Dell PowerProtect Data Domain Hardware

Installation - Participant Guide

Upon successful completion of this course, participants should be able to:

Prepare for installation by gathering the required tools, supplies, and understanding safety
recommendations.

Install rails and rack system hardware.

Install the disk shelves in the rack.

Connect cables and power on the system.

Perform the initial configuration of the PowerProtect Data Domain appliance.

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trademarks are trademarks of Dell Inc. or its subsidiaries. Other trademarks may be trademarks of their
respective owners.
IN TR ODUCTION AN D PR EPAR ATION

System Overview

Features

Basic Topology

Upgrade Requirements for DD Operating System on PowerProtect Data Domain Appliances

Document Resources

Installation Checklist

Express Service Code and Service Tag

Safety Considerations

Required Tools and Supplies

IN STALLIN G TH E SY STEM IN TH E R ACK

Installing the System in the Rack Simulation

Identifying the Rail Kit Components

Installing the System in the Cabinet

IN STALLIN G TH E DISK SH ELVES IN TH E R ACK

Installing a DS600 Shelf into the Rack Simulation

Expansion Shelves
 Expansion Shelf Cables

Installing a Disk Shelf in the Cabinet

CON N ECTIN G CAB LES AN D POWER ON

Connecting Cables and Power On Simulation

Shelves Cabling

Connecting Data Cables

Connecting Disk Shelf Power Cables

Connecting Controller Power Cables and Powering On

CON FIGUR IN G TH E SY STEM FOR USE

System Setup Information

Configuring iDRAC

Configure Serial Over LAN (SOL)

Enable Administrative Communication

Run the Configuration Wizard

Adding Storage Capacity

Adding Storage Capacity Simulation

Lesson 1 of 28

System Overview

Dell PowerProtect Data Domain appliances are designed to be fast, efficient, and secure, making
operations easier, reducing risks, and lowering costs. These appliances are optimized for
protecting data across multiple cloud environments and future demands.

The Data Domain appliances consist of the PowerProtect DD9910, DD9410, DD6900, DD6400,
DD3300, and a software-defined appliances with Dell APEX Protection Storage for in-cloud and

on-premises environments.

Click the + icon to learn more about the PowerProtect Data Domain
appliances.
    
 

DD3300

Max Throughput: Up to 4.2 TB/hr

Max Throughput (DD Boost): Up to 7 TB/hr
Logical Capacity: Up to 1.6 PB
Logical Capacity with Cloud Tier: Up to 4.8 PB​
Usable Capacity: 4 TB - 32 TB
Usable Capacity with Cloud Tier: Up to 96 TB
 

DD6400

Max Throughput: Up to 12.7 TB/hr

Max Throughput (DD Boost): Up to 27.7 TB/hr
Logical Capacity: Up to 11.2 PB
Logical Capacity with Cloud Tier: Up to 33.5 PB​
Usable Capacity: 8 TB - 172 TB
Usable Capacity with Cloud Tier: Up to 516 TB
 

DD6900

Max Throughput: Up to 15 TB/hr

Max Throughput (DD Boost): Up to 33 TB/hr
Logical Capacity: Up to 18.7 PB
Logical Capacity with Cloud Tier: Up to 56.1 PB
Usable Capacity: 24 TB - 288 TB
Usable Capacity with Cloud Tier: Up to 864 TB
 

DD9410

Max Throughput: Up to 44 TB/hr

Max Throughput (DD Boost): Up to 75 TB/hr
Logical Capacity: Up to 49.9 PB
Logical Capacity with Cloud Tier: Up to 149.8 PB
Usable Capacity: 192 TB - 768 TB
Usable Capacity with Cloud Tier: Up to 2.3 PB
 

DD9910

Max Throughput: Up to 71 TB/hr

Max Throughput (DD Boost): Up to 130 TB/hr
Logical Capacity: Up to 97.5 PB
Logical Capacity with Cloud Tier: Up to 293 PB
Usable Capacity: 576 TB - 1.5 PB
Usable Capacity with Cloud Tier: Up to 4.5 PB

Deep Dive: For more information about Dell PowerProtect Data Domain, go to the Power
protect Data Domain appliances website.
Lesson 2 of 28

Features

The following are the PowerProtect Data Domain key features:

Z E RO T RU S T S E C U RI T Y

No one is trusted by default. Every user, device, or application must be verified and authorized before
accessing data, ensuring data remains safe and secure.
 PE RFRO M A N C E

PowerProtect Data Domain delivers exceptional speed and reliability, ensuring that
your data management tasks are completed swiftly. The latest models offer:

Up to 38% faster backups

Up to 44% faster restores

Up to 58% faster replication

E FFI C I E N C Y

PowerProtect Data Domain is designed to maximize resource utilization and minimize

operational costs, offering:

Up to 65:1 data reduction

Up to 11% less power usage

50% less floor space needed

Lesson 3 of 28

Basic Topology

The Dell PowerProtect Data Domain appliance, including the controller and any additional
expansion shelves, is a storage solution that connects to various storage applications using either
Ethernet or Fibre Channel.

The online course contains a video here that describes the basic topology
and key components of a Dell PowerProtect Data Domain appliance.

