Page 1 Spectra nTier500 Backup and Archive Appliance User Guide SpectraLogic.com...
Page 2 THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, BOTH OF WHICH ARE EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMED. In no event shall Spectra Logic be liable for any loss of profits, loss of business, loss of use or data, interruption of business, or for indirect, special, incidental or consequential damages of any kind, even if Spectra Logic has been advised of the possibility of such damages arising from any defect or error.
Page 3 If you do not agree to this end user license agreement (EULA), do not use the Spectra product; instead, promptly contact Spectra Logic for instructions on return of the Spectra product for a refund.
Page 4 Warnings Warnings Risk of electrical shock. To remove AC power from the Spectra nTier500, unplug all Warning three of the power cords from the power inlets. Warnung: Gefahr eines elektrischen Schlages. Um den Wechselstrom des Spectra nTier500 abzuschalten, ziehen Sie alle Drei Netzkabel aus den Eingangsbuchsen.
Page 5 United States and Canada Europe Phone: 1.800.833.1132 or 1.303.449.6400 Phone: 44 (0) 870.112.2150 Fax: 1.303.939.8844 Fax: 44 (0) 870.112.2175 Email: sales@spectralogic.com Email: eurosales@spectralogic.com To Obtain Documentation Spectra Logic Web Site: www.spectralogic.com/documents Spectra nTier500 Backup and Archive Appliance September 2010...
Page 6 Contacting Spectra Logic Notes User Guide 90990030...
Page 7: Table Of Contents
Register Your New nTier500 ........
Page 8 Operator Panel Status Icons ........63 Chapter 4 — Configuring the nTier500 Before You Begin .
Page 9 View Network Configuration Information ..... . . 92 Restart or Shut Down the nTier500 ....... . 93 Use Windows to Restart or Shut Down .
Page 10 Chapter 9 — Maintaining the nTier500 Moving or Shipping the nTier500 ....... . . 138 Accessing the Technical Support Portal .
Page 11 Teaming NICs ..........174 Index Spectra nTier500 Backup and Archive Appliance September 2010...
Page 12 Contents Notes User Guide 90990030...
Page 13: About This Guide
This guide describes how to install, configure, monitor, and maintain the ® Spectra nTier500™ Backup and Archive Appliance (referred to as the nTier500) using the BlueScale web interface. It also provides product specifications. NTENDED UDIENCE This guide is intended for data center administrators and operators who maintain and operate backup systems.
Page 14: Related Publications
This guide and the following documents related to the Spectra nTier500 are available on the Spectra nTier Backup and Archive Appliance Documentation and Software CD. They are also available from the Spectra Logic web site at www.spectralogic.com/documents. The Spectra nTier500 Backup and Archive Appliance Release Notes and...
Page 15: User Feedback
Please give us suggestions for and opinions on our products and their documentation by calling us at (800) 833-1132 or sending e-mail to feedback@spectralogic.com. EGISTER EW N Register your nTier500 quickly and easily on the Spectra Logic Web site, by visiting www.spectralogic.com/register. Spectra nTier500 Backup and Archive Appliance September 2010...
Page 16: Typographical Conventions
About This Guide YPOGRAPHICAL ONVENTIONS These release notes use the following conventions to highlight important information: Note: Provides additional information or suggestions about the current topic. Read text marked by the “Important” icon for information that will help you Important complete a procedure or avoid extra steps.
Page 17: Chapter 1 - System Overview
Chapter 1 System Overview This chapter provides an overview of the Spectra nTier500 Backup and Archive appliance (referred to as the nTier500 in this guide) features and components. Topic Described beginning on... Overview page 18 Components page 20 Front Panel...
Page 18: Overview
A disk-to-disk data backup device, either alone or as part of a tiered storage solution. When used as a part of a tiered storage solution, the nTier500 can be connected to a tape library for long-term data archival and disaster recovery.
Page 19 4-post, 19-inch rack using just 3U (5.25 inches) of rack space. Rack- mounting hardware is included with the nTier500. Alternatively, the nTier500 can be placed on a level tabletop or other horizontal surface. Spectra nTier500 Backup and Archive Appliance September 2010...
Page 20: Components
The status LEDs are reserved for future use. Universal Serial Bus The USB port can be used to connect a USB drive to the nTier500 for saving (USB) port configurations and uploading firmware packages. If desired, you can use the port to connect a USB keyboard or mouse to the nTier500 application server.
Page 21: Rear Panel
Figure N+1 power supplies Integrated server Power supply LEDs Power alarm silence button Figure 2 The rear view of the nTier500 (N+1 redundant power configuration shown). Component Description Integrated The powerful, integrated application server uses two high-performance, application server multicore CPUs to run the Microsoft Windows Storage Server operating system and any software applications installed on the nTier500.
Page 22: Integrated Application Server
Ethernet ports The nTier500 server includes two 1-Gigabit Ethernet (GigE) ports. The Gigabit Ethernet ports can be used for network connections from hosts to the nTier500, as well as for network connectivity for the BlueScale web interface used to configure, manage, and monitor the nTier500.
Page 23 USB ports The four USB ports can used to connect a USB drive to the nTier500 for saving configurations and uploading firmware packages. If desired, you can use these ports to connect a USB mouse and a USB keyboard to the application server.
Page 24: Operator Panel
Chapter 1 — System Overview PERATOR ANEL The front cover on new nTier500 appliances no longer includes an operator panel. Important The information in this section only applies to existing nTier500s that included an operator panel. The operator panel on the front cover...
Page 25: Software
Software OFTWARE The software included on the nTier500 system drives includes the following: Microsoft Windows Storage Server operating system Distributed File System (DFS) for remote replication Spectra Logic BlueScale web interface Note: Microsoft Data Protection Manager (DPM) and Spectra File Manager are no longer available for purchase with the nTier500.
Page 26: Spectra Bluescale Web Interface
Spectra BlueScale Web Interface The BlueScale web interface provides browser-based configuration, management, and monitoring of the nTier500. Use the BlueScale web interface to configure logical volumes and data replication, manage services, and monitor the status of system components, including the drives and the battery backup.
