Paths used by the preferred controller to access either the disks or the host are called the preferred paths; redundant paths are called the alternate paths. If a failure causes the preferred path to become inaccessible, the storage array automatically uses the alternate path to access data.

Host Bus Adapters

Each cable connection from a host to a RAID controller module is made through an HBA. The HBA is installed in the host and provides an interface to the internal bus of the host. To configure for highest redundancy, you must use more than one HBA in a single host. You can connect each HBA to the RAID controller modules (preferred and alternate) to ensure that the server data will be accessible even if one HBA fails.

Selecting Host Bus Adapters for Redundancy

NOTE: For maximum redundancy, you must select all HBA host ports connected to the array when manually defining host topology or setting up host mapping.

You can have multiple SAS HBA host ports-to-array connections for each host. When setting up host mapping, you must select the HBA host ports from the list of Known HBA host ports in MD Storage Manager. Add all of the HBA host ports to the list of Selected HBA host port identifiers/aliases for the host for which you are defining the LUN mapping.

For example, a host might have two HBAs, each with two HBA host ports connected to the array. For this host, you would select all four HBA host ports.

Host Cabling for Redundancy

To make sure that the RAID storage array remains accessible to the host, establish a minimum of two physical paths from each host to the RAID controller modules. The following examples show host cabling for redundancy.

One Host with Two Cable Connections

Figure 3-1 shows a single host with two HBAs. Both HBAs have two ports, but use only a single port. Each HBA is connected to one RAID controller module in the RAID enclosure. Each RAID controller module has one port.

Figure 3-1. One Host with Two Cable Connections

dual-HBA host server

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MD3000 RAID Enclosure

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Using Your RAID Enclosure

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Dell MD3000 owner manual Host Bus Adapters, Host Cabling for Redundancy
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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.
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