Use this link to open the Basic Topology video in a separate browser tab.
The video transcript is available below:

Basic Topology.

Racked units house a Dell PowerProtect Data Domain appliance, expansion shelves, and third-
party switches.

The topology diagram typically positions the PowerProtect Data Domain appliance at the center
with connections to:

Expansion Shelves: For additional storage based on model and site requirements.

Fibre Channel: A switch that connects a PowerProtect Data Domain appliance to a Media Server,
enabling high-speed data transfer and reliable communication.

The media server facilitates data backup and management with the Dell PowerProtect Data
Domain appliance.

Fibre Channel supports Virtual Tape Library (DD VTL), DD Boost over Fibre Channel, vDisk,
ProtectPoint Block Services, and connects to any target logical unit number (LUN) on the
appliance.

LAN Environment: For Ethernet-based data storage and system management.

The LAN environment includes:

An Ethernet switch that connects the Dell PowerProtect Data Domain appliance to LAN clients,
backup and archive servers, facilitating data transfer and network communication.

Ethernet supports Common Internet File System (CIFS), Network File System (NFS), DD Boost
applications, and provides connectivity for basic data interactions and system management.
The Management Workstation for configuration, monitoring, and PowerProtect Data Domain
management.

This workstation can be a system computer or LAN clients that interact with the appliance to
perform various administrative tasks.

LAN Clients that are systems within the management workstation that connect to the network and
interact with the Dell PowerProtect Data Domain appliance.

Backup and archive servers that connect to the Dell PowerProtect Data Domain appliance through
an Ethernet switch, facilitating data backup and archival processes.

A serial cable connects the management workstation to the Dell PowerProtect Data Domain
appliance.

A Serial-Attached SCSI (SAS) cable connects the Dell PowerProtect Data Domain appliance to an
expansion shelf, enabling high-speed data transfer and additional storage capacity.
Lesson 4 of 28

Upgrade Requirements for DD Operating System on

PowerProtect Data Domain Appliances

Dell PowerProtect Data Domain appliances comes preinstalled with the latest version of the DD
Operating System (DDOS) software available at the time of shipment.

Upon installation of the PowerProtect Data Domain appliance, upgrade the DDOS to the latest
available version.

The online course contains a video here that describes the upgrade
requirements for the DD Operating System on PowerProtect Data
Domain appliances.

Video
Use this link to open the Upgrading the DD Operating System video in a separate browser tab.
The video transcript is available below:

Upgrading the PowerProtect Data Domain DD Operating System.

Let's talk about the essential steps to upgrade the PowerProtect Data Domain DD Operating
System (DDOS).

First, visit the Dell Support website and download the latest available version of the DDOS.

Second, perform a pre-upgrade health check.

Before starting the upgrade, ensure that the PowerProtect Data Domain appliance is in good
health.

Check for any hardware issues, software errors, or configuration problems.

It's also crucial to back up your current configuration and data to prevent any loss during the
upgrade.
Third, upgrade the DDOS.

Follow the instructions in the DDOS Administration Guide, available on the Dell Support website.

Start the upgrade using the downloaded DDOS file.

Monitor the upgrade process closely to ensure it completes successfully.

Fourth, After the upgrade, verify that the system is functioning correctly.

Check that all services are running and that there are no errors.

Confirm that the new DDOS version is installed and operational.

Deep Dive: For the latest DDOS version download, instructions on upgrading DDOS, and
assistance, go to Dell Support website.
Lesson 5 of 28

Document Resources

The PowerProtect Data Domain documentation is the most important resource. Each model and
expansion shelves have specific documentation for installing and configuring the system.

PowerProtect Data Domain Installation

Guide

The PowerProtect Data Domain installation guide provides instructions for installing the hardware
associated with PowerProtect systems. Systems are shipped to the customer site either pre-
installed in a rack (factory-racked) or as separate components to install in an existing rack at the
site (field-installed). This guide provides instructions for both types of installation.

Expansion Shelf Hardware Guide

The Expansion Shelf Hardware Guide provides detailed instructions for installing, configuring, and
maintaining expansion shelves that are used to increase the storage capacity of Dell systems.
This guide typically includes:

Installation procedures: Step-by-step instructions for installing the expansion shelves in a

rack.

Configuration steps: How to connect and configure the shelves with the existing system.
 Maintenance guidelines: Information on how to maintain and troubleshoot the expansion
shelves.

Important: These guides are intended for customers or Dell Support personnel who are
qualified to install the PowerProtect Data Domain appliances.

Deep Dive: All documentation for the PowerProtect Data Domain appliances can be
found at Dell Support website.
Lesson 6 of 28

Installation Checklist

Before beginning the installation process:

Gather all necessary tools and documentation specific to the model being installed.

Unpack and verify the shipped components to ensure they match what was ordered.

S I T E RE Q U I RE M E N T S

Ensure optimal space, power, air conditioning, temperature, ventilation, and airflow.

The PowerProtect Data Domain rack dimensions are the following:

Width: Standard 48.25 cm (19 inches).

Depth: 59.7 cm (23.5 inches) to 110.5 cm (43.5 inches).

