ExaSAN A12S2-PS User Guide Includes hardware setup information for: PCIe RAID System Models: A12S2-PS QSFP HBA Model: ACS-63200NT QSFP PCIe Cables Also includes software setup information for: RAID Management Software: RAIDGuard X Accusys, Inc., Feb. 26, 2013 Version: V1.
Revision Sheet Revision Sheet Release No. V1.0 V1.1 V1.2 Date Revision Description 07/30/2011 08/13/2012 09/13/2012 V1.3 12/19/2012 V1.4 02/04/2013 V1.5 02/26/2013 Initial release on CD. Modify some wording and contents Add a half-high bracket picture in the packing list and modify the wording on the section 1.3.2 Modify page1-14, item 6 PCIe port expansion.
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 information 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) A12S2-PS, a revolutionary high bandwidth streaming rack mounted storage system, specifically designed for all high-end post production storage.
Note This icon indicates useful tips on getting the most from your Accusys RAID system. 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.
ExaSAN A12S2-PS User Guide TABLE OF CONTENTS Page # Notice .....................................................................................................................................................ii About This Guide ...................................................................................................................................ii Guide to Conventions ..........................................................................................................................
3. 2.4 Operating Environment ......................................................................................... 2-2 2.5 Security................................................................................................................... 2-2 Installing the ExaSAN A12S2-PS.................................................................................... 3-1 3.1 Installing the System.............................................................................................. 3-1 3.
5. RAID Overview .............................................................................................................. 5-1 5.1 How RAID Works .................................................................................................... 5-1 5.2 Data Storage Methods .......................................................................................... 5-1 5.3 RAID Levels.............................................................................................................
1. Introduction 1. User Guide Introducing ExaSAN PCIe 2.
1. Introduction 1. 1.1 Introducing ExaSAN PCIe 2.0 Storage System System Overview Your new ExaSAN (pronounced “X-sa-SAN”) PCIe 2.0 Storage System is a rack mounted storage that can be used as a DAS (Direct-Attached Storage) or SAN (Storage Area Network) for the post production and broadcasting industries that require high bandwidth. Furthermore, the A12S2-PS supports the latest PCIe 2.0 standard providing a 20Gb bandwidth. 1.1.1 What is the ExaSAN Solution Developed by Accusys, Inc.
1. Introduction Figure 1 Whether it’s collaborative video editing in a post-production workgroup, or a shared research project in a university, the ExaSAN solution offers a range of performance levels and storage capacities that scale to meet the needs of small-to-medium-sized organizations.
1. Introduction A12S2-PS package. The host server and HDD in a DAS/SAN environment are not Accusys-supplied equipment and are therefore not included in the package. Contact your System Integrator/Value Added Reseller if you need assistance in purchasing these components. 1. ExaSAN A12S2-PS PCIe RAID storage system, see Section 1.1.3.1 and 1.1.3.2 2. QSFP-PCIe 2.0 Host Bus Adapter, compatible with PCIe 2.0 and 1.1 slots on the host server, see Section 1.1.3.3 3.
1. Introduction share or run at PCIe x1 speed. You are advised to consult your motherboard documentation to verify the real speed of the available PCIe slot. 1.1.3.4 QSFP (Quad Small Form-factor Pluggable) PCIe Copper or Optical Cables A 2m QSFP Copper Cable is included in your Accusys RAID disk system package. It is used to connect the host systems to the storage system. Use the copper cable for distances up to 5 meters. Optional QSFP cables are available at varying lengths. 1.
1. Introduction 1.1.3.5 Power Cord & Power convertors Two AC Power Cords are included in the SWF16 package. We also provide three types of power convertors – EK, AU, EU, in addition to the US standard power cord. . 1.1.3.6 Rail and Rail Extender This accessory is included in your RAID system package. It is used to mount the A12S2-PS system onto a standard 19” rack. 1.1.4 Key Features Below are the key features of the system.
