Setting the Boot Controller, Creating an Array

Chapter 6: Creating a Bootable Array ● 55

Setting the Boot Controller

Note: If your system won’t contain more than one bootable controller, skip to the next section,

Creating an Array.

Your Adaptec RAID controller supports bootable disk drives and bootable arrays. To enable your system to boot from either a disk drive or an array connected to your controller:

1Enter the system setup.

2Navigate to the drive boot sequence.

3Move the boot controller to the top of the list.

For more information, refer to your computer documentation.

Creating an Array

This section explains how to create an array.

A RAID 5 array is created in the examples shown in this section because RAID 5 provides the most security and best performance with a minimum of three disk drives. However, you can choose to create an array with a different RAID level; you can also change array level later, after the operating system is installed.

You can create an array using any of these tools:

●Array Configuration Utility (ACU)—BIOS-based menus and keyboard navigation (see the following section).

●Adaptec Storage Manager—Graphical software application (running from a bootable installation DVD) that you can navigate with your mouse (see page 80).

●ARCCONF—Command line utility. For instructions, refer to the Adaptec RAID Controller Command Line Utility User’s Guide.

You can use either tool, but the ACU utility is the quicker and easier tool for this task.

Note: We recommend that you do not combine SAS and SATA disk drives within the same array. Adaptec Storage Manager displays a warning if you try to create a logical drive using a combination of SAS and SATA disk drives. See page 89 for more information.

Creating an Array with the ACU

The ACU is menu-based and instructions for completing tasks appear on-screen. Menus can be navigated using the arrows, Enter, Esc, and other keys on your keyboard.

To create a RAID 5 array:

1Power on your computer. When prompted, press Ctrl+A to enter the ARC utility.

Note: During boot up, if your system has insufficient memory the following message will display. “Adaptec RAID Configuration Utility will load after, system initialization. Please wait...

Or press <Enter> Key to attempt loading the utility forcibly [Generally, not recommended]”

2If you have more than one controller of the same model or family in your computer, select your controller, then press Enter.

3Select Array Configuration Utility, then press Enter.

2268300R specifications

The Adaptec 2268300R is a robust and versatile RAID controller designed for enterprise-level storage needs. Ideal for environments demanding high availability, performance, and data protection, this controller provides organizations with the ability to manage large volumes of data while ensuring reliability.

One of the standout features of the Adaptec 2268300R is its support for various RAID levels, including RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, 50, and 60. This flexibility allows users to choose the configuration that best suits their performance and redundancy requirements. By combining multiple drives into a single logical unit, the controller enhances data throughput and ensures data safety through redundancy.

The controller is built on a SATA and SAS architecture, allowing it to connect directly to both SATA and SAS drives. This broad compatibility is crucial for businesses looking to leverage existing hardware while also scaling their storage infrastructure. The Adaptec 2268300R is equipped with a powerful onboard processor that significantly boosts performance, driving down latency and increasing transaction speeds across connected drives.

Additionally, the Adaptec 2268300R features cache memory with a non-volatile option that enhances data integrity during unexpected power outages. This feature is essential for mission-critical applications where data loss can have severe repercussions. Moreover, the controller supports advanced caching algorithms, optimizing write and read performance to meet the demands of modern applications.

The controller also integrates seamlessly with Adaptec's management suite, providing users with a graphical interface to monitor and manage their storage solutions effectively. The web-based management tool allows administrators to configure RAID settings, monitor disk health, and perform troubleshooting, all from a centralized platform.

Security is another critical aspect of the Adaptec 2268300R. The controller comes equipped with encryption capabilities, enabling users to secure sensitive data at rest—protecting information from unauthorized access. Furthermore, with features like hot-spare drive support and automatic rebuilds, the controller assures continued operation even in the event of a disk failure.

In conclusion, the Adaptec 2268300R is a powerful RAID controller that delivers significant advantages in performance, flexibility, and reliability. With its support for multiple RAID levels, SAS and SATA compatibility, robust caching, and advanced management tools, it stands out as an ideal solution for businesses needing to safeguard and manage their vast data assets efficiently. Whether for enhancing data security or optimizing storage performance, the Adaptec 2268300R remains a sound choice in today’s data-driven landscape.