Height: Depends on the number of enclosures (e.g., 11U for a controller with three expansion shelves).
 LA RG E C A PA C I T Y S Y S T E M C O N S I D E RAT I O N S

When installing the Dell PowerProtect Data Domain hardware, consider the following guidelines to ensure a
smooth and efficient setup:

1. Systems supporting up to 24 shelves require additional planning and resources.

2. Rack Requirements:

Height: Often 40U or greater.

Controller: 2U or 3U depending on the model.

Expansion Shelves: 3U each.

Logical Shelf Spacing: Divide into three or more sets, alternating shelf order.

3. Cabling:

The recommended lengths are 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 meters.

Use 1 or 2 meter head-to-shelf cables and 0.5 meter shelf-to-shelf cables.

4. Leave space for future expansion.

 PO W E R A N D N E T W O RK RE Q U I RE M E N T S

The power and network requirements are the following:

1. For power connections a minimum of two redundant Power Distribution Units (PDUs).

2. Network Details:

System hostname

Minimum of two IP addresses (iDRAC and ethMa)

List of DNS servers

LI C E N S E S

Ensure the eLicense for the proper DD Operating System version, storage capacity, and feature selection is
available.
Lesson 7 of 28

Express Service Code and Service Tag

The unique Express Service Code and Service Tag identify the system.

For Dell PowerProtect Data Domain appliances, the Express Service Code and Service Tag are on
a label on the chassis of the device. This label is usually found on the front or back of the unit,
depending on the specific model.

Click the + icon to learn more about the Express Service Code and
Service Tac location on a PowerProtect Data Domain.

  

 
 

Express Service Tag (front view)

The Express Service Tag includes system information such as the Service Tag, Express Service Code, Manufacture
date, NIC, MAC address, QRL label, and the secure default iDRAC password.
 

Express Service Tag (rear view)

The Express Service Tag includes system information such as the Service Tag, Express Service Code, Manufacture
date, NIC, MAC address, QRL label, and the secure default iDRAC password.
 

OpenManage Mobile (OMM) label - Not used on PowerProtect Data Domain

The OpenManage Mobile (OMM) label is associated with Dell’s OpenManage Mobile application. This app allows IT
administrators to monitor and manage Dell servers and other datacenter devices from their mobile devices.
 

iDRAC MAC address and iDRAC secure password label

This label contains the MAC address for the Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller (iDRAC) and the default secure
password for accessing the iDRAC interface.
 

Service Tag, Express Service Code, and QRL label

Service Tag: A unique alphanumeric identifier for your Dell device. It helps Dell support quickly identify your specific
hardware configuration and warranty status.
Express Service Code: A numeric version of the Service Tag, used to expedite support calls.
Quick Resource Locator (QRL) Label: This label typically includes a QR code that, when scanned, directs you to
online resources such as manuals, troubleshooting guides, and support videos specific to your device.

The Mini Enterprise Service Tag (MEST) label is on the rear of the system that includes the
Service Tag and Express Service Code. Dell uses the Express Service Code to route support calls
to the appropriate personnel.

The following image shows the MEST label location on the rear of the system.
Lesson 8 of 28

Safety Considerations

When installing a Dell PowerProtect Data Domain hardware, it is crucial to follow important safety

recommendations to avoid damage to the system or harm to personnel.

The online course contains a video here that describes important safety
recommendations to ensure proper handling and operation of the
system.

Video
Use this link to open the Safety Considerations video in a separate browser tab.
The video transcript is available below:

Safety considerations.

When installing a Dell PowerProtect Data Domain hardware follow these important safety
recommendations to ensure proper handling and operation of the system.

First, for ESD protection, always wear an antistatic wrist or ankle strap and observe all
conventional ESD precautions when handling components.

For system enclosure, remember, plug-in modules and blank plates are part of the enclosure
system and should not be removed unless a replacement is immediately available.

Ensure you use a suitable power source with electrical overload protection and provide a safe
electrical ground connection to each power cord.

Check the grounding of the power sources before applying power.

Pay attention to the voltage requirements.

Refer to the Installation and Storage Expansion Guide for the specific model.

Make sure all installed power supplies are working as designed.

If a power supply module is faulty, replace it within 24 hours.

Always disconnect the power connections before removing or replacing a power supply module.

To completely remove system power, unplug both power supplies.

If you suspect the unit is damaged in any way, permanently unplug it.

And remember, the system components are heavy.

To avoid personal injury or damage to the equipment, do not attempt to install or remove system
components without a mechanical lift or help from another person.

For reference, DD9410 and DD9910 systems weigh up to 79.58 lbs, DS600 shelves up to 222 lbs,

and FS240 shelves up to 47.99 lbs.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure a safe and efficient installation of your Dell
PowerProtect Data Domain hardware.
Lesson 9 of 28

Required Tools and Supplies

Ensure that you have the required tools and supplies on hand for the PowerProtect system
installation.

Antistatic Equipment

Antistatic wrist strap and conductive foam pad.

Cables and Adapters

USB to DB9 serial port dongle, null modem cable with DB-9 female connector, and network cable.

