Single Host With Two Controller Units Configured as a Partner Group

FIGURE 4-2shows one application host connected through FC-AL cables to one array partner group, which consists of two Sun StorEdge T3+ arrays. The Ethernet connection from the master controller unit is on a public or separate network and requires an IP address for the partner group. In the event of a failover, the alternate master controller unit will use the master controller unit’s IP address and MAC address.

Alternate master controller unit

Interconnect cables

Master controller unit

FC-AL connection

Ethernet connection

LAN

Ethernet connection

Application host

HBAs

Management host

Ethernet port

FIGURE 4-2Single Host With Two Controller Units Configured as a Partner Group

This configuration is a recommended enterprise configuration for RAS functionality because there is no single point of failure. This configuration supports Dynamic Multi-Pathing (DMP) by VERITAS Volume Manager, the Alternate Pathing (AP) software in the Solaris operating environment, or Sun StorEdge Traffic Manager software for failover only.

The following three global parameters must be set on the master controller unit, as follows:

mp_support = rw or mpxio cache mode = auto cache mirroring = auto

For information on setting these parameters, refer to the Sun StorEdge T3 and T3+ Array Administrator’s Guide.

Chapter 4 Configuration Examples 29

Page 41
Image 41
Sun Microsystems T3 manual Configuration Examples

T3 specifications

Sun Microsystems T3 is a high-performance scalable server designed to meet the demanding requirements of enterprise-level computing. Introduced as part of the Sun Fire server lineup, the T3 was built to cater to organizations that needed both flexibility and reliability in their IT infrastructure.

One of the key features of the Sun T3 is its SPARC T3 processor, which integrates several cores on a single chip. This processor architecture allows for simultaneous multithreading, maximizing the utilization of resources and enhancing throughput. The SPARC T3 can support up to 16 cores, which means that it can handle a significant number of threads at once, making it an excellent choice for web applications, database processing, and other high-demand environments.

The T3's memory architecture also stands out. The system can support up to 1TB of memory with up to 128 DIMM slots, allowing for large data sets to be processed with ease. This large memory capacity provides ample room for memory-intensive applications and ensures smooth performance even under heavy loads.

Moreover, the Sun T3 is equipped with a unique virtualization technology known as Oracle VM Server for SPARC. This allows businesses to run multiple operating systems and applications on the same physical machine, reducing the need for additional hardware and simplifying management tasks. The virtualization capabilities contribute to cost savings while improving resource utilization.

In addition, the T3 features advanced I/O capabilities with multiple connectivity options, including Ethernet, Fibre Channel, and Serial Attached SCSI (SAS). This flexibility ensures that the system can be integrated into various network environments and supports a wide range of storage solutions.

Furthermore, the T3 is designed for enhanced energy efficiency. Sun Microsystems embedded their CoolThreads technology, which significantly reduces power consumption compared to traditional server architectures. This focus on energy efficiency not only helps in reducing operational costs but also supports corporate sustainability initiatives.

The T3 also incorporates robust security features, including hardware-based security mechanisms that protect data and facilitate secure operations. This is particularly important for businesses that handle sensitive information and are subject to regulatory compliance.

In summary, Sun Microsystems T3 is a formidable server that combines advanced processing power, scalability, virtualization capabilities, and energy efficiency. Its architecture and design make it suitable for a wide array of enterprise applications, positioning it as a reliable foundation for businesses looking to enhance their IT infrastructure.