how to migrate data off a vplex to an array that is not behind the vplex?

Technically speaking the data isn't on the VPLEX, it's on whatever array the VPLEX virtual volumes/devices are pointing to.  You could put the new array behind VPLEX, set up data mobility between the arrays and the de-encapsulate once you were running on the new array.

--Thom

Hi kofiboadi.

As always: It depends.

From my perspective, doing an array to array migration of any kind (unless behind a VPLEX of course) you can use whatever migration tools the using applications might already provide (like Storage VMotion in VMware for example or the counterpart in HyperV) or you can always use the "for free" Powerpath Migration Enabler (starting with Powerpath 5.7SP1). Even if you have no PowerPath license, the feature is free to use within the trial installation (first time use). Only the need to reboot the server after the installation might be a showstopper. :-)

With the PPME you can migrate almost any attached application server. Already did this with Exchange, SQL and fie servers without any problem or application disruption. PPME is only available via CLI, but the usage could not be easier. The migration enabler is installed together with PowerPath as a feature.

Regards

Terence

Thanks