Servicing a DAE2

Replacing or Adding a Disk Module

!CAUTION

Disk modules are extremely sensitive electronic components. Always handle a disk module gently, and observe the following guidelines:

Always replace a disk drive with another of the same model; do not mix Fibre Channel and ATA components in the same enclosure. Refer to Figure 1-7 on page 1-8 for a visual comparison of FC and ATA disk carriers.

Follow the instructions in the preceding section Avoiding Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Damage on page 3-6.

Always wear a properly-attached ESD wristband when removing or replacing a disk module.

When removing a disk module, pull the module part way out of the slot, then wait 30 seconds for the drive to spin down before removing it.

Place modules on a soft, antistatic surface, such as an industry-standard antistatic foam pad or the container used to ship the module. Never place a disk module directly on a hard surface.

Never hit modules, stack modules, or allow them to tip over or fall.

Avoid touching any exposed electronic components and circuits on the disk module.

Do not remove a faulty disk module until you have a replacement module (with the same part number) or a filler module available. The part number (PN005xxxxxx) appears on the top or bottom of the module. A replacement or add-on disk module should have the same format (bytes per sector) and the same capacity (size and speed) as the other modules in the enclosure.

You must remove the disk enclosure’s front bezel to gain access to the disk modules. The bezel is required for EMI compliance when the enclosure is powered up. Remove it only to replace or add a disk module.

Replacing or Adding a Disk Module

3-9

Page 45
Image 45
EMC ATA, FC manual Replacing or Adding a Disk Module

FC, ATA specifications

EMC ATA (Advanced Technology Attachment) and FC (Fibre Channel) are two significant technologies in storage networking that enhance data management and access in enterprise environments.

EMC ATA, often associated with ATA storage devices, offers a cost-effective solution for managing large volumes of data. Shipments of ATA drives have become increasingly popular in the realm of consumer electronics due to their affordability and capacity. EMC utilizes ATA drives in various storage solutions, primarily focusing on performance and reliability. These drives handle particular workloads effectively, making them suitable for environments that require mass data storage, such as digital media and backup solutions.

In terms of key features, EMC ATA solutions provide high capacity, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. They are designed to manage routine data storage tasks with ease. These storage devices utilize interfaces that provide straightforward integration with various computer systems. Additionally, EMC ATA solutions come with error detection features and are generally simple to deploy, which is beneficial for teams seeking efficiency without an extensive learning curve.

On the other hand, Fibre Channel (FC) is a high-speed network technology primarily used for interconnecting storage area networks (SANs). Its robust architecture allows for high-speed data transfer rates, typically ranging from 2 Gbps up to 128 Gbps in contemporary systems. The strengths of FC lie in its ability to provide low-latency communications and its reliability in handling large volumes of data traffic.

Fibre Channel's main characteristics include its ability to support multiple protocols, such as SCSI and IP. This compatibility makes it a flexible choice for various storage solutions, especially in large-scale enterprise environments. Additionally, FC switches and directors enable the creation of complex SAN architectures, which can be both scalable and high-performing.

Furthermore, FC ensures data integrity through features such as error correction and data recovery mechanisms, making it an ideal choice for mission-critical applications. Secure connectivity is also a fundamental aspect of Fibre Channel technology, as it continuously secures data as it flows through the network.

Combining the strengths of EMC ATA's cost-effectiveness in bulk storage and the high-performance capabilities of Fibre Channel, organizations can achieve a balanced storage solution tailored to their operational needs. As data storage demands continue to grow, these technologies remain relevant, supporting both traditional and cutting-edge applications in enterprise IT environments.