NOTE: Since the controllers are not configured yet, no hosts are available at this time. No host other than the NX3500 controllers should be added to this host group.

6Click OK.

The host group is added to the storage array.

Creating Host-to-Virtual Disk Mappings

To create host-to-virtual disk mappings:

1Launch PowerVault MDSM and target the MD storage array you plan to use for your NAS storage.

2In the Topology pane, expand Default Group and select the host group you created in the previous steps.

3In the tool bar, select MappingsDefineAdditional Mapping. The Default Additional Mapping window is displayed.

4In Host group or host, select the host group you created in the previous steps. All defined hosts, host groups, and the default group appear in the list.

5In the Logical Unit Number field, select a LUN. The supported LUNs are 0 through 255.

6Select the virtual disk to be mapped in the virtual disk area.

The virtual disk area lists the names and capacity of the virtual disks that are available for mapping, based on the selected host group or selected host. Only select the virtual disks that were created specifically to be used by the PowerVault NX3500. You must select an even number of virtual disks, up to 16.

7Click Add.

NOTE: The Add button is inactive until a host group or host, LUN, and virtual disk are selected.

8To define additional mappings, repeat step 4 through step 7.

NOTE: After a virtual disk has been mapped, it is no longer available in the virtual disk area.

9Click Close.

52

Setting Up Your PowerVault NX3500 Solution

Page 52
Image 52
Dell NX3500 manual Creating Host-to-Virtual Disk Mappings

NX3500 specifications

The Dell NX series, including the NX3610, NX3600, and NX3500, represents a robust and efficient solution for organizations seeking to optimize their storage solutions. These storage appliances are designed to meet the growing needs of data-driven businesses, providing a comprehensive platform that integrates software and hardware for optimal performance.

The Dell NX3610 is a high-performance storage solution that boasts an advanced dual-controller architecture. This model supports enhanced scalability and redundancy, ensuring that organizations can handle increasing data loads effortlessly. It is built for faster data access with a range of connectivity options, including 10GbE and iSCSI, enabling seamless integration into diverse IT environments. The NX3610 supports advanced file sharing capabilities, making it ideal for businesses requiring efficient collaboration and data access across multiple platforms. Furthermore, with features like snapshot and replication, users can ensure data integrity and security, minimizing downtime in case of system failures.

The NX3600, while slightly smaller in capacity compared to the NX3610, still delivers formidable performance and flexibility. It is designed to cater to mid-sized businesses that need a reliable and cost-effective storage solution. The NX3600 features a single-controller architecture, making it easier to manage and deploy in smaller IT environments. It offers support for various storage protocols, including NFS and CIFS, which are essential for organizations looking to support diverse application workloads. Its easy-to-use management interface makes it simple for IT teams to monitor and configure settings, ensuring optimal performance with minimal effort.

The NX3500 serves as an entry-level model within the NX series, specifically targeted at small to medium-sized businesses. It combines affordability with essential features needed for efficient data storage and sharing. The NX3500 is equipped with a user-friendly interface and includes support for both file-based and block-based storage, offering flexibility for diverse workloads. Moreover, the appliance features integrated backup solutions, which are crucial for ensuring data safety and compliance. Users will also appreciate its robust data deduplication and compression capabilities that significantly reduce storage costs by minimizing the amount of data stored.

In summary, the Dell NX3610, NX3600, and NX3500 are engineered to cater to various business sizes and storage demands. With their sophisticated technologies, including dual-controller systems, rich protocol support, and user-friendly management features, these appliances deliver reliable, scalable, and efficient storage solutions for any organization looking to enhance its data management capabilities.