Screwdrivers

Various Phillips and flat head screwdrivers, Torx T6 and T30.

Additional Tools

Laptop, flashlight, Velcro cable tie material, power adapter for laptop, pliers, socket or wrench, wire cutters,
USB flash drive, tie wraps, labels, pen or marker, masking tape.
Lesson 10 of 28

Installing the System in the Rack Simulation

Simulation Activity

The online course contains an interaction here.

Lesson 11 of 28

Identifying the Rail Kit Components

This section describes the components included in the rail kit for the Dell PowerProtect Data
Domain system. Understanding these components is crucial for the successful installation of the
system in the rack.

Sliding Rail Assemblies

The sliding rail assemblies are essential for securing the server in the cabinet and allowing it to be
extended for maintenance.

Click the + icon to learn more about the rail kit components.


 

Sliding Rail Assembly

These assemblies are designed for 2U systems and are compatible with racks with square holes, unthreaded round
holes, and threaded round holes.
 

Velcro Straps

Use Velcro straps to secure cables and other components.

 

Screws

Screws attach the rail assemblies to the rack.

 

Washers

Use washers in conjunction with screws to ensure a secure fit.

Cable Management Arm and Separator

The Cable Management Arm (CMA) assembly helps manage and organize cables, ensuring they
do not interfere with the sliding mechanism of the rails.

Click the + icon to learn more about the CMA assembly components.
 


 

Articulated Arm

The articulated arm allows for flexible movement and organization of cables.
 

Separator

The separator helps to keep cables organized and separated to prevent tangling.
Lesson 12 of 28

Installing the System in the Cabinet

The section below describes the steps to install a system in the cabinet.
 Step 1

Install the Rails

The rails are labeled left and right for correct placement, and cannot be interchanged.

Follow these steps to install the rails:

1. Determine the mounting position.

2. Extend the rear sliding bracket.

3. Align and secure the rail ends to the rack.

4. Repeat for the right rail.

 Step 2

Secure the Rail Assemblies to the Cabinet

Follow these steps to secure the rail assemblies to the cabinet:

1. Align and insert the screws with the designated U spaces on the front and rear rack flanges.

2. Use a Phillips screwdriver to secure the rails.

 Step 3

Install the System in the Cabinet

Follow these steps to install the system in the cabinet:

1. Extend the inner rails and release the inner rail locks.

2. Attach the inner rails to the sides of the system by aligning the J-slots with the standoffs on
the system and sliding forward until they lock in place.

3. Carefully slide the system into the extended rails, and slide the system into the rack.
 Step 4

Install the Front Bezel

Align and insert the bezel into the system slots and lock it in place using the key.
 Step 5

Install the CMA Arm

Follow these steps to install the cable management arm (CMA):

1. Position and secure the CMA arm to the chassis.

2. Ensure the arm moves smoothly and cables are organized.

Caution: The node is heavy and should be installed into the rack by two people. To avoid
personal injury or damage to the equipment, do not attempt to install the system in a cabinet
without a mechanical lift or help from another person. Improper installation on the rails may
damage the rails or cause the system to fall when extended.
Lesson 13 of 28

Installing a DS600 Shelf into the Rack Simulation

Simulation Activity

The online course contains an interaction here.

Lesson 14 of 28

Expansion Shelves

Dell PowerProtect Data Domain can use expansion shelves to add storage capacity, providing
scalable and flexible solutions for data protection. These shelves support various drive
configurations and are compatible with multiple Data Domain appliances, ensuring efficient and
secure data management.

Click the + icon to learn more about the PowerProtect Data Domain expansion
shelves.

    
 

ES40

Number of Drives: 15 drive bays

Drive Size: 4 TB or 8 TB SAS drives
Compatible Systems: DD6400 and DD6900
 

DS60

Number of Drives: 60 drive bays

Drive Size: 4 TB SAS drives
Compatible Systems: DD6900
 

DS600

Number of Drives: 60 drive bays

Drive Size: 4 TB or 8 TB SAS drives
Compatible Systems: DD6900, DD9410, and DD9910
 

FS25

Number of Drives: 25 drive bays

Drive Size: 3.8 TB SSD drives
Compatible Systems: DD6900 (HA only)
 

FS240

Number of Drives: 24 drive bays

Drive Size: 3.8 TB SSD drives
Compatible Systems: DD9410 and DD9910 (HA only)

Deep Dive: For more information about Dell PowerProtect Data Domain expansion shelves,
go to the Power protect Data Domain appliances website.
Lesson 15 of 28

Expansion Shelf Cables

This section provides detailed information about the expansion shelf cables for Dell PowerProtect
Data Domain appliances.

In Dell PowerProtect Data Domain appliances, the two primary type of cable connectors for
expansion shelves are as follows:
 S FF- 8 0 8 8 ( M I N I - S A S )

The SFF-8088 (mini-SAS) connector is a high-speed serial storage interface commonly used in data storage
solutions. It is designed for reliable and efficient data transfer, making it suitable for connecting expansion
shelves like the DS60, ES40, FS25, and FS240 in Dell PowerProtect Data Domain appliances.
 S A S - 4 M I N I S A S H D S FF- 8 6 7 4

The SAS-4 Mini SAS HD SFF-8674 connector is an interface used in high-speed data storage solutions such
as the DS600 Expansion Shelf in Dell PowerProtect Data Domain appliances.

