MSA 1000 Newbie

[slaguru]

Guys.
I have inherited a HP system with an MSA1000 attached. Its serving a cluster of two SQL boxes and an exchange server. All was well, but no sometimes the systems lose connection to the SAN (causing the exchange and sql db's to die). Checked the status with SPMGR and it all looks good until crash. Any ideas where to start.
The MSA has a redundant controller and the servers all have redundant cards. Any help would be excellent.

[Peter Mattei]

There are many parts that can cause the problem.
- Array controller
- SAN switch HW/FW
- HBA HW/FW/driver
- other components on the SAN (Tape library etc)
- OS/application settings
- multipathing SW and settings

So if you are not familiar with the matter I would call HP for support.

Cheers
Peter

[slaguru]

Just found what it might be. One of the fibre connections in the back of the san switch is showing as being broken (no light coming from it), looks like a broken optical element.

Question:

If I were to get a new san switch and just plug it in, would the 2nd switch update it (as it would be redundant like a hot swap, or would I need to flash the controller again ??

Cheers

Tim

[Peter Mattei]

What switches do you have?
I assume the MSA1000 built in 2/8 ones.
Are these the only ones or are there some more meshed switches?

Thes two 2/8 in the MSA1000 are independent and build two seperate fabrics.
You can save the switch config to a server using WEBTOOLS and restore it to the new switch.

But I assume that just the SFP is broken and not the switch! Replace the SFP first and also inspect the FC cable!

Cheers
Peter

[slaguru]

Yep they are 2/8s. No other connections.

The redundant controller has port one as showing no light (flt) . Changed the cables and put in new fiber for the port, but still the same. Lots of rebooting and no joy.

Had no idea of the SFP. (told you I was newbi :-)... Thanks for the lead on this, I have just ordered a couple and hope to have them in a few days to see if it helps get rid of the problem. Fingers crossed.

[Peter Mattei]

Well, to be faster you could try and swap an SFP with another port!
Peter

[slaguru]

Cheers Peter

Yeah, thought of that but (between you and me).. This is a good excuse to get some redundant parts. My boss does not like buying spares (he see's it like insurance).

We have them ordered and will be here in a day.

Cheers

Tim

[Peter Mattei · Accepted solution]

Fair enough!
You could still try it out (between you and me: without telling your boss) in order to be prepared when the SFPs arrive.

Good luck
Peter

PS: What about assigning some points?

[slaguru]

Points assigned (good work)

Cheers Again..

I might be back..