Owners Manual

3 Maintaining Control Modules
Different PS Series array models contain different control module types. The combination of chassis type,
control module pair, and drives determines the PS Series array model number.
The control modules in a PS Series array contain the PS Series firmware, which provides the Group Manager
GUI, the command line interface, and all the array and storage management functions and features.
Ideally, an array has two control modules (which must be of the same type) to avoid a single point of failure for
the array.
A PS4210 array includes two hot-swappable Type 19 control modules.
One functioning control module is required for array operation. You access control modules from the rear of the
array.
Control Module Features
The Type 19 control module includes:
• Two pairs of Ethernet ports with two shared LEDs indicating status and activity:
– One pair of 10GBASE-T ports, labeled Ethernet 0 and Ethernet 1
– One pair of SFP+ ports, labeled Ethernet 0 and Ethernet 1
Only one of two ports with the same numbered port can be used at a time. If both ports are attached to an
active switch, the control module will prefer to communicate over the SFP+ interface.
• One 10Mb/100Mbps port, labeled MANAGEMENT, for use only if you configure a management network.
The management port has two LEDs to indicate status and activity. See Configuring the Management Port
on page 29 for more information.
• A column of LEDs labeled PWR (power), ERR (error condition) and ACT (activity) that indicate the status
of the control module.
• A recessed button labeled STANDBY ON/OFF that allows you to quickly shut down the array in certain
circumstances. See About the Standby On/Off Button on page 19 for more information.
• One serial port (for use if no network access to the array is available).
• A field-replaceable microSD card containing the PS Series firmware. The microSD card is accessed from
the rear of the control module.
• A release button and latch to release the control module from the array for replacement. The release lever
has a switch that detects activation and prompts the array to save data to nonvolatile storage, thereby
protecting your data.
Do not mix control module types in an array. Always make sure both control modules are the same type and
color. See the latest PS Series Release Notes for information about other supported control modules.
About Control Module Configurations
While an array can run using only one control module, it is not recommended because this configuration creates
a single point of failure. If the control module fails and no other module can take over, all access to your
volumes stops until the failure is repaired or the control module is replaced.
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