ES40 Cable
Cable Description: Standard mini-SAS cables connect the ES40 shelf to the host or other
expansion shelves.

External Interface: Dual 4 lane 12Gb/s serial attached SCSI II (SAS) ports per Link Control Card
(LCC) - one for host and one for expansion.
Connector Type: SFF-8088 connectors (mini-SAS)

SAS Cable Length: Up to 5 meters

DS60 Cable
Cable Description: Standard mini-SAS cables connect the DS60 shelf to the host or other
expansion shelves.

External Interface: Quad 8 lane 12 Gb/s serial attached SCSI II (SAS) ports per Link Control Card

(LCC) - Half of each port is blocked allowing the use of standard mini-SAS-HD connectors - one
port is used for the host connection and the other is used for expansion.

Connector Type: SFF-8088 connectors (mini-SAS)

SAS Cable Length: Up to 5 meters

DS600 Cable
Cable Description: SAS-4 compatible Mini-SAS-HD cables connect the DS600 shelf to the host or
other expansion shelves.

External Interface: Four ports with four lanes per port (16 lanes) of 24Gb/s serial attached SCSI
generation 4 (SAS-4) per Link Control Card (LCC). Allows the use of standard SAS-4 compatible
Mini-SAS-HD cables.

Connector Type: SAS-4 Mini SAS HD SFF-8674 connector

SAS Cable Length: Up to 5 meters

FS25 Cable
Cable Description: Standard mini-SAS cables connect the FS25 shelf to the host or other
expansion shelves.

External Interface: Dual 4 lane 12Gb/s serial attached SCSI II (SAS) ports per Link Control Card
(LCC) - one for host and one for expansion.

Connector Type: SFF-8088 connectors (mini-SAS)

SAS Cable Length: Up to 5 meters

FS240 Cable
Cable Description: Standard mini-SAS cables connect the FS240 shelf to the host or other

expansion shelves.

External Interface: Dual 4 lane 24Gb/s serial attached SCSI 4 (SAS) ports per Link Control Card
(LCC) - one for host and one for expansion.

Connector Type: SFF-8088 connectors (mini-SAS)

SAS Cable Length: Up to 5 meters

Lesson 16 of 28

Installing a Disk Shelf in the Cabinet

The section below describes the steps to install a disk shelf in the cabinet.
 Step 1

Remove the Filler Panels

Follow these steps to remove the filler panels:

1. Locate the filler panels on the front space of the rack.

2. On each filler panel, slide the left and right securing tabs towards the center of the panel to
the open position.

3. Carefully pull the filler panel out from the cabinet.

 Step 2

Install the Rails in the Cabinet

Follow these steps to install the rails in the cabinet:

1. Identify the rail orientation: The front edge of each rail is stamped with 'L' or 'R' for left or
right side, facing the cabinet front.

2. Insert the rail alignment pins: From the front of the cabinet, insert the rail alignment pins
above and below the bottom U mark on the rear cabinet channel.

3. Secure the rail to the front channel: Pull the sliding rail to the front of the cabinet and
secure it to the front channel using two of the provided screws in the middle two holes of the
rail.

4. Secure the rail to the rear channel: Secure the rail to the rear channel loosely with two
screws to allow for adjustment when you install the enclosure.
 Step 3

Install the Shelf on the Rails

Follow these steps to install the shelf on the rails:

1. Lift and Slide the Shelf: From the front of the cabinet or rack, lift the shelf and slide it onto
the rails.

2. Seat the Shelf into the Rear Tabs: When the shelf is seated into the rear tabs, secure the
front of the shelf to the front vertical channels with four screws (two per side), but do not
tighten the screws until they are all in place.
 Step 4

Install the Front Bezel

Follow these steps to install the front bezel:

1. Remove the protective plastic strip: If present, remove the protective plastic strip from the
front of the bezel.

2. Align and attach the bezel: Align the bezel with the shelf and gently push it into place until it
latches.
3. Secure the bezel: Secure the bezel by turning the key in the lock.

Caution: System components are heavy. To avoid personal injury or

equipment damage, use a mechanical lift or get assistance from
another person when installing or removing components.

Deep Dive: For detailed instructions installation, refer to the Expansion Shelf Hardware Guide
for your specific shelf model at the PowerProtect Data Domain appliances website.
Lesson 17 of 28

Connecting Cables and Power On Simulation

Simulation Activity

The online course contains an interaction here.

Lesson 18 of 28

Shelves Cabling

This lesson outlines the essential guidelines and procedures for shelf cabling. Proper cabling is
crucial for ensuring the reliability, performance, and scalability of your data storage system.

In this example, a controller connects to an ES40 expansion shelf:

A cable (blue in the diagram) connects from Port 0 in Slot 3 of the controller to Port A on Link Control

Card B of the ES40 shelf.

A cable (green in the diagram) connects from Port 1 in Slot 3 of the controller to Port A on Link Control

Card A of the ES40 shelf.