Page 27: Chapter 2 - Installing The Ntier500
Chapter 2 Installing the nTier500 This chapter describes how to prepare for the installation of the Spectra nTier500 Backup and Archive Appliance at your site. Task Described beginning on... Installing the nTier500 page 28 Prepare for the Installation page 28...
Page 28: Installing The Ntier500
A minimum of one Gigabit Ethernet (GigE) or 10 GigE network connection is required to provide the backup servers access to the RAID data storage on the nTier500. A GigE or 10 GigE connection is also needed if you plan to connect the nTier500 to another nTier appliance for the purposes of replication.
Page 29 The default configuration of the Fibre Channel HBA does not support using Fibre Channel to connect backup servers to the nTier500. The SCSI HBA is no longer available for purchase with a new nTier500. It is only supported as a legacy device.
Page 30: Unpacking The Ntier500
Chapter 2 — Installing the nTier500 Unpacking the nTier500 Do not unpack the nTier500 if the shipping box shows signs of damage. Contact Caution both the shipping company and Spectra Logic to report the problem. The Spectra nTier500 and its drives are shipped in a single cardboard box.
Page 31 Rack mounting kit Included in the accessory box. The rack mounting kit includes all the components required to mount the nTier500 in a standard 4-post, 19-inch rack. Antistatic Included in the accessory box. An antistatic wristband to be worn when wristband handling the disk drives.
Page 32: Install The Appliance In A Rack
Install the nTier500 in a standard 4-post, 19-inch rack using 3 units (3U) of rack space. If you are not installing any other equipment in the rack, install the nTier500 near Warning the bottom of the rack to prevent the rack from being top-heavy.
Page 33 Obtain the following tools and equipment: #2 Phillips screwdriver, magnetic if available Measuring tape (recommended) Level (recommended) Identify the location where you will install the nTier500. Assemble the rack, if necessary. Unpack the rack mount kit and identify the components listed in the following table.
Page 34 Chapter 2 — Installing the nTier500 Component # Required Bag labeled Attach rail assemblies to rack. 4 large nut plates Large nut plates 12 (or more) and screws screws Bag labeled Secure nTier500 to rack. 4 clip nuts Clip nuts...
Page 35 Installing the nTier500 Install the Sliders on the Chassis 1. Remove the nTier500 chassis from its bag and place it on a sturdy work surface where you can reach both sides of the chassis. Note: Having two people for this task simplifies lifting and moving the chassis.
Page 36 Chapter 2 — Installing the nTier500 5. Use a #2 Phillips screwdriver to install a screw from bag 1 into each hole, securing the slider to the chassis. Tighten the screws snugly. Note: If you cannot align the three holes circled in...
Page 37 Make sure that the nut plates are installed at the same level on all four posts. Otherwise the rails will not be level when they are installed. Using a level simplifies positioning the nut plates so that the rails will be level. Spectra nTier500 Backup and Archive Appliance September 2010...
Page 38 Chapter 2 — Installing the nTier500 5. Fit the tabs on one rail extender between the nut plate and one of the back rack legs. Then, fit the front tabs on the rail between the nut plate and corresponding legs on the front of the rack. Tighten all three screws to secure the nut plate to the rack.
Page 39 Installing the nTier500 Install the nTier500 Appliance into the Rack 1. Lift the nTier500 and slide the side rails on the chassis into the outer rails in the rack until the mounting ears on the front of the chassis fit against the rack.
Page 40: Connect The Power Cords
DO NOT power-on the nTier500 until you finish installing ALL of the drives for the Caution first time. If you install the drives with the nTier500 powered on, the RAID controller immediately begins rebuilding the RAID volume, which may destroy the preconfigured RAID 6 volume.
Page 41: Install The Data Drives
RAID was originally built provides enhanced disaster recovery. Each of the nTier500’s data drives is mounted on a drive sled for easy installation. The drive sled includes a handle and latch to secure the drives in the chassis.
Page 42 Chapter 2 — Installing the nTier500 The drives are labeled from 1 to 16, corresponding to the positions they occupied when the RAID 6 volume was originally built. Spectra Logic strongly recommends installing the drives into the drive bay corresponding to the number on the drive. Refer to...
Page 43: Connect The Cables And Power On
One or two Fibre Channel host bus adapters (HBA) to provide Fibre Channel connectivity to a tape library. Depending on when your nTier500 was manufactured, the two right-most expansion slots may not be present. Gigabit Ethernet...
Page 44 Network Type Connect the cable from your network switch to... Gigabit Ethernet One of the Ethernet ports on the nTier500 rear panel. You can use the same port you plan to use for accessing the BlueScale web interface. 10 Gigabit Ethernet...
Page 45 LED illuminates. Do not use the power button to power off the nTier500 unless you are specifically Caution instructed to do so by Spectra Logic Technical Support. Instead, use the shutdown...
Page 46: Install The Front Cover
IP address. It can take the nTier500 up to 15 minutes to boot up when it is rebuilding a RAID array. Install the Front Cover The front cover secures the drives to prevent unauthorized removal.
Page 47 Be careful not to bump or bend the PC card extending from the front of the chassis. c. Push in on each key and turn it to the horizontal (locked) position to secure the cover to the chassis. Spectra nTier500 Backup and Archive Appliance September 2010...
Page 48: Configuring The Ip Addresses
Using a USB keyboard and mouse eliminates the need to restart the nTier500 to recognize these devices when you connect them. If the nTier500 is already powered on, you will need to power it off before connecting the monitor (see Restart or Shut Down the nTier500 on page 93).
Page 49: Use The Operator Panel
IP addressing using that interface (see Configuring Network Connections on page 75). 7. If necessary, add the nTier500 to the domain for the network to which it is connected. Contact your network administrator for assistance, if needed.
