Selecting an Array

The first step in creating an individual logical drive from unconfigured capacity is to define an array. To define the array, you specify two parameters: RAID level and capacity.

Important: This dialog is available only when you are creating logical drives from the Unconfigured Capacity node. If you are creating a logical drive on an existing array using a Free Capacity node, this dialog is by-passed because the array (and its associated drives and RAID level) have already been specified. For a Free Capacity node, the only dialog that is displayed is the Specify Logical Drive Parameters dialog.

1 Specify the RAID level that will meet your data storage and protection requirements.

RAID level choices include RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 3, and RAID 5.
2 Select a method for defining the available drives to be used in the array.

Note: By default, the automatic method is selected.

Method Description and Action
Automatic
Description
Allows you to select from a list of array capacity choices as selected by the controller firmware.

A table displays array capacities, the number of drives that comprise the array, and whether or not the array has channel protection.

Note: Your choice of RAID level affects the capacities of the listed arrays.
Action
1. Select one array and then select Next to go to the Specify Logical Drive Parameters dialog.
Manual
Description
Important: This option should only be used by experts who understand the concepts of drive redundancy and optimal drive configurations.

Allows you to select which specific drives comprise the array. A table displays drive location information and individual drive capacities.

Note: Your choice of RAID level affects the resulting capacity of the array.
Action
1 Select the number of drives you want to include in the array and then select Apply.

Result: The area next to the Apply button displays the corresponding array capacity and whether the array has channel protection.

Important: If you do not select the appropriate number of drives for the chosen RAID level, an error message is displayed. Change your drive selections and select Apply again.
2 Select Next to go to the Specify Logical Drive Parameters dialog.