RAID Controller Module Connectors and Features

Figure 3-1. MD3200i Series iSCSI RAID Controller Module

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Item

Component

 

 

Function

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1

SAS OUT port

 

Provides SAS connection for cabling to an expansion

 

 

 

 

 

enclosure.

 

 

 

 

2

iSCSI IN port 0

 

Provides host-to-controller iSCSI 1Gbps Ethernet

 

 

 

 

 

connection.

 

 

 

 

3

iSCSI IN port 1

 

Provides host-to-controller iSCSI 1Gbps Ethernet

 

 

 

 

 

connection.

 

 

 

 

4

iSCSI IN port 2

 

Provides host-to-controller iSCSI 1Gbps Ethernet

 

 

 

 

 

connection.

 

 

 

 

5

iSCSI IN port 3

 

Provides host-to-controller iSCSI 1Gbps Ethernet

 

 

 

 

 

connection.

 

 

 

 

6

Management port

Provides a 100/1000 Mbps Ethernet connection for

 

ethernet connector

out-of-band management of the enclosure.

7

Debug port

 

 

Dell support only.

 

 

 

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Planning: RAID Controller Modules

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Dell MD3220i owner manual RAID Controller Module Connectors and Features, MD3200i Series iSCSI RAID Controller Module

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.