Page 50 5. Use the > button to move to the , then press O to accept your changes. To cancel the changes, use < to move to the X, then press O. 6. If necessary, add the nTier500 to the domain for the network to which it is connected. Contact your network administrator for assistance, if needed.
Page 51: Next Steps
Next Steps TEPS Your nTier500 hardware is now installed. For information about the BlueScale web interface and how to use it to configure the nTier500, read the following: Read Chapter 3 – Using the BlueScale Web Interface to learn about accessing and using the BlueScale web interface.
Page 52 Chapter 2 — Installing the nTier500 Notes User Guide 90990030...
Page 53: Chapter 3 — Using The Bluescale Web Interface
Chapter 3 Using the BlueScale Web Interface This chapter describes the BlueScale web interface for the nTier500 and how it is used. Topic Described beginning on... Overview of the BlueScale Web Interface page 54 Menus page 54 BlueScale Status Icons...
Page 54: Overview Of The Bluescale Web Interface
VERVIEW OF THE CALE NTERFACE The BlueScale web interface provides browser-based configuration, management, and monitoring of the operations of nTier500 system components. The following sections describe the common features that appear in all screens in the web interface. Menus The Menu bar appears along the left edge of each page. Buttons in the menu bar let you navigate through the available menus to select options.
Page 55 Applications—Provides status and other information about the applications and services installed on the nTier500 application server. Configuration The Configuration menu accesses the tools for configuring the nTier500 for use in your environment. Logical Volumes—Displays information about the currently configured logical...
Page 56: Bluescale Status Icons
CCESS THE CALE NTERFACE The BlueScale web interface lets you configure how the nTier500 operates, manages RAID volumes, and monitors the status of system components, including the drives and the battery backup, view system-wide metrics, monitor system health, and update firmware.
Page 57 The BlueScale web interface uses a secure Internet connection. You must prefix the Important IP address with https:// instead of just entering the IP address. Notes: The first time you connect to the nTier500, use the IP address you determined during installation (see Configuring the IP Addresses on page 48).
Page 58 Firefox 3.5. Figure 26 Invalid Spectra Logic nTier security certificate. Use the following steps to add an exception for the Spectra nTier500 Backup and Archive Appliance web server. a. In the Secure Connection Failed warning box, select Or you can add an exception >...
Page 59 In the Add Security Exception dialog box, select Get Certificate. Figure 27 Add a security exception. c. Select View to confirm that the certificate is for the Spectra Logic nTier, then select Close to return to the Add Security Exception dialog box.
Page 60: Exiting The Bluescale Web Interface
If you are accessing the BlueScale interface for the first time, enter administrator as the default user name and spectra as the default password, all in lower case. If you changed the Windows user name and password, enter the new user name and password.
Page 61: Using The Operator Panel
Using the Operator Panel SING THE PERATOR ANEL The front cover on new nTier500 appliances no longer includes an operator panel. Important The information in this section only applies to existing nTier500s that included an operator panel. The operator panel on the front cover...
Page 62: Overview Of The Operator Panel Screens
General Status (Check tab) The General status screen displays by default. Use this screen to view the overall status information about the drives, RAID volumes, and the nTier500 enclosure. This screen also shows the current IP address of the nTier500.
Page 63: Operator Panel Status Icons
Drive initializing. The status of the drive cannot be determined because it is initializing. Check the appropriate operator panel screen and the BlueScale web interface for more information. Drive slot empty. The drive slot does not contain a drive. Spectra nTier500 Backup and Archive Appliance September 2010...
Page 64 Chapter 3 — Using the BlueScale Web Interface Notes User Guide 90990030...
Page 65: Chapter 4 — Configuring The Ntier500
Chapter 4 Configuring the nTier500 This chapter describes using the BlueScale web interface and the Windows Storage Server operating system to configure the nTier500 for operation in your environment. Task Described beginning on... Before You Begin page 66 Configuration Overview...
Page 66: Before You Begin
(see Installing Application Software on page 71). 4. If desired, change the default user and system names for the nTier500 (see Changing the Windows Login Settings on page 74). 5. If needed, configure additional network connections to the nTier500...
Page 67: Accessing The Windows Operating System
AutoSupport). 12. Use your standard Windows procedures to back up or create an image of the nTier500 system. In the event of a crisis or disaster, you can use this backup to quickly restore the nTier operating system, applications, and settings.
Page 68 Remote Desktop to display the Remote Desktop Connection screen. Figure 30 The Remote Desktop Connection screen. 2. Enter the IP address of the nTier500 and select Connect. The Remote Desktop application connects to the specified IP address and displays Windows Server login screen displays.
Page 69: Log Into Windows
Accessing the Windows Operating System Log Into Windows 1. Log into Windows using the same User name and Password as you use to log into the nTier500 BlueScale web interface. The default Windows user name and password are administrator and spectra, respectively.
Page 70: Log Off And Return To Bluescale
Chapter 4 — Configuring the nTier500 Log Off and Return to BlueScale You can use either of the following methods to return to the nTier500’s BlueScale web interface when you are finished installing and configuring software or performing other configuration operations through the Windows operating system.
Page 71: Installing Application Software
Install the Software on page Copy the files to a location on the network that is accessible from the nTier500 and access the files from there. If you plan to use this method, skip to Install the Software on page Share a CD or DVD drive on a computer connected to a network location that is accessible from the nTier500.
Page 72 Share the Drive Before you can use a CD or DVD drive on another computer, you must share the drive to make it accessible from the nTier500 Windows operating system. 1. Open Windows Explorer or My Computer on the computer whose drive you plan to use.
