Snapshot Repository Virtual Disk

When you create a snapshot virtual disk, it automatically creates a snapshot repository virtual disk. A snapshot repository is a virtual disk created in the storage array as a resource for a snapshot virtual disk. A snapshot repository virtual disk contains snapshot virtual disk metadata and copy-on-write data for a particular snapshot virtual disk. The repository supports one snapshot only.

You cannot select a snapshot repository virtual disk as a source virtual disk or as a target virtual disk in a virtual disk copy. If you select a Snapshot source virtual disk as the target virtual disk of a virtual disk copy, you must disable all snapshot virtual disks associated with the source virtual disk.

CAUTION: Before using the Snapshot Virtual Disks Premium Feature in a Windows Clustered configuration, you must map the snapshot virtual disk to the cluster node that owns the source virtual disk. This ensures that the cluster nodes correctly recognize the snapshot virtual disk.

Mapping the snapshot virtual disk to the node that does not own the source virtual disk before the snapshot enabling process is completed can result in the operating system incorrectly identifying the snapshot virtual disk. This can result in data loss or an inaccessible snapshot.

For details on mapping the snapshot virtual disk to the secondary node, see the Dell PowerVault MD3600f and MD3620f Storage Arrays With Microsoft Windows Server Failover Clusters on support.dell.com/manuals.

Virtual Disk Copy

Virtual disk copy is a premium feature you can use to:

•Back up data

•Copy data from disk groups that use smaller-capacity physical disks to disk groups using greater capacity physical disks

•Restore snapshot virtual disk data to the source virtual disk

Virtual disk copy generates a full copy of data from the source virtual disk to the target virtual disk in a storage array.

Planning: MD3600f Series Storage Array Terms and Concepts

55

Page 54 Page 56
Page 55
Image 55
Dell MD3620F, MD3600f owner manual Snapshot Repository Virtual Disk, Virtual Disk Copy
Page 54 Page 56

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.
Top Page Image Contents