11
If applicable, activate any premium features purchased with your storage
array. If you purchased premium features, see the printed activation card
shipped with your storage array.
NOTE: The MD Storage Manager installer automatically installs the required
drivers, firmware, and operating system patches/hotfixes to operate your storage
array. These drivers and firmware are also available at support.dell.com. In
addition, see the
settings and/or software required for your specific storage array.
Support Matrix
at support.dell.com/manuals for any additional
Console Installation
NOTE: Console installation only applies to Linux systems that are not running a
graphical environment.
The autorun script in the root of the resource media detects when there is no
graphical environment running and automatically starts the installer in a
text-based mode. This mode provides the same options as graphical installation.
Installing MD Storage Software 21
Silent Installation
To run silent installation on a Windows system:
1 Copy the custom_silent.properties file in the /windows folder of the
installation media or image to a writable location on the host server.
2 Modify the custom_silent.properties file to reflect the features, models
and installation options to be used. Then, save the file.
3 Once the custom_silent.properties file is revised to reflect your specific
installation, run the following command to begin the silent installation:
mdss_install.exe –f <host_server_path>\
custom_silent.properties
To run silent installation on a Linux system:
NOTE: On Red Hat Enterprise Linux 6 operating systems, run the following
script from the root directory to install prerequisite packages:
# md_prereq_install.sh
1 Copy the custom_silent.properties file in the /windows folder of the
installation media or image to a writable location on the host server.
2 Modify the custom_silent.properties file to reflect the features, models
and installation options to be used. Then, save the file.
3 Once the custom_silent.properties file is revised, run the following
command to begin the installation:
./mdss_install.bin –f
<host_server_path>/custom_silent.properties
Enabling Premium Features (Optional)
If you ordered premium features, follow the instructions on the Premium
Features Card to install the additional features.
Upgrading PowerVault MD Storage Software
To upgrade from a previous version of the PowerVault MD Storage Manager
application, uninstall the previous version (see "Uninstalling MD Storage
Software" on page 27), and then follow the instructions in "Installing MD
Storage Software" on page 19 to install the new version.
22 Installing MD Storage Software
4
Post Installation Tasks
Before using the Dell PowerVault storage array for the first time, complete
these initial configuration tasks in the order shown. These tasks are
performed using the MD Storage Manager (MDSM) software.
1
For out-of-band management, you must set the network configuration for
each RAID controller module, including its Internet Protocol (IP) address,
subnetwork mask (subnet mask), and gateway.
NOTE: You can set the network configuration using a DHCP server.
2
Start MDSM.
•Click
•Click the
• You can also launch PowerVault MD Storage Manager in Linux by
3
Go to
systems in the Enterprise Management Window (EMW).
StartProgramsDellMD Storage ManagerModular
Disk Storage Manager Client
systems.
PowerVault MD Storage Manager
operating systems.
running the following commands at the command prompt:
cd /opt/dell/mdstoragesoftware/mdstoragemanager
/client./SMclient
Setup
Add Storage Array
on Microsoft Windows operating
desktop icon on Linux
and start the automatic discovery of
NOTE: Only storage arrays configured with IP address on the same subnet as
the management stations will be detected.
NOTE: It may take several minutes for the discovery process to complete.
Closing the Automatic Discovery Status window before this stops the
discovery process.
After discovery is complete, a confirmation screen is displayed.
4
Click
Close
to close the screen.
Post Installation Tasks 23
Verifying Storage Array Discovery
The Automatic Discovery option automatically discovers both in-band and
out-of-band arrays and adds the storage arrays to the management domain. If the
out-of-band or in-band connections shown on the summary page are not
accurate, complete the following steps. For more information, see the Online
Help.
1
Check the hardware and connections for possible problems. For specific
procedures on troubleshooting interface problems, see the
at
support.dell.com/manuals
2
Verify that the array is on the local subnetwork. If it is not, click the new
link to manually add it.
3
Verify that the status of each storage array is
an Unresponsive status, complete one of the following steps:
a
To remove the array from the management domain, highlight the
array and then click
b
To add an array, click
In Linux, click the
4
If the array still shows an
.
Remove link
New link
Manual
button and click OK.
Unresponsive
Optimal
.
.
status, contact Dell.
Initial Setup Tasks
1
The name of the first storage array found is displayed in the
the EMW. To see a list of all storage arrays found on the local network,
expand the discovered storage arrays tab in the device pane of the EMW.
2
The default name for a newly installed MD3600f series storage array is
Unnamed
next to the name and click Unnamed in the drop-down list.
3
Double-click on the discovered array to launch the array management
window and make changes to the configuration of the array.
4
Click
remaining post-installation tasks. The array is now ready to be configured.