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1. Introduction • • • Windows XP/2003/Vista/2008 and Windows 7(32/64-bit, Miniport and Storport driver, WHQL certified) Linux: Red Hat, SUSE, Fedora, CentOS, Debian, etc. MAC: OS X( 10.5, 10.6, 10.7 and later) 8. Operating Conditions • Humidity: 5% - 85% • Operating Temperature: 0C – 40C • Certification: RoHS, UL, CE, FCC, C-Tick, BSMI 9. QSFP HBA • • 20Gb/s PCIe Channel PCIe2.0 x4 Short, low profile, form factor card • Dimension 110 x 68.9 mm • Standard bracket (low profile available) 10.
1. Introduction 1.2.3 Unpacking Follow the steps below to open the carton and remove the system from its packaging. Keep in mind that you should work with a second person if heavy lifting is a concern for you. 1. Read Chapter 2, “Preparing to Install ExaSAN A12S2-PS.” 2. Remove any packing material on the outside of the carton. 3. Cut the tape at the top of the carton. If you use a long cutting instrument, exercise care to avoid damaging the content inside. 4.
1. Introduction Contact your Accusys System Integrator/Value Added Reseller or Accusys Customer Service (see Appendix C “Customer Service and Technical Support” for more information) to report any missing item. 1.3.1 The ExaSAN RAID Your ExaSAN RAID disk system carton contains the following items: 1. PCIe 2.0 RAID disk system - A12S2-PS (x1) 2. Accessories package (x1) 3. Disk tray package (x1) 1.3.2 ExaSAN Accessories The Accessories package includes the following items.
1. Introduction 1.5 Your A12S2-PS at a Glance This section helps you get familiar with the physical appearance of your ExaSAN A12S2PS. 1.5.1 ExaSAN A12S2-PS 1.5.1.1 Item A12S2-PS Front Panel Name Description Steady Blue indicates the controller A is working normally. 1 Controller A Status Flashing Blue indicates the host is accessing.
1. Introduction Steady Red indicates the controller A has failed. Flashing Red Other error. Steady Blue indicates the fan modules are working normally. 2 System Fan Steady Red indicates one or more of the fan modules failed. Steady Blue indicates the system temperature is under the preset value. 3 System Temperature Steady Red indicates the system temperature is over the preset value. Steady Blue indicates the subsystem power supplies are working normally.
1. Introduction 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. Create array successfully Open the Beeper setting Memory test error One short beep Long beep Regularly repeating one short beep Regularly repeating three short beeps One short beep Two short beeps Regularly repeating three rapid short beeps 1.5.1.
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1. Introduction No. 1 Name Power Supply AC In Description Connects to a power cable and power source. Removable redundant power supply 1 2 • Steady Green LED indicates the power supply is working normally. • Steady Red LED indicates the power supply has failed. Power supply 1 Prevents the disk array from overheating. 3 Cooling fan 1 • Steady Green LED indicates the fan modules are working normally. • Steady Red LED indicates that a fan module has failed.
1. Introduction progress • Host connected LED (bottom): Steady Green indicates the controller is connected normally. Expansion port for SAS JBOD. 7 • JBOD connected LED (top): Steady Green indicates that JBOD is connected normally. • JBOD access LED (bottom): Flashing Blue indicates controller accessing is in progress SAS port 8 Controller Provides access to the hard disk drives. 9 Cooling fan 2 Prevents the disk array from overheating.
1. Introduction No. 1 Name Power Supply AC In Description Connects to a power cable and power source. Removable redundant power supply 1 2 • Steady Green LED indicates the power supply is working normally. • Steady Red LED indicates the power supply has failed. Power supply 1 Prevents the disk array from overheating. 3 Cooling fan 1 • Steady Green LED indicates the fan modules are working normally. • Steady Red LED indicates that a fan module has failed.
1. Introduction power supply has failed. 10 Power Supply AC In Connects to a power cable and power source. 11 Power supply switch Switches the power on or off. 12 JBOD ID Indicates the ID of the JBOD expansion ID Range: 1 to 7 1.5.2 ExaSAN QSFP Host Bus Adapter (HBA) No. 1 2 Name Description QSFP Connector Port For connection with one of the Host Module Ports on the switch rear panel or A12S2-PS directly.
