•Host server — On a host server system, MDSM and the storage array communicate management requests and event information using in-band or out-of band-connections.

•Management station — On a management station, MDSM communicates with the storage array either through an Ethernet connection to the storage array management port or through an Ethernet connection to a host server. The Ethernet connection passes management information between the management station and the storage array connectivity.

Using MDSM, you can configure the physical disks in the storage array into logical components called disk groups or dynamic disk group and then divide the disk groups into virtual disks. Disk groups are created in the unconfigured capacity of a storage array. Virtual disks are created in the free capacity of a disk group.

Unconfigured capacity comprises physical disks not already assigned to a disk group. When a virtual disk is created using unconfigured capacity, a disk group or dynamic disk group is automatically created. If the only virtual disk in a disk group is deleted, the disk group is also deleted. Free capacity is space in a disk group that is not assigned to any virtual disk.

Data is written to the physical disks in the storage array using RAID technology. RAID levels define how data is written to physical disks. Different RAID levels offer different levels of accessibility, redundancy, and capacity. You can set a specified RAID level for each disk group and virtual disk on your storage array.

For more information about using RAID and managing data in your storage solution, see the Owner’s

Manual at dell.com/support/manuals.

Related Documentation

NOTE: For all PowerVault documentation, go to dell.com/support/manuals and enter the system Service Tag to get your system documentation.

NOTE: For all Dell OpenManage documents, go to dell.com/openmanagemanuals.

NOTE: For all storage controller documents, go to dell.com/storagecontrollermanuals .

You product documentation includes:

•Dell PowerVault MD3800f and MD3820f Storage Arrays Getting Started Guide — Provides an overview of system features, setting up your system, and technical specifications. This document is also shipped with your system.

•Dell PowerVault MD3800f and MD3820f Storage Arrays Owner’s Manual — Provides information about system features and describes how to troubleshoot the system and install or replace system components.

•Rack Installation Instructions — Describes how to install your system into a rack. This document is also shipped with your rack solution.

•Dell PowerVault MD Series Storage Arrays Administrator's Guide — Provides information about configuring and managing the system using the MDSM GUI.

•Dell PowerVault Modular Disk Storage Arrays CLI Guide — Provides information about configuring and managing the system using the MDSM CLI.

•Dell PowerVault MD3800f and MD3820f Storage Arrays Deployment Guide — Provides information about deploying the storage system in the SAN architecture.

•Dell PowerVault MD34/38 Series Support Matrix — Provides information about the software and hardware compatibility matrices for the storage array.

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Dell MD3820f, MD3800f manual Related Documentation
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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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