See the
the necessary configuration steps. Table 4-1 lists the recommended
configuration steps that can be accomplished using the
. If another name is displayed in MDSM, click the down arrow
Perform Initial Setup Tasks
Owner’s Manual
for information about each task and to perform
to see an outline and links to the
Owner's Manual
. If any array shows
Devices
Owner’s Manual
tab of
.
24 Post Installation Tasks
NOTE: Before configuring the storage array, check the status icons on the Device pane
to ensure that the enclosures in the storage array are in an Optimal status. For more
information on the status icons, see the
Table 4-1. Initial Setup Tasks Dialog Box
Tas k Pu rp os e
Rename the storage array To provide a more meaningful name than the
Set a storage array password To restrict unauthorized access. MDSM may
Set up alert notifications
Set up e-mail alerts
Set up SNMP alerts
Configure a storage array To create virtual disks and map them to hosts.
Owner’s Manual
software-assigned label, Unnamed.
ask for a password before changing the
configuration or performing a destructive
operation.
To notify individuals (by e-mail) and/or
storage enterprise management consoles, such
as Dell Management Console, (by SNMP)
when a storage array component degrades or
fails, or an adverse environmental condition
occurs.
at support.dell.com/manuals.
Post Installation Tasks 25
26 Post Installation Tasks
5
Uninstalling MD Storage Software
Uninstalling MD Storage Software From Windows
Use the Change/Remove Program feature to uninstall the Modular Disk
Storage Software (MDSM) from Microsoft Windows operating systems other
than Microsoft Windows Server 2008:
1
Double-click
2
Select
3
Click
Change/Remove
The
Uninstall Complete
4
Follow the instructions on screen.
5
Select
Use the following procedure to uninstall Modular Disk Storage software from
Windows Server 2008 GUI versions:
1
Double-click
2
Select
3
Click
Uninstall/Change.
The
Uninstall Complete
Add or Remove Programs
Dell MD32xxi
Yes
to restart the system, and then click
Programs and Features
MD Storage Software
storage software from the list of programs.
.
window is displayed.
from the
from the list of programs.
window is displayed.
from the
Done
Control Panel
Control Panel
.
.
.
4
Follow the instructions on screen.
5
Select
Yes
to restart the system, then click
Use the following procedure to uninstall PowerVault Modular Disk Storage
Software on Windows Server 2008 Core versions:
1
Navigate to the
32
xx
i Storage Software
Dell\MD Storage Software\Uninstall Dell Modular Disk
directory.
Uninstalling MD Storage Software 27
Done
.
NOTE: By default, MD Storage Manager is installed in the \Program
Files\Dell\MD Storage Software directory. If another directory was used
during installation, navigate to that directory before beginning the
uninstallation procedure.
2
From the installation directory, type the following command and press
<Enter>:
Uninstall Modular Disk Storage
3
From the
screen.
4
Select
Uninstall
Yes
to restart the system, then click
window, click
Next
and follow the instructions on the
Done
.
Uninstalling MD Storage Software From Linux
1
By default, PowerVault MD Storage Manager is installed in the
/opt/dell/mdstoragemanager
during installation, navigate to that directory before beginning the
uninstallation procedure.
2
From the installation directory, open the
Software
3
Run the file
4
From the
screen.
While the software is uninstalling, the
When the uninstall procedure is complete, the
window is displayed.
directory.
Uninstall Dell MD Storage Software.exe
Uninstall
window, click
directory. If another directory was used
Uninstall Dell MD Storage
.
Next
, and follow the instructions on the
Uninstall
window is displayed.
Uninstall Complete
5
Click
Done
.
28 Uninstalling MD Storage Software
A
Appendix—Load Balancing
Windows Load Balance Policy
Multi-path drivers select the I/O path to a virtual disk through a specific
RAID controller module. When the multi-path driver receives a new I/O, the
driver tries to find a path to the current RAID controller module that owns
the virtual disk. If that path cannot be found, the multi-path driver migrates
the virtual disk ownership to the secondary RAID controller module. When
multiple paths to the RAID controller module that owns the virtual disk exist,
you can choose a load balance policy to determine which path is used to
process I/O. Multiple options for setting the load balance policies let you
optimize I/O performance when mixed host interfaces are configured.
You can choose one of the following load balance policies to optimize
I/O performance:
• Round robin with subset
• Least queue depth with subset
Round Robin With Subset
The round-robin with subset I/O load balance policy routes I/O requests, in
rotation, to each available data path to the RAID controller module that
owns the virtual disks. This policy treats all paths to the RAID controller
module that owns the virtual disk equally for I/O activity. Paths to the
secondary RAID controller module are ignored until ownership changes.
The basic assumption for the round-robin policy is that the data paths are
equal. With mixed host support, the data paths might have different
bandwidths or different data transfer speeds.
