Sun Microsystems T3 instruction

Configuring Cache for Performance and Redundancy

Cache mode can be set to the following values:

■Auto. The cache mode is determined as either write-behind or write-through, based on the I/O profile. If the array has full redundancy available, then caching operates in write-behind mode. If any array component is non-redundant, the caching mode is set to write-through. Read caching is always performed. Auto caching mode provides the best performance while retaining full redundancy protection.

Auto is the default cache mode for Sun StorEdge T3 and T3+ arrays.

■Write-behind. All read and write operations are written to cache. An algorithm determines when the data is destaged or moved from cache to disk. Write-behind cache improves performance, because a write to a high-speed cache is faster than a write to a normal disk.

Use write-behind cache mode with a workgroup configuration when you want to force write-behind caching to be used.

Caution – In a workgroup configuration, use a host-based mirroring solution to protect data. This configuration does not offer the redundancy to provide cache mirroring, and operating without a host-based mirroring solution could lead to data loss in the event of a controller failure.

■Write-through. This cache mode forces write-through caching to be used. In write-through cache mode, data is written through cache in a serial manner and is then written to the disk. Write-through caching does not improve write performance. However, if a subsequent read operation needs the same data, the read performance is improved, because the data is already in cache.

■None. No reads or writes are cached.

Note – For full redundancy in an enterprise configuration, set the cache mode and the mirror variable to Auto. This ensures that the cache is mirrored between controllers and that write-behind cache mode is in effect. If a failure occurs, the data is synchronized to disk, and then write-through mode takes effect. Once the problem has been corrected and all internal components are again optimal, the system will revert to operating in write-behind cache mode.

14 Sun StorEdge T3 and T3+ Array Configuration Guide • August 2001

T3 specifications

Sun Microsystems T3 is a high-performance scalable server designed to meet the demanding requirements of enterprise-level computing. Introduced as part of the Sun Fire server lineup, the T3 was built to cater to organizations that needed both flexibility and reliability in their IT infrastructure.

One of the key features of the Sun T3 is its SPARC T3 processor, which integrates several cores on a single chip. This processor architecture allows for simultaneous multithreading, maximizing the utilization of resources and enhancing throughput. The SPARC T3 can support up to 16 cores, which means that it can handle a significant number of threads at once, making it an excellent choice for web applications, database processing, and other high-demand environments.

The T3's memory architecture also stands out. The system can support up to 1TB of memory with up to 128 DIMM slots, allowing for large data sets to be processed with ease. This large memory capacity provides ample room for memory-intensive applications and ensures smooth performance even under heavy loads.

Moreover, the Sun T3 is equipped with a unique virtualization technology known as Oracle VM Server for SPARC. This allows businesses to run multiple operating systems and applications on the same physical machine, reducing the need for additional hardware and simplifying management tasks. The virtualization capabilities contribute to cost savings while improving resource utilization.

In addition, the T3 features advanced I/O capabilities with multiple connectivity options, including Ethernet, Fibre Channel, and Serial Attached SCSI (SAS). This flexibility ensures that the system can be integrated into various network environments and supports a wide range of storage solutions.

Furthermore, the T3 is designed for enhanced energy efficiency. Sun Microsystems embedded their CoolThreads technology, which significantly reduces power consumption compared to traditional server architectures. This focus on energy efficiency not only helps in reducing operational costs but also supports corporate sustainability initiatives.

The T3 also incorporates robust security features, including hardware-based security mechanisms that protect data and facilitate secure operations. This is particularly important for businesses that handle sensitive information and are subject to regulatory compliance.

In summary, Sun Microsystems T3 is a formidable server that combines advanced processing power, scalability, virtualization capabilities, and energy efficiency. Its architecture and design make it suitable for a wide array of enterprise applications, positioning it as a reliable foundation for businesses looking to enhance their IT infrastructure.