C H A P T E R 3

Preparing PowerEdge and PowerVault Systems for Clustering

This chapter provides information on adding peripherals, placing Fibre Channel host bus adapters (HBAs), and configuring enclosure addresses.

Adding Peripherals Required for Clustering

WARNING: Hardware installation should be performed only by trained service technicians. Before working inside the computer system, see the safety instructions in your PowerEdge System Information document to avoid a situation that could cause serious injury or death.

You may need to add peripheral devices and expansion cards to the system to meet the minimum cluster requirements listed in the Dell PowerEdge Cluster FE100/FL100 and FE200/FL200 Platform Guide. For example, each PowerEdge node must have two network interface controller (NIC) cards to meet the minimum configuration require- ments. Each node also needs one or two HBAs to access the shared storage subsystem.

NOTES: If you are adding storage area networking (SAN) components, see the Dell PowerEdge Cluster F-Series SAN Guide for more information on supported configura- tions and components.

See the Dell PowerEdge Cluster FE100/FL100 and FE200/FL200 Platform Guide for peripheral component interconnect (PCI) slot guidelines.

If you are upgrading an existing PowerVault 65xF/660F storage system to meet the cluster requirements for the shared storage subsystem, you may need to install addi- tional Fibre Channel disk drives in the shared storage system. The size and number of drives you add depend on the redundant array of independent disks (RAID) level you want to use and the number of Fibre Channel disk drives currently in your system.

NOTE: For information on installing Fibre Channel disk drives in your PowerVault storage system, see your PowerVault storage system’s Installation and Troubleshoot- ing Guide.

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Preparing PowerEdge and PowerVault Systems for Clustering 3-1

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Dell FL100 manual Preparing PowerEdge and PowerVault Systems for Clustering, Adding Peripherals Required for Clustering
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FL200, FE200, FL100, FE100 specifications

The Dell FE100, FL100, FL200, and FE200 are part of Dell's lineup of advanced networking switches designed to cater to the increasing demand for efficient data handling in enterprise environments. These switches combine powerful performance with a range of features that ensure scalability, reliability, and ease of management.

The Dell FE100 is a compact yet robust switch that caters primarily to small and medium-sized businesses. It provides gigabit connectivity with multiple ports for enhanced network performance. The FE100 is equipped with layer 2 capabilities, which offer essential features such as VLAN support, port mirroring, and link aggregation, ensuring seamless data flow across the network.

In contrast, the Dell FL100 stands out with its advanced layer 3 functionality. This switch is designed for more complex enterprise environments where routing capabilities are necessary. The FL100 supports static and dynamic routing protocols, which enhance network efficiency and traffic management. Furthermore, its Quality of Service (QoS) features enable prioritization of critical applications, optimizing network resources.

Moving up the lineup, the Dell FL200 offers increased port density and enhanced performance metrics. It caters to high-traffic networks with features such as enhanced security protocols and advanced traffic management capabilities. The FL200 integrates seamlessly into larger network infrastructures and is designed to support advanced IPv6 routing, ensuring future-proofing in an evolving technological landscape.

Finally, the Dell FE200 switch is a high-performance, enterprise-grade solution suited for environments that demand maximum throughput and minimal latency. It offers dual-speed capability, supporting both 10GbE and 1GbE connections. The FE200 is characterized by its high level of robustness and redundancy features, including dual power supplies, which safeguard against potential downtime. The switch also provides comprehensive management tools, enabling network administrators to monitor and configure the network seamlessly.

In conclusion, the Dell FE100, FL100, FL200, and FE200 switches represent a versatile and powerful range of networking devices tailored to meet various business needs. With a blend of advanced features, scalability options, and exceptional performance characteristics, these switches are invaluable assets for organizations aiming to optimize their network infrastructure. Whether for small setups or large enterprises, Dell's networking solutions provide reliability and efficiency in today’s fast-paced digital landscape.
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