Common Array Manager: Simple Guide for Storage Array Management

Common Array Manager, often called CAM, is a software tool used to manage storage arrays. It is mainly used with Sun and Oracle storage systems. CAM helps administrators control, monitor, and configure storage hardware from one central place.

In many IT environments, storage systems are large and complex. Managing each storage array separately can take a lot of time and increase the risk of mistakes. Common Array Manager solves this problem by giving administrators one interface to manage multiple arrays.

This article explains Common Array Manager in simple terms. It covers what it is, how it works, its main features, installation steps, best practices, common problems, and when it should be used Book

What Common Array Manager Is

Common Array Manager is storage management software. It does not store data itself. Instead, it helps manage storage hardware.

Main purpose of Common Array Manager

Common Array Manager is used to:

• Manage multiple storage arrays from one place

• Monitor hardware health and system status

• Create and manage storage volumes

• Connect storage volumes to servers

• Send alerts when problems occur

What Common Array Manager is not

It is important to understand what CAM does not do.

Common Array Manager:

• Is not a storage device

• Is not a backup tool

• Is not an operating system

It works as a management layer between administrators and storage hardware.

Supported Systems and Basic Requirements

Before installing Common Array Manager, you must check if your systems are supported.

Supported storage arrays

Common Array Manager works with selected Sun and Oracle storage arrays.

Typical supported systems include:

• Sun StorageTek arrays

• Oracle storage systems

Support depends on the CAM version, so compatibility should always be confirmed.

Supported operating systems

Common Array Manager runs on a separate management server, not on the storage array.

Commonly supported operating systems include:

• Solaris

• Linux (specific versions)

• Some versions support Windows

Hardware and network needs

To run CAM properly, you need:

• A dedicated management server

• Reliable network access to storage arrays

• Correct IP and DNS settings

• Firewall rules that allow required ports

The management server does not need high performance hardware, but it must be stable.

Security basics

CAM includes basic security features such as:

• Secure web access using HTTPS

• User login with passwords

• Role-based permissions

Security should be configured during setup.

How Common Array Manager Works

Common Array Manager acts as a central controller between administrators and storage arrays.

Web-based management interface

Most administrators use CAM through a web browser.

With the browser interface, you can:

• View storage health

• Check alerts and warnings

• Create and manage storage volumes

• Perform daily administration tasks

The interface is visual and easy to understand.

Command Line Interface

Common Array Manager also provides a Command Line Interface, called CLI.

The CLI is useful for:

• Automation

• Running scripts

• Performing repetitive tasks

• Managing systems without a browser

Both the browser and CLI offer similar core features.

Array discovery process

Before managing a storage array, CAM must discover it.

Discovery usually includes:

• Entering the array IP address or hostname

• Providing administrator credentials

• Verifying network communication

After discovery, the array appears in the CAM dashboard.

Installation and Setup Process

Installing Common Array Manager requires planning and preparation.

Downloading Common Array Manager

CAM software is downloaded from official Oracle support sources.

Important points:

• Select the correct version

• Download required patches

• Avoid unofficial websites

Installation steps overview

Typical installation steps include:

1. Run the installer on the management server

2. Select the installation location

3. Configure basic services

4. Complete the setup process

The installer sets up:

• Web services

• Background processes

• Default configuration files

First login steps

After installation, CAM is accessed through a browser.

Basic steps:

• Open a web browser

• Enter the CAM URL (HTTPS with a specific port)

• Log in using administrator credentials

The first login may ask for initial setup confirmation.

Adding storage arrays

Once logged in, you can add storage arrays.

Steps include:

• Open the discovery option

• Enter array connection details

• Confirm successful discovery

Main Features of Common Array Manager

Common Array Manager offers several important features for storage management.

Dashboard and health monitoring

The dashboard provides a summary view of the environment.

It usually shows:

• Storage array status

• Disk health

• Alerts and warnings

• System notifications

Monitoring helps detect issues early.