Page 73 Map the Shared CD or DVD Drive to a Drive Letter 1. Launch Windows Explorer and select Tools > Map Network Drive. Figure 35 Mapping a drive letter to the CD or DVD drive. Spectra nTier500 Backup and Archive Appliance September 2010...
Page 74: Install The Software
\\192.168.7.32\D 3. Select Finish to create the drive letter. The remote CD or DVD drive is now available just as if it was physically installed in the nTier500. Install the Software 1. Obtain a licensed copy of the software you plan to install.
Page 75: Change The Hostname
Configuring Network Connections Change the Hostname You may want to change the default hostname from nTier500 to something more meaningful in your environment (for example, a name that indicates the location). You can then use this name instead of the IP address when connecting to the nTier500 BlueScale web interface from a computer on the same network if DNS server is present.
Page 76 Use the following steps to configure the IP connections for each Ethernet port. 1. Using a web browser, log into the nTier500 BlueScale web interface (see Access the BlueScale Web Interface on page 56). 2. Select Configuration > Network. The Network page displays with information about the nTier500’s network connections.
Page 77: Configuring Iscsi Connections
ONNECTIONS You can use the BlueScale interface to create iSCSI connections between the nTier500 and devices with an iSCSI interface. The nTier500 is always the initiator (that is, it sends commands and data to target devices and receives status). While it is possible to specify tape libraries as iSCSI targets, an nTier500 cannot be used as an iSCSI target.
Page 78 Chapter 4 — Configuring the nTier500 Use the following steps to connect the nTier500 to an iSCSI tape library or other iSCSI device. 1. Select Configuration > iSCSI. Figure 37 The iSCSI page. 2. Enter the IP address of the device to which you want to connect.
Page 79: Configuring Remote Power Management
You can use the remote power management functionality provided by the integrated Intel Remote Management Module 2 (RMM) to power the nTier500 on and off or perform a hard reset from a remote host using a dedicated TCP/IP or Telnet connection and a standard web browser. You can also connect using a Secure Shell (SSH) client.
Page 80: Set The Rmm Ip Address
DHCP server. You need the IP address when accessing the RMM2 functionality. The MAC address for the RMM2 in the nTier500 displays in the Device MAC address field. If your network uses a DHCP server, the IP address that was assigned to the RMM2 by the DHCP server is displayed in the IP address field.
Page 81: Change The Rmm Super User Password (Recommended)
IP address. Using a static IP address ensures that you always know the IP address for the nTier500 RMM2 card and is highly recommended. 1. Set IP auto configuration to None.
Page 82: User Guide
Chapter 4 — Configuring the nTier500 Notes User Guide 90990030...
Page 83: Power On The Ntier500
94 OWER N THE N To power on the nTier500, use a stylus or other similar non-conductive object to press the recessed power button on the front panel for two to three seconds or until the button’s LED illuminates.
Page 84: Monitor The Ntier500
BlueScale web server. Do not use the power button to power off the nTier500 unless you are specifically Caution instructed to do so by Spectra Logic Technical Support. Instead, use the shutdown...
Page 85 Figure 42 Unread Messages list in the Messages page. Pay extra attention to any message flagged with the Warning or Error icon, and follow any recommended steps. Contact Spectra Logic Technical Support if you need help (see Contacting Spectra Logic on...
Page 86 Chapter 5 — Operating the nTier500 Marking Messages as Read The nTier500 can store hundreds of messages at a time. The messages are listed chronologically from most recent to oldest. After you read and resolve errors or issues in all of the unread messages, you can mark them all as read.
Page 87: Monitor The Status Of Components
The BlueScale web interface lets you monitor the status of components without having direct physical access to the nTier500. This is especially useful when your nTier500 is operating in a “lights out” data center. Check the BlueScale web interface regularly to ensure that you always know the status of the nTier500 components.
Page 88: Check The Status Of Individual Components
Chapter 5 — Operating the nTier500 You can display more detailed information for the individual components in the group by clicking on the corresponding tab. The following table describes the types of status information on each component tab. Shows the...
Page 89 RAID, a Background Task list is available above the Silence HBA Alarm button. If your nTier500 includes an operator panel on the front cover, the RAID screen also shows the status of the host bus expander (HBE).
Page 90: View The Status Of Applications And Services
1. Select General > Applications to display the Applications page. Note: Depending on the applications and services running on your nTier500, the information on the Applications page may differ from what is shown in Figure Figure 46 The Applications page.
Page 91 Stopped—The application or service is not running. Manual—The application or service is installed, licensed, and needs to be manually started and stopped. Disabled—The application or service is not installed or licensed. Spectra nTier500 Backup and Archive Appliance September 2010...
Page 92: View Network Configuration Information
Chapter 5 — Operating the nTier500 View Network Configuration Information The Network page shows the network configuration information for the nTier500 Ethernet ports. Select Configuration > Network to display the Network page. See Configuring Network Connections on page 75 if you need to configure a new network connection or modify an existing one.
Page 93: Restart Or Shut Down The Ntier500
Restart or Shut Down the nTier500 ESTART OR OWN THE N Do not use the power button to turn off the nTier500 unless you are specifically Caution instructed to do so. Instead, use one of the shutdown procedure described in this section.
Page 94: Power-Cycle Reset
Shut Down on page Under some circumstances, Spectra Logic Technical Support may direct you to perform a power-cycle reset of the nTier500 to recover from an error. To power off the nTier500, press and hold the front panel power button (Figure 40 on page 83) until the button’s LED turns off.
Page 95: Chapter 6 — Configuring Logical Volumes
Configuring Logical Volumes This chapter describes using the BlueScale web interface to configure NAS volumes, folders, and shares on the Spectra nTier500. It also describes creating unformatted RAW volumes for use by applications such as Microsoft Data Protection Manager (DPM).
