ExaSAN B08S2-PS User Guide Includes hardware setup information for: PCIe RAID System Models: B08S2-PS QSFP HBA Model: ACS-63200NT(Z1M) QSFP PCIe Cables Also includes software setup information for: RAID Management Software: RAIDGuard X Accusys, Inc., Feb. 26, 2013 Version: V1.1.
Revision Sheet Revision Sheet Release No. V1.0 V1.1 Date 11/10/2012 12/19/2012 V1.1.1 02/26/2013 Revision Description Initial release on CD.
PREFACE Notice The product features and specifications described in this guide are subject to change without notice. The manufacturer shall not be liable for any damage, or the loss of data resulting from the performance or use of the information contained herein. About This Guide Congratulations on your purchase of the ExaSAN (pronounced X-sa-SAN) B08S2-PS, a revolutionary high bandwidth storage system, specifically designed for all post production storage.
Trademarks Accusys and the names of Accusys products and logos referenced herein are trademarks and/or service marks or registered trademarks and/or service marks of Accusys, Inc. Xsan, Mac, Mac OS, and Macintosh are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Apple. Other product and company names mentioned herein may be trademarks and/or service marks of their respective owners. All contents of this manual are copyrighted by Accusys, Inc.
ExaSAN B08S2-PS User Guide Table of content Page # Notice.............................................................................................................................................................ii About This Guide........................................................................................................................................ii Guide to Conventions ......................................................................................................................
3. 2.2 Choosing the Location for the System .................................................................................. 2-1 2.3 Electrical Power ...................................................................................................................... 2-1 2.4 Operating Environment ......................................................................................................... 2-2 2.5 Security ................................................................................
5.1 How RAID Works .................................................................................................................. 5-1 5.2 Data Storage Methods ............................................................................................................ 5-1 5.2.1 5.2.2 5.2.3 5.3 5.3.1 5.3.2 5.3.3 5.3.4 5.3.5 6. Data Striping .......................................................................................................................................5-1 Data Mirroring ......
Table of Figures Page # Figure 1: B08S2-PS DAS environment ................................................................................................................................ 1-1 Figure 2: B08S2-PS SAN environment ................................................................................................................................ 1-2 Figure 3: ACS-63200NT(Z1M) HBA card ....................................................................................................................
Figure 57: GUI “e-mail setting” ......................................................................................................................................... 4-19 Figure 58: GUI “Mode setting” .......................................................................................................................................... 4-20 Figure 59: DLP concept ............................................................................................................................................
1. Introduction 1. User Guide Introducing ExaSAN PCIe 2.
1. Introduction 1. 1.1 Introducing ExaSAN PCIe2.0 Storage Systems System Overview Your new ExaSAN (pronounced “X-sa-SAN”) PCIe 2.0 Storage System “B08S2-PS” is one of a family of PCI-express based storage and switch solutions from Accusys capable of transferring data at up to 20 Gb/sec.
1. Introduction Figure 2 below depicts a typical ExaSAN system solution architecture in a SAN environment. Figure 2: B08S2-PS SAN environment 1.1.2 What is the ExaSAN B08S2-PS Solution The ExaSAN B08S2-PS is a 8Bay disk array system in a small form factor employing the latest PCIe2.0 technology with support for RAID level 0, 1, 5, 6, 0+1, high speed 2.5” 6Gb SAS and SATA II drives. The Single port RAID controller of B08S2-PS combined with 8 drives can provide up to 20 Gb/s transfers.
1. Introduction 1.1.3.2 Hard Disk Drive (HDD) or Solid State Disk (SSD) for the RAID System Hard disk drives or solid state disks come in different storage capacities and performance levels. All 2.5” hard drives or SSDs for the B08S2-PSshould be the same size, speed, model, and firmware. Accusys recommends 2.5” SAS and SATA Enterprise HDDs for the B08S2-PS systems. 1.1.3.
1. Introduction Figure 4: QSFP optical cable 1.1.3.5 Power Cord An AC Power Cord (Figure 5) is included in the B08S2-PS package. The power cord supports three models - AU, EU, or the US standard power cord. The option corresponds to the region the product is shipped to. . Figure 5: Power cord 1.1.4 Key Features Below are the key features of the B08S2-PS. They are the reasons why ExaSAN is the best RAID solution for a power user, working on high end, on-location, on-set, or machine room work. 1.
