SCALE Storage System Decommissioning Guide

Decommissioning storage systems is a critical process that requires careful planning and execution. This guide provides a detailed overview of the decommissioning process for SCALE Storage Systems, ensuring a smooth and efficient transition. It is important to follow each step meticulously to avoid data loss and hardware damage. This guide is tailored to help you understand the process thoroughly, ensuring all necessary components are returned and documented correctly. Let's dive into the essential aspects of decommissioning SCALE Storage Systems and make sure everything is handled with precision.

Ensuring a Smooth Decommissioning Process

The decommissioning of storage systems involves several key steps, from initial planning to the final return of hardware. Proper planning is crucial to ensure minimal disruption and prevent data loss. This includes identifying all hardware components, data migration strategies, and verifying the return of all equipment. By taking a systematic approach, you can decommission your SCALE Storage Systems efficiently and securely. Remember, a well-executed decommissioning process not only ensures the safety of your data but also optimizes resource allocation for future projects.

Key Considerations for Decommissioning

Before initiating the decommissioning process, there are several factors to consider:

• Data Migration: Determine the destination for your data. Will it be migrated to another system, archived, or securely wiped? Develop a detailed data migration plan to ensure no data is lost or compromised during the transition.
• Hardware Inventory: Create a comprehensive inventory of all hardware components, including servers, storage units, cables, and SFPs (Small Form-factor Pluggable). This list will serve as a checklist during the decommissioning process to ensure all items are accounted for and returned.
• Data Sanitization: Decide on the method for data sanitization. This may involve securely wiping drives, physical destruction, or other approved methods to protect sensitive information.
• Environmental Impact: Consider the environmental impact of decommissioning. Explore options for recycling or responsible disposal of hardware to minimize your organization's carbon footprint.
• Documentation: Maintain thorough documentation throughout the decommissioning process. This includes the initial plan, inventory lists, data migration logs, sanitization records, and return shipment details. Proper documentation is essential for compliance and future reference.

Hardware to Be Returned: A Detailed Inventory

A crucial aspect of decommissioning SCALE Storage Systems is ensuring all hardware components are returned. This section provides a detailed list of items that need to be included in the return shipment. It is vital to cross-reference this list with your inventory to avoid any discrepancies. Failure to return all components can result in additional charges and complications. So, let's meticulously review the hardware checklist to ensure a complete and accurate return.

Itemized Hardware List

Below is a comprehensive list of the hardware components that need to be returned. Please ensure that each item is accounted for and securely packed for shipment. This list includes various servers, cables, adapters, and other essential components of the SCALE Storage System. Accurate tracking of each item is paramount to a successful decommissioning process.

Product	Description	Qty
5149-F48	Storage Scale System 6000 Performance Model 1: IBM Storage Scale System 6000	1
1111	3M, Blue Ethernet Cat 5E cable	2
1118	3M, Yellow Ethernet Cat 5E cable	2
4558	Power Cord To PDU/UPS (100–240V/16A)	4
4650	Rack Indicator None	1
AJGH	Red Hat OpenShift Indicator	1
AJQS	ConnectX-7 VPI Adapter Card 200GbE/NDR200 Dual-Port QSFP112 PCIe 5.0 x16 (Crypto Disabled)	8
AJR8	Nvidia AOC IB NDR 400Gb/s → 2×200Gb/s, OSFP → 2×QSFP56, 5m	8
AJR9	Nvidia AOC IB NDR 400Gb/s → 2×200Gb/s, OSFP → 2×QSFP56, 30m	8
AK00	Storage Scale System 6000 Performance Model	1
AK0N	32GB DDR5 Memory DIMM	48
AK0Q	Canister w/ Dual-socket AMD EPYC Genoa 9454 (48c, 2.75GHz, 290W) + dual 960GB M.2 NVMe Boot Drives	2
AK19	30.72TB U.3 PCIe 5.0 NVMe SSD	48
5149-23E	ESS AFM Gateway Nodes: Storage Scale System Utility Server	2
1111	3M, Blue Ethernet Cat 5E cable	4
1118	3M, Yellow Ethernet Cat 5E cable	4
4650	Rack Indicator None	2
6458	Power Cable — Drawer to IBM PDU (200–240V/10A)	4
AJGH	Red Hat OpenShift Indicator	2
AJQS	ConnectX-7 VPI Adapter Card 200GbE/NDR200 Dual-Port QSFP112 PCIe 5.0 x16 (Crypto Disabled)	4
AJQY	NVIDIA MMF MPO12 cable, 30m	4
AK1M	32GB DDR4 Memory	32
AK1P	Base Unit: 2×16C Processor, 2× Boot Drives, 4 PCI Slots, 32 DIMM Slots	2
AKNC	Shipping & Handling (Premium)	2
ALH0	IBM Storage Expert Care Indicator	2
ALJ1	IBM Storage Expert Care Basic 1 Year	2
EB59	100GbE Optical Transceiver QSFP28	8
EN2X	PCIe3 LP 4-port 10GbE Base-T RJ45 Adapter	2
5149-23E	ESS Protocol Nodes: Storage Scale System Utility Server	2
1111	3M, Blue Ethernet Cat 5E cable	4
1118	3M, Yellow Ethernet Cat 5E cable	4
4650	Rack Indicator None	2
6458	Power Cable — Drawer to IBM PDU (200–240V/10A)	4
AJGH	Red Hat OpenShift Indicator	2
AJQS	ConnectX-7 VPI Adapter Card 200GbE/NDR200 Dual-Port QSFP112 PCIe 5.0 x16 (Crypto Disabled)	4
AJQY	NVIDIA MMF MPO12 cable, 30m	4
AK1M	32GB DDR4 Memory	32
AK1P	Base Unit: 2×16C Processor, 2× Boot Drives, 4 PCI Slots, 32 DIMM Slots	2
AKNC	Shipping & Handling (Premium)	2
ALH0	IBM Storage Expert Care Indicator	2
ALJ1	IBM Storage Expert Care Basic 1 Year	2
EB59	100GbE Optical Transceiver QSFP28	8
EN2X	PCIe3 LP 4-port 10GbE Base-T RJ45 Adapter	2
5149-23E	ESS Management Server 1: Storage Scale System Utility Server	1
1111	3M, Blue Ethernet Cat 5E cable	2
1118	3M, Yellow Ethernet Cat 5E cable	2
4650	Rack Indicator None	1
6458	Power Cable — Drawer to IBM PDU (200–240V/10A)	2
AJGH	Red Hat OpenShift Indicator	1
AJQS	ConnectX-7 VPI Adapter Card 200GbE/NDR200 Dual-Port QSFP112 PCIe 5.0 x16 (Crypto Disabled)	1
AK1M	32GB DDR4 Memory	8
AK1N	Base Unit: 16C Processor, 2× Boot Drives, 2 PCI Slots, 16 DIMM Slots	1
AKNC	Shipping & Handling (Premium)	1
ALH0	IBM Storage Expert Care Indicator	1
ALJ1	IBM Storage Expert Care Basic 1 Year	1
EN2X	PCIe3 LP 4-port 10GbE Base-T RJ45 Adapter	1

