NOTE: Any arrays configured with MDCU automatically adds to the list of Devices in the PowerVault Modular Disk Storage Manager Enterprise Management Window (EMW).

Device Mapper Configuration Steps

To complete the DM multipathing configuration and make storage available to the Linux host server:

1Scan for virtual disks. See "Scan for newly added Virtual Disks" on page 179.

2Display the multipath device topology. See "Display the multipath device topology using the multipath command" on page 180.

3Create a partition on a multipath device node. See "Create a New fdisk Partition on a Multipath Device Node" on page 181.

4Add a partition to DM. See "Add a new Partition to Device Mapper" on page 181.

5Create a file system on a DM partition. See "Create a file system on a Device Mapper Partition" on page 182.

6Mount a DM partition. See "Mount a Device Mapper Partition" on page 182.

The following instructions show how to complete each of these steps.

In the following command descriptions <x> is used to indicate where a substitution should be made. On Red Hat® Enterprise Linux® systems <x> is the number assigned to the device. On SUSE® Linux Enterprise Server systems <x> is the letter(s) assigned to the device.

Scan for newly added Virtual Disks

The rescan_dm_devs command scans the host server system looking for existing and newly added virtual disks mapped to the host server.

# rescan_dm_devs

If an array virtual disk (VD) is mapped to the host server at a later time the rescan_dm_devices command must be run again to make the VD a visible LUN to the operating system.

Configuration: Device Mapper Multipath for Linux

179

Page 178 Page 180
Page 179
Image 179
Dell MD3200i, MD3220i owner manual Device Mapper Configuration Steps, Scan for newly added Virtual Disks, 179
Page 178 Page 180

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