HP Modular Smart Array FC VDS Hardware Provider administration guide (T1634-96072, May 2006)

HP MSA FC VDS H
ardware Provider
The HP MSA FC VDS Hardware Provider consists of special HP D LL s and executables that install on the
Windows server. These components extend the capability of Windows and Windows applications to
communicate
with and manage the disk array.
Hardware Providers typical applications
The advantage of VDS and the HP MSA FC VDS Provider is tha t they allow you to manage the HP disk
array using the Windows interface. Array management tasks that would normally require the array’s
proprietar y management application can be done using VDS and the third party Windows management
application of your choice. When you h ave multiple array models, this is particularly helpful because you
can manage all arrays from a single interface. Windows applications can manage the arrays to manage
ports, discover and manage LU N s, format, partition, and mount volumes, and create and manage le
systems and les. One Windows application ca n be used for storing and managing data on multiple
array models as well as other storage devices.
HP disk array
Specic
HP VDS Hardware Providers have been created to work with selected HP disk arrays. Different
supporting technologies and features within the arrays result in some differences in their methods a nd
capabilities of performing VDS tasks. The Provider for the MSA1000 and MSA 1 500 Disk Arrays has
been designed specially for those arrays.
HP Modular Smart Array FC VDS Hardware Provider administration guide
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