Appendix—Load Balancing 29
Least Queue Depth With Subset
The least queue depth with subset policy is also known as the least I/Os, or
least requests, policy. This policy routes the next I/O request to a data path
that has the least outstanding I/O requests queued. For this policy, an I/O
request is simply a command in the queue. The type of command or the
number of blocks that are associated with the command are not considered.
The least queue depth with subset policy treats large block requests and small
block requests equally. The data path selected is in the path group of the
RAID controller module that owns the virtual disk.
Changing Load Balance Policies in Windows Sever 2008
Load balancing with the PowerVault MD3600 series is only available for
Windows Server 2008 or later versions of the operating system. You can
change the load balance policies from the default round robin with subset by
using one of the following:
•Device Manager options
• Disk Management options
Changing the Load Balance Policy Using Windows Server 2008 Device
Manager Options
1
From the host desktop, right-click
open the
2
Click
3
Right-click the multi-path disk device for which you want to set load
balance policies, then select
4
From the
disk device.
Computer Managemen
Device Manager
MPIO
to show the list of devices attached to the host.
tab, select the load balance policy you want to set for this
My Computer
t window.
Properties
and select
.
Manage
to
30 Appendix—Load Balancing
Changing the Load Balance Policy Using the Windows Server 2008 Disk
Management Options
1
From the host desktop, right-click
open the
2
Click
Computer Managemen
Disk Management
to show the list of virtual disks attached to
My Computer
t window.
and select
Manage
to
the host.
3
Right-click the virtual disk on which you want to set the load balance
policy, then click
4
From the
Properties
MPIO
tab, select the load balance policy that you want to set for
.
this virtual disk.
Setting Load Balance Policies in Linux
Linux only supports round robin based load balancing. For more information,
see "Round Robin With Subset" on page 29.
Appendix—Load Balancing 31
32 Appendix—Load Balancing
B
Appendix—Working With SFP
Modules and Fiber Optic Cables
Each storage controller can have up to four FC host ports. A
small-form-factor pluggable (SFP) module is used to connect a host port to a
host or switch. The SFP module is inserted into the port, and then a fiber
optic cable is inserted into the SFP module. The other end of the fiber optic
cable is connected to an optical interface connector either in a FC HBA on a
host or a switch. SFP modules are laser products.
WARNING: Data processing environments can contain equipment transmitting
on system links with laser modules that operate at greater than Class 1 power
levels. Never look into the end of an optical fiber cable or open receptacle.
Guidelines for Using SFP Modules
The storage array requires SFP modules. SFP modules convert electrical
signals to optical signals that are required for FC transmission to and from
RAID controller modules. After installing the SFP modules, fiber optic cables
are used to connect the storage array to other FC devices. Before installing
SFP modules and fiber optic cables, read the following information:
• Use only Dell supported SFPs with the Dell PowerVault MD3600f series
storage arrays. Other generic SFPs are not supported and may not work
with the storage arrays.
• The SFP module housing has an integral guide key that is designed to
prevent you from inserting the SFP module incorrectly.
• Use minimal pressure when inserting an SFP module into a FC port.
Forcing the SFP module into a port may damage the SFP module or
the port.
• You can install or remove the SFP module while the port is powered on.
Appendix—Working With SFP Modules and Fiber Optic Cables 33
• You must install the SFP module into a port before you connect the fiber
1
2
optic cable.
• You must remove the fiber optic cable from the SFP module before you
remove the SFP module from the port.
CAUTION: When handling static-sensitive devices, take precautions to avoid
damaging the product from static electricity.
Installing and Removing SFP Modules
To install SFP modules:
1
If all the FC IN ports have an SFP module installed, go to step 5.
2
Remove the SFP module from the static protective package.
3
Remove the protective cap from the SFP module and SFP port.
NOTE: Store the protective caps for future use.
4
Insert the SFP module into the host port until it clicks into place.
5
Connect an FC cable. See "Installing and Removing Fibre Channel
Cables" on page 36.
Figure B-1. Installing and Removing an SFP Module
1 SFP transceiver 2 Fiber optic cable
34 Appendix—Working With SFP Modules and Fiber Optic Cables
To remove SFP modules:
1
Remove the FC cable from the SFP module. See "Installing and Removing
Fibre Channel Cables" on page 36.
NOTE: To avoid damaging the cable or the SFP module, disconnect the FC
cable before removing the SFP module.
2
Unlock the SFP module latch. For SFP modules that contain wire tabs,
unlock the SFP module latch by pulling the wire latch outward 90°.
3
With the SFP module latch in the unlocked position, remove the SFP
module. For SFP modules that contain wire tabs, grasp the wire latch and
pull the SFP module out of the port.
4
Replace the protective cap on the SFP module and the host port.
5
Place the SFP module into a static-protective package.
Guidelines for Using Fiber Optic Cables
• Do not route the cable along a folding cable management arm.
