3.1.2 Matrix Server Administration Guide

Chapter 6: Configure Dynamic Volumes 74

Guidelines for Creating Dynamic Volumes

When creating striped dynamic volumes, follow these guidelines:

• The subdevices used for a striped dynamic volume should be the

same size. The Volume Manager uses the same amount of space on

each subdevice in the stripeset. When a striped dynamic volume is

created, the Volume Manager determines the size of the smallest

specified subdevice and then uses only that amount of space on each

subdevice. If the subdevices are different sizes, the additional space on

the larger subdevices will be wasted.

This limitation also applies when a striped dynamic volume is

extended. The newly added subdevices constitute a new stripeset. The

size of the smallest subdevice determines the amount of space that

will be used on each of the subdevices.

• The default stripe size should be adequate for most applications and

hardware configurations. However, be sure to check your application

documentation for recommendations regarding the stripe size. Also

consider the requirements and performance of the underlying storage

hardware.

Create a Dynamic Volume

When you create a dynamic volume, you will need to select the

subdevices to be included in the volume. If the volume will be striped,

you will also need to select a stripe size. Optionally, Matrix Server can

also create a filesystem that will be placed on the dynamic volume.

To create a dynamic volume from the Management Console, select

Storage > Dynamic Volume > Create Volume or click the Volume icon on

the toolbar.