1 hardware, 2 software, Hardware – Accusys ExaSAN B08S2-PS User Manual
Page 27: Software
1. Introduction
User Guide
Page 1-17
1.5.2.1 Hardware
1. 2.5”SAS/SATA HDD (hard drive) or 2.5”SSD(flash dive)：B08S2-PS supports both SAS and
SATA interface Enterprise level HDD/SSD drives. The B08S2-PS HDD compatibility list is here:
2. MDC (Meta Data Controller) computer system is designated as an administrator for the SAN. It
keeps track of all the metadata for file read and write requests for the SAN from the clients. It is
highly recommended that the MDC run on a standalone workstation so that block level transfers on
the SAN are not impacted by the MDC performance.
CRITICAL CAUTION:
The MDC is very important in the SAN. If the MDC fails, then Metadata stored in the
MDC is lost or damaged, the data stored in the SAN will no longer be accessible We
strongly recommend a reliable standalone computer system to run as MDC.
3. Client workstation computers: The HP Z series workstations and Apple MacPro workstations are
popular client systems
4. ExaSAN switch：SW08-Q4 for up to 8 clients and SW16/SWF16 for up to12 clients.
5. Ethernet switch and cables：Required for the MDC to keep track of all file metadata for the SAN.
As it is critical to the performance of the SAN, select reliable Ethernet switch and cables well
protected by manufacturers’ warranty to assure the safety and stability of the SAN network. And
absolutely no wireless switching should be associated with the MDC managing ExaSAN.
1.5.2.2 Software
In most cases, the only third party software you may need to install when using B08S2-PS RAID system
is SAN management software. All B08S2-PS required Firmware/ Driver/ BIOS/ GUI are included in the
DVD ROM inside B08S2-PS package. Also, you can download it from the
website
(http://www.accusys.com.tw/support/download_new.htm
). The folder path is
\Download&Upload\Download\ExaSAN\For SAN. (Open For SAN folder, you will need the model
number of the switch to find the correct Installer package/ Driver, rather that B08S2-PS.)
If you need Firmware/ BIOS for DAS B08S2-PS, the download path is
\Download&Upload\Download\ExaSAN\For DAS\B08S2-PS)
1. SAN management software：
• The key function of SAN management software is controlling read /write accessbetween the
multiple clients to one shared storage pool. We support SAN management software such as
Stornext, MetaSAN, XSAN, BWFS or SANit.
• The system requirement and installation method for SAN software are addressed on
manufacturers’ user manual. In general, SAN software is installed on one fixed host, which is
tagged as MDC.
• Certain SAN management software allows users to install two MDCs to support MDC
redundancy. And there are other SAN management software that do not require a dedicated
MDC.
Note:
Accusys offers a new SAN switch that combine both MDC and SAN software, and