A disk group should be organized according to its related tasks and subtasks. For example, if you create a disk group for the Accounting Department, you can create virtual disks that match the different types of accounting performed in the department: Accounts Receivable (AR), Accounts Payable (AP), internal billing, and so forth. In this scenario, the AR and AP virtual disks probably need more capacity than the internal billing virtual disk.

NOTE: In Linux, the host must be rebooted after deleting virtual disks to reset the /dev entries.

NOTE: Before you can use a virtual disk, you must register the disk with the host systems. See "Host-to-Virtual Disk Mapping" on page 126.

Creating Disk Groups

You can create disk groups using either Automatic configuration or Manual configuration.

To create disk groups using automatic configuration:

1To start the Create Disk Group Wizard, perform one of these actions:

•To create a disk group from unconfigured capacity in the storage array—On the Logical tab, select an Unconfigured Capacity node, and select Disk Group→ Create. Alternatively, you can right-click the Unconfigured Capacity node, and select Create Disk Group from the pop-up menu.

•To create a disk group from unassigned physical disks in the storage array—On the Physical tab, select one or more unassigned physical disks of the same physical disk type, and select Disk Group→ Create. Alternatively, you can right-click the unassigned physical disks, and select Create Disk Group from the pop-up menu.

•To create a secure disk group—On the Physical tab, select one or more unassigned security capable physical disks of the same physical disk type, and select Disk Group→ Create. Alternatively, you can right- click the unassigned security capable physical disks, and select Create Disk Group from the pop-up menu.

The Introduction (Create Disk Group) window is displayed.

2Click Next.

The Disk Group Name and Physical Disk Selection window is displayed.

104

Configuration: Disk Groups and Virtual Disks

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Dell MD3220i, MD3200i owner manual Creating Disk Groups, Introduction Create Disk Group window is displayed, 104
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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.
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