disk called DACstore. DACstore and the physical disk firmware enable easier reconfiguration and migration of the physical disks. The physical disk firmware performs these functions:

The physical disk firmware records the location of the physical disk in an expansion enclosure. If you take a physical disk out of an expansion enclosure, you must insert it back into the same physical disk slot, or the physical disk firmware cannot communicate with the RAID controller module or other storage array components.

RAID configuration information is stored in the physical disk firmware and is used to communicate with other RAID components.

NOTE: Risk of application errors – Downloading the firmware could cause application errors.

Keep these important guidelines in mind when you download firmware to avoid the risk of application errors:

Downloading firmware incorrectly could result in damage to the physical disks or loss of data. Perform downloads only under the guidance of your Technical Support representative.

Stop all I/O to the storage array before the download.

Make sure that the firmware that you download to the physical disks are compatible with the physical disks that you select.

Do not make any configuration changes to the storage array while downloading the firmware.

NOTE: Downloads can take several minutes to complete. During a download, the Download Physical Disk - Progress dialog appears. Do not attempt another operation when the Download Physical Disk - Progress dialog is shown.

To download Physical Disk Firmware:

1From the AMW, select AdvancedMaintenanceDownload

Physical Disk.

The Download Physical Disk - Introduction window appears.

2Click Next.

The Download Physical Disk Firmware - Add Packages window is displayed.

Management: Firmware Downloads

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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.