Configuring the storage hardware

To optimize disk storage, review the guidelines for setting up disk storage with IBM® Storage Protect. Then, provide a connection between the server and the disk storage devices and complete other configuration tasks.

1. Provide a connection between the server and the storage devices by following these guidelines:
   • Use a switch or direct connection for Fibre Channel connections.
   • Consider the number of ports that are connected and account for the amount of bandwidth that is needed.
   • Consider the number of ports on the server and the number of host ports on the disk system that are connected.
2. Verify that device drivers and firmware for the server system, adapters, and operating system are current and at the recommended levels.
3. Configure storage arrays. Make sure that you planned properly to ensure optimal performance.
   For more information, see Planning for disk storage.
4. Ensure that the server system has access to disk volumes that are created. Complete the following steps:
   1. If the system is connected to a Fibre Channel switch, zone the server to see the disks.
   2. Map all of the volumes to tell the disk system that this specific server is allowed to see each disk.
5. Ensure that tape and disk devices use different Host Bus Adapter (HBA) ports. Control tape and disk I/O by using the SAN. Use separate Fibre Channel ports for tape and disk I/O.