1. Introduction 3 4 Link LED Indicator Access LED Indicator User Guide • Solid green indicates connected PCIe 2.0 link; • Flashing green indicates connected PCIe 1.0 link or downgraded speed. • 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.
2. Preparation 2.
2. Preparation 2. Preparing to Install ExaSAN A12S2-PS To ensure safe and smooth operation of your ExaSAN A12S2-PS, it is essential that you choose an appropriate location for the system, and 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 components. To plan for safe and adequate power to the system, follow these guidelines: 1. Check the documentation for all hardware components at the chosen location to determine their power requirements. Then make sure that the available power supply for that location is sufficient for the planned components. 2. If you need assistance determining the power needs of the components at the chosen location, consult an electrical expert who is familiar with your facility. 3.
3. Installation 3.
3. Installation 3. Installing the ExaSAN A12S2-PS Follow the steps in this chapter to prepare your ExaSAN A12S2-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 A12S2-PS 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 5. Push the tray inward until the tray firmly connects and you hear the tray click into place. 6. Repeat for all drives to be installed into the A12S2-PS. Note The hard drives in a RAID system should match in size and speed. All drives in an array should be of identical model with the same firmware version. 3.1.2 Installing the HBA Card Before the ExaSAN A12S2-PS is ready to be connected and powered on, you must install the HBA card in the workgroup client system.
3. Installation 4. Locate the available PCIe slot; remove the blank plate if one is present, save the screw for later use. 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.
3. Installation 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 A12S2-PS System 1. Connect the HBA to the ExaSAN A12S2-PS with a QSFP PCIe cable. Insert one end of the QSFP cable into one of the host module ports on the rear panel of A12S2-PS. Your cable connector is securely plugged when you hear a click.
3. Installation 3. Plug a power cord into the AC power-in port in the storage system; do not turn power on yet. Caution Once powered on, Do NOT remove the QSFP PCIe cable when in use to avoid data loss and corruption. 3.1.4 Installing the rail on A12S2-PS System Your disk array is designed to be mounted in 2U slot on a standard 19-inch rack. The ExaSAN A12S2-PS is shipped with the controller installed, and ready to be mounted.
3. Installation 2. Slide the disk array into the rack and secure into place with the fixing screws. To mount the disk array in a rack: 1. Attach eight rack nuts into the rack, making sure that they correspond with the mounting points on the rails. 2. Attach the rails and adjust the length to fit the rack. 3. Secure the rails with two nuts and bolts on both the front and back of the rack. 4. Tighten the locking screws on the top of the rails. 5.
3. Installation least one other person. 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 A12S2-PS Storage System to a power source. 2. Turn power on for the ExaSAN A12S2-PS by switching on the Power button. Wait for the Controller A status (refer to Section 1.5.1.1, “A12S2-PS Front Panel”) to turn into a steady blue state.
3. Installation • • Set audio and e-mail alerts Monitor the status of multiple controllers 3.3.
3. Installation • • Connect the QSFP cable between the A12S2-PS and the host server. Please refer to Section 3.1.3, “Connecting the HBA to the A12S2-PS System”. Power on the A12S2-PS and the host server in the correct sequence. Please refer to Section 3.2.1, “Powering On”.
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 Accusys 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 4. Accept the License Agreement and click Continue. 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.
3. Installation 7. Click to Restart the computer. 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.
3. Installation The Linux compiler should now begin compiling the driver. # ls Example: Verify that acs_ame.ko has been compiled. If so, please type the following command # insmod acs_ame.ko # lsmod Example: The driver should be now loaded in Linux.
3. Installation 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 /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. Example: # cd /root/ # unzip RAIDGuard X Client x.x.zip # cd /Client/x.x # chmod 777 RAIDGuardX.jar # java –jar RAIDGuardX.
