Dell PowerVault MD3220i - Manual (Page 5)

Getting Started With Your System
3
Before You Begin
NOTE:
Throughout the document, Dell PowerVault MD3200i series storage array
refers to both Dell PowerVault MD3200i and Dell PowerVault MD3220i. Dell
PowerVault MD1200 series expansion enclosure refers to both Dell PowerVault
MD1200 and Dell PowerVault MD1220.
Before setting up your Dell PowerVault MD3200i series storage array,
you must consider certain best practices to ensure that your storage array
operates at maximum efficiency and offers full redundancy (if required).
• It is recommended that you use a dedicated IP SAN for iSCSI data
transmission. Management traffic can be isolated on a separate
management network.
• Complete the iSCSI configuration worksheet before configuring iSCSI.
See "Completing the iSCSI Worksheet" on page 4. This worksheet gathers
physical network information in a single source.
• After completing the iSCSI worksheet, draw the configuration before
setting up the solution.
• Always configure redundant iSCSI data paths to provide alternate paths to
and from the host server should one of the data paths become disabled.
• If multiple NICs are installed on a host, it is recommeded that you use
different subnets for management and iSCSI data links.
• Throughout the network, always use a Category 5e (or higher)
Ethernet cable.
• Before connecting any cables between the host server and storage array,
physically label each port and connector.
• Always follow proper power-up and power-down procedures when cycling
power across the network. You must also ensure that critical network
components are on separate power circuits.
NOTE:
The illustrations in this document show cabling for only one PowerVault
MD3200i series storage array in a SAN environment. The illustrations also show
only the default IP addresses for the PowerVault MD3200i series storage array. To
cable more than one PowerVault MD3200i series storage array in a SAN
environment, see the Deployment Guide.