Cables and SFPs: Special Attention Required

Particular attention should be given to the cables and SFPs (Small Form-factor Pluggables) provided with the SCALE Storage Systems. These components are essential for connectivity and must be included in the return shipment. Ensure that all cables and SFPs used to connect to your 100GB switches and SN5600 switches are accounted for. Let's take a closer look at the specific types and quantities required.

Detailed Cable and SFP Return

The return shipment must include all original cables and SFPs. This includes those used to connect to your 100GB switches and SN5600 switches. A detailed summary is provided below to help you verify that all components are included. These items are critical for the proper functioning of the systems and must be returned to avoid any potential issues.

Item	Qty
Nvidia AOC IB NDR 400Gb/s → 2×200Gb/s, OSFP → 2×QSFP56, 5m	8
Nvidia AOC IB NDR 400Gb/s → 2×200Gb/s, OSFP → 2×QSFP56, 30m	8
100GbE Optical Transceiver QSFP28	16
NVIDIA MMF MPO12 cable, 30m	8

Important Notes on QSFP28 and MPO12 Cables

• 8 QSFP28 are installed in 100GB campus switches.
• 8 QSFP28 are installed in AFM-CES nodes (2 per node).
• MPO12 cables are used to connect CES-AFM nodes to 100GB campus switches.

Ensuring the return of these specific cables and SFPs is crucial for the decommissioning process. Double-check your inventory against this list to prevent any omissions.

Packing and Shipping Guidelines

Once you have inventoried and prepared the hardware, the next step is packing and shipping. Proper packing is essential to prevent damage during transit. Use the original packing materials if available. If not, alternative packing materials should be used to ensure the safety of the equipment. Securely package each component individually, paying special attention to delicate items such as SFPs and adapter cards. This section provides guidelines to help you pack and ship your SCALE Storage Systems effectively.

Packing Best Practices

Follow these best practices for packing your hardware:

• Use Original Packing Materials: If you still have the original packing materials, use them. They are designed to protect the specific components of the SCALE Storage System.
• Secure Individual Components: Wrap each item individually in anti-static bags and bubble wrap to prevent damage from static electricity and physical impact.
• Proper Box Selection: Use sturdy cardboard boxes that are appropriately sized for the equipment. Avoid using boxes that are too large, as items can shift during transit.
• Cushioning: Fill any empty spaces in the box with packing peanuts, foam inserts, or crumpled paper to provide cushioning and prevent movement.
• Labeling: Clearly label each box with the contents and any special handling instructions. Include a packing list inside each box to facilitate inventory verification upon arrival.

Shipping Instructions

Follow these shipping instructions to ensure a smooth return process:

• Contact Shipping Provider: Coordinate with your designated shipping provider to arrange for pickup and delivery.
• Insurance: Consider purchasing shipping insurance to protect against loss or damage during transit.
• Tracking: Obtain a tracking number for each shipment and monitor the progress to ensure timely delivery.
• Documentation: Keep copies of all shipping documents, including the bill of lading and packing lists, for your records.

What if Original Packing Materials Are Missing?

If you no longer have the original packing materials, it is essential to request replacements. Contact your SCALE Storage Systems support team to arrange for replacement materials to be sent to you. Using the correct packing materials is vital to protect the hardware during transit and prevent damage.

Conclusion: Ensuring a Successful Decommissioning

Decommissioning SCALE Storage Systems requires careful planning, execution, and attention to detail. By following the guidelines outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can ensure a smooth and efficient process. Remember to create a detailed plan, inventory all hardware components, sanitize data securely, pack equipment properly, and coordinate with your shipping provider. Maintaining thorough documentation throughout the process is crucial for compliance and future reference. A successful decommissioning not only protects your data but also optimizes resource allocation for future projects.

For additional information on data center decommissioning best practices, visit trusted resources such as Data Center Decommissioning Checklist. This external resource offers valuable insights and checklists to help you navigate the decommissioning process effectively.