5Make sure that the controller firmware is compatible with MDSM on your management station. If the controller firmware was upgraded, the MDSM might not have access to the storage array. A new version of MDSM might be needed to manage the storage array with the new version of the controller firmware.

If this problem exists, see the Dell support website at support.dell.com.

6Look to see if there is too much network traffic to one or more controllers. This problem corrects itself because the MDSM tries to re-establish communication with the controllers in the storage array at regular times. If the storage array was unresponsive and a subsequent try to connect to the storage array succeeds, the storage array becomes responsive.

7For an out-of-band storage array, look to see if management operations are taking place on the storage array from other storage management stations. The type of management operations being done and the number of management sessions taking place together establish the number of TCP/IP connections made to a controller. When the maximum number of TCP/IP connections have been made, the controller stops responding. This problem corrects itself because after some TCP/IP connections complete, the controller then becomes responsive to other connection tries.

8If the storage array is still unresponsive, problems might exist with the controllers.

If these problems exist, see the Dell support website at support.dell.com.

Starting or Restarting the Host Context Agent Software

The host context agent software module is the software component that resides on the server or management station that communicates with the MD3200i series storage arrays. The SMagent software automatically starts after you reboot the host.

Windows

To restart the SMagent software in Windows:

1Click Start→ Settings→ Control Pane→ Administrative Tools→ Services.

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Dell MD3220i, MD3200i owner manual Starting or Restarting the Host Context Agent Software, 246
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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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