Page 96: Overview Of Logical Volumes, Folders, And Shares
This virtual drive is referred to as a logical volume. The nTier500 ships with all of its drives pre-configured as a single RAID 6 logical volume formatted with the NTFS file system. In BlueScale, this type of logical volume is referred to as a Network Attached Storage (NAS) volume.
Page 97: Folders And Shares
You also have the option of creating folders and shares when you create a NAS volume (see Creating a New Logical Volume on page 107). Figure 50 The NAS page shown without folders and shares. Spectra nTier500 Backup and Archive Appliance September 2010...
Page 98 Figure 51 The New Folder options on the NAS page. 4. If there are multiple NAS volumes configured on the nTier500, select the Location corresponding to the drive letter of the NAS volume where you want to create the folder.
Page 99 After the folder is created, you can edit the folder attributes to set sharing to “None” if you do not want the folder to be shared, as described in the following section. Spectra nTier500 Backup and Archive Appliance September 2010...
Page 100: Change Or Remove Folder Sharing
If you want to change how the folder is shared or if you do not want the folder to be shared at all (that is, you do not want users who accessing the nTier500 over a network connection to have access to the folder), you can edit the share configuration for the folder.
Page 101 6. Select Continue to update the share configuration. Select Cancel to leave the share configuration unchanged. The focus of the page returns to the main NAS page. The icon next to the share name indicates how the folder is shared. Spectra nTier500 Backup and Archive Appliance September 2010...
Page 102 Chapter 6 — Configuring Logical Volumes Use the Folders Panel Use the following steps to change the sharing configuration of any folder defined on the volume, whether or not it is shared. Note: If a folder is not currently shared, you can only modify its sharing configuration from the Folders panel.
Page 103 Cancel to leave the share configuration unchanged. The focus of the page returns to the main NAS page. The folder icon next to the share name indicates how the folder is shared. Spectra nTier500 Backup and Archive Appliance September 2010...
Page 104: Deleting A Logical Volume
If the existing logical volume was created without using all of the available drives and the existing volume is not missing drives, —or— if the nTier500 contained fewer that 16 drives when the default NAS volume was created, then new drives are not automatically added to the existing logical volume when they are installed.
Page 105 Figure 57 The Logical Volumes page with two volumes. 3. Identify the volume you want to delete, then expand the volume to display the volume information. Figure 58 Expand the page for the volume you want to delete. Spectra nTier500 Backup and Archive Appliance September 2010...
Page 106 Chapter 6 — Configuring Logical Volumes 4. Select Delete <Volume>, where <Volume> is the name assigned to the volume when it was created. The Logical Volumes page refreshes to describe the consequences of deleting the volume and ask for confirmation. Figure 59 Confirm that you want to delete the volume.
Page 107: Creating A New Logical Volume
Depending on the number and size of the drives in the logical volume, creating a new RAID volume can take several hours. Each logical volume requires a minimum of four drives. Spectra Logic recommends using eight drives or more in a logical volume to lessen the impact of the RAID 6 overhead.
Page 108 Chapter 6 — Configuring Logical Volumes 3. Select New Logical Volume. The page expands to show information the default configuration options for the new volume. 4. Select NAS as the volume type (Used For) to create an NTSF formatted volume that can be used for NAS storage. This is the default volume type.
Page 109 7. After you create the volume, select Configure NAS Folder on <Drive Letter> to create the folders and shares on the volume (see Creating Folders and Configuring Sharing on page 97). Spectra nTier500 Backup and Archive Appliance September 2010...
Page 110: Create A New Raw (Unformatted) Volume
Chapter 6 — Configuring Logical Volumes Create a New RAW (Unformatted) Volume The RAW option on the New Logical Volumes page creates an unformatted logical volume that does not have a file system on it. This RAW volume can be used for applications that cannot use an NTFS-formatted logical volume (for example, as a dedicated volume for use by Microsoft Data Protection Manager).
Page 111 7. After you create the unformatted volume, you must configure it for use with your software as described in documentation that accompanied the software. For DPM, refer to the Microsoft Data Protection Manager documentation. Spectra nTier500 Backup and Archive Appliance September 2010...
Page 112 Chapter 6 — Configuring Logical Volumes Notes User Guide 90990030...
Page 113: Replication Overview
Microsoft Distributed File System (DFS). DFS replication provides synchronous file- level replication to create identical copies of the files selected for replication on the local nTier500 and on a remote nTier (either another nTier500 or an nTier700 appliance). Note:...
Page 114: Before You Begin
Active Directory on the domain. Refer to the Microsoft documentation for DFS and Active Directory for instructions. Install and configure both the local nTier500 and the remote nTier appliance on the same domain. Obtain the user name and password for an account that has domain administrator privileges on the same domain as both nTier appliances.
Page 115: Configure The Ntier500 Server For Dfs Replication
EPLICATION Before you can use the BlueScale web interface to create replication sets, you must configure the nTier500 application server for use with DFS Replication. If DFS is not configured, the BlueScale web interface will not let you to create replication sets.
Page 116 Chapter 7 — Configuring Replication BlueScale Service a. Right-click on the BlueScale service and select Stop to stop the service. b. Right-click on the BlueScale service and select Properties to display the BlueScale Properties window. c. Select the Log On tab and change the login settings as required. Figure 65 Change the BlueScale service log on setting.
Page 117 Configure the nTier500 Server for DFS Replication DFS Replication and the Distributed File System services a. Right click DFS Replication in the list of services and select Properties. b. If the service is currently running, select Stop on the General tab.
