Dell PowerVault MD3600i Storage Arrays – new and refurbished

FAQ

What role does the PowerVault MD3600i play in an IT infrastructure?

The Dell PowerVault MD3600i is an iSCSI SAN storage array, providing shared disk storage to servers over an Ethernet network. It works well as a common resource for multiple servers, for example in virtualization environments, for databases, file servers or backups. It offers centralized data management and high availability.

What is the difference between the iSCSI and Fibre Channel versions of this array?

The difference is in how the array connects to servers. The MD3600i connects via iSCSI over 10 Gb Ethernet, while the MD3600f uses Fibre Channel. The choice depends on the infrastructure you already have and on whether you prefer to expand your Ethernet network or an FC-based SAN.

What drives can I install in this iSCSI array, and what determines the choice?

PowerVault MD36xx series units support SAS, NL-SAS and SSD drives. What you can install depends on the enclosure variant, above all on the number and form factor of the drive bays (3.5" or 2.5"). Before buying drives, check their compatibility with your specific array model and its firmware.

Can I increase the capacity of the MD3600i by adding more drives?

Yes, MD36xx series arrays can be expanded with additional Dell PowerVault MD1200 series drive enclosures. The maximum number of supported drives depends on the configuration and firmware version. If you are planning a larger expansion, check the limits for your specific array.

What do I need to connect the MD3600i to servers?

You need a 10 Gb Ethernet network that supports iSCSI: switches, cabling compatible with the array's ports, and network adapters in the servers (or a software iSCSI initiator). It is best to set up a dedicated network for iSCSI traffic and configure multiple paths (multipath). This improves both performance and fault tolerance.