Hi, folks !!!
I'm using esxi 5.1 for testing and learning purposes.
Such my Budget is really low, because I 'm not working at a directly related virtualization bussiness (usually this is a main task for increasing my virtualization knowledgements as a hobby and for future employee application references) I can´t reach newer and extremely expensive technology). So I should to resign myself to use older and cheaper technology. No appliances or emulators; I always though real hardware is the best way to learn.
I have 2 alternatives here in Spain (eBay and others):
IBM DS300 San Array
EMC Clariion X2E
In both cases I think HBA cards must be used if FO output channels are used. I will see cards that I going to use
It depends on the type of connection SAN albergs for connection to host servers.
But I´m wondering 2 things:
1) Would I be able to connect HBA cards to SAN without using FO switches (only FO cable from HBA to SAN)? I'm assuming FO switches are necessary for a failover clustering configuration and / or implementing storage area network with two or more disk arrays interconnected devices, but it's not the case. I going to use an unique SAN and no failover platform
2) If SAN are storage devices throught iSCSI and / or other commands, what would be the real obligation for using HCL listed SANs instead of not HCL listed SANs? Probably I'm missing some concepts. What type of problems I going to have if IBM / EMC specific models related upwards are used.
With many thanks to everybody !!!!
Andy