Page 118: Configure Bluescale Replication Sets
ONFIGURE CALE EPLICATION After you configure the nTier500 for use with DFS replication, you can use the BlueScale web interface to create and delete replication sets. You can also view the configuration information for existing replication sets. Creating a New Replication Set...
Page 119 Figure 68). Folder Name Enter a name for the folder on the local nTier500. The folder must be in the root of the selected drive. It cannot be a sub-folder (for example, you can use E:\accounting but not E:\accounting\Legal). Caution:...
Page 120 Chapter 7 — Configuring Replication 5. Select Find Remote Locations. The local nTier500 searches for the specified remote nTier on the domain. When the connection to the remote nTier is established, the New Replication page refreshes to include the drive letters for the available NAS drives on the remote nTier.
Page 121 You can also create an new replication set using a folder on the local nTier500 that is not currently being replicated. 1. Log into the BlueScale web interface on the local nTier500, if necessary (see Access the BlueScale Web Interface on page 56).
Page 122 Chapter 7 — Configuring Replication 5. Select Find Remote Locations on <remote host name>. The local nTier500 searches for the specified remote nTier appliance on the domain. When the connection to the remote nTier appliance is established, the page refreshes to include the drive letters for the available NAS drives on the remote nTier.
Page 123: View Or Delete A Replication Set
If you want to delete the folder and files from the remote nTier appliance, you must do so through Windows. Use the following steps to view or delete a replication set. 1. Log into the BlueScale web interface on the local nTier500, if necessary (see Access the BlueScale Web Interface on page 56).
Page 124 Chapter 7 — Configuring Replication Use the Replication List 1. Expand the Replication list, if necessary 2. Select Edit for the replication set you want to view or delete. The page expands to show information about the replication set. Figure 72 Viewing or deleting a Replication set using the Replications list.
Page 125: Chapter 8 — Autosupport
It can also be used to open or update a support ticket and send it to a specified recipient or to Spectra Logic Technical Support. When you use AutoSupport to open or update a...
Page 126: Before You Begin
Before you configure AutoSupport, Spectra Logic recommends connecting the nTier500 to an email gateway. You will need the following: An Ethernet connection to the Ethernet port on the nTier500 rear panel that you use to access the BlueScale web interface. See...
Page 127 Unless overridden for a specific AutoSupport log (ASL), this contact information is included in the body text of all AutoSupport email messages that include ASLs. 5. Select Save Contact Information. 6. Select the arrow next to Contact Information to close the panel. nTier500 Backup and Archive Appliance September 2010...
Page 128: Configure Mail Recipients
Recipients can be configured to receive messages automatically as they are generated. At a minimum, configure Spectra Logic Technical Support as a mail recipient so that you can send logs to them during troubleshooting.
Page 129 The address cannot contain spaces or other non-alphanumeric characters (for example, an ampersand, &). E-mail From An alphanumeric string to uniquely identify the nTier500. The default name is the hostname you set in Windows (see Change the Hostname on page 75).
Page 130 Chapter 8 — AutoSupport 3. Select Continue to save the information. The page focus returns to the Mail Recipients page with the new mail recipient added to the list of mail recipients. Icons indicate the type of messages the recipient will receive.
Page 131 6. Select Continue to save your changes and return the page focus to the Mail Recipients list. Select Cancel to return to page focus to the Mail Recipients list without making any changes. nTier500 Backup and Archive Appliance September 2010...
Page 132: Set Configuration Options
2. Select the arrow next to Configuration Options to expand the panel. Figure 79 The AutoSupport page configuration options. 3. Select whether to you want the nTier500 to automatically send periodic ASL sets to Spectra Logic Technical Support and email any recipients you designated to receive log sets.
Page 133: Using Autosupport
Using AutoSupport SING UPPORT Note: If the nTier500 has a problem sending log sets or email, a message displays in the BlueScale web interface. For more information about reviewing messages, see Viewing Messages on page 85). You can use AutoSupport to open a support ticket about a new issue or update a support ticket about a previously reported issue.
Page 134 Chapter 8 — AutoSupport 3. Select New support ticket to create a ticket for a new issue. Figure 80 New support ticket options. If this is a new ticket, select Create new support ticket. This option is selected by default. If you are sending additional information about an existing support ticket, select Use existing support ticket and enter the ticket number in the Number field.
Page 135 AutoSupport log sets, edit the default contact information (see Enter Contact Information on page 126). Figure 81 Override contact information. 6. Select Send Log Set. nTier500 Backup and Archive Appliance September 2010...
Page 136: Update An Existing Support Ticket
Chapter 8 — AutoSupport Update an Existing Support Ticket 1. Log into the BlueScale web interface, as described in Access the BlueScale Web Interface on page 2. Select Maintenance > AutoSupport > New Log Set. The AutoSupport page expands to display the log set options. 3.
Page 137: Chapter 9 — Maintaining The Ntier500
Chapter 9 Maintaining the nTier500 This chapter describes the following maintenance procedures for the Spectra nTier500. Task Described beginning on... Moving or Shipping the nTier500 page 138 Accessing the Technical Support Portal page 138 Updating Firmware page 140 Check the Current Firmware Version...
Page 138: Moving Or Shipping The Ntier500
Chapter 9 — Maintaining the nTier500 OVING OR HIPPING THE N Before moving or shipping the nTier500, remove all of the data drives from the Important chassis and carefully pack them in their original shipping box to prevent damage to the drives.
Page 139 Accessing the Technical Support Portal d. Access the Technical Support portal login page at http://support.spectralogic.com. Figure 84 The Spectra Logic Technical Support portal login page. e. Select the Create an Account or Login icon and follow the instructions to create your account.