Alerts and notifications

CAM can send alerts when problems occur.

Common alert types include:

• Disk failures

• Hardware warnings

• System errors

Alerts can be delivered through:

• On-screen messages

• Email notifications

Storage provisioning

Storage provisioning is one of CAM’s most important functions.

Creating volumes and virtual disks

Administrators can:

• Create virtual disks

• Choose size and RAID level

• Control access permissions

This allows efficient use of available storage.

RAID overview

CAM supports different RAID levels depending on hardware.

RAID helps with:

• Data protection

• Performance

• Storage efficiency

Choosing the right RAID level is important for safety.

Mapping storage to hosts

After creating volumes, they must be connected to servers.

Mapping involves:

• Using host identifiers (HBA or WWN)

• Assigning access rights

• Verifying server visibility

User and access management

Common Array Manager supports role-based access.

Typical roles include:

• Administrator

• Operator

• Read-only user

Limiting access reduces risk.

Reports and performance views

Some CAM versions provide reports such as:

• Storage capacity usage

• Performance trends

• Historical health data

Reports help with planning and troubleshooting.

Administration and Maintenance Tasks

Regular maintenance is important for stable storage systems.

Daily monitoring checklist

Administrators should regularly:

• Review dashboard alerts

• Check disk and array health

• Confirm alert delivery

• Monitor storage usage

Managing configuration changes

Common changes include:

• Expanding volumes

• Adding disks

• Renaming storage resources

All changes should be planned and documented.

Updates and patching

Keeping CAM updated improves security and stability.

Best practices:

• Review update notes

• Test updates if possible

• Schedule maintenance windows

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Problems can still occur even with good planning.

Common problems and solutions

Discovery problems

If arrays do not appear:

• Check network connectivity

• Verify compatibility

• Review firewall rules

Login problems

Login issues may happen due to:

• Incorrect passwords

• Locked accounts

• Service issues

Best Practices for Using Common Array Manager

Following best practices helps avoid problems.

Naming conventions

Use clear and consistent names for:

• Storage arrays

• Volumes

• Hosts

Documentation

Always document:

• Configuration changes

• Storage mappings

• Maintenance actions

Documentation helps during troubleshooting.

Change planning

Before making changes:

• Create a plan

• Confirm backups

• Prepare rollback steps

Regular audits

Audits help find:

• Unused storage

• Configuration drift

• Performance issues

Security and Safety Notes

Security is important in storage management.

Secure access practices

Follow these rules:

• Use HTTPS only

• Limit admin accounts

• Change default passwords

Logs and monitoring

Logs help:

• Track changes

• Detect unauthorized access

• Support audits

Safe software sources

Always download CAM from:

• Official vendor websites

• Trusted support portals

Common Array Manager Compared to Other Tools

Common Array Manager is not the only storage management tool.

When Common Array Manager is a good choice

CAM is a good fit when:

• Managing supported Sun or Oracle arrays

• Centralized management is required

• Existing systems already use CAM

When Common Array Manager may not be suitable

CAM may not be ideal if:

• Storage hardware is unsupported

• Advanced analytics are needed

• Moving to newer management platforms

FAQs

What is Common Array Manager used for?

It is used to manage and monitor supported storage arrays from one central interface.

Does Common Array Manager support command line use?

Yes. CAM provides a command line interface for scripting and automation.

Can Common Array Manager manage multiple arrays?

Yes. CAM is designed for centralized management of many arrays.

Is Common Array Manager still supported?

Support depends on the version and hardware. Always check vendor support information.

Conclusion

Common Array Manager is a useful tool for managing supported storage arrays in a simple and organized way. It allows administrators to monitor system health, manage storage resources, and receive alerts from one central interface, by using Common Array Manager correctly, following best practices, and performing regular monitoring, organizations can maintain stable and efficient storage environments. While newer tools may exist, Common Array Manager continues to provide value where it is supported and properly managed.