Chapter 5: RAID support

5

 

RAID support

 

5.1RAID configurations

This motherboard supports Intel® Rapid Storage Technology with RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 10 and RAID 5 support.

If you want to install a Windows® operating system to a hard disk drive included in a RAID set, you have to create a RAID driver disk and load the RAID driver during OS installation. Refer to section 5.2 Creating a RAID driver disk for details.

5.1.1RAID definitions

RAID 0 (Data striping) optimizes two identical hard disk drives to read and write data in parallel, interleaved stacks. Two hard disks perform the same work as a single drive but at a sustained data transfer rate, double that of a single disk alone, thus improving data access and storage. Use of two new identical hard disk drives is required for this setup.

RAID 1 (Data mirroring) copies and maintains an identical image of data from one drive to a second drive. If one drive fails, the disk array management software directs all applications to the surviving drive as it contains a complete copy of the data in the other drive. This RAID configuration provides data protection and increases fault tolerance to the entire system. Use two new drives or use an existing drive and a new drive for this setup. The new drive must be of the same size or larger than the existing drive.

RAID 5 stripes both data and parity information across three or more hard disk drives. Among the advantages of RAID 5 configuration include better HDD performance, fault tolerance, and higher storage capacity. The RAID 5 configuration is best suited for transaction processing, relational database applications, enterprise resource planning, and other business systems. Use a minimum of three identical hard disk drives for this setup.

RAID 10 is data striping and data mirroring combined without parity (redundancy data) having to be calculated and written. With the RAID 10 configuration you get all the benefits of both RAID 0 and RAID 1 configurations. Use four new hard disk drives or use an existing drive and three new drives for this setup.

Chapter 5

ASUS Z87-WS

5-1

Page 158 Page 160
Page 159
Image 159
Asus 90SB0390M0AAY0, Z87WS, Z87C, Z87-WS manual RAID configurations, RAID definitions
Page 158 Page 160

Z87-WS, 90SB0390M0AAY0, Z87WS, Z87C specifications

Asus, a leading player in the technology marketplace, has designed a range of motherboards catering to various user needs. The Asus Z87C and Z87WS exemplify innovation with their feature sets and performance capabilities, appealing to both gamers and professionals alike.

The Asus Z87C motherboard is built upon the Intel Z87 chipset, which supports the latest 4th generation Intel Core processors. Its dual-channel DDR3 memory enables support for up to 32GB RAM, ensuring high performance and multitasking capabilities. This board is designed with three PCIe 3.0 slots, allowing for multiple graphics cards, thus enhancing the gaming and graphic rendering experience. The addition of SATA 3 and USB 3.0 ports provides fast data transfer rates, which is essential for modern storage solutions.

Furthermore, the Z87C incorporates the Asus exclusive DIGI+ VRM technology, which enhances power delivery and thermal performance, ensuring stability during intense operations. With its AI Suite, users have access to various tuning and monitoring features, enabling easy system overclocking and resource management.

On the other hand, the Asus Z87WS is engineered with professional users in mind, particularly in workstations that require higher processing power and reliability. This motherboard supports Intel's Xeon processors and advanced graphics configurations, making it suitable for demanding applications in fields such as CAD and digital content creation.

The Z87WS boasts an impressive feature set, including dual Intel LAN ports for enhanced network performance and redundancy. It also comes equipped with a Thunderbolt header for lightning-fast connectivity with compatible devices. Like the Z87C, the Z87WS leverages digital power design that assures voltage stability and efficiency.

Both motherboards come with robust audio systems courtesy of the Realtek ALC892/1150 codec, ensuring an immersive audio experience. Additionally, they feature a comprehensive BIOS that provides all the necessary tools for system customization, ranging from memory tweaks to fan speed controls.

Overall, the Asus Z87C and Z87WS are manifestations of cutting-edge technology and engineering, tailored to provide high performance, stability, and flexibility for both gamers and professionals in demanding environments. Each model emphasizes reliability and advanced features, making them suitable choices for users seeking outstanding computing performance.
Top Page Image Contents