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Controller dedicated cache mirror channel failed

The controller-dedicated cache mirror channel failed.

Important
  • The purpose of the dedicated cache mirror channel is to increase the performance of mirroring cached data between the two controllers.

  • Write caching is currently suspended for all volumes on the storage array. Once the dedicated mirror channel is restored, write caching will be automatically reinstated.

  • This may be reported for both controllers, but performing the recovery steps is required for only one of the controllers.

CAUTION
Possible loss of data accessibility

Before proceeding, ensure that the OK to remove field in the Details area indicates Yes. If No is displayed, it indicates that there is another component that must be serviced first. Always select Recheck prior to and after servicing a component to ensure that there aren't any new problems that may affect the component you plan to service.

CAUTION
Electrostatic discharge can damage sensitive components

Always use proper anti-static protection when handling components. Touching components without using a grounding wrist strap may damage the equipment.

Recovery Steps

  1. Reset the affected controller.

    1. Go to Hardware.

    2. Highlight the affected controller shown in the Details area. The controller is located on the backside of the controller shelf.

    3. Select Reset.

  2. Wait at least 15 minutes after reset completes. If the problem does not persist, the recovery process is complete, and you should not continue using this procedure.

  3. Create a back-up of the storage array's configuration data on your local system using the Command Line Interface.

    From a command prompt run the save storageArray dbmDatabase command using the sourceLocation=onboard and contentType=all options.

    Command Prompt example: (exact syntax will be dependent on your operating system)
    SMcli (hostname or IP address) -c "save storageArray dbmDatabase sourceLocation=onboard contentType=all 
    file= \"dbmDatabase.zip\" ;"

    Help with E-Series CLI commands is available from the online Document Center or by contacting Technical Support.

  4. Is a component shown in the Component requiring service field of the Details area?

    • If yes, go to step 3.

    • If the component requiring service is unknown, contact your Technical Support Engineer. Do not continue using this procedure.

  5. Contact your Technical Support Engineer to obtain a replacement controller. Once you have received the replacement controller, go to step 4.

  6. Are any hosts connected to this storage array NOT running a host-based multi-path failover driver?

    • If yes, stop I/O to the storage array from each of the hosts not running a host-based multi-path failover driver, and then go to step 5.

    • If no, go to step 5.

  7. Place the affected controller offline.

    1. Go to Hardware.

    2. Highlight the affected controller shown in the Details area. The controller is located on the backside of the controller shelf.

    3. Select Place offline.

  8. Select Recheck and finish replacing the controller using the recovery steps in the Offline Controller procedure listed in the Problems area.