Preparing Host Servers to Create the Snapshot Using the Advanced Path

NOTE: Before using the Snapshot Virtual Disks Premium Feature in a Microsoft® Windows® clustered configuration, you must first map the snapshot virtual disk to the cluster node that owns the source virtual disk. This ensures that the cluster nodes correctly recognize the snapshot virtual disk.

NOTE: Mapping the snapshot virtual disk to the node that does not own the source virtual disk before the Snapshot enabling process is completed can result in the operating system mis-identifying the snapshot virtual disk. This, in turn, can result in data loss on the source virtual disk or an inaccessible snapshot.

NOTE: For details on mapping the snapshot virtual disk to the secondary node,

refer to the Dell™ PowerVault™ MD3200i and MD3220i Storage Arrays With Microsoft® Windows Server® Failover Clusters on support.dell.com/manuals.

The destination of a snapshot repository virtual disk is determined based on the free capacity available in the disk group. A snapshot repository virtual disk requires a minimum 8 MB of free capacity. You can choose your preferred creation path—simple or advanced—if the disk group of the source virtual disk has the required amount of free space.

If 8 MB of free capacity is not available in the disk group of the source virtual disk, the Create Snapshot Virtual Disks feature defaults to the advanced path (see "Creating a Snapshot Virtual Disk Using the Advanced Path" on

page 149). In the advanced path option, you can choose to place the snapshot repository virtual disk in another disk group or you can use unconfigured capacity on the storage array to create a new disk group.

NOTE: You can create concurrent snapshots of a source virtual disk on both the source disk group and on another disk group.

Before creating a Snapshot Virtual Disk:

•The following types of virtual disks are not valid source virtual disks: snapshot repository virtual disks, snapshot virtual disks, target virtual disks that are participating in a virtual disk copy.

NOTE: Virtual Disk Copy is an Advanced (Premium) feature.

•You cannot create a snapshot of a virtual disk that contains unreadable sectors.

Configuration: Premium Feature—Snapshot Virtual Disks

151

Page 150 Page 152
Page 151
Image 151
Dell MD3200i, MD3220i owner manual 151
Page 150 Page 152

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.
Top Page Image Contents