Chapter 4: Installing the HostRAID Controller and Disk Drives l 31

You have these connection options:

Connecting Directly to the HostRAID Controller (see below).

Connecting to a Backplane on page 31.

Connecting Directly to the HostRAID Controller

In a direct-attach connection, SAS or SATA disk drives are connected directly to a SAS HostRAID controller with SAS cables. The number of direct-attached disk drives is limited to four per internal SAS connector. For more information, see Direct-Attach Connections on page 61.

1Install your internal SAS or SATA disk drives, following the instructions in your system’s documentation.

2Use internal SAS cables to connect the disk drives to the SAS HostRAID controller.

SATA disk drives attached to controller with fan-out cable

External

SAS cable

External SAS connector

3When you have installed all disk drives and connected the to SAS HostRAID controller, close your computer cabinet, and reconnect the power cord.

Connecting to a Backplane

In a backplane connection, disk drives and SAS HostRAID controllers are connected to, and communicate with each other through a backplane.

The number of disk drives is limited to the number of slots available on the backplane. Some backplanes have embedded SAS expanders and can support up to 128 end devices. For more information about expander connections, see page 32.

1Connect one or more internal SAS or SATA disk drives to the backplane. Refer to your system’s documentation for more information.

2Use an internal SAS cable to connect the SAS HostRAID controller to the backplane.

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Image 31
Adaptec 1220SA, 58300, 44300, 48300, 1420SA, 1225SA Connecting Directly to the HostRAID Controller, Connecting to a Backplane

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.