4

3 Planning: RAID Controller Modules . . . . 31

RAID Controller Modules

31

RAID Controller Module Connectors and Features . . .

32

RAID Controller Module—Additional Features

34

Battery Backup Unit

34

Storage Array Thermal Shutdown

34

System Password Reset

35

Cache Functions and Features

35

Cache Mirroring

35

Write-Back Cache

35

Write-Through Cache

36

4Planning: MD3200i Series Storage

Array Terms and Concepts . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Physical Disks, Virtual Disks, and Disk Groups

37

Physical Disks

37

Physical Disk States

38

Self-Monitoring Analysis

 

and Reporting Technology

39

Virtual Disks and Disk Groups

39

Virtual Disk States

40

RAID Levels

40

RAID Level Usage

41

Segment Size

42

Virtual Disk Operations

43

Virtual Disk Initialization

43

Background Initialization

43

Foreground Initialization

43

Contents

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Dell MD3220i, MD3200i owner manual Planning RAID Controller Modules, Cache Functions and Features
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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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