Host-to-Virtual Disk Mapping

After you create virtual disks, you must map them to the host(s) connected to the array.

Guidelines to configure host-to-virtual disk mapping:

Each virtual disk in the storage array can be mapped to only one host or host group.

Host-to-virtual disk mappings are shared between controllers in the storage array.

A unique LUN must be used by a host group or host to access a virtual disk.

Each host has its own LUN address space. MDSM permits the same LUN to be used by different hosts or host groups to access virtual disks in a storage array.

Not every operating system has the same number of LUNs available.

You can define the mappings on the Mappings tab in the Array Management Window. See "Using the Mappings Tab" on page 88.

Creating Host-to-Virtual Disk Mappings

Guidelines to define the mappings:

An access virtual disk mapping is not required for an out-of-band storage array. If your storage array is managed using an out-of-band connection, and an access virtual disk mapping is assigned to the Default Group, an access virtual disk mapping is assigned to every host created from the Default Group. To prevent this action from occurring, remove the access virtual disk mapping from the Default Group.

Most hosts have 256 LUNs mapped per storage partition. The LUN numbering is from 0 through 255. If your operating system restricts LUNs to 127, and you try to map a virtual disk to a LUN that is greater than or equal to 127, the host cannot access it.

An initial mapping of the host group or host must be created using the Storage Partitioning Wizard before defining additional mappings. See "Storage Partitioning" on page 134.

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Configuration: Disk Groups and Virtual Disks

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Dell MD3600f, MD3620F owner manual Creating Host-to-Virtual Disk Mappings, 124

MD3620F, MD3600f specifications

Dell's MD3620F and MD3600F storage arrays are designed for businesses seeking dependable, high-performance storage solutions tailored to meet the demands of modern data management. These models offer a blend of scalability, efficiency, and advanced features, making them well-suited for a range of applications, from virtual environments to critical database operations.

One of the primary features of the MD3620F and MD3600F is their support for a hybrid storage architecture. This approach allows organizations to combine flash storage with traditional hard disk drives (HDDs) to optimize performance and cost. The MD3620F focuses heavily on all-flash configurations, delivering exceptional speed and lower latency, ideal for I/O-intensive workloads.

Scalability is another hallmark of these storage solutions. The MD3600F allows users to scale up to 120 drives, providing robust capacity to meet growing data needs. The MD3620F is engineered for environments where data availability and speed are paramount, with support for high IOPS (Input/Output Operations Per Second) and consistent performance under stress.

In terms of data management, both systems integrate with Dell’s proprietary software, which enhances operational efficiency through features like automated tiering. This technology optimizes data placement between different storage types based on access frequency, ensuring that hot data is readily available while reducing costs associated with less critical data.

Reliability is crucial for businesses that depend on their storage systems. The MD3620F and MD3600F come equipped with advanced data protection mechanisms, such as RAID support, which safeguards against data loss, and snapshot capabilities that provide point-in-time copies of data. Moreover, these solutions include hot-swappable components, ensuring minimal downtime for maintenance and repairs.

Connectivity is also a strong suit of these storage arrays. They support multiple connectivity options, including SAS and iSCSI, allowing for flexible integration into existing IT infrastructures. This adaptability enhances their appeal to a wide range of enterprise environments.

In summary, the Dell MD3620F and MD3600F stand out as robust storage solutions with a combination of hybrid and all-flash configurations, scalability, advanced data management tools, and enhanced reliability features. These characteristics make them ideal for organizations looking to enhance their data storage capabilities while maintaining high performance and efficiency.