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Hardware Installation
Before using this guide, ensure that you review the instructions in the:
•Getting Started
•Dell PowerVault MD3260/3260i/3660i/3660f/3060e Storage Arrays Administrator's
•The Rack Installation instructions, that shipped with the storage array, provides information on how to rack your system.
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
•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.
Connecting The Storage Array
The storage array is connected to a host using two
Each RAID controller module has four FC IN (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
NOTE: When you connect a host server to a storage array FC IN port connector, any OUT port connector of the host bus adapter (HBA) of the server can be used.
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
•Dual path data configuration — A dual path configuration allows you to connect a maximum of four hosts.
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