 The following section provide detailed instructions on shelf cabling rules and basic cabling
principles for adding expansion shelves.

G U I D E LI N E S

When installing or reconfiguring shelves for a Dell PowerProtect Data Domain appliance, follow these
guidelines to ensure proper setup and functionality:

1. The appliance can be powered off to reconnect the cables of the shelves to different positions within a
set or to another set. It will automatically rediscover the newly configured shelves upon restart.

2. Do not exceed the maximum shelf configuration values specified for your model.

3. For redundancy, ensure that the two connections from a controller to one or more shelves use ports on
different SAS HBAs or I/O modules. This setup helps maintain data availability in case of a hardware
failure.

4. A PowerProtect Data Domain appliance cannot exceed its maximum raw external shelf capacity,
regardless of the number of shelves added. Check the appliance specifications for the maximum
capacity.

5. If ES40 SAS shelves are on the same chain as a DS60, limit the total number of shelves on that chain
to five. This ensures optimal performance and reliability.

6. When using an FS25 shelf, cable it on a separate, private chain. This isolation helps in managing
performance and data flow effectively.

7. When using an FS240 SSD shelf, cable it as a separate set from the DS600 shelves. This separation is
crucial for maintaining the integrity and performance of the SSD shelf.
 C A BLI N G BA S I C S

When connecting expansion shelves to a Dell PowerProtect Data Domain controller, follow these general
cabling rules to ensure proper setup:

The controller HBA port should always connect to the host port of an expansion shelf. This means the
host port on the expansion shelf connects upstream to the controller.

The expansion port on an expansion shelf is used to connect downstream to another expansion shelf.

The expansion port on the last shelf should remain empty. Do not return the last port to the controller.

Caution: When connecting SAS cables to the SAS cards, ensure that there is sufficient slack
in the cable to avoid unnecessary strain on the cable connector and the SAS card when the
controller is fully extended from the rack.

Deep Dive: For more information about shelves cabling, see the PowerProtect and Data
Domain hardware documents for your specific model at the Dell Support website.
Lesson 19 of 28

Connecting Data Cables

 This section provides information about the slot assignments for a Dell PowerProtect Data
Domain appliance.

The following figure shows the HBA slot numbers. The slot labeled 0 is the OCP card, which

contains ports ethMa and ethMb. The management port ethMa is the first port set up by the
Configuration Wizard.

Click the ✓ icon to learn about the HBA slot assignments for a PowerProtect Data Domain
appliance.

  

  

 


 

Slot 0 (OCP Card)

Slot 0 (OCP Card) supports the following HBAs:

4-port 10GBASE-T

4-port 25GbE-SFP28
 

Slot 1

Slot 1 supports the following HBAs:

4-port 10GBASE-T

4-port 25GbE-SFP28

4-port 32Gb FC
 

Slot 2

Slot 2 supports the following HBAs:

4-port 10GBASE-T

4-port 25GbE-SFP28

4-port 32Gb FC
 

Slot 3

Slot 3 supports the following HBA:

4-Port 12Gbps SAS

 

Slot 4

Slot 4 supports the following HBAs:

4-port 10GBASE-T

4-port 25GbE-SFP28

4-port 32Gb FC
 

Slot 5

Slot 5 supports the following HBAs:

4-port 10GBASE-T

4-port 25GbE-SFP28

4-port 32Gb FC
 

Slot 6

Slot 6 supports the following HBA:

4-Port 12Gbps SAS

 

Slot 7

Slot 7 supports the following HBAs:

4-port 10GBASE-T

4-port 25GbE-SFP28
 

Slot 8

Slot 8 supports the following HBAs:

4-port 10GBASE-T

4-port 25GbE-SFP28

4-port 32Gb FC

Deep Dive: For more information about slot assignments and data cables connection, see
the PowerProtect and Data Domain hardware documents for your specific model at the Dell
Support website.
Lesson 20 of 28

Connecting Disk Shelf Power Cables

This section covers the steps to connect power cables to Dell PowerProtect Data Domain disk
shelves. Proper connections ensure system reliability and redundancy.

All expansion shelves have at least two power supplies to connect to redundant power sources,
except for the DS60 which has four power supplies where you can connect two cables per power
supply.

Connect each power supply to redundant AC power sources to prevent power loss.

Connect the Disk Shelf Power Cables

Follow these steps to connect the disk shelf power cables:

1. Connect cables into both power supplies on the shelf.

2. Use the retention bail at the power socket to prevent cables from disconnecting, if available
on the disk shelf.

3. Connect each cable to redundant power sources in the rack.

4. Repeat these steps for each shelf to ensure all are properly connected and secured.
Deep Dive: For more information about other phase cables configurations, see the
PowerProtect and Data Domain hardware documents for your specific model at the Dell
Support website.
Lesson 21 of 28

Connecting Controller Power Cables and Powering

On

Ensure that the power cables are connected to power on the disk shelves before powering on the
controller.

To power on the PowerProtect Data Domain appliance, connect the power supply units to the
power sockets on the rack.

