StarTech.com PCISATA4R1 manual Configuring an Array, Other considerations None

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Configuring an Array

When you choose Create a RAID set from the Main Menu of the RAID utility, you will be presented with the following menu:

For each option/RAID level are as follows:

RAID0: Also called “disk striping,” where multiple physical drives are merged to create a single logical volume.

•Minimum number of drives: 2

•Maximum number of drives: 4

•Fault tolerance: None

•Performance: Excellent; improves both read and write performance

•Other considerations: None

RAID1: Also called “drive mirroring,” where a drive has an exact duplicate copy of data maintained on another disk.

•Minimum number of drives: 2 (per array)

•Maximum number of drives: 2 (per array)

•Fault tolerance: Excellent; complete redundancy

•Performance: Good; some reduction in write performance

•Other considerations: 50% reduction in usable space as the drive containing the mirror is not available to the user; drives must be identical

RAID10: Also called RAID 0+1, this is a combination of disk striping (RAID 0) and mirroring (RAID 1). Two disks are striped together in a single volume, with a mirrored striped set for redundancy.

•Minimum number of drives: 4

•Maximum number of drives: 4

•Fault tolerance: Excellent; complete redundancy

•Performance: Good; some reduction in write performance

•Other considerations: 50% reduction in usable space as the drives containing the mirror is not available to the user; drives must be identical

SPARE DRIVE: This is used in conjunction with RAID 1 (mirroring) and allows the computer to keep running in the event of a drive failure without user intervention, even if it is the boot drive that has failed. Also referred to as RAID 1+S.

•Minimum number of drives: 1 (requires an associated RAID 1 array)

•Maximum number of drives: 1 (requires an associated RAID 1 array)

•Fault tolerance: Adds seamless disaster recovery to a RAID 1 configuration

•Performance: Not applicable

•Other considerations: Drive is not available to the user; drive must be identical to the models used in the associated RAID 1 array

Instruction Manual

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Contents Port PCI Sata RAID Controller Adapter Card FCC Compliance Statement Table of Contents Installation Packaging ContentsHardware Installation IntroductionDriver Installation Verifying Your InstallationWindows 2000/XP Windows Vista/7Accessing the RAID Bios Utility Create RAID set Delete RAID setRebuild RAID1 set Resolve ConflictsMinimum number of drives Maximum number of drives Configuring an ArrayOther considerations None Deleting a RAID set Rebuilding a RAID 1 SetResolving Conflicts Low Level FormattingLogical Drive Information Allocating PartitionsEvent Viewer and Events Windows SATARaid GUI OverviewDevices and Information Windows SATARaid Toolbar and Menu Commands SATARaid Configuration Error Level ErrorsPage Page Page Page Specifications Technical Support Warranty Information Limitation of Liability

PCISATA4R1 specifications

StarTech.com has introduced the PCISATA4R1, a powerful and versatile expansion card designed to enhance your computer's connectivity and storage capabilities. This robust PCI Express to SATA expansion card allows users to add four additional SATA III ports to their computer, making it an ideal solution for those needing to connect multiple SATA devices, like hard drives and SSDs, for increased storage or backup solutions.

One of the standout features of the PCISATA4R1 is its support for high-speed SATA III (6 Gbps), which ensures fast data transfer rates and optimal performance for your storage devices. This is particularly beneficial for users who deal with large files or require rapid data access, such as video editors, photographers, and gamers. The card is compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, Mac OS, and Linux, ensuring broad usability across different hardware setups.

The PCISATA4R1 is built on a PCI Express (PCIe) x2 interface, which provides ample bandwidth for simultaneous data transfers across all connected devices. This means that users can operate multiple drives without experiencing the performance bottlenecks commonly found in older SATA interfaces. The card is designed for straightforward installation, featuring a low-profile design which makes it a fitting choice for both standard and compact computer cases.

In addition to its impressive technical specifications, the PCISATA4R1 also comes with features that improve overall usability. The card includes native command queuing (NCQ) support, which enhances the performance and efficiency of SATA drives by allowing them to execute multiple commands simultaneously. Moreover, it supports hot-swappable drives, enabling users to swap drives in and out of their system without needing to power down, which is incredibly convenient for managing backups or expanding storage on-the-fly.

The StarTech.com PCISATA4R1 is an essential tool for any PC builder or enthusiast looking to expand their system’s storage capabilities. With its high-speed SATA III support, efficient PCIe interface, and user-friendly features, it offers a reliable and effective solution for those who demand more from their computer systems. Whether you're adding additional storage drives for media, backups, or system expansion, this expansion card delivers the performance and reliability that users expect from StarTech.com products.
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