Installing a Hard Drive Into a Drive Carrier

1Insert the hard drive into the hard-drive carrier with the connector end of the drive at the back. See Figure 16-5.

2Align the screw holes on the hard drive with the back set of holes on the hard-drive carrier.

When aligned correctly, the back of the hard drive is flush with the back of the hard-drive carrier.

3Attach the four screws to secure the hard drive to the hard-drive carrier.

RAID Controller Module

An MD3200i series storage array supports single as well as dual RAID controller configurations. If only one RAID controller module is installed in your array, it must be installed in slot 0. You must install the RAID controller module blank in slot 1.

CAUTION: RAID controller modules can be removed and installed without turning off the array. It is recommended that you do not remove the RAID controller module while data is being transferred. Replacing or installing a RAID controller module that is connected to a host server causes it to loose communication with the array and may require a reboot of the host server.

Removing a RAID Controller Module Blank

CAUTION: To maintain proper system cooling, you must install a RAID controller module blank in the empty slot.

1Turn off the array and host server.

2Disconnect all the power cables connected to the array.

3To remove the RAID controller module blank, press down on the release latch and pull the blank away from the array. See Figure 16-7.

4Install RAID controller modules in slot 0 and 1. See "Installing a RAID Controller Module" on page 208.

Management: Installing Array Components

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Dell MD3200i, MD3220i Installing a Hard Drive Into a Drive Carrier, Removing a RAID Controller Module Blank, 205
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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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