Page 140: Updating Firmware
PDATING IRMWARE Some problems with the nTier500 may be fixed by updating the firmware. Spectra Logic provides complete support for the most currently shipped releases of firmware packages. Customers using previously released firmware packages are asked to upgrade to the current release as soon as possible.
Page 141: Check The Current Firmware Version
Check the Current Firmware Version Use the following steps to determine the current firmware version your nTier500 is using. You can then compare it with the most current version listed on the Technical Support portal. 1. Log into the nTier500 BlueScale web interface (see...
Page 142 Release Notes and Documentation Updates. The release notes also include any documentation updates since the last release. If you select the serial number for your nTier500 in the Serial Number pull-down list on the Product Firmware tab, a link to the release notes appears next to the table of current firmware versions.
Page 143: Download And Install The Updated Firmware
Spectra Logic Technical Support. Use the following steps to download the updated firmware. 1. Download the file containing current firmware package from the location provided by Spectra Logic Technical Support and save it to one of the following: A USB drive A previously configured package server that is accessible from the nTier500.
Page 144 The nTier500 scans this location for firmware files... Drives A USB drive connected to one of the USB ports on the nTier500. Packages are only listed under this option if a USB drive is connected to the nTier500. Remote The remote package server specified by the URL in the Scan this web page for remote packages text field.
Page 145 Cancel Your nTier500 is in a state where a reboot would impact operations. Wait until the nTier500 is in a state where it is ready for a reboot, then simply begin the update process again. Note: If the RAID is actively performing any task (for example, a RAID volume is being built), the only option available is Cancel.
Page 146: Updating Tape Drive Device Drivers
Important drivers before the application software can correctly communicate with tape drives, either in a library or standalone, that are connected to the nTier500. Always confirm that you have the most current driver available for any tape drives you have connected to the nTier500.
Page 147 Product = Tape device drivers Platform = select Windows 64-bit, x86 Note: If the nTier500 uses the 32-bit version of Windows Storage Server, select Windows 32-bit, x86 > Continue 3. Click Continue. 4. On the Identify Fixes page, confirm that only the Browse for fixes option is selected.
Page 148: Remove Current Drivers Or Devices
Windows Device Manager, use the following steps to remove the drivers. Otherwise, skip to Install the Updated Device Driver. 1. Connect to the Windows operating system on the nTier500, if you are not already connected (see Accessing the Windows Operating System on page 67).
Page 149 Unknown Medium Changer and choose Update Driver…. Use the Windows Add Hardware wizard to install the driver. For an nTier500 that is running the 32-bit Windows Storage Server operating system, the media changer device driver is located on the nTier500 system disk at: C:\Program Files\SpectraLogic\drivers\ Spectra <Series>...
Page 150: Replacing A Data Drive
Chapter 9 — Maintaining the nTier500 EPLACING A RIVE If a data drive in the nTier500 is not functioning properly, the Drives tab on the Overview page of the BlueScale web interface changes to red, indicating an error condition. Although a RAID 6 volume can continue to operate with one or two malfunctioning Important drives, you run the risk of data loss if a third drive fails.
Page 151: Identify The Malfunctioning Drive
A grounded anti-static wristband An replacement data drive from Spectra Logic Important Only install drives that you purchase from Spectra Logic into your nTier500. A #2 Phillips screwdriver An anti-static bag for the malfunctioning data drive Shipping materials for returning the malfunctioning data drive to...
Page 152: Replace The Drive
Figure 90). Replace the Drive The drives used in the nTier500 are mounted on custom drive sleds that provide the mounting and electrical connections required to install them in the nTier500 chassis. Only install drives that you purchase from Spectra Logic.
Page 153 1. Put on the provided anti-static wristband and attach it to an unpainted metallic surface. Continue to wear the wristband throughout the entire replacement procedure. 2. Locate the drive you want to remove. 3. Slide the sled latch to the right to release it. Spectra nTier500 Backup and Archive Appliance September 2010...
Page 154 Chapter 9 — Maintaining the nTier500 4. Open the drive sled handle by rotating it outward and toward the left to disengage the drive sled from the chassis. Figure 92 Slide the latch to the right to release it. Figure 93 Open the drive sled handle.
Page 155 5. Align mounting holes in the drive with the screw holes in the drive sled. 6. Using a #2 Phillips screwdriver, install the four mounting screws to secure the new drive to the drive sled. Spectra nTier500 Backup and Archive Appliance September 2010...
Page 156 As soon as the drive is seated, it powers on and the nTier500 begins rebuilding the RAID volume to include the new drive.
Page 157: Before Contacting Support
EFORE ONTACTING UPPORT If you have a problem with your nTier500, use the information in this section to obtain help with resolving the problem. System Messages If you are encountering problems, review any System Messages that have been posted (see...
Page 158: Opening A Support Ticket
Select the Incidents & Service Agreement Management icon. c. Select the Open New Incident link to display the Open Incident page. d. Select the serial number of the nTier500 for which you want to submit the ticket and the complete the request form. Note:...
Page 159: Returns
RMA number printed on it are used to associate the returned component with your account. To avoid being invoiced for failure to return the component, do not ship the component back to Spectra Logic without the RMA return label.
Page 160 Appendix A — Service and Support Notes User Guide 90990030...
Page 161: Data Storage Specifications
165 Note: All specifications in this chapter are subject to change without notice. TORAGE PECIFICATIONS The following table shows the data storage specifications for the nTier500 in its default RAID 6 configuration. Parameter Specification Drive type 7200 RPM SATA...
Page 162: Integrated Application Server
