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Status Delivered
Workspace IBM Spectrum Virtualize / FlashSystem
Created by Guest
Created on Feb 13, 2024

RELATED IDEAS

Keep supporting directly attached FlashSystem storage on IBM i


Reading this page: https://www.ibm.com/support/pages/node/7032023 it states:

-- quote --

IBM i connected using directly attached Fibre Channel

IBM i is not supported as a host operating system when connected using directly attached Fibre Channel to FlashSystem or SAN Volume Controller systems running 8.6.1.0 or later versions.

IBM i is supported as a host operating system when connected to FlashSystem or SAN Volume Controller systems via a Fibre Channel switch.

-- end quote --

Many small/medium sized IBM i customers (typically non-partitioned, but also customers using "i hosting i") are using directly attached storage. By removing support for this, IBM is discouraging customers from staying on the platform, by forcing them to buy expensive FC switches when they are really not needed.

Please reverse this decision and keep supporting directly attached storage.

Idea priority Urgent
  • Admin
    Philip Clark
    Reply
    |     Mar 15, 2024

    Delivered in 8.6.3 (1Q24) and scheduled to back port to 8.6.0.x


    Updated support page removes the direct attach limit:

    V8.6.3.x Configuration Limits for IBM FlashSystem and SAN Volume Controller

    https://www.ibm.com/support/pages/node/7109991


    1 reply
  • Guest
    Reply
    |     Feb 13, 2024

    I agree entirely, we have had this support for over a decade and it has proved very popular with smaller IBM i shops. The need for SAN switches can increase the solution cost of a small server by 20% not just in the purchase price but also the ongoing maintenance.


    I think that it vital for IBM i Direct Attach support to be maintained on Flash Systems beyond 8.6.1.0.

    Steve Bradshaw,
    Member of CEAC, TD of i-UG.co.uk & Friendly Techie at RowtonIT.com

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