Cabling The Storage Array, Switch Zoning Guidelines

together, the switch allows the host server to see only devices included in that zone, decreasing the amount of time it would otherwise take for the host server to query attached, but out-of-zone, devices.

Switch Zoning Guidelines

The storage array imposes specific requirements that must be followed when setting up Fibre Channel switch zoning:

•If a Fibre Channel switch is used to connect your host server and storage array, it must be zoned. Un- zoned or open switches cannot be used.

•WWN port zoning is recommended. While hard zoning (zoning by device ID) is supported, LUN masking uses the WWN identifier. You can mix WWN and hard-zoned ports in the same zone.

•Multi-port HBAs are supported. Each port in a multiple-port HBA represents one initiator. Each initiator must be connected to a single logical switch zone.

•No more than four paths (port-to-port segments) can be established from a single, physical host server(s) to a single RAID controller.

•A zone can contain multiple targets and span multiple storage arrays (single initiator can point to multiple targets).

NOTE: To simplify troubleshooting, you can assign a single initiator and single target to a zone.

•If the Remote Replication premium feature is activated, a separate zone for each replication port is required. Only data traffic related to Remote Replication can move through that zone. For more details and requirements regarding Remote Replication, see the Dell PowerVault MD Series Storage Arrays Administrator's Guide at dell.com/powervaultmanuals.

Setting Up Zoning On The Fibre Channel Switch Hardware

Setting up zoning on Fibre Channel switches varies greatly between manufacturers. For detailed information on how to set up zoning on your switch, see the manufacturer’s product documentation or technical support website.

Cabling The Storage Array

Cabling the storage array depends on a number of factors such as:

•Required level of redundancy or throughput

•Number of host servers connected to the storage array

•Type of HBAs (dual- or single-port) used in the host server(s)

•Remote Replication premium feature (if applicable)

The cabling diagrams shown here do not represent every supported cabling scenario but the concepts of redundancy and switch logic can be used to build your own configuration.

Redundant And Non-Redundant Cabling

Non-redundant cabling configurations provide a single data path from host server(s) to the storage array. This type of configuration is only recommended for non-critical data storage. A path failure from a failed or removed cable, failed HBA, or failed or removed RAID controller module results in loss of host access to the storage array.

Redundant configurations establish separate data paths between the host server(s) and storage array. Each path is connected to separate RAID controller modules in the storage array. Redundancy protects

MD3800f, MD3820f specifications

The Dell MD3800f and MD3820f storage arrays are advanced storage solutions designed to meet the demanding needs of mid-sized businesses and enterprise environments. Both models offer high performance, scalability, and a reliable foundation for data storage that can support various applications.

One of the standout features of the MD3800f and MD3820f is their impressive scalability. The MD3800f can support up to 240 drives, allowing for extensive storage capacity that can be adjusted as business needs grow. Meanwhile, the MD3820f supports up to 192 drives, offering streamlined management without sacrificing performance. This flexible architecture enables organizations to start small and expand their storage configurations as their data evolves.

Performance is another key characteristic of these two storage systems. Equipped with dual active controllers, the MD3800f and MD3820f can provide increased throughput and load balancing, ensuring that applications run smoothly even under high-demand circumstances. With support for both SSDs and HDDs, these storage arrays can achieve a mix of high-speed access and cost-effective capacity. The MD3800f, in particular, offers intelligent tiering capabilities that automatically moves data between different types of drives based on usage patterns, further optimizing performance.

Both models also include advanced RAID configurations, which enhance data protection and availability. Users can select from several RAID levels, including RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, and 10, catering to specific performance and redundancy needs. Additionally, the MD3800f and MD3820f incorporate features like snapshot technology, which allows for point-in-time copies of data for backup or recovery purposes without impacting performance.

In terms of connectivity, the Dell MD3800f and MD3820f offer various interface options including iSCSI and Fibre Channel, enabling seamless integration into diverse IT environments. Management of the arrays is made easy through the Dell Storage Manager, which provides a comprehensive view of storage performance, utilization, and health, making it easier for IT administrators to oversee their infrastructure.

In summary, the Dell MD3800f and MD3820f storage arrays are robust solutions that deliver exceptional scalability and performance. With their advanced features, intelligent data management, and flexible connectivity options, they are well-suited for organizations looking to optimize their data storage capabilities while maintaining high availability and efficiency.