Learning - IBM DS Series vs Equallogic Offerings

The Equallogic PS5000 Series consists of four iSCSI based devices; the new SATA PS5500E, the SATA PS5000E, the SAS PS5000X and the SAS PS5000XV. All PS5000 storage arrays are based on the PS Series architecture and are the first products announced following Dell’s acquisition of EqualLogic. The "Peer Storage Architecture" is a system where each array (or peer) collaborates with other peers in the SAN in an equal-partner relationship. Data loads are distributed evenly between the peers to improve performance levels and data protection. Each array has built-in Peer Provisioning mechanisms, enabling new arrays to be automatically configured into the existing SAN.

Dell introduced the new EqualLogic PS5500E Storage Array in September 2008. Dell states it is targeted at small to medium-sized business environments. The PS5500E doubles the density and triples the capacity of the PS5000E Model. Dell promotes the PS5500E as possessing enhanced data protection for virtual infrastructure via Auto-Snapshot Manager/VMware Edition

Summary:

Dell acquired EqualLogic in the fall of 2007. They updated and reintroduced the product line under the current PS5000 moniker in early 2008. The line is comprised of identical looking systems. All systems share similarities:

· All models of PS5000/PS5500 support dual controllers.

· Dual controllers only operate in an active/passive mode

· Two models are sold with just a single controller, but may be upgraded to dual controllers

· Each controller possesses three 1Gb/s iSCSI ports.

· Theoretical maximum performance on all EqualLogic systems is less than 300MB/s

· EqualLogic systems cannot be expanded beyond the single enclosure they occupy

· EqualLogic systems have very limited individual flexibility

o An EqualLogic system (one enclosure) can only possess one drive type (SAS or SATA)

o An EqualLogic system (one enclosure) can only possess one drive size

o An EqualLogic system (one enclosure) can only possess one drive speed

o An EqualLogic system (one enclosure) can only possess one RAID level

o An EqualLogic system (one enclosure) automatically removes two drives to be used as hot spares

· Up to eight EqualLogic systems, in an IP SAN, may be automatically viewed as a single system

· Logical Drives (LUNs) may be spread across up to four EqualLogic systems in the same IP SAN

To get the entire word document please contact your IBM Team @ Tech Data – ibmsolutions@techdata.ca

(unofficial competitive bulletin)