4.Ensure that the recommended HBA settings are applied.

Graphical Installation (Recommended)

MD Storage Manager configures, manages, and monitors the storage array. To install the MD Storage Manager:

1.Insert the PowerVault MD Series resource media into your system or download the installer image from support.dell.com.

Depending on your operating system, the installer may launch automatically. If the installer does not launch automatically, navigate to the root directory of the installation media (or downloaded installer image) and run the md_launcher.exe file. For Linux-based systems, navigate to the root of the resource media and run the autorun file.

NOTE: y default, Red Hat Enterprise Linux mounts the resource media with the –noexecmount option which does not allow you to run executable files. To change this setting, see the Readme file in the root directory of the resource media.

2.Select Install MD Storage Software.

3.Read and accept the license agreement.

4.Select one of the following installation options from the Install Set menu:

Full (recommended) — Installs the MD Storage Manager (client), host-based storage agent, multipath driver, and hardware providers.

Host Only — Installs the host-based storage agent and multipath drivers. See Installing MD Storage Manager.

Management — Installs the management software and hardware providers.

Custom — Allows you to select specific components.

5.Select the PowerVault MD storage array model(s) you are setting up to serve as data storage for this host server.

6.Choose whether to start the event monitor service automatically when the host server reboots or manually.

NOTE: This option is applicable only to Windows client software installation

7.Confirm the installation location and choose Install.

8.If prompted, reboot the host server once the installation completes.

9.Start MD Storage Manager and discover the array(s).

NOTE: If Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) is not used on the network where the PowerVault MD storage array’s management ports are connected, it is recommended that you enable IPv6 on the management station to discover the storage array(s).

10.If applicable, activate any premium features purchased with your storage array. If you purchased premium features, see the printed activation card shipped with your storage array.

NOTE: The MD Storage Manager installer automatically installs the required drivers, firmware, and operating system patches/hotfixes to operate your storage array. These drivers and firmware are also available at support.dell.com. In addition, see the Support Matrix at support.dell.com/manuals for any additional settings and/or software required for your specific storage array.

Console Installation

NOTE: Console installation only applies to Linux systems that are not running a graphical environment.

The autorun script in the root of the resource media detects when there is no graphical environment running and automatically starts the installer in a textbased mode. This mode provides the same options as graphical installation.

18

Page 18
Image 18
Dell MD3260 manual Graphical Installation Recommended, Console Installation, Select Install MD Storage Software

MD3260 specifications

The Dell MD3260, MD3060e, MD3260i, MD3660i, and MD3660f are part of Dell's robust and versatile storage solutions designed to meet the demands of modern data centers. Each model is tailored for specific use cases, offering unique features, technologies, and characteristics that aim to ensure performance, reliability, and scalability.

The MD3260 is designed with an emphasis on mid-tier storage performance. It features a 2U rack form factor and offers support for up to 60 drives, which can be a mix of SSDs and HDDs. This flexibility allows businesses to optimize performance and capacity according to their specific needs. The MD3260 is equipped with advanced storage management tools, including the Dell Storage Manager, enabling efficient provisioning and monitoring.

The MD3060e is an expansion storage solution that complements the MD3 series. It allows organizations to scale their storage capacity significantly, supporting up to 60 additional drives. With this extensible architecture, the MD3060e delivers an ideal solution for businesses expecting rapid data growth while providing a cost-effective means to expand storage without the need for a complete system overhaul.

The MD3260i incorporates iSCSI technology, providing storage area network (SAN) capabilities via standard Ethernet. This feature is particularly beneficial for organizations looking to leverage existing networking infrastructure. The MD3260i supports high availability and provides unified management, making it suitable for virtualized environments that require quick data access and reliability.

The MD3660i takes network connectivity a step further by supporting both iSCSI and Fibre Channel options, allowing for flexibility in deployment. It is engineered for performance and scalability and can handle heavy workloads with ease. The MD3660i is also optimized for use with VMware environments, enhancing its functionality in virtual deployment scenarios.

Finally, the MD3660f introduces all-flash storage technology, targeting businesses with high-performance computing needs. With low latency and high IOPS capabilities, the MD3660f is designed for mission-critical applications. The system is easy to manage and integrate into existing workflows, making it an ideal choice for organizations prioritizing speed and efficiency.

In summary, the Dell MD series offers a range of models that cater to various storage requirements, from mid-tier to high-performance all-flash solutions. Each model brings unique features, ensuring that businesses can find the right balance of performance, capacity, and innovation to support their data-centric operations.