10 Introduction
Cluster Storage
Table 1-2 provides the configuration requirements for the shared storage 
system. 
  NOTE: RAID 0 and independent disks can be used but are not recommended for a 
high-availability system because they do not offer data redundancy if a disk 
failure occurs.
Cluster Storage Management Software
Dell PowerVault Modular Disk Storage Manager
The software runs on the management station or any host attached to the 
array to centrally manage the PowerVault MD3600f and MD3620f RAID 
enclosures. You can use Dell PowerVault Modular Disk Storage Manager 
(MDSM) to perform tasks such as creating disk groups, creating and mapping 
virtual disks, monitoring the enclosure status, and downloading firmware.
Table 1-2. Cluster Storage Requirements
Hardware 
Components
Minimum Requirement
Supported storage 
systems
• One Dell PowerVault MD3600f or MD3620f RAID enclosure.
• Any combination of up to seven Dell PowerVault MD1200 
and/or MD1220 expansion enclosures.
NOTE: The number of hard drives must not exceed 96.
Cluster nodes All nodes must be directly attached to a single storage system 
or attached to one or more storage systems through a SAN.
Switch and cable At least two 8 Gbps Fibre Channel switches in a SAN-attached 
environment. 
Power and cooling 
requirements
Two integrated hot-swappable power supply/cooling fan 
modules.
Physical disks At least two physical disks in the PowerVault MD3600f or 
MD3620f RAID enclosure.
Multiple clusters and 
stand-alone systems
In a switch-attached configuration, clusters and stand-alone 
systems can share one or more PowerVault MD3600f or 
MD3620f systems.
book.book  Page 10  Monday, July 25, 2011  3:18 PM