Cluster Storage Management Software - Dell powervault md3000i Installation And Troubleshooting Manual

Cluster Storage Management Software

Modular Disk Storage Manager Client
The software runs on the management station to centrally manage the
PowerVault MD3000i RAID enclosures. You can use Dell PowerVault Modular
Disk Storage Manager to perform tasks such as creating or managing RAID
arrays, binding virtual disks, and downloading firmware.
Modular Disk Storage Manager Agent
This software resides on each cluster node to collect system-based topology
data that can be managed by the Modular Disk Storage Manager Client.
Multipath Software
Multipath I/O software (also referred to as the failover driver) is a software
residing on each cluster node that provides management of the redundant
data path between the system and the RAID enclosure. For the multipath
software to correctly manage a redundant path, the configuration must
provide for redundant NICs and cabling.
The multipath software identifies the existence of multiple paths to a virtual
disk and establishes a preferred path to that disk. If any component in the
preferred path fails, the multipath software automatically re-routes I/O
requests to the alternate path so that the storage array continues to operate
without interruption.
In a redundant cluster configuration, the automatic failback feature is
disabled by default. Therefore, when a failed component is repaired or
replaced, the virtual disk(s) do not automatically transfer to the preferred
controller. You can manually initiate a failback using the Modular Disk
Storage Manager Client or Command Line Interface (CLI).
Advanced Features
Advanced features for the PowerVault MD3000i RAID enclosure include:
• Snapshot Virtual Disk - Captures point-in-time images of a virtual disk for
backup, testing, or data processing without affecting the contents of the
source virtual disk.
Introduction
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