Each PowerVault MD3800f and MD3820f series storage array can be expanded to a maximum of 120 (or 192, if enabled using Premium Feature activation) physical slots.
Configuring Fibre Channel With Dell MD Series Storage Arrays
This section provides information about configuring Fibre Channel communication between the host server and the storage array. For basic setup information such as racking, power cabling, and recommended handling procedures, see the Getting Started Guide for your Storage Array at dell.com/ powervaultmanuals.
Configuring Fibre Channel On SAN Attached Storage Arrays
You can only cable the host server to the storage array via storage area network (SAN) using supported Fibre Channel switch(es).
NOTE: For detailed information on supported Fibre Channel hardware, see the Support Matrix at dell.com/powervaultmanuals.
The following steps shows the configuration order for connecting to a SAN. These steps assume you are setting up Fibre Channel storage for the first time.
NOTE: If you are adding an additional Fibre Channel storage array or if your host server is already configured to access Fibre Channel storage, some of the steps may not apply. Before proceeding, see the Dell PowerVault MD Series Support Matrix to confirm that your existing hardware components and host bus adapter (HBA) firmware and BIOS levels are supported.
Configuring Fibre Channel
To configure a Fibre Channel for connecting to a SAN:
1.Install the supported HBAs on your host server.
2.Cable the host server to the Fibre Channel switches.
For more information, see
3.Install the required HBA drivers and firmware versions listed in the Dell PowerVault MD Series Support Matrix available at dell.com/powervaultmanuals.
4.Install and configure the MD Storage Manager software (included with your storage array) on your host server.
5.Cable the storage array to the Fibre Channel switches.
6.Configure zoning on all Fibre Channel switches.
For more information, see Switch Zoning Guidelines.
7.Using MDSM, configure the host servers, storage arrays, and virtual disks.
8.Activate and configure premium features (if applicable).
NOTE: All equipment attached to the switch must be powered on before establishing zoning. For additional switch hardware requirements, see the manufacturer’s documentation.
9
