esx3.5 and esx4 on HP Blades + HP XP

[biokovo]

I would like to get some advices from someone who has experience with esx3.5 and esx4 on HP XP storage.

Is there any problems with implementation, best practice...

We are using 3 HP blade servers and MSA FC storage, and planning to supply XP storage.

Many thanks.

[AntonVZhbankov]

XP and ESX don't like each other. There is manual how to tune XP so it will work with ESX, but I'd suggest to stay with EVAs.

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MCSA, MCTS, VCP, VMware vExpert '2009

http://blog.vadmin.ru

[DSeaman]

If you set option 19, I've heard Hitachi/XP work just fine with ESX.

http://kb.vmware.com/selfservice/microsites/search.do?language=en_US&cmd=displayKC&externalId=1005011

If you want a cheaper/better option for storage arrays, look at 3PAR.

[biokovo]

You mean Host Group Mode Option 19? I heard something about that but I am not sure where can I find that option?

[DSeaman]

No offense, but the XP arrays are HIGHLY complex beasts and require specialized training to properly operate. If you are going to be the person responsible for the XP array, you need to attend XP training classes and have a strong understanding of Fibre Channel, switching, and ESX.

If there is another person who will be the XP adminitrator, then they should be able to properly set it up with the help of that KB article I posted above. They can also call HP and VMware support if they need more help.

[biokovo]

I agree with you. There will be one or two XP administrators, but right now I need some informations becouse I need to plan our vmware infrastructure. And every advice from persons who have experience with this is welcome.

[biokovo]

Where can I find that manual? Is it the same situatuation with esx3.5 and esx4?

It will be XP20000, not EVA, I have no choise.

Thanks.