Compaq StorageWorks HSZ80 Array Controller ACS Version 8.3 for OpenVMS Release Notes

This document comprises the Release Notes for Compaq StorageWorks HSZ80 Array Controller ACS Version 8.3 for OpenVMS, providing supplemental information not covered in other documentation. It is intended for individuals responsible for configuring, installing, and using the HSZ80 Array Controller.

Key Information and Updates:

1. Software Identification: The software revision level is identified as V83z-0 using the SHOW THIS_CONTROLLER command.
2. System Requirements:
   • Platforms: Alpha Servers 800, 1000A, 1200, 4000, 4100, 8200, and 8400.
   • Operating System: OpenVMS V7.1 1-H-1 or higher.
   • Controller: Compaq StorageWorks HSZ80 Array Controller ACS Version 8.3.
   • Adapter: PCI Differential UltraSCSI adapter KZPBA-CB.
   • Supports various disk drives with specified minimum microcode and hardware versions.
3. New Features (ACS Version 8.3):
   • FRUTIL Utility: Enables non-disruptive replacement of array controller, cache module, or external cache battery in dual-redundant configurations.
   • Unit Cache Policy: Allows setting cache policy for individual units via CLI.
   • Battery Hysteresis: Permits write-back caching while the external cache battery (ECB) is recharging, as long as capacity is above 50%.
   • UPS Flush/Delayed Power Switch: The POWEROFF command includes new options for automatic battery and cache flushing.
   • Maintenance Terminal Port Speeds: Supports 9600 BPS (default) and 19200 BPS.
   • Mirrored (Fault-Tolerant) Write-Back Cache: Caches data in two separate modules for redundancy, enabled via SET controller MIRRORED_CACHE.
   • Read-Ahead Cache: Enabled by default for all disk units.
   • Extended & Host Bus SCSI ID Support: Supports SCSI device IDs 0-15 (with reservations for controller IDs).
   • Multiple Bus Access: Allows hosts to access the controller through both ports simultaneously for increased performance.
   • Code Load and Code Patch (CLCP) Utility: Used for upgrading controller and EMU software.
   • Exclusive Mapping: Reserves storage devices for specific SCSI initiator ID numbers.
   • Heterogeneous Host Support: Allows multiple hosts running different operating systems (including new Host Mode E for SGI IRIX and F for Sun Solaris) to access targets and units.
   • New CLI Commands: Introduces CONFIGURATION, POWEROFF, SET FAILEDSET and new/modified switches for ADD and SET commands for granular control over various features (e.g., access paths, cache settings).
4. Configuration Rules: Outlines various maximum limits for targets, LUNs, physical devices, storagesets, partitions, and mirrorset/stripeset members.
5. Avoiding Problem Situations:
   • Critical Procedures: Emphasizes that adding, moving, or changing devices, array controllers, cache modules, or external cache batteries requires specific SHUTDOWN commands (e.g., SHUTDOWN THIS_CONTROLLER, SHUTDOWN OTHER_CONTROLLER) to flush data and prevent configuration issues or data loss.
   • Storageset Movement: Warns against moving storagesets that are reconstructing or reduced to avoid data corruption.
6. StorageWorks Command Console (SWCC) Version 2.1:
   • GUI: SWCC 2.1 is a graphical user interface for configuring and monitoring StorageWorks array controllers.
   • Compatibility: SWCC 2.x components are not compatible with version 1.1 components. Users must fully uninstall older versions (Clients and Agents) before installing 2.x to prevent issues.
   • Installation/Uninstallation Notes:
     • Requires specific DLL versions (e.g., OLEAUT32.DLL).
     • Before uninstalling, save swcc2.mdb (configuration file) and manually remove AsyncEventService entries.
   • Network Requirements: SWCC requires a valid hosts file or DNS server. Dynamic IP address allocation (DHCP) and WINS are not supported.
   • Case Sensitivity: Node names in Agent's client.ini file must exactly match the case returned by the name server.
   • Troubleshooting: Addresses common issues like "Access Denied" errors, help file problems, graphics scaling in VGA mode, and various application errors related to configuration files or network connectivity.
   • Operational Limitations: The SWCC GUI does not support controller software upgrades or configuration of certain failover modes; these must be managed via the CLI. There are also specific limits in the Add Virtual Disk wizard.