Unified Mode and Split Mode

Dell MD1000 owner manual Unified Mode and Split Mode

Table 1-4. EMM Component Functions (continued)

Item	Component	Icon	Function

6	EMM Status LED		Solid green: EMM is functioning properly.
	(green/amber)		Solid amber: The enclosure did not boot or was not
			properly configured.
			Off: EMM did not boot, is not properly configured,
			or communication between the EMM and the
			server is lost.
			Green flashing (250 ms): Firmware download in
			progress.
			Amber flashing (On 250 ms Off 250 ms [once];
			Off 1000 ms): Communication between SAS
			expanders and enclosure processor could not be
			established.
			Amber flashing (On 250 ms Off 250 ms [twice];
			Off 1000 ms): Enclosure processor unable to
			communicate with enclosure devices.
			Amber flashing (On 250 ms Off 250 ms [three
			times]; Off 1000 ms): One or more SAS expanders
			not properly configured.
			Amber flashing (On 250 ms Off 250 ms [five
			times]; Off 1000 ms): Firmware revisions between
			EMMs are different. Both EMM LEDs will blink.

The enclosure can run in one of two modes:

•Unified

•Split

In unified mode, a SAS host can communicate with up to 15 drives in the enclosure via a single EMM, or up to 45 drives in three enclosures daisy chained together. In split mode, the enclosure is split into two virtual groups, with up to eight consecutive drives (slots 7-14) controlled by the primary (left) EMM. The remaining drives (slots 0-6) are controlled by the secondary (right) EMM. You must select either mode using the enclosure mode switch on the front panel of the enclosure before powering on (see Figure 1-7).

NOTE: Clustering is not supported in the MD1000 host-based RAID solution.

Figure 1-6illustrates the division of control, depending on whether you select the enclosure to run in either unified or split mode.

About Your System

MD1000 specifications

The Dell MD1000 is a storage enclosure designed to provide a scalable and reliable solution for enterprises seeking efficient data storage management. Recognized for its robust performance and versatility, the MD1000 supports a variety of applications, making it a popular choice among organizations that demand high-capacity storage solutions.

One of the standout features of the MD1000 is its modular design, allowing it to integrate seamlessly with various Dell server systems. It provides efficient data storage through its 3.5-inch drive bays, accommodating up to 15 hard drives or solid-state drives. This configuration not only facilitates higher storage density but also supports SATA and SAS drives, offering the flexibility to choose different types of storage media based on organizational needs.

The MD1000 features advanced RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) technology, which enhances data protection and system performance. It supports multiple RAID levels, including RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, and 10, providing users with different options for balancing performance and redundancy. By leveraging RAID, the MD1000 ensures that data remains safe and accessible even in the event of hardware failure, significantly reducing downtime and risk.

Connectivity is another strength of the MD1000. It typically interfaces with a server through a variety of host interface options including iSCSI and Fibre Channel, making it adaptable to different network configurations. This connectivity flexibility supports various environments, ensuring organizations can scale their storage without significant infrastructure overhauls.

Cooling and power efficiency are also critical characteristics of the MD1000. It includes dual-redundant power supplies and cooling fans that not only enhance reliability but also lower operational costs. These components can function independently, ensuring that power loss in one does not affect overall system performance.

Management and monitoring capabilities of the MD1000 are empowered by the Dell OpenManage software, which provides a user-friendly interface to manage the storage subsystem. Users can easily monitor drive health, configure RAID settings, and receive alerts on potential issues, simplifying the administration of large storage networks.

Overall, the Dell MD1000 is built to accommodate growing storage needs while ensuring reliability, performance, and ease of use. With its modular design, support for various drive types, robust RAID capabilities, versatile connectivity options, and efficient power management, it represents an excellent choice for businesses looking to enhance their data storage infrastructure.

Table 1-4. EMM Component Functions (continued)

Icon

Amber flashing (On 250 ms Off 250 ms [once];