Chapter 1: About This Guide l 12

What You Need to Know Before You Begin

You should be familiar with computer hardware, data storage, Redundant Array of Independent Disks (RAID) technology, and the characteristics of input/output (I/O) technology used by your HostRAID controller. Because SAS is a newer I/O technology, an introduction is provided in the Appendix A.

Note: Because this guide covers multiple Adaptec HostRAID controllers, some of the features and functions described may not be available for your controller.

Terminology Used in this Guide

Because you can use your HostRAID controller to manage data storage in a variety of configurations from DAS to NAS to SAN, the generic term “storage space is used to refer to controllers and disk drives being managed with Adaptec Storage ManagerTM or the other utilities described in this Guide.

Many of the terms and concepts referred to in this Guide have multiple names. To maintain consistency, they are represented as:

●Controller (also known as host bus adapter, board)

●Disk drive (also known as hard disk, hard drive, or hard disk drive)

●Array (also known as logical drive)

Note: In DAS environments, Adaptec Storage Manager User’s Guide refers to arrays as logical drives. Your RAID controller creates arrays, which your operating system and Adaptec Storage Manager recognizes as logical drives. In NAS environments, Adaptec Storage Manager displays both arrays and logical drives. For more information, refer to the Adaptec Storage Manager User's Guide for Direct Attached Storage on the Adaptec Storage Manager Installation CD.

Conventions Used in This Guide

In this documentation, the term SAS-only means that the requirement, feature, or procedure is applicable only to SAS HostRAID controllers.

The term SATA-only means that the requirement, feature, or procedure is applicable only to SATA HostRAID controllers.

How to Find More Information

You can find more information about your HostRAID controller, and the software and utilities included with it in these documents:

●Readme.txt—Describes details about updated product information and known issues; located on the HostRAID Installation CD.

●Adaptec Storage Manager User’s Guide—Describes how to install and use the Adaptec Storage Manager software located on the Adaptec Storage Manager Installation CD. See Managing Your Storage Space on page 50 for more information.

●Adaptec Storage Manager online Help—Describes how to use the Adaptec Storage Manager software.

●Command Line Utility for Direct Attached Storage User’s Guide—Describes how to use the Adaptec HostRAID Controller Configuration (HRCONF) command line utility to

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Adaptec 1225SA What You Need to Know Before You Begin, Terminology Used in this Guide, Conventions Used in This Guide
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1430SA, 1225SA, 1420SA, 1220SA, 48300 specifications

Adaptec, a prominent name in the world of storage solutions, offers a diverse array of RAID controller cards aimed at enhancing data storage and management in both consumer and enterprise markets. Among its acclaimed products are the Adaptec 1220SA, 1430SA, 44300, 1225SA, and 1420SA. These cards ensure increased data protection, improved performance, and greater scalability.

The Adaptec 1220SA is a robust SATA RAID controller designed for small to medium-sized businesses. It supports RAID levels 0, 1, 1E, 5, and 10, providing flexibility for users to optimize data redundancy and performance. With the capability of handling up to four SATA drives, it guarantees an efficient and reliable setup while minimizing potential data loss. The controller also features an intuitive web-based management interface, making it easier to administer and configure.

The Adaptec 1430SA extends similar functionality with enhanced features. It is designed to accommodate up to eight SATA drives and supports the latest 3 Gbps SATA technology. This model includes optional battery backup for preserving critical data during unexpected power outages, ensuring that users maintain data integrity and protection at all times.

In the enterprise domain, the Adaptec 44300 shines as a high-performance RAID controller. It offers support for 12 SATA drives, which allows for expansive storage scalability, crucial for data-intensive applications. The advanced RAID features include support for RAID 6, providing dual parity data protection. The controller is built with a powerful processor and memory, allowing for faster data processing and enhanced throughput.

The Adaptec 1225SA is another noteworthy model. Designed for entry-level RAID applications, it offers a balanced combination of performance and reliability. Supporting up to four SATA drives, the 1225SA is particularly well-suited for environments where uptime is critical, delivering functionalities such as hot-swapping. This feature allows users to replace failed drives without shutting down the system, significantly reducing downtime.

Lastly, the Adaptec 1420SA caters to users who require a cost-effective but reliable storage solution. With support for RAID 0, 1, and JBOD, it is a versatile option for enthusiasts and small businesses. The controller can manage up to two SATA drives, making it ideal for basic applications where simplicity and efficiency are paramount.

Collectively, these Adaptec controllers showcase cutting-edge RAID technology and storage management features, reinforcing their position as reliable options for users ranging from home users to enterprise-level organizations seeking optimal data storage solutions.
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