CAUTION: If a PowerVault MD1200 series expansion enclosure that was previously attached to PERC H800 adapter is used as an expansion enclosure to a PowerVault MD34xx/MD38xx series storage array, the physical disks of the expansion enclosure are reinitialized and data is lost. You must back up all data on the expansion enclosure before attempting the expansion.

1.Back up all data on the expansion enclosures.

2.Upgrade the expansion enclosure firmware to the latest version available at dell.com/support while the enclosure is still attached to the PERC H800 controller.

Windows systems users can reference the DUP.exe package and Linux kernel users can reference the DUP.bin package.

3.Ensure that the storage array software is installed and up to date before adding the expansion enclosures. For more information, see the Dell PowerVault MD34xx/MD38xx Support Matrix at dell.com/support/manuals.

a.Install the software and driver package included on the PowerVault MD series resource media. For information about installing the software, see the topic “Installing PowerVault MD Storage Software”.

b.Update the storage array RAID controller module firmware and NVSRAM to the latest versions available at dell.com/support.

c.Using MDSM, click Tools → Upgrade RAID Controller Module Firmware → Enterprise Management Window (EMW).

4.Stop all I/O and turn off the system and attached units.

a.Stop all I/O to the storage array and turn off the host systems attached to the storage array.

b.Turn off the storage array.

c.Turn off the expansion enclosures in the affected system.

5.Cable the expansion enclosures to the storage array.

a.Connect the MiniSAS HD end of the supported SAS cabled to the SAS OUT Port 0 on the MD 1200 series expansion enclosure.

b.Connect the other end of the SAS cable to the IN port on the MD 1200 series expansion enclosure.

6.Turn on attached units:

a.Turn on the expansion enclosures. Wait for the enclosure status LED to light blue.

b.Turn on the storage array and wait for the status LED to indicate that the unit is ready:

•If the status LEDs are solid amber, the storage array is still coming online.

•If the status LEDs are blinking amber, there is an error that can be viewed using the MDSM.

•If the status LEDs are solid blue, the storage array is ready.

c.After the storage array is online and ready, turn on any attached host systems.

7.After the PowerVault MD1200 series expansion enclosure is configured as an expansion enclosure of the storage array, restore the data that was backed up in step 1.

After the expansion enclosures are online, they can be accessed as a part of the storage array.

Expanding With New PowerVault MD1200 Series Expansion Enclosures

Perform the following steps to attach new PowerVault MD1200 series expansion enclosures to a PowerVault MD34xx/38xx series storage arrays:

1.Before adding the expansion enclosures, ensure that the storage array software is installed and is up to date. For more information, see the Dell PowerVault MD34xx/38xx Support Matrix at dell.com/ support/manuals.

a.Install the software and driver package included on the PowerVault MD series resource media. For information about installing the software, see the topic “Installing PowerVault MD Storage Software”.

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Dell MD3800f, MD3820f manual
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MD3800f, MD3820f specifications

The Dell MD3800f and MD3820f storage arrays are advanced storage solutions designed to meet the demanding needs of mid-sized businesses and enterprise environments. Both models offer high performance, scalability, and a reliable foundation for data storage that can support various applications.

One of the standout features of the MD3800f and MD3820f is their impressive scalability. The MD3800f can support up to 240 drives, allowing for extensive storage capacity that can be adjusted as business needs grow. Meanwhile, the MD3820f supports up to 192 drives, offering streamlined management without sacrificing performance. This flexible architecture enables organizations to start small and expand their storage configurations as their data evolves.

Performance is another key characteristic of these two storage systems. Equipped with dual active controllers, the MD3800f and MD3820f can provide increased throughput and load balancing, ensuring that applications run smoothly even under high-demand circumstances. With support for both SSDs and HDDs, these storage arrays can achieve a mix of high-speed access and cost-effective capacity. The MD3800f, in particular, offers intelligent tiering capabilities that automatically moves data between different types of drives based on usage patterns, further optimizing performance.

Both models also include advanced RAID configurations, which enhance data protection and availability. Users can select from several RAID levels, including RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, and 10, catering to specific performance and redundancy needs. Additionally, the MD3800f and MD3820f incorporate features like snapshot technology, which allows for point-in-time copies of data for backup or recovery purposes without impacting performance.

In terms of connectivity, the Dell MD3800f and MD3820f offer various interface options including iSCSI and Fibre Channel, enabling seamless integration into diverse IT environments. Management of the arrays is made easy through the Dell Storage Manager, which provides a comprehensive view of storage performance, utilization, and health, making it easier for IT administrators to oversee their infrastructure.

In summary, the Dell MD3800f and MD3820f storage arrays are robust solutions that deliver exceptional scalability and performance. With their advanced features, intelligent data management, and flexible connectivity options, they are well-suited for organizations looking to optimize their data storage capabilities while maintaining high availability and efficiency.
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