Deploying a Dell EqualLogic PS6000 storage array requires a structured approach to ensure proper setup and potential reset to factory configurations. If the history and usage of your PS6000 are unclear, it may be beneficial to start by performing a factory reset to eliminate any existing configurations or data. Below are the steps and best practices for effectively setting up your PS6000 from scratch.
Initial Power-Up and Connection Verification
- Power Connections: Ensure both power supplies are connected and functioning. The fans and ACT (Activity) lights on the control modules should be operational.
- Ethernet Connections: Confirm that all network connections are secure. Each controller has multiple Ethernet ports; ensure at least one controller port is connected to a switch.
- Network Switch Configuration: Verify that the switch is configured to support iSCSI traffic. This includes enabling VLANs to isolate storage traffic, setting MTU to 9000 for jumbo frames, enabling flow control, and disabling Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) on dedicated storage switches.
Establishing a Console Connection
For Windows Users
- Serial Connection: Use a serial-to-USB adapter if your PC lacks a direct serial port. Ensure you have the correct drivers installed for the adapter.
- Software: Use software such as PuTTY to establish a connection. Set the connection type to Serial, using the appropriate COM port and set the baud rate to 9600, which is typical for console connections.
For Mac Users
- Adapter and Terminal: Use a serial-to-USB adapter compatible with Mac’s USB ports. There might be a need to install drivers for the adapter to be recognized.
- Verifying Connection: In the Terminal application, list available devices using
ls /dev/tty.*. The serial device should appear in this list.
Factory Reset Process
Before proceeding with a factory reset, ensure you have backed up any necessary configurations or data:
- Access CLI: Once you have established a console connection, access the Command Line Interface (CLI) of the PS6000.
- Execute Reset Command: Run the appropriate factory reset command as per the Dell EqualLogic documentation. This process typically involves entering a specific command to reset settings while ensuring that data is not inadvertently erased.
- Post-Reset Configuration: After the reset, the array will require reconfiguration. Follow the setup wizard in the CLI to assign IP addresses, RAID settings, and other necessary configurations.
Final Configuration and Best Practices
- Update Firmware: After resetting, verify that the array is running the latest firmware version. Download firmware updates from the official Dell support site, ensuring compatibility with the PS6000.
- Network and Security: Enable security features such as access control lists (ACLs) and CHAP authentication for iSCSI connections.
- Monitoring and Management: Use Dell’s SAN Headquarters for monitoring performance and managing the array over time.
By following these structured steps, you can ensure proper setup and operation of your Dell EqualLogic PS6000, maximizing performance and reliability in your storage environment.
