I’ve received a few requests over time about how to manage a Dell PowerVault 660F from Linux hosts, most recently from a nice guy named Robert. He reminded me that I really should post some information on this here, as it can be hard to find.

Standard Disclaimer: If you follow any of my tips and it breaks your array, I can’t help. It’s been a long time since I’ve touched one of them. These instructions are for informational purposes only.

Basically, all I can recommend is to scrap Dell’s OpenManage utilities. They make it very hard to manage the array in a way that lets it be used easily for Linux-based hosts. The RAID controllers are actually Mylex FFX controllers, and you can download the OEM software (eArray Director) from:

http://www.engenio.com/support/profibre_downloads.html

It makes management of these arrays just like most other arrays — it allows you to set up the LUN’s, map the LUN’s to specific connected hosts, etc. Makes life way easier. Oh, yeah, it also runs on Linux.

Also, if you are not running a recent firmware version, upgrade! If I recall correctly (it’s been awhile since I’ve used my array; it’s actually in my basement waiting for eBay right now), the most recent “Dell-supported” version is 7.82. There is also an 8.40 image available that I’ve read works. I’ve put a few images up at:

http://www.natecarlson.com/downloads/powervault-660f/

Let me know how things go!