3. Installation 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/jre1.6.0_14" export JRE_HOME="$JAVA_HOME/jre" export PATH="$JAVA_HOME/bin":$PATH: export CLASSPATH=.
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. 2. Click on the More Info… button. 3. Click on the System Report… button.
3. Installation 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. 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. Caution If you see the HBA listed as an unknown device under Windows, follow the driver installation steps to reinstall the driver. If you do not see the HBA under Device Manager, Windows does not detect the card.
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 Equalization Mode Slicing LUN Map Expansion 5 Option Migration Snapshot Health Center Unlock Drives Enable/ Disable Equalization Divide an existing array into multiple slices. Map volumes of slices to the LUN of the host Increase total capacity of an array by adding spare 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 RAIDGuard X can provide remote configuring and monitoring features. A host with RAIDGuard X Server installed can use RAIDGuard X to identify Accusys RAID systems on the same network, regardless if it is DAS or SAN. RAIDGuard X enables one server to configure multiple RAID systems, but you can only configure one RAID system at a time. To configure another RAID system, you must log out and then select another system. RAIDGuard X Server runs constantly in the background on the host system.
4. How to Use path of the log is in /Library/Startupltems/RGX_Accussy. Please send the log file to your vendor or Accusys tech support team to analyze. support@accusys.com.tw Controller – 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.
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 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.
4. How to Use 2. Enter the Server or Switch IP.
4. How to Use 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 Note Details on the RAID levels are in Chapter 5 RAID Overview. 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.
4. How to Use 4. Click on the drives to be added to the array. You can also click on Select all spare drivers. Note Hot (Global) spare drive – When building an array, the hard drives which are not defined will be used as spare drives for all arrays defined within the controller. If a drive(s) in use fails, a spare drive(s) will replace the faulty drive in the array and rebuild automatically. One of the advantages of adopting hot spare drive is to reduce the downtime.
4. How to Use 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 amount of time required for the initialization process varies depending on the disk volume. Performance evaluation – Select to evaluate the performance of the target array. Data and parity are not initialized. (No data protection when this mode is on). Note Once you click Create Array and you have selected On-the-fly initialization, you will see the initializing % on the Main screen. You will be able to use and configure the array immediately if it is created using On-the-fly initialization.
4. How to Use After the array has been created, the Main screen displays the newly created array with an array number. The array initialization progress is also displayed. Arrays are assigned numbers in the order they are created. For example, the first array created is labeled with the “1” icon; the second array created is labeled with the “2” icon, and so forth. Note The ExaSAN RAID controller can support a maximum of 4 arrays.
4. How to Use Caution When you delete an array, all data on the hard disk drives will be lost.
4. How to Use 4.1.2.4 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. User Guide The Hardware tab details the CPU temperature, system temperature, and fan speeds.
4. How to Use The Power tab details the battery backup module status and power supply status. The PCIe tab details the PCIe status. 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 Clicking the Array radio button displays information about the array: the array number, Status, RAID type, stripe size, sector size, RAID Level, capacity, and slice. The status of array actions, such as initialization, migration, and expansion, can be viewed under the Array tab. Clicking the Drives radio button displays information about individual drives.
4. How to Use Event Displays a list of the most recent events. These events are automatically saved in RAIDGuard X/Application/Log as .txt files. 4.1.2.5 Formatting and Mounting Arrays After creating a RAID array on the ExaSAN RAID system, the array appears as an unformatted disk to the host system. Use the host's disk management utility to format and mount the array for use. Note The following steps are for MAC users only.
4. How to Use SMTP POST event Check this box if wish to create a log for error events. Note Ask your systems administrator for SMTP Server details.
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 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. The advantage of this feature will not be felt until some hard disks fail to perform well.
4. How to Use In the event of performance degradation or delay of a single drive due to aging, the ExaSAN RAID system reads both data and parity stripes concurrently. It bypasses the slow reads and returns data to the host with the regenerated data and to provide stabled performance based on the RAID parity. 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.
