Use either of the following methods to move disk groups and virtual disks:

Hot virtual disk migration—Disk migration with the destination storage array power turned on.

Cold virtual disk migration—Disk migration with the destination storage array power turned off.

NOTE: To ensure that the migrating disk groups and virtual disks are correctly recognized when the target storage array has an existing physical disk, use hot virtual disk migration.

When attempting virtual disk migration, follow these recommendations:

Moving physical disks to the destination array for migration—When inserting drives into the destination storage array during hot virtual disk migration, wait for the inserted physical disk to be displayed in MDSM before inserting the next physical disk.

WARNING: Without the delay between drive insertions, the storage array can become unstable and manageability is temporarily lost.

Migrating virtual disks from multiple storage arrays into a single storage array—When migrating virtual disks from multiple or different storage arrays into a single destination storage array, move all of the physical disks from the same storage array as a set into the new destination storage array. Ensure that all of the physical disks from a storage array are migrated to the destination storage array before starting migration from the next storage array.

NOTE: If the drive modules are not moved as a set to the destination storage array, the newly relocated disk groups might not be accessible.

Migrating virtual disks to a storage array with no existing physical disks— Turn off the destination storage array, when migrating disk groups or a complete set of physical disks from a storage array to another storage array that has no existing physical disks. After the destination storage array has been turned on and has successfully recognized the newly migrated physical disks, migration operations can continue.

NOTE: Disk groups from multiple storage arrays should not be migrated at the same time to a storage array that has no existing physical disks. Use cold virtual disk migration for the disk groups from one storage array.

Planning: MD3200i Series Storage Array Terms and Concepts

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Dell MD3220i owner manual Planning MD3200i Series Storage Array Terms and Concepts

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.