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Configuration: Disk Groups and Virtual Disks

Creating Disk Groups and Virtual Disks

Disk groups are created in the unconfigured capacity of a storage array, and virtual disks are created in the free capacity of a disk group. The maximum number of physical disks supported in a disk group is 30. The hosts attached to the storage array read and write data to the virtual disks.

NOTE: Before you can create virtual disks, you must first organize the physical disks into disk groups and configure host access. Then you can create virtual disks within a disk group.

To create a virtual disk, use one of the following methods:

Create a new disk group from unconfigured capacity. You first define the RAID level and free capacity (available storage space) for the disk group, and then you define the parameters for the first virtual disk in the new disk group.

Create a new virtual disk in the free capacity of an existing disk group. You only need to specify the parameters for the new virtual disk.

A disk group has a set amount of free capacity that is configured when the disk group is created. You can use that free capacity to subdivide the disk group into one or more virtual disks.

You can create disk groups and virtual disks using:

Automatic configuration—Provides the fastest method, but with limited configuration options.

Manual configuration—Provides more configuration options.

When creating a virtual disk, consider the uses for that virtual disk, and select an appropriate capacity for those uses. For example, if a disk group has a virtual disk that stores multimedia files (which tend to be large) and another virtual disk that stores text files (which tend to be small), the multimedia file virtual disk requires more capacity than the text file virtual disk.

Configuration: Disk Groups and Virtual Disks

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Dell MD3200i, MD3220i owner manual Configuration Disk Groups and Virtual Disks, Creating Disk Groups and Virtual Disks, 103

MD3200i, MD3220i specifications

The Dell MD3220i and MD3200i are part of Dell's extensive line of modular storage solutions, designed to support organizations in optimizing their data management and scalability requirements. These models offer reliable performance and flexible features, making them suitable for various workloads including virtualization, cloud storage, and disaster recovery.

One of the standout features of the MD3220i and MD3200i is their support for iSCSI storage networking. By utilizing the Internet Small Computer Systems Interface (iSCSI) protocol, these systems provide organizations with a cost-effective way to connect their storage over existing network infrastructure, enabling efficient data transfers and management.

Both models are equipped with dual controllers that ensure high availability and failover capabilities, which are crucial for meeting uptime requirements in mission-critical environments. The dual controllers also facilitate load balancing and increase overall system performance, as they allow multiple paths to the storage, enhancing I/O performance.

Scalability is another key characteristic of the MD3220i and MD3200i. These storage arrays can be expanded to meet growing storage demands, supporting up to 240TB of raw capacity with up to 16 additional expansion enclosures. This flexibility allows organizations to start with a smaller configuration and grow their storage capabilities without a complete overhaul of the existing infrastructure.

The units also support multiple disk types, including traditional spinning disks, solid-state drives (SSDs), and a combination of both. This versatility enables users to tailor storage configurations to their specific performance and budgetary needs. Furthermore, the systems feature advanced data management technologies such as snapshots and remote replication, providing essential tools for data protection.

With their ease of management, the MD3220i and MD3200i are designed for straightforward configuration and operation. The intuitive management interfaces allow IT professionals to monitor performance, configure storage, and manage data effectively, ensuring businesses can maintain optimal system availability.

In summary, the Dell MD3220i and MD3200i are robust, scalable, and versatile storage solutions that cater to diverse organizational needs. Their integrated technologies, such as iSCSI support, dual controller architecture, and advanced data management features, make them an ideal choice for modern data centers looking to enhance storage capabilities while ensuring reliability and performance.