Promise Technology S150 user manual Appendix a FAQs

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Appendix A: FAQs

Q:Can I take a drive used in a FastTrak S150 TX4 array and access it directly with a different controller, such as the one integrated on the motherboard?

A:Only Single-drive striped (RAID 0) and Mirrored (RAID 1) array configurations allow the drive(s) to be accessed individually on another controller. Multiple-drive striped (RAID 0) will not work.

Q:If I have a problem with one of the drives on the FastTrak S150 TX4, how can I low-level format it to correct the problem?

A:Do NOT do this. Low-level formatting IDE drives is unnecessary and generally does not correct problems commonly experienced during use.

Errors such as bad sectors or ECC/CRC failure are best remedied by completely replacing the drive. For this reason, do NOT low-level format the drives attached to the FastTrak S150 TX4 controller.

Q:Do I have to install disk management software on my array in order to access the full storage capacity of drives?

A:No! Disk management software will only complicate things. The array should be fully addressable by your OS as it is. Remember that some operating systems have varying limits on the sizes of partitions and logical drives that can be defined. Consult your OS documentation about partitioning larger drives.

Q:What system BIOS setup settings do I use for the drives on the FastTrak S150 TX4 controller?

A:None. The drives on the FastTrak S150 TX4 controller are supported by the FastTrak S150 TX4 BIOS and/or OS drivers, not by your system BIOS.

Q: How do I partition/format my FastTrak S150 TX4 RAID array?

A:The FastTrak S150 TX4 represents the array as a single HDD to your system. Therefore, anything that you can do to a single HDD you can do to a FastTrak S150 TX4 array. For example, you should use the FDISK and FORMAT utilities to partition/format the array. You can partition the array as you see fit. You can format the array with any file system you wish.

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Contents Fasttrak S150 TX4 Trademarks CopyrightImportant Data Protection Information Contents Page FastTrak S150 TX4 IntroductionPromise Array Management Utility PAM Features Benefits Key Features and BenefitsCompatibility Unpacking Your FastTrak Card InstallationInsert the FastTrak card into an open PCI slot Installing the FastTrak CardInstalling the Hard Drives FastTrak S150 TX4 card Creating Your Disk Array Creating a Performance Array Creating a Security Array with New Drives Creating a Security Array with an Existing Data Drive Seagate S380023AS Creating a Security Array with Quick Initialization Viewing FastTrak S150 TX4 Bios Screen Using FastBuild Configuration UtilityUsing the Main Menu Navigating the FastBuild Setup MenuOptimize Array for Creating Arrays AutomaticallyPerformance Security and Performance SecurityCreating Multiple Arrays Using a Hot Spare DriveViewing Drive Assignments Manually Creating an Array Selecting Stripe Block Selecting Array TypeAssigning Drives to Array Gigabyte BoundaryCreating a Striped Array Creating a Mirrored Array Using New DrivesAdding Fault Tolerance to an Existing Drive Drive Model Capacity MB How FastTrak S150 TX4 Orders Arrays Creating a Hot Spare Drive for Mirrored ArraysHow FastTrak S150 TX4 Saves Array Information Deleting an Array Array Stripe 160048 Rebuilding a Mirrored Array 80024 Page Procedure Number Installing Software DriversNew Windows XP Installation Confirming Windows XP Driver Installation Existing Windows XP InstallationNew Windows 2000 Installation Confirming Windows 2000 Driver Installation Existing Windows 2000 InstallationNew Windows ME Installation Confirming Windows ME Driver Installation Existing Windows ME InstallationNew Windows NT4.0 Installation Removing Driver from Windows NT4.0 Existing Windows NT4.0 InstallationNew Windows 98 Installation Confirming Windows 98 Driver Installation Existing Windows 98 InstallationPage About FastTrak S150 TX4 About Adapter BiosFastBuild Auto Menu Setup Disk Array ConceptsDisk Array Member RAID Level Performance Fault Capacity No. Tolerance DrivesDisk Array Terms Disk Array DescriptionStriping RAID About RAID LevelsData Mirror Disk Drives Mirroring RAIDStriping / Mirroring RAID 0+1 Failed Array Event Drives Status Why? About Dual Data RedundancyIntermittent data problems Troubleshooting & TipsMotherboard Issues Configuring PCI IRQ resourcesUsing an Onboard IDE Card with FastTrak S150 TX4 System Cmos IssuesSystem Cmos displays C or D drive failure during Startup Drive-Related ErrorsCritical Array Status Error Reported during Boot Drive cannot be formed into an arrayUnable to Partition or Format Array Cannot Rebuild Mirrored RAID 1 Array Promise Windows driver does not appear in Device Manager Operating System-Related IssuesTroubleshooting & Tips Optimize Array for Performance Performance TipsChange Setting of PCI Bus Utilization Page Pre-Installation Appendix a Frequently Asked QuestionsRAID 0 Stripe Drive IssuesRAID 1 Mirror Appendix a FAQs Post-Installation Installation IssuesEuropean Tech Support Technical Support ServicesAppendix B Technical Support USA Tech Support CenterChina Office Pacific Rim Sales OfficeDisclaimer of other warranties Limited WarrantyYour Responsibilities Returning Product for Repair

S150 specifications

Promise Technology S150 is an advanced storage solution designed to meet the data management needs of modern businesses. This high-performance storage appliance is characterized by its scalability, reliability, and user-friendly management interface, making it an optimal choice for organizations looking to optimize their data storage strategies.

One of the standout features of the S150 is its support for multiple RAID levels, including RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, and 10. This ensures that businesses can tailor their storage configurations based on their specific redundancy and performance requirements. The S150's software-defined storage capabilities provide flexibility in allocating resources, enabling organizations to manage their data efficiently and improve overall performance.

In terms of connectivity, the Promise S150 offers a range of options, including high-speed 10GbE and Fibre Channel interfaces. These technologies ensure that data transfer rates remain high, minimizing latency and allowing seamless access to applications and data. Additionally, the device supports hot-swappable drives, allowing users to replace or upgrade components without downtime, further enhancing productivity.

The management of the S150 is simplified through the Promise Management software, which provides intuitive controls and monitoring capabilities. Users can easily configure storage settings, monitor performance metrics, and maintain data integrity using the built-in tools. The software's graphical user interface makes it straightforward even for those without extensive IT experience, reducing the administrative burden on staff.

Another notable characteristic of the S150 is its robust security features. It provides options for data encryption both at rest and in transit, ensuring that sensitive information is protected against unauthorized access. Advanced user authentication protocols further enhance security, making it suitable for enterprises dealing with confidential data.

The S150 is also designed with energy efficiency in mind. Its intelligent cooling system and power management features help to reduce overall energy consumption, which is crucial for organizations looking to lower operational costs and reduce their environmental impact.

In summary, Promise Technology S150 stands out in the storage market due to its combination of scalability, versatility, and robust management features. With its support for multiple RAID configurations, high-speed connectivity options, intuitive management software, and strong security protocols, the S150 is well-equipped to support the data demands of businesses today and into the future. It represents a reliable and efficient solution for those looking to enhance their data storage infrastructure.
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