Appendix D: Using the Adaptec Flash Utility 118

7Complete the flash operation and restart your computer before trying to use the RAID controller again. (You can not use your RAID controller while you are updating its flash.)

The AFU processes the selected command, prompts you to insert additional floppy disks as needed, and reports either success or an error message code.

Running the AFU from the Command Line

Note: You can also run a menu-based AFU (see page 117).

To run the AFU from the command line:

1Shut down your operating system and reboot to DOS from a bootable DOS floppy disk or from a DOS partition on a bootable drive. (You can use a disk connected to the controller you’re updating.) If your computer isn’t set up to boot from the bootable floppy disk, enter the system setup utility to change the setting.

2Insert the firmware update disk containing AFU.exe

3At the DOS command, type AFU followed by a command (see page 118) and any switches you want.

Note: To find a controller number, type AFU LIST, then press Enter.

The AFU processes the command, prompts you to insert additional floppy disks as needed, exits, and reports either success or an error message code.

To update a RAID controller’s flash using the command line utility ARCCONF, see page 121.

AFU Commands

This section lists the available AFU commands.

List

Displays the AFU-supported RAID controllers installed on your computer. Also displays the ID numbers assigned to each controller.

You don’t have to restart the computer after completing this command.

This example shows a typical system response to a LIST command:

A:\> AFU LIST

Adaptec Flash Utility V4.0-0 B5749

(c)Adaptec Inc. 1999–2005. All Rights Reserved.

Controllers Detected and Recognized:

Controller #0 (03:05:00) Adaptec RAID 51645

Save

Saves the contents of a RAID controller’s flash in a UFI file. The name of the UFI file is based on the controller type and can’t be changed.

You must restart the computer following a SAVE command.

The command syntax for the SAVE command is

AFU SAVE [/C<Controller ID>] [/D <UFI File Path>]

Page 119
Image 119
Adaptec 2268300R manual Running the AFU from the Command Line, AFU Commands

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.