The system may not power on automatically after plugging in the AC power cords. The

system identification button located on the rear of the chassis, on the lower left-hand side,
illuminates blue when power is on.

Connect each PSU to a redundant AC power source. Redundant power sources allow one AC
source to fail or be serviced without impacting system operation. Connect PSU 0 to one AC
source, and PSU 1 to the other AC source.

Tip: If the system does not power on automatically after connecting the power cables, press
the power button on the right control panel at the front of the chassis to power on the
system.
Lesson 22 of 28

System Setup Information

To complete the initial configuration of the Dell PowerProtect Data Domain appliance, ensure you
have the following information ready:

Category Details

The hostname and domain of the PowerProtect Data

Hostname and Domain
Domain system.

Network Configuration Gateway IP and DNS server addresses.

Protocol Details CIFS and NFS protocol specifics.

Email Configuration SMTP mail server details.

Fibre Channel WWPNs and initiators for use with DD Boost or virtual
Configuration tape libraries.

System Identification System serial number.

Licensing Details of licensed features.

DHCP Requirements Any DHCP-related information.

Ethernet Configuration IP addresses and netmask for Ethernet ports.

After saving the network information, you can provide additional details through the command-line
interface (CLI) or the DD System Manager (DDSM).
Lesson 23 of 28

Configuring iDRAC

The online course contains a video here that describes the iDRAC
configuration for a Dell PowerProtect Data Domain appliance.

Use this link to open the Configuring iDRAC video in a separate browser
tab.

The video transcript is available below:

Configuring iDRAC
Dell PowerProtect Data Domain system requires the Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller
(iDRAC) to be configured to maintain its operational efficiency and security.

This configuration ensures that administrators can manage the system effectively from any
location.

The iDRAC port is a dedicated network interface located on the back panel of the Dell
PowerProtect Data Domain appliance.

The key features of the iDRAC port include:

Remote Access

Provides secure remote access to the system for management and troubleshooting.

System Monitoring

Allows for continuous monitoring of system health and performance.

Configuration Management

Supports configuration changes and updates without requiring physical access to the system.

Power Control

Enables remote power cycling of the system, which is useful for maintenance and recovery

operations.

Follow these steps to configure the iDRAC:

First, connect to the system using the serial console or a Keyboard, Video, Mouse (KVM) switch.
Once connected, reboot the system to begin the configuration process.

As the system boots up, press the F2 key to enter the BIOS menu.

Navigate to the iDRAC Settings and select the Network option

In the Network settings, go to IPv4 Settings.

Choose the Static IP Address option and enter the new IP address for the iDRAC.

Note that iDRAC does not support DHCP and a static IP address is necessary.

Next, go to User Configuration.

Enable the root user and change the root password.

The default password is the system serial number.

Make sure to update it to something secure.

Finally, save your changes and exit the BIOS menu.

Once these steps are completed, you can access your PowerProtect Data Domain system using
the iDRAC IP address through an HTML web interface.

Caution: Avoid using iDRAC to change the storage configuration, system settings, or BIOS
settings, as these changes can impact system functionality. Contact Dell Support if
changes are required in these areas.
Tip: The PowerProtect Data Domain system allows access to the serial console through the
iDRAC interface. You can disable the dedicated iDRAC Ethernet port and assign the iDRAC
connection to share one of the network card Ethernet ports. These steps are optional. For
more details, refer to the PowerProtect hardware and Data Domain documents at the Dell
Support website.
Lesson 24 of 28

Configure Serial Over LAN (SOL)

 Step 1

Configure the BIOS Settings

1. Open a web browser, enter the iDRAC IP address, and log in as root and the default
password that is the system serial number.

2. Go to Configuration > BIOS Settings > Serial Communications and ensure the following
values are set:

a. Serial Communication: On with Console Redirection

b. Serial Port Address: COM1

c. External Serial Connector: Serial Device 1

d. Failsafe Baud Rate: 115200

e. Remote Terminal Type: VT100/VT220

f. Redirection After Boot: Enabled

 Step 2

Enable SOL

Go to iDRAC Settings > Connectivity > Serial Over LAN and set the following values:

Enable Serial Over LAN: Enable

Baud Rate: 115.2 kbps

Channel Privilege Level Limit: Administrator

Redirect Enable: Enable

Escape Key: Ctrl + \

 Step 3

Enable SSH

Go to iDRAC Settings > Services, set SSH to Enabled and verify the port number is 22.
 Step 4

Finalize the Configuration

Return to Configuration > BIOS Settings > Serial Communications, and click Apply and Reboot.

Check Maintenance > Job Queue to ensure the BIOS setup job is complete.

Caution: Avoid using iDRAC to change storage, system, or BIOS settings as these
changes may impact system functionality. Contact Dell Support if changes are required.
Enabling SOL disables the serial console. Disable SOL if the controller needs servicing to
avoid confusion.
Lesson 25 of 28

Enable Administrative Communication

For High Availability (HA) pairs, administrative communication must be enabled on both nodes.

