EqualLogic Command Line Interface
The first thing administrators notice when they setup their EqualLogic box for the first time is the high level of automation that is built in. The box literally initializes itself and quickly recommends that “I’m ready, now go use the GUI to set up your volumes”. Taking the machine’s recommendation, most administrators fire up a browser, enter the GroupIP and presto - start creating volumes using the Group Manager.
Over time, however, administrators will dig deeper into the features of the box and will inevitably begin asking “how can I do X in my environment”? Knowing that most GUIs are merely a front-end for calling system commands, administrators quickly discover the Command Line Interface (CLI).
2 Ways to Access the CLI
I heard EqualLogic was “FREE”
I was talking with a friend that works for one of the Luxury SAN vendors and we were discussing EqualLogic’s success since the Dell acquisition.
Since we have known each other for ten years and are friendly competitors, we sometimes share industry insights and he was telling me that he “heard Dell was going to give away EqualLogic boxes FREE”.
At first I was speechless, then I laughed and thought…he’s right, EqualLogic is “free”.
Let me explain.
EqualLogic Capacities Across Models
Choosing the Correct EqualLogic Array
All the new Dell/Equallogic units include 8 or 16 drives, dual power supplies and dual fans. Single controller units have three (3) GbE connections and Dual controller (active/passive) models have six (6) GbE connections. The complete suite of software is included – Snapshots, Replication (for off-site Disaster Recovery), Volume Management, Multi-path I/O capability (for performance), Cloning and more. There are no licenses or keys needed.
The following table shows estimated usable capacity based on one of three RAID types: 10, 50 and 5. Read more
Scarce upgrades
Dell is quickly assimilating EqualLogic and that means change. Most users already know that the model numbers have changed from the the Legacy PS50, PS100, etc. to a standard PS5000E-X-XV with a capacity differentiator.
What is not commonly known is that many customers with legacy equipment may not be able to upgrade those boxes (add a second controller to a single controller box for example) because of scarce replacement parts.
Here’s why:
Dell knows that to maintain EqualLogic’s strong history of customer satisfaction, it must be able to supply field replacement parts for years to come. The fact that EqualLogic boxes defy the traditional storage mantra of “planned obsolescence” within 3 years, the Peer Storage operating system means that new boxes are easily integrated with older gear; easily extending the life, and value, of the equipment. This means boxes may have a useful life beyond 4, or even 5 years.
Dell doesn’t want to get into a situation where Legacy customers can’t get replacement parts well into the future…and that is a good thing. What is needed is an aggressive trade-in program to help legacy customers migrate to the newer platforms.
Welcome EqualLogic End-Users
Now that Dell has successfully acquired EqualLogic we thought it might be nice to have an area where EqualLogic customers can share their knowledge and experiences.
Enjoy.
