Dell MD3460 manual System Requirements, Introduction To Storage Arrays

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Introduction

This guide provides information about deploying Dell PowerVault MD3460 storage arrays. The deployment process includes:

•Hardware installation

•Modular Disk Storage Manager (MD Storage Manager) installation

•Initial system configuration

Other information provided include system requirements, storage array organization, and utilities.

NOTE: For more information on product documentation, see Related Documentation.

MD Storage Manager enables an administrator to configure and monitor storage arrays for optimum usability. The version of MD Storage Manager included on the PowerVault MD Series resource media can be used to manage both the PowerVault MD3460 Series and other PowerVault MD Series storage arrays. MD Storage Manager is compatible with both Microsoft Windows and Linux operating systems.

System Requirements

Before installing and configuring the PowerVault MD3460 Series hardware and software, ensure that the supported operating system is installed and minimum system requirements are met. For more information, see the Support Matrix at dell.com/powervaultmanuals.

Management Station Requirements

A management station uses MD Storage Manager to configure and manage storage arrays across the network. For more information on management station requirements, see the Support Matrix at dell.com/powervaultmanuals.

Introduction To Storage Arrays

An enclosure containing physical disks accessed through RAID controller modules is called a storage array. A storage array includes various hardware components, such as physical disks, RAID controller modules, fans, and power supplies.

One or more host servers attached to the storage array can access the data on the storage array. You can also establish multiple physical paths between the host(s) and the storage array so that loss of any single path (for example, through failure of a host server port) does not result in loss of access to data on the storage array.

The storage array is managed by MD Storage Manager running on a:

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Contents Page Page Contents Load Balancing System Requirements IntroductionIntroduction To Storage Arrays Management Station RequirementsRelated Documentation Documentation feedback Contacting DellConnecting The Storage Array Hardware InstallationPlanning The Storage Configuration Cabling The Storage Array Redundant And Non-Redundant ConfigurationsDual Controller Configurations Two Hosts Connected to Two Controllers Four Hosts Connected to Two Controllers Four Hosts Connected to Two Controllers Eight Hosts Connected to Two Controllers Four Cluster Nodes Connected to Two Controllers Cabling PowerVault MD3060e Expansion Enclosures Single Expansion cabling diagram MD3060e Expansion cabling diagramsDual expansion cabling diagram Expanding With New PowerVault MD3060e Expansion EnclosuresPage Installing MD Storage Manager Graphical Installation Recommended Installing Host Bus Adapters And DriversSilent Installation Console InstallationSilent Installation On Windows Silent Installation On LinuxUpgrading PowerVault MD Storage Manager Enabling Premium Features OptionalVerifying Storage Array Discovery Post Installation TasksInitial Setup Tasks Uninstalling MD Storage Manager From Windows Uninstalling MD Storage ManagerUninstalling MD Storage Manager From Linux Load Balancing Least Path WeightLoad Balance Policy Round Robin With SubsetSetting Load Balance Policies in VMware Setting Load Balance Policies in Linux
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MD3460 specifications

The Dell MD3460 is a high-performance storage array that offers a blend of efficiency, scalability, and reliability, making it an ideal solution for businesses looking to optimize their data management. This storage system is particularly well-suited for medium to large enterprises that require robust storage capabilities for diverse workloads.

One of the standout features of the Dell MD3460 is its ability to support a large capacity, allowing organizations to store vast amounts of data. The system can house up to 60 drives, which can be a mix of HDDs and SSDs, catering to different performance and cost needs. This flexibility ensures that businesses can customize their storage solutions according to their specific requirements.

The MD3460 also includes advanced RAID technology, offering various RAID levels to protect against data loss while maximizing performance. This capability is critical for businesses that deal with sensitive or mission-critical data, ensuring data integrity and availability.

Another key characteristic of the MD3460 is its scalability. Organizations can easily expand their storage environment without major disruptions, thanks to the system's modular design. This scalability is further enhanced by support for both iSCSI and Fibre Channel connectivity, allowing seamless integration with existing infrastructure.

Performance is a fundamental attribute of the Dell MD3460, as it is designed to deliver high throughput and low latency, making it suitable for applications requiring rapid data access. The system supports multiple 10GbE ports, enabling fast data transfer rates that can accommodate demanding workloads efficiently.

In terms of management, the MD3460 features a user-friendly interface that simplifies configuration and monitoring. The intuitive dashboards provide insights into storage performance, capacity utilization, and health status, making it easier for IT administrators to manage resources effectively.

Furthermore, the Dell MD3460 supports advanced data protection features, including snapshots and cloning, which enable quick recovery from failures or accidental deletions. This capability ensures business continuity and minimizes downtime.

In summary, the Dell MD3460 is an advanced storage solution that combines capacity, performance, and scalability into a single platform. Its modular architecture, RAID support, and user-friendly management tools make it a powerful choice for organizations seeking to enhance their data management strategies while ensuring reliability and efficiency.
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