The PowerProtect DD9410 and DD9910 systems do not have a serial port, and a USB to DB9
dongle is required for a direct serial connection to the system.
 Step 1

Establish a Serial Connection

1. Attach the DB-9 cable to the serial port on the back panel of the system.

2. Open a terminal emulation program on your computer and configure the communication
settings.

a. Refer to the PowerProtect hardware and Data Domain documents at the Dell Support
website for setting these values.

3. Press Enter to activate the console.

4. Check that the front blue power LED is on.

a. If it is not, ensure the power cables are fully seated at both ends and all AC sources are
on.
 Step 2

Establish an SOL Connection

1. Attach the RJ-45 cable to the iDRAC management port on the back panel of the system.

2. Run the command ssh <iDRAC-IP-address> -l <iDRAC-username> to access iDRAC.

3. Enter the credentials for the iDRAC username.

4. Run the command console com2 to start the SOL session.

a. Press Enter until the console loads.

 Step 3

Log in to the System Console

1. Use the sysadmin username to log in to the system console.

2. Type the default password that is the system serial number.

a. If you type an incorrect password four consecutive times, the system locks out the
specified username for 120 seconds. The login count and lockout period are
configurable and might differ on your system. Refer to the DDOS Administration Guide
and the DDOS Command Reference Guide found on the Dell Support website for setting
these values.

3. For PowerProtect Data Domain HA systems, SSH keys created on the active node take 30
seconds to one minute to propagate to the standby node.
Lesson 26 of 28

Run the Configuration Wizard

The Dell PowerProtect Data Domain system offers two configuration wizards: the DD System
Manager (DDSM) configuration wizard and the command-line interface (CLI) configuration wizard.
These wizards simplify the initial setup process, allowing you to get the system up and running
quickly.

A C C E PT I N G T H E E N D U S E R LI C E N S E A G RE E M E N T

The system displays the End User License Agreement (EULA) upon first logging into the PowerProtect Data
Domain system.

To accept the EULA, follow these steps:

1. Read through the EULA: Carefully review the terms and conditions.

2. Acknowledge receipt: At the end of the EULA, a prompt will appear. Press any key and then hit Enter to
acknowledge receipt of the EULA information.

The customer must personally accept the EULA. A PowerProtect Data Domain representative should not
accept this agreement on behalf of the customer.

If the customer is not present, press Ctrl-C to exit the EULA acceptance screen and continue with the
installation.

To redisplay and accept the EULA at a later time, the customer can use the system show eula command.
 C O M M A N D - LI N E I N T E RFA C E C O N FI G U RAT I O N W I Z A RD

The CLI configuration wizard starts automatically the first time the system boots and guides you through a
series of prompts to gather the necessary information for the initial system configuration and basic network
connectivity.

To manually start the CLI configuration wizard, type config setup.

 D D S Y S T E M M A N A G E R C O N FI G U RAT I O N W I Z A RD

The DDSM configuration wizard provides a consolidated interface for configuring and monitoring various
system features and settings.

To use the DDSM configuration wizard, follow these steps:

1. Select Maintenance > System > Configure System.

2. Follow the prompts in the Configuration Wizard dialog box to select and configure system features.
 C O N FI G U RAT I O N PA RA M E T E RS

The configuration wizard enables you to define the parameters for the following system components:

Configuration Section Description

Change the BIOS setup password. Press

Basic Input/Output System (BIOS)
Reboot to commit the new password.

Configure network settings for IP network

participation. Options include DHCP, manual
Network configuration, host name, domain name,
DNS servers, and default gateways (IPv4
and IPv6).

View installed licenses. Add, modify, or

delete licenses. Use ELMS for managing
Licenses multiple features in a single license file
upload. Manually upload the license file if
automatic download fails.

Create the file system and configure Active

Tier, Cache Tier, and Cloud Tier storage.
File System Cache Tier storage is available for specific
models. Cloud Tier storage is optional and
can be configured later.

Configure system passwords and email

Settings
settings.
Lesson 27 of 28

Adding Storage Capacity

Dell PowerProtect Data Domain systems support capacity expansion operations by adding new
disk shelves while the system is powered on.

Follow these steps to add storage capacity to your Dell PowerProtect Data Domain system:

1. Prepare the System for Storage Expansion: Ensure the system is healthy and ready for
storage expansion by resolving any current alerts and disabling the file system.

2. Install and Connect the New Storage: Verify that a license exists for the new capacity, install
the new disk shelf in the rack, and connect the cables from the shelf to the controller.

3. Verify and Configure the New Disks: Re-enable the file system, verify that the system
recognizes the new disk shelf and that there are valid SAS paths to the new storage. Ensure

the system can see all the disks in the new enclosure and add the new enclosure to the
system volume.

4. License the New Storage with Electronic Licensing: Use the node Locking ID and the
License Authorization Code (LAC) letter code to add the electronic license file to the system.
5. Expand the File System: Add the new storage to the file system and verify that the system
recognizes the additional capacity. Ensure the new disks display a status of In Use Disks or
Spare Disks.

Deep Dive: For more information about adding storage capacity, refer to the Expansion Shelf
Hardware Guide and the DD Operating System Command Reference Guide available on the
Dell Support website.
Lesson 28 of 28

Adding Storage Capacity Simulation

Simulation Activity

The online course contains an interaction here.