• For devices on slide rails, leave enough slack in the cables so they do not
bend to a diameter of less than 76 mm (3"), or a radius less than 38 mm
(1.5"), when extended or become pinched when retracted.
• Route the cable away from places where it can be damaged by other
devices in the rack cabinet.
• Do not use plastic cable ties in place of the provided cable straps.
• Do not over-tighten the cable straps or bend the cables to a diameter of
less than 76 mm (3") or a radius less than 38 mm (1.5").
• Do not place excess weight on the cable at the connection point. Ensure
that the cable is well supported.
Appendix—Working With SFP Modules and Fiber Optic Cables 35
Installing and Removing Fibre Channel Cables
WARNING: Data processing environments can contain equipment transmitting
on system links with laser modules that operate at greater than Class 1 power
levels. Never look into the end of an optical fiber cable or open receptacle.
Before installing an FC cable, see "Guidelines for Using Fiber Optic Cables"
on page 35.
To install an FC cable:
1
If applicable, remove the protective cap from the SFP module and store
the protective cap for future use.
2
Remove the two protective caps from one end of the cable and store them
for future use.
3
Insert the cable into an SFP module that is installed in the storage array.
The cable connector is keyed for correct installation. Holding the
connector, push in the cable until it clicks into place.
4
Remove the two protective caps from the other end of the cable and store
them future use.
5
Connect this end of the cable to one of the following devices:
• An SFP module that is installed in an FC switch port
• An FC HBA port
To remove an FC cable:
1
Press and hold the lever to release the latches before removing the cable
from the SFP module. Ensure that the levers are in the released position
when removing the cable. Do not grasp the SFP module plastic tab when
removing the cable.
2
On the end of the cable that connects into the SFP module or HBA, press
down and hold the lever to release the latches.
3
While pressing down the cable lever, pull the connector to remove the
cable from the SFP module.
4
Replace the protective caps on the cable ends.
5
Replace the protective cap on the SFP module.
36 Appendix—Working With SFP Modules and Fiber Optic Cables
C
Appendix—Hardware Cabling Best
Practices
Handling Static-Sensitive Components
Static electricity can damage memory modules, system boards, and other
static-sensitive components. To prevent damaging the system, follow
these precautions:
• Move and store all components in the static-protective packaging.
• Place components on a grounded surface before removing them from their
static-protective packaging.
• Grounded surfaces include static-dissipating mats or grounded workstations.
• Always be properly grounded when touching a static-sensitive component.
To properly ground yourself, wear a wrist strap or boot strap made for this
purpose.
• Handle the component by its edges. Do not touch solder joints, pins, or
printed circuitry.
• Use conductive field service tools.
Host Cabling for Remote Replication
The Remote Replication premium feature provides online, real-time
replication of data between storage arrays over a remote distance. In the event
of a disaster or a catastrophic failure at one storage array, a second storage
array can be promoted to take over responsibility for computing services. The
Remote Replication premium feature requires a dedicated host port for
replicating data between storage arrays. After the Remote Replication
premium feature has been activated, one host I/O port on each RAID
controller module is solely dedicated to replicating operations.
Appendix—Hardware Cabling Best Practices 37
NOTE: If Remote Replication is activated, host port 3 on each RAID controller
module is dedicated for the communication that occurs between the two
storage arrays (primary and secondary virtual disks). If the Remote Replication
premium feature is not being used, these host ports are available for ordinary
host connections.
Cabling for Performance
Data transfer performance is enhanced by maximizing bandwidth, which is
the ability to process more I/O across more channels. Therefore, a
configuration that maximizes the number of host channels and the number
of drive channels available to process I/O maximizes performance. Faster
processing speeds also maximize performance.
In addition to planning a topology that provides maximum performance,
choose a RAID level that suits the planned applications.
Single-Controller and Dual-Controller Topologies
While creating a topology for a RAID enclosure that contains only one RAID
controller module, attach expansion enclosures that contain only one single
environmental services monitor (ESM). Do not attach an expansion
enclosure that contains two ESMs to a single-controller RAID enclosure.
Labeling Cables
Cabling is an important part of creating a robust storage array. Labeling the
cables identifies system components and drive channels. System
maintenance is easier when the cables are correctly identified. Label both
ends of each cable. You can use adhesive office labels that are folded in half
over the ends of each cable. Mark the labels with the port identifiers to which
the cable is connected. Additional information can be provided by using
color-coded cable straps (or ties) to group all cables associated with one
component or drive channel.
If a component fails, the cables must be disconnected, the failed component
replaced, and the cables reattached. Detailed labeling of the cables simplifies
the component replacement process.
If you are adding a new expansion enclosure to an existing configuration,
correctly labeled cables helps identify where to connect the new enclosure.
38 Appendix—Hardware Cabling Best Practices
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