Copying the Virtual Disk

You can create a virtual disk copy by using the Create Copy Wizard.

CAUTION: Possible loss of data access – A virtual disk copy overwrites data on the target virtual disk.

A virtual disk copy automatically makes the target virtual disk read-only to hosts. You might want to keep this attribute enabled to preserve the data on the target virtual disk.

CAUTION: If you decide not to preserve the data on the target virtual disk after the virtual disk copy has completed, disable the Read-Only attribute for the target virtual disk. See "Virtual Disk Read/Write Permissions" on page 163 for more information on enabling and disabling the Read-Only attribute for the target virtual disk.

To prevent write-protected error messages from appearing, do not try to access a source virtual disk that is participating in a virtual disk copy while the virtual disk copy has a status of In Progress. Also, ensure that the Read-Only attribute for the target virtual disk is disabled after the virtual disk copy has completed to prevent error messages from appearing.

To copy the virtual disk:

1Stop all I/O activity to the source virtual disk and the target virtual disk.

2Unmount any file systems on the source virtual disk and the target virtual disk.

3In the AMW, select the Logical tab and select the source virtual disk.

4Select Virtual DiskCopyCreate.

The Create Copy Wizard - Introduction window is displayed.

5In the Select source virtual disk area, select the appropriate virtual disk and click Next.

The Select Target Virtual Disk and Copy Priority window is displayed.

6Click Next.

The Preview window displays the summary of your selections.

7Type yes, and click Finish.

NOTE: The Operation in Progress icon appears on the source virtual disk and the target virtual disk while the virtual disk copy has a status of In Progress or Pending.

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Configuration: Premium Feature—Virtual Disk Copy

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Dell MD3600f, MD3620F owner manual Copying the Virtual Disk, 168

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.