4. How to Use SMART Mode – S.M.A.R.T. is a monitoring system of disk drives to detect and report on various indicators of reliability, in the hope of anticipating failure. ExaSAN RAID system supports S.M.A.R.T. Once this function is selected, you can select the check interval from the drop-down list. Choose from 1 minute to 8 hours for SMART Mode to be active. The RAID controller will command each hard disk to perform S.M.A.R.T. according to the check interval selected.
4. How to Use This mode is designed to provide smooth sequential access, such as during video editing and capture, to the RAID system. To achieve best system performance, NCQ mode is automatically turned off. 4.1.2.7.
4. How to Use 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. Caution If controller cache is enabled, it is suggested that you use a UPS (uninterruptible power supply) system to prevent a data loss scenario. Synchronize Cache – Check this box to enable cache synchronization.
4. How to Use 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. The default password is 00000000 (8 zeros). Type another 8 characters. Password Confirmation – Confirm the new controller password. Note: Do not lose your password.
4. How to Use 4.1.2.8 Options Function Setting The Options menu provides the methods for changing the details of and fixing problems with the array. Click on the radio button for the required option, and then click Next to proceed.
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. 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. Follow the steps below to select an array to slice or merge. 1.
4. How to Use 3. Click on the slice to create, and use the slider bar or buttons to adjust the size. Click OK to confirm.
4. How to Use 4. Check the Confirm box and click OK. 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 3. Check the Confirm box and click OK.
4. How to Use 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 3. The Main array information screen will indicate that the array is currently under expansion.
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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. 3. The main array information screen will indicate that the array is currently migrating.
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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 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. Check the Confirm box and click OK to take a snapshot.
4. How to Use 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 Set any time to split shot. Select the Split Shot function from the drop down menu. Select the Split Scheduling radio button. Click on the time and date button to set split time. 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. 5. Check the Confirm box and click OK to split the snapshot. 1. 2. 3. 4. Cancel Scheduling – Cancel the split shot scheduling. 1.
4. How to Use Resynchronize the selected shot. This function can speed up mirroring for previous snapshots. 1. Select the Resynchronize shot function from the drop down menu. 2. Select the required shot by clicking on the Shot No. radio button. You can only select split shot for resynchronization. 3. Check the Confirm box and click OK to split the snapshot. Note 1. The destination volume must be equal or larger in size than the source volume. 2.
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. The main array information screen will indicate that the array is undergoing rebuilding, verification, or refreshing.
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 Follow the steps below to select a drive to unlock or change the ID. Locked drives prevent the accidental loss of user data when drives are installed one at a time, or a RAID member is accidentally removed while the controller is powered on. The meta-data and user data on the 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.
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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 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 synchronized; that is, anything written to one disk is also written to the other. Mirrored data is very secure because if one disk fails, the data is available from the other disk. 5.2.3 Data Parity The controller can generate “parity” for the ability to protect and rebuild data. Parity protects stored information without requiring data mirroring. When data is protected by parity, it is still available if a drive fails. Parity-protected data is reconstructed using the parity formula.
RAID RAID 6 is no more space inefficient than RAID 5 with a hot spare drive when used with a small number of drives, but as arrays become bigger and have more drives the loss in storage capacity becomes less important and the probability of data loss is greater.
Appendices Appendices User Guide Page 1
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 name DTRGuiSrv01 is under the program column. If the situation persists, please verify again that the hardware environment is not the source of the problem and reinstall using the MAC installer. 8. Q: My RAID system has an actual capacity of more than 2 TB, but in Windows XP and Windows 2000, it will only do a full format of less than 2 TB in capacity.
Appendices 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 A12S2-PS. In the “1” position, the HBA is enabled for switch mode for the SW04/08. c. Please check if the installer and the driver have been installed correctly. If the installation has completed and the error still persists, it may be a compatibility issue. Send an email to support@accusys.com.tw and briefly describe the problem.
Appendices Appendix B: Icons ICON Main Menu Icons Option 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, autorebuild 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.
