Troubleshooting RAID Controller Modules

Conditions

Certain events can cause a RAID controller module to fail and/or shut down. Unrecoverable ECC memory or PCI errors, or critical physical conditions can cause lockdown. If your RAID storage array is configured for redundant access and cache mirroring, the surviving controller can normally recover without data loss or shutdown.

Typical hard controller failures are detailed in the following sections.

Invalid Storage Array

The RAID controller module is supported only in a Dell-supported storage array. Upon installation in the storage array, the controller performs a set of validation checks. The array status LED is lit with a steady amber color while the RAID controller module completes these initial tests and the controllers are booted successfully. If the RAID controller module detects a non-Dell supported storage array, the controller aborts startup. The RAID controller module does not generate any events to alert you in the event of an invalid array, but the array status LED is lit with a flashing amber color to indicate a fault state.

For full details on the LEDs and their interpretation, see "Back-Panel Features and Indicators" on page 27.

ECC Errors

RAID controller firmware can detect ECC errors and can recover from a single-bit ECC error irrespective of the RAID controller module configuration. A storage array with redundant controllers can recover from multi-bit ECC errors as well because the peer RAID controller module can take over, if necessary.

The RAID controller module failsover if it experiences up to 10 single-bit errors, or up to three multi-bit errors.

Troubleshooting: Your Array

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Dell MD3600I, MD3620I owner manual Conditions, Invalid Storage Array, ECC Errors, 271