Cabling the Enclosure, Redundancy vs. Nonredundancy

Each MD3000 RAID controller module also contains a SAS Out port connector. This port allows you the option to connect the RAID enclosure to an expansion enclosure.

Cabling the Enclosure

You can cable your enclosure to up to four hosts and up to two expansion enclosures. The configuration that you choose depends on the number of hosts you have, whether you are connecting to a standalone host or a cluster node, and the level of data redundancy that you need.

The figures that follow are grouped according to the number of SAS In port connectors available on the MD3000. Single SAS In port configurations and dual SAS In port configurations each support redundant and nonredundant cabling.

Redundancy vs. Nonredundancy

Nonredundant configurations, configurations that provide only a single data path from a host to the RAID enclosure, are recommended only for non-critical data storage. Path failure from a failed or removed cable, a failed host bus adapter, or a failed or removed RAID controller module results in loss of host access to storage on the RAID enclosure.

Redundancy is established by installing separate data paths between the host and the storage array, in which each path is to different RAID controller modules. Redundancy protects the host from losing access to data in the event of path failure, because both RAID controllers can access all the disks in the storage array.

Single SAS In-Port Configurations

Figure 2-1 through Figure 2-5 show supported nonredundant and redundant cabling configurations to MD3000 RAID controller modules with a single SAS In port connector. Each diagram shows the maximum number of optional expansion enclosures attached.

Figure 2-1 through Figure 2-3 show one and two hosts, each connected to only one RAID controller module that is subsequently expanded to two more storage enclosures. The hosts can share storage space but without redundant paths, if one path were to fail, the server on that path would be disconnected from the storage array.

Cabling Your RAID Enclosure

MD3000 specifications

The Dell MD3000 is a renowned storage area network (SAN) solution recognized for its flexibility, scalability, and high performance. Designed to meet the demands of small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) and enterprise environments, the MD3000 offers a plethora of features that enhance data management and storage capabilities.

One of the standout features of the MD3000 is its modular design. This allows users to start with a basic configuration and expand their storage capacity as their needs grow. The system can support up to 30 drives, including both SATA and SAS drives, giving users the ability to optimize cost and performance based on their specific requirements. With support for a diverse range of drive types, the MD3000 ensures that businesses can implement a storage solution that aligns perfectly with their performance and budgetary needs.

The MD3000 leverages advanced technologies to deliver exceptional performance and reliability. It is equipped with Intelligent Disk Pools that optimize the allocation of data across drives, ensuring improved access speeds and overall system efficiency. This dynamic management of data not only enhances performance but also extends the lifespan of the storage devices.

Data protection is another critical component of the MD3000. The system features various RAID configurations, allowing users to choose the level of redundancy that suits their operational requirements. Additionally, robust snapshot capabilities help businesses create point-in-time copies of their data, enabling quick recovery in case of data loss or corruption.

Connectivity options are abundant with the MD3000. It supports both iSCSI and Fibre Channel, providing users the flexibility to integrate it seamlessly into existing network infrastructures. This adaptability makes it an attractive option for organizations looking to modernize their storage systems without overhauling their entire architecture.

Furthermore, the MD3000 is equipped with a user-friendly management interface. The GUI enables quick provisioning and monitoring of storage resources while providing insightful analytics and alerts, allowing IT teams to maintain optimal performance with ease.

In summary, the Dell MD3000 is a highly versatile and efficient storage solution that meets diverse organizational needs. Its scalable architecture, advanced features, and strong support for data protection and management make it an ideal choice for businesses aiming to enhance their storage capabilities while ensuring reliability and performance. Whether for virtualization, database management, or general storage needs, the MD3000 stands out as an excellent investment in enterprise storage technology.