1. Introduction 5. 6. 7. 8. • Selective initialization method with background initialization • Online RAID set expansion and level migration • Controller and Disk Cache Control to optimize read/write performance • Supports write-back and write-through caching • Automatic drive insertion/removal detection and fast disk rebuilding • Online bad block data recovery and reallocation • Online disk scrubbing and data refresh and parity regeneration • Disk health monitoring by S.M.A.R.T.
1. Introduction • Certification: RoHS, UL, CE, FCC, C-Tick, BSMI 9. QSFP HBA • 20Gb/s PCIe2.0 x4 HBA • Short, low profile, form factor card • Dimension 110 x 68.9 mm • Standard bracket (Standard) & low profile bracket (included) 10. QSFP Cable • Connector PCI Express 2.0 x4 • Copper cable lengths: 2M(standard) • Optical cable lengths: 10M, 30M, 50M, 100M(all optical cables are optional) 1.
1. Introduction Figure 6: B08S2-PS packing list 1.2.1 What Is In Your Order Your ExaSAN System Integrator/Value Added Reseller should have helped you assess, identify, and order all necessary system components and accessories, not included in the B08S2-PS packaging. If you ordered the complete B08S2-PS system solution, your order includes everything described in Section 1.3. There are generic system components and accessories required by the ExaSAN solution but not included. Please refer to Section 1.
1. Introduction 1.3.3 B08S2-PS Disk Tray package The Disk Tray package is divided into two layers. Each layer holds 4 disk trays, with a total of 8 disk trays.
1. Introduction 1.4 Your B08S2-PS at a Glance This section helps you get familiar with the physical appearance of your ExaSAN B08S2-PS. 1.4.1 ExaSAN B08S2-PS 1.4.1.1 B08S2-PS Front Panel & LED Indicators Figure 7: B08S2-PS front view LED Name Color Description Flashing Blue indicates the host is booting. 1 System Power Blue Steady Blue indicates the subsystem power supplies are working normally.
1. Introduction failed. No Light indicates the LED failed or power off Indicates the controller status 4 Heartbeat LED • Flashing Blue indicates the controller is active • No light indicates the controller is inactive. Blue 1.4.1.2 Beeper Codes Controller Status Turn on the Controller System Panic Controller Work Status, ex: Disk init, disk rebuild, disk expansion, disk migratrion, disk snapshot, etc. System Problem, ex: Fan issue, Power issue, RAID error, etc.
1. Introduction 1.4.1.
1. Introduction Center Action Note: • If access LED has no light, it means no access or the LED has a problem. • The lower LED (power/failure/status) always lights after power on. If users don’t see the light, it means no power or the LED has failed.
1. Introduction 1.4.1.5 B08S2-PS Rear Panel Figure 9: B08S2-PS back view No. 1 Name Cooling fan Description Maintains the disk array away from overheating. Connects the controller to the HBA on the host server. Host access LED (top): 2 PCIe port • Flashing Blue indicates host accessing is in progress. • No light indicates no host accessing. Host connected LED (bottom): 3 Terminal port • Flashing Green indicates the controller is connected normally.
1. Introduction cord. 1.4.2 ExaSAN QSFP Host Bus Adapter (HBA) and LED Indicators Figure 10: HBA LED indicators No. 1 2 3 Name QSFP Connector Port Description For connection with one of the Host Module Ports on the switch rear panel or B08S2-PS directly. • Off (no light at all) indicates the jumper pin in question is set to “On” position. In this state, the card is ready for DAS direct connection with the ExaSAN B08S2-PS. • Solid amber indicates the jumper pin in question is set to “1” position.
1. Introduction • 4 Off (no light) when there is no link or indicates a link with trouble. Flashing blue while there are data access activities with the connected device. Access LED Indicator No light indicates the host is not accessing 1.5 What Else You Need When you purchased your ExaSAN system, additional hardware, software, and accessories may be required to fully take advantage of this system. The following describes the software and hardware which you may need to purchase separately.
1. Introduction 3. Other Interface Converters：ExaSAN HBAs generally work with all PCIexpress buss slots with 4 lanes or more, but are not guaranteed to work as there are too many manufacturers to test. Please work with the ExaSAN channel partner for assistance and recommendations, for example with Thunderbolt expansion boxes or similar. 4.
1. Introduction 1.5.2.1 Hardware 1. 2.5”SAS/SATA HDD (hard drive) or 2.5”SSD(flash dive)：B08S2-PS supports both SAS and SATA interface Enterprise level HDD/SSD drives. The B08S2-PS HDD compatibility list is here: (http://www.accusys.com.tw/B08S2/B08S2/download.html) 2. MDC (Meta Data Controller) computer system is designated as an administrator for the SAN. It keeps track of all the metadata for file read and write requests for the SAN from the clients.
1. Introduction switch ports in one switch called SWF16. Accusys SAN software is called SANit. . For more information on how SWF16 can help you, contact your reseller or please visit: http://www.accusys.com.tw/SWF16/SWF16/Overview.
2. Preparation 2.
2. Preparation 2. Preparing to Install ExaSAN B08S2-PS To ensure safe and smooth operation of your ExaSAN B08S2-PS, it is essential that you choose an appropriate location for the system, provide an appropriate operating environment, and adequate power for all components of the system. As you plan for installation, follow the guidelines below to ensure that the system and its environment are safely and appropriately positioned for efficient operation and service. 2.
2. Preparation 4. Make sure that the power outlets for all hardware components are grounded according to local and national standards. Consult an electrician if you need assistance with grounding. 2.4 Operating Environment The operating environment for the ExaSAN B08S2-PS must meet certain requirements: 1. Verify that the temperature range of the chosen location is within the limits established for the system and all other components. 2.
3. Installation 3.
3. Installation 3. Installing the ExaSAN B08S2-PS Follow the steps in this chapter to prepare your ExaSAN B08S2-PS system for installation. 3.1 Installing the System Follow the instructions in this section to hook up all your hardware components of the ExaSAN B08S2PS system. Do not turn the power of any individual component on until instructed. When all components are properly connected, follow the instructions in section 3.3.1 “Powering On” to turn the components on in the prescribed order. 3.1.
3. Installation 6. Repeat for all drives to be installed into the B08S2-PS. Note The hard drives in a RAID system should match in size and speed. All drives in an array should be identical models with the same firmware version. 3.1.2 Installing the HBA Card Before the ExaSAN B08S2-PS is ready to be connected and powered on, you must install the HBA card in the workgroup client system. The HBA card is compatible with PCIe x4, x8, and x16 slots. If a choice is given, use the fastest PCIe slot available.
3. Installation Figure 16: Install HBA card 5. Position the connector of the card over the slot, insert the connector into the slot, press gently but firmly until it is securely seated. Figure 17: Install HBA card on a PCIe slot 6. Use the screw that you saved in step 2 to secure the metal bracket of the card to the system case. 7. Replace the outer casing cover. 3.1.3 Connecting the HBA to the B08S2-PS System for DAS 1. Connect the HBA to the ExaSAN B08S2-PS with a QSFP PCIe cable.
3. Installation Figure 18: Connecting PCIe cable to B08S2-PS 2. Insert the other end of the cable into the QSFP port on the HBA card in the host system. The cable connector is securely plugged when you hear a click. Figure 19: Connecting PCIe cable to a host 3. Plug a power cord into the AC power-in port in the storage system; do not turn power on yet.
3. Installation Figure 20: Connecting the power cord to B08S2-PS Caution Once powered on, Do NOT remove the QSFP PCIe cable when in use to avoid data loss and corruption. 3.2 Powering the System On and Off 3.2.1 Powering On Before powering on, make sure that all cables and cords are properly installed and connected. 1. If you have not yet done so, plug the power cords for ExaSAN B08S2-PS Storage System to a power source. 2. Turn power on for the ExaSAN B08S2-PS by switching on the Power button.
3. Installation Figure 21: power on sequence Caution It is important to follow the correct Power On sequence. Failure to do so may result in some features not functioning properly. 3.2.2 Powering Off If you need to power off the entire system, such as in the cases of switch or RAID system firmware updates, adding a RAID system or client computer, power off in the reverse order of Powering On. Before turning off the B08S2-PS Storage System, turn off the host server first.
3. Installation Figure 22: power off sequence 3.3 ExaSAN GUI RAIDGuard X Overview RAIDGuard X is a powerful tool which supports remote monitoring of multiple controllers that are connected to the same network. The software comes with 2 components: Server and Client. Server – Enables the server to recognize the RAID controller(s). Client – The Client software can be installed on any computer that needs to administer the controller(s). The Client software works on any computer running JAVA 1.
3. Installation RAIDGuard X Client GUI The RAIDGuard X GUI enables easy monitoring of the status of a RAID. Event Notification Email event notification keeps the administrator informed of the status of the RAID controller. Remote Monitoring The RAIDGuard X Client must be installed on a Java-based computer in order to remotely view the details of the RAID controller. 3.3.2 Installation prerequisites RAIDGuard X is designed to be used in conjunction with Accusys ExaSAN systems.
3. Installation 3.3.4 Installing the driver and RAIDGuard X The RAIDGuard X GUI can be downloaded from the Accusys website. Go to the website support page (http://www.accusys.com.tw/support/download_new.htm) for available downloads. If you need more info or tech support, please contact your system integrator of ExaSAN product or Accusys FAE Dept. (see Appendix C “Customer Service and Technical Support” for more information) 3.3.4.1 Installing RAIDGuard X on MAC and Windows RAIDGuard X Installation 1.
3. Installation Figure 24: GUI license page 5. Select the Destination volume to install RAIDGuard X.
3. Installation 6. Click Install to continue with the Standard installation, which will automatically install the Driver, the RAIDGuard X Server, and the RAIDGuard X Client. Click Customize to manually select the content to install. Figure 26: GUI installation type page 7. Click to Restart the computer.
3. Installation Figure 27: GUI installation successful page Note Storport and miniport are new storage drivers created by Microsoft for Windows Server 2003 and future Windows operating systems. 3.3.4.2 Installing ExaSAN RAID system driver on Linux Driver Installation 1. Copy the ExaSAN RAID system driver files onto your GUI desktop. Open a terminal window. 2. Type the following commands: # cd 'root/Desktop/Accusys_LinuxRaid’ # make Example: The Linux compiler should now begin compiling the driver.
3. Installation The driver should be now loaded in Linux. RAIDGuardX Installation Before installing RAIDGuard X, make sure the RAID HBA drivers is already installed in your Linux OS. 1. Insert the CD-ROM into the CD-ROM drive of the server or PC. 2. Open CD ROM/GUI/Server/Linux/AP/i386 or x86_64/AP_Accusys. Open a terminal window on the folder and enter the following commands: # cat /proc/devices Example: Check the “ACS_CDEV” device number. For example, if the “ACS_CDEV” device number is “$$$".
3. Installation # cd /root/ # unzip RAIDGuard X Server x.x.zip # cd /Linux/AP # chmod 777 DTR GuiSrv # ./DTRGuiSrv Example: 3. Open CD ROM/GUI/Client/x.x. Open a terminal window on the folder, and enter the following commands: # java –version Check your Java version. If your JAVA version is earlier than 1.6, please go to www.java.com to upgrade.
3. Installation # cd /root/ # unzip RAIDGuard X Client x.x.zip # cd /Client/x.x # chmod 777 RAIDGuardX.jar # java –jar RAIDGuardX.jar PS: To change the OS default JAVA path, open a terminal window on the desktop, and enter the following commands: # vi /etc/profile Insert the following context description into /etc/profile. (Replace the correct Java version that you installed in the following.): export JAVA_HOME="/usr/java/jre1.6.
3. Installation 3.3.5 Confirm the ExaSAN RAID system driver on OS 3.3.5.1 Confirming the ExaSAN RAID system driver on Mac After installing the ExaSAN RAID system HBA driver on the Mac host server, confirm the driver has been properly installed with the following steps. 1. Click on About This Mac. Figure 28: to click about This MAC 2. Click on the More Info… button. Figure 29: About This MAC 3. Click on the System Report… button.
3. Installation Figure 30: more info About this MAC Under the Hardware category, click on PCI Cards to bring up information on PCI cards that are installed in the system. If the driver has been correctly installed, the HBA is listed with the Accusys6xxxx identifier (actual name may vary) as a RAID Controller. If you do not see the HBA listed here, power off the host server, reseat the card, and reinstall the driver. Refer to Appendix A FAQ Q7if the problem persists. Figure 31: MAC Pro info 3.3.5.
3. Installation Go to Control Panel -> System Properties -> Hardware -> Device Manager (depending on the version of Windows, the path may vary). If the driver has been correctly installed, the HBA is listed with the ACS-6xxxx identifier (actual name may vary) as Storage Controllers. Figure 32: device manager in Windows platform Caution If you see the HBA listed as an unknown device under Windows, follow the driver installation steps to reinstall the driver.
4. How to Use 4.
4. How to Use 4. Using RAIDGuardX GUI After you have connected all your ExaSAN components, powered the system on, and installed the RAIDGuardX drivers, we will first need to perform some basic configuration and setup before the ExaSAN RAID system is fully operational.
4. How to Use 5 Option Mode Slicing LUN Map Divide an existing array into multiple slices. Map volumes of slices to the LUN of the host Expansion Increase total capacity of an array by adding spare drives Migration Snapshot Health Center Unlock Drives Migrate current RAID level to a selected RAID level Create mirror(s) of existing volumes of array for backup Repair and maintain arrays Change the locked drive(s) status 4.1 Accessing the RAIDGuardX GUI 4.1.
4. How to Use Figure 35: GUI “SAN environment” RAIDGuard X Server runs constantly in the background on the host system. To access RAIDGuard X Server: For Macs: Go -> Application -> RAIDGuard X -> RAIDGuard X Server For Windows: Start -> Program -> Accusys -> RAIDGuard X -> RAIDGuard X Server 4.1.2 RAIDGuard X Menu Bar The menu bar across the top contains the following functions: File – Exit – Close the program. Load Controller List – Refresh the controller list.
4. How to Use Manual Add Controller – Manually search and add the controller. Refer to Section 4.1.2.1 Adding and Removing Controllers. Update – Update System Code – Click to update the firmware of the controller. Update Boot Code – Click to update the boot code of the controller. Update BIOS & EFI – Click to update the BIOS or EFI of the controller. Dump controller log – Download the events log stored in the flash memory of the RAID controller.
4. How to Use 4.1.2.1 Adding and Removing Controllers In order to administer a controller, it first needs to be added to the network. Once added, the administrator is given full control over the controller. RAIDGuard X is a powerful GUI management system. It can be used for remotely monitoring the RAID controller. If using the server to administer RAID configurations, you must make sure that the RAID host and server are on the same network.
4. How to Use Figure 37: GUI “RAID controller info” Manual Add Controller In the event that a firewall is used or special network settings are in place, RAIDGuard X client may not be able to detect the Server in the Main Menu. In this case, you can manually add another controller in the network. 1. Click on Controller on the menu bar and select Manual Add controller. Figure 38: GUI “Manual add RAID controller 1/2” 2. Enter the Server or Switch IP.
4. How to Use Figure 39: GUI “Manual add RAID controller 2/2” 3. Click Search and wait for the Serial Number to populate. 4. Type the password (default is 00000000) for the controller. 5. Click Add to finish adding the controller. Removing To remove a controller, select a controller and then click the Remove Controller button to remove the controller from the table. When the popup window appears, select Yes.
4. How to Use 4.1.2.2 Planning your RAID Before using RAIDGuard X to set up your RAID storage, it is a good idea to become familiar with the variety of configurations, or schemes, that are available for the ExaSAN RAID storage. This section describes these schemes and illustrates how each RAID level is applied.
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4. How to Use 4.1.2.3 Creating and Deleting an Array Administrators can choose how best to distribute the available hard disk drives. Once an array has been created, it can be further administered in the Options section. Creating an Array When the RAID controller is first configured, an array needs to be set up. This array tells the controller how many disks to use and what their function should be. Follow the steps below to create an array: 1. Select the RAID level from the drop down menu.
4. How to Use 2. Select the stripe size from the drop down menu. Available stripe sizes are: 8-256KB. The greater the stripe size, the faster the I/O output for each drive. This speeds up disk access. 3. Select the sector size from the drop down menu. Available sector sizes are 512 bytes (default) and 4096 bytes. The sector size 4096 bytes is only supported by Windows 2000/XP, and over 2 Terabyte function is used. For other OSes, please select 512 bytes (default). Figure 47: GUI “Select sector size” 4.
4. How to Use Figure 48: GUI “Select hard drives” Optional: From the drop down menu, select either On-the-fly initialization or Performance evaluation. On-the-fly initialization – ExaSAN RAID systems record the initialized sectors in the bitmap. All sectors are initialized only once. The entire initialization process will be completed faster and the performance will be better during the initialization. During on-the-fly initialization, 65-75% of the full speed (of a created RAID) is still available.
4. How to Use You will be able to use and configure the array immediately if it is created using On-the-fly initialization. However, the RAID performance of the array will be slightly lower than usual before the initialization is complete. Assign LUN automatically Check this box to automatically assign a LUN. You may choose to assign LUN manually under Options. However, you will not be able to use the RAID volume until it has been assigned a LUN. Click Create Array to complete the process.
4. How to Use arrays have been created, the Summary section indicates all arrays numbers are in use and you will not be allowed to create more arrays. Delete an Array Deleting an array removes the selected array, and allows the drives to be used in another array, or reconfigured for a new array. Follow the steps to delete an array. 1. Click on the drives containing the array to be deleted. 2. Check the Confirm box. Click Delete Array to complete the process.
4. How to Use 4.1.2.4 Controller Info Figure 52: GUI “Controller info” The system information section provides details on the vendor, model name, controller name, serial number, and memory size. It also has 4 tabs: Firmware, Hardware, Power, and PCIe. The Firmware tab details the system version, boot version, BIOS version and EFI version. The Hardware tab details the CPU temperature, system temperature, and fan speeds. The Power tab details the battery backup module status and power supply status.
4. How to Use Figure 53: GUI “Controller info for four sections” Array The Array & Drives tab provides details on the status of the drives, such as which array they are assigned to. It also has 2 radio buttons: Array and Drives. The icons next to each drive will change depending on whether the Accusys PCIe controller is installed. The number above the drive indicates the array number.
4. How to Use Figure 55: GUI “Array tab” Clicking the Drives radio button displays information about individual drives. Click on each drive image to view the drive number, status (On-line or Failed), drive type (RAID or Spare), model, revision status and capacity. Figure 56: GUI “Drive tab” Drives Displays the overview of all drives for the selected controller. Snapshot The progress of the snapshot is displayed in the snapshot tab. To enable the snapshot function, see Options > Snapshot.
4. How to Use 1. Restart the host system. In some instances, restarting the host system may not be necessary, but if you are creating or adding arrays, you generally must restart before the arrays are visible in Disk Utility. 2. Open Disk Utility on the host system. 3. Select the array in the list at the left side of the window. 4. Click on the Erase tab. 5. Choose a format for the array from the Volume Format pop-up menu. 6. Type a name for the array. 7. Click Erase and confirm by clicking Erase again.
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4. How to Use 4.1.2.7 Preference Setting This menu allows administrators to set the conditions of the controller, such as performance modes, caching, and miscellaneous functions. 4.1.2.7.1 Mode Figure 58: GUI “Mode setting” Disk Lag Proof Mode – This feature ensures the stability and continuity of the RAID performance. In RAID 5 and RAID 6, DLP prevents the aging or slow responds of a single hard disk from influencing the overall performance.
4. How to Use Note Although slow responds of some hard disks can be tolerated in DLP mode, you may use S.M.A.R.T. function to check the conditions of hard disks in an array and replace the faulty ones. Note This function does not support JBOD and NRAID. NCQ (Native Command Queuing) – This mode is designed for increasing disk drive access on SCSI and SATA disk drives.
4. How to Use When running S.M.A.R.T., the performance of the system will be slightly affected. The higher the check frequency, the more the sequential access is influenced. It is recommended to turn off S.M.A.R.T. if high frequency is needed. On the other hand, running S.M.A.R.T. constantly allows you to monitor the conditions of hard disks at any time. Different hard disk models and brands will have different attributes in the reporting of S.M.A.R.T.
4. How to Use 4.1.2.7.2 Cache Figure 62: GUI “Cache” Cache memory in the controller enhances read and write performance, improving overall storage throughput streaming data can be queued into the cache to dramatically accelerate read performance. Under different applications, cache has different influence on the RAID system. Controller Cache – Check this box to enable the controller cache. This speeds up the data transfer to and from the disks.
4. How to Use All Drives Cache On/All Drives Cache Off – Click this button to enable/disable the caching on for all available drives. 4.1.2.7.3 MISC Figure 63: GUI “MISC” MSIC (Minimal Instruction Set Computer) has standard RAID controller CPU time settings. The time of each event is displayed in the event logs in Event message. Controller Time – Click this button to see a calendar and to change the time and date of the controller. Password – Enter the new controller password.
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4. How to Use 4.1.2.8.1 Slicing You can subdivide a RAID array into segments, or slices. These slices are effective hardware partitions of all drives in the array. Each slice is a separate LUN and appears as a separate volume on the host computer. After slicing, the LUN map must be set for each slice. Figure 65: slicing concept Note You can create up to 16 slices per array and 64 LUNs on the controller. The total number of unique arrays’ slices can not exceed 16.
4. How to Use Figure 66: GUI “Slicing 1/3” 3. Click on the slice to create, and use the slider bar or buttons to adjust the size. Click OK to confirm. Figure 67: GUI “Slicing 2/3” 4. Check the Confirm box and click OK.
4. How to Use Figure 68: GUI “Slicing 3/3” Note Slices must be adjusted in order; for example - Slice 0, Slice 1, Slice 2, etc. Each array supports a maximum of 16 slices.
4. How to Use 4.1.2.8.2 LUN Map LUN, which stands for Logical Unit Number, is used to identify a logical unit in computer storage. When creating an array, you may select Assign LUN automatically to automatically assign a LUN to the new array. If Assign LUN automatically is not selected, you need to assign the LUN manually using LUN map. If the slice has been partitioned, you need to set its LUN Map. Note One slice can only be assigned one LUN. Note The ExaSAN RAID controller supports up to 64 LUNs. 1.
4. How to Use Figure 70: GUI “Lun mapping 2/3” 4. If you attempt to assign a LUN to a slice that has already been assigned a LUN, a warning prompt appears.
4. How to Use 4.1.2.8.3 Expansion Expansion adds spare disks or new hard drives to an existing array. This is no need to create a new array or stop an array; you may add new disks online while the array is in use. Expansion can enlarge the capacity and frequency of an array. Although you may still access the array while doing Expansion, its performance is affected considerably. You may check the progress of Expansion in the main view.
4. How to Use Figure 73: GUI “expansion 1/2” 3. The Main array information screen will indicate that the array is currently under expansion.
4. How to Use 4.1.2.8.4 Migrations Different from Expansion, which enlarges an array by adding hard drives to a fixed RAID level, Migration changes the RAID level of an array. It allows live changes to the RAID without the need to delete the array and rebuild. This can be useful when new drives have been added, and a new array type needs to be created. The number of drives required for migrations to different RAID levels varies.
4. How to Use 1. Select the array to migrate. From the drop down menu, select the RAID level to migrate to, and then select the total number of drives to include in the array. A “+” appears above the drive(s) to be added, and a “-” sign above the drive(s) to be removed. 2. Check the Confirm box and click Migrate. Figure 77: GUI “Migration” 3. The main array information screen will indicate that the array is currently migrating.
4. How to Use 4.1.2.8.5 Snapshot A snapshot is initialized with a data sync task running in the background to duplicate the data from a source to a target. The host I/O data is also replicated in the target. The mirror snapshot is offered by the ExaSAN RAID controller. Note The source and target volume of the snapshot must be identical. Before setting a snapshot, you need to set the slice in the array. The capacity of each slice and the number of shots should be in accordance with the space you need.
4. How to Use Figure 80: Two types of snapshot function Create Shot Creates a snapshot of the selected slice. A maximum of 8 shots can be created. Once all shots have been used, older shots must be deleted before new ones can be taken. 1. Select the Create Shot function from the drop down menu. 2. Select the required shot by clicking on the Shot No. radio button. From the respective drop down menus, select the source volume and destination volume. Unavailable shots are grayed out. 3.
4. How to Use Figure 81: GUI “Snapshot setting 1/2” Delete Shot Deletes the selected shot. 1. Select the Delete Shot function from the drop down menu. 2. Select the required shot by clicking on the Shot No. radio button. From the respective drop down menus, select the source volume and destination volume. Unavailable shots are grayed out. 3. Check the Confirm box and click OK to delete a snapshot. Split Shot Split Now – Splits the selected shot or changes scheduling.
4. How to Use 1. Select the Split Shot function from the drop down menu. 2. Select the Cancel Scheduling radio button. 3. Select the required shot by clicking on the Shot No. radio button. From the respective drop down menus, select the source volume and destination volume. Unavailable shots are grayed out. 4. Check the Confirm box and click OK to split the snapshot. Figure 82: GUI “Snapshot setting 2/2” Resynchronize Shot Resynchronize the selected shot.
4. How to Use 4.1.2.8.6 Health Center To ensure the accuracy of the RAID parity data, ExaSAN RAID controller offers Background checking and “Rebuild parity data”. During checking or rebuilding parity, the performance of the array will be affected. You may check the progress of in the Main view or in the Health Center. Follow the steps below to select an array to verify, rebuild, or condition. 1. Select the Array to verify, rebuild, or condition. 2.
4. How to Use 4.1.2.8.7 Unlock Drives The RAID controller may lock abnormal drives in an array. You may unlock these drives and rejoin them in an array. Drives may be locked under one of two conditions: 1. If a drive returns data too slowly, the controller determines the drive is experiencing a fault and executes Drive Drop. When you unlock the drive, it will be added directly to the array if there has not been drive access during the locked period.
4. How to Use locked drives are preserved for online/offline recovery. If users don’t need the data or the locked drive anymore, the locked drive can be changed into a spare drive by the command of Unlock Drive. 1. Select the drive with the icon. It will change to the icon. Figure 85: GUI “HDD locked” 2. Check the Confirm box and click Unlock Drive.
4. How to Use 4.1.3 Updating the ExaSAN RAID system Firmware Follow the steps in this section to update the firmware of your ExaSAN RAID system. Use caution to prevent a loss of power to the ExaSAN RAID system during this process. 4.1.3.1 Preparing the Firmware Update Files 1. Note the current System Version, Boot Version, BIOS Version and EFI version on your ExaSAN RAID system. These can be viewed in the Main menu firmware tab. 2. Visit the website below: http://www.accusys.com.tw/support/download_new.
4. How to Use Figure 87: GUI “Update system code (firmware)” 2. Update System Code, Boot Code, BIOS/EFI individually from the download path. During the update process, the RAID system will stop all data access. Caution Do NOT interrupt or stop updates that are in progress. 3. Once the updates are complete, make sure to power off the ExaSAN RAID system and host using the proper power down sequence and then power on, again following the proper power on sequence.
5. RAID 5.
RAID 5. RAID Overview This chapter gives an overview of RAID storage system within the context of recommended setting of ExaSAN based SAN environment to provide fast, shared storage to client computers. 5.1 How RAID Works RAID, or Redundant Array of Independent Disks, is a data-storage technology that spreads data across multiple drives.
RAID 5.3 RAID Levels The ExaSAN RAID system supports several RAID levels and configurations. Each level has a different architecture and provides varying degrees of performance and fault tolerance. Each level has characteristics to achieve maximum performance or redundancy depending on the data environment. 5.3.1 RAID 0: Striping RAID level 0, striping only, is the fastest and most efficient array type, but offer no fault-tolerance. Any drive failure destroys the data in the array. 5.3.
Appendices 6.
Appendices Appendix A: FAQs 1. Q: Why is my disk LED status RED? A: This is likely caused by a faulty hard drive. Replace the faulty drive as soon as possible to protect your data. 2. Q: After an array has been created in RAIDGuard X, but the host does not find the array volume. A: Please check the LUN Mapping to ensure the array volume has been corrected mapped to a LUN. If this is not the case, try restarting the system and it will be automatically recognized.
Appendices 6. Q: If “Find no RAID card” appears in a Windows host server, how can this be resolved? A: Please make sure the PCIe cable is properly connected to the back of the host server and the RAID system. Check the Device Manager in Windows to confirm that the correct driver has been installed for the HBA. If both conditions have been verified and the problem persists, please use the “Manually Add Controller” option. 7.
Appendices 11. Q: I have connected the cable to the Host server, but I can't see "new disk drive" on the host device management. A: There are three possibilities: a. Please ensure the QSFP cable is connected securely. You should be able to hear a "click" sound when you connect the cable to the connector. b. Please check the jumper switch on the HBA. When the switch is in the "On” position, the HBA card is enabled for storage mode for the B08S2-PS.
Appendices Appendix B: Icons ICON Main Menu Icons Description RAIDGuard X Server icon – The icon that is on the desktop and notification area Add / Delete a controller – Select the controller to administer Create / Delete an array – Change the arrays within the RAID system. Preferences – Activate alarms, mode settings, cache settings, password, and controller card time. Email – Set the addresses to send e-mail alerts to.
Appendices A drive being selected for expansion / migration / rebuilding A transition drive state during the array 1, 2, 3, 4, migration A transition drive state during the array 1, 2, 3, 4, expansion A transition drive state during the array 1, 2, 3, 4, auto-rebuild RAID Levels Appendix C: Customer Service and Support C.1 System Log When you contact us for technical support, our support staff might ask for your system log file for troubleshooting purpose.