One single-connector LVD SCSI HBA Note: The SCSI HBA is no longer available for purchase with a new nTier500. It is only supported as a legacy device. a. The single-port 10 GigE card is no longer available for purchase. IZE AND...
Page 163: Power Requirements
400 watts typical, 800 watts maximum Power Cords Note: The power cords included with the nTier500 are considered part of the unit and are not intended for used with any other equipment. 120 VAC Power Cord for Use in North America The criteria for a 120-volt power cord for use in the United States and Canada are as follows:.
Page 164: Environmental Specifications
F (29 F (35 a. When the nTier500 is moved from a cold storage environment to a warm operating environment, it must be acclimated in its packaging for at least 12 hours before opening to prevent serious condensation damage from occurring.
Page 165: Interface Specifications
It is only supported as a legacy device. a. Older 10GigE cards have only one port. Network Interface Cables The type of cables required to connect the nTier500 to the network depend on the type of interface being used. Interface Type...
Page 166 Appendix B — Specifications Notes User Guide 90990030...
Page 167: Eu Declaration Of Conformity
Appendix C Regulatory and Safety Standards This appendix contains information on the regulatory and safety standards that apply to the Spectra nTier500 Backup and Archive Appliance. See the following sections for detailed information on each: EU Declaration of Conformity FCC Notice on page 169...
Page 168 EN 60950-1 Safety requirements of information technology equipment including electrical (EN 60950-1) machines. The nTier500 complies with all safety-relevant provisions referring to: Protection against electrical hazards Protection against hazards such as: Mechanical hazards Fire hazards...
Page 169: Fcc Notice
AFETY TANDARDS AND OMPLIANCE The Spectra nTier500 complies with the following domestic and international product safety standards. IEC 60950-1 First Edition UL 60950-1 First Edition CSA-C22.2 No. 60950-1-03...
Page 170: Restriction Of Hazardous Substances In Electrical And Electronic
Appendix C — Regulatory and Safety Standards Restriction of Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment (RoHS) The RoHS marking indicates that this product is in compliance with European Council Directive 2002/95/EC, on the restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment.
Page 171: Performance
NTERFACE ARDS If you have the optional 10 Gigabit Ethernet (GigE) NIC card installed in the nTier500, you can use the instructions in the following sections to improve the performance of the card if your network supports jumbo frames. The Maximum Transfer Unit (MTU) specifies the maximum transmission unit size of an interface.
Page 172 Appendix D — Tuning Gigabit Ethernet Network Performance 4. In the Local Area Connections pane, double-click the Local Area Connection corresponding to the 10 Gigabit Ethernet (GigE) NIC card and select Properties to display the Local Area Connection Properties window. Figure 97 Local Area Connection Properties.
Page 173: Enable Window Scaling
Windows). Use the following steps to add the Tcp1323Opts DWORD registry key and set its value set to enable window scaling. 1. Connect to the Windows operating system on the nTier500 (see Accessing the Windows Operating System on page 67).
Page 174 NIC. In high-performance network environments you can use aggregate the two Gigabit Ethernet ports in the nTier500 into a single logical network link for added performance. If you have additional Gigabit Ethernet NICs installed, you can also include them in the team.
Page 175: Teaming Nics
Dynamic Link increase. Switch must be configured with 802.3ad support. Aggregation 12. Select OK to save your changes and close the configuration dialog box. 13. Close the Local Area Connection Properties dialog box. Spectra nTier500 Backup and Archive Appliance September 2010...
Page 176 Appendix D — Tuning Gigabit Ethernet Network Performance Notes User Guide 90990030...
Page 177 Index applications installed on server, BlueScale web interface (continued) Numerics viewing status using audible alarms, silencing viewing status 10 GigE NIC, configuring messages default port IP addresses power alarm boot drive, See drives, system jumbo frames AutoSupport buttons NIC teaming add mail recipients BlueScale menus set IP addresses using...
Page 178 RMM, location caution when removing from folders contacting Spectra Logic RAID set services for DFS Replication User Guide 90990030...
Page 179 DHCP-assigned IP address, front cover operator panel, See damage determining operator panel Information icon IP address on operator initialization, power-on panel Spectra nTier500 Backup and Archive Appliance September 2010...
Page 180 AutoSupport modifying folder sharing creating network connections editing or deleting available types mailing address, Spectra Logic Ethernet ports main office, Spectra Logic jumbo frames, configuring for interface cable maintenance 10 GigE NIC specifications install/replace a data...
Page 181 Overview page minimum number of drives firmware description required install/replace data tab colors status on operator panel drives status on RAID tab update firmware storage capacity Spectra nTier500 Backup and Archive Appliance September 2010...
Page 182 AC power, cord and (RAW) volumes connectors setting the IP address RDC data compression, application server subnet mask description data capacity using rebooting the nTier500 environmental, RoHS compliance remote access, BlueScale web non-operating interface environmental, operating Remote Desktop application interface connectors logging out...
Page 183 Support documentation creating shared NAS check component status on folders Overview page creating, NAS check installed firmware deleting version folder naming conventions for identify malfunctioning drive modify NAS folder typographical conventions sharing Spectra nTier500 Backup and Archive Appliance September 2010...
Page 184 Index – W Notes User Guide 90990030...

Spectra nTier500 User Manual

Chapter 1 - System Overview

Chapter 2 - Installing the Ntier500

Chapter 3 — Using the Bluescale Web Interface

Chapter 4 — Configuring the Ntier500

Chapter 5 — Operating the Ntier500

Chapter 6 — Configuring Logical Volumes

Chapter 7 — Configuring Replication

Chapter 8 — Autosupport

Chapter 9 — Maintaining the Ntier500

Appendix A — Service and Support

Appendix B — Specifications

Appendix C - Regulatory and Safety Standards

Appendix D - Tuning Gigabit Ethernet Network

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