Expanding With New PowerVault MD1200 Series Expansion Enclosures

Perform the following steps to attach new PowerVault MD1200 series expansion enclosures to a PowerVault MD3200i series storage array:

1Before adding the expansion enclosure(s), ensure that the storage array software is installed and up to date. For more information, see the Support Matrix at support.dell.com/manuals.

aInstall the software and driver package included on the PowerVault MD series resource media.

For information about installing the software, see "The PowerVault MD series storage software installer provides features that include the core software, providers, and optional utilities. The core software feature includes the host-based storage agent, multipath driver, and MD Storage Manager (MDSM) application used to configure, manage, and monitor the storage array solution. The providers feature includes providers for the Microsoft Virtual Disk Service (VDS) and Microsoft Volume Shadow-Copy Service (VSS) framework. The PowerVault Modular Disk Configuration Utility (MDCU) is an optional utility that provides a consolidated approach for configuring the management ports, iSCSI host ports, and creating sessions for the iSCSI Modular Disk storage arrays. It is recommended that you install and use PowerVault MDCU to configure iSCSI on each host connected to the storage array." on page 27.

bSet up the PowerVault MD1200 series expansion enclosure(s).

For information about setting up the PowerVault MD1200 series expansion enclosure(s), see the Hardware Owner’s Manual at support.dell.com/manuals.

cUsing PowerVault MDSM, update the RAID controller module firmware and NVSRAM to the latest versions available on support.dell.com. From the Enterprise Management Window (EMW).

dClick ToolsUpgrade RAID Controller Module Firmware.

2Stop I/O and turn off all systems:

a Stop all I/O to the storage array and turn off affected host systems attached to the storage array.

bTurn off the storage array.

Hardware Installation

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Dell MD3200i, MD3220i manual Click Tools→ Upgrade RAID Controller Module Firmware

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.