HP ProLiant 800 SMART-2DH Array Controller Reference Guide - Page 14

1-3 Drive Arrays Drive array technology distributes data across a series of hard drives to unite these physical drives into one or more higher performance logical drives. Distributing the data makes it possible to access data concurrently from multiple drives in the array, yielding I/O rates faster than non-arrayed drives. Each logical drive in the array may be set to a different fault tolerant configuration. The SMART-2DH Array Controller manages the drive array independent of the host processor. There may be several possible ways to configure each set of hardware. The Array Configuration Utility is used to help you configure the hardware in the way that best suits your needs. CAUTION: It is recommended that any time you move drive arrays or change your configuration you should back up data. See Appendix D for more information on drive arrays. See Chapter 5, "Running the Array Configuration Utility," for information on configuring your drive arrays using the Compaq Array Configuration Utility. Fault Tolerance Fault tolerance refers to several possible methods used to protect data from being lost in the event of a hardware failure somewhere in the storage system. Each method has its advantages, so choosing one requires careful planning for your particular requirements. The fault tolerance methods supported by the SMART-2DH Array Controller and the Compaq Array Configuration Utility include: s Distributed data guarding (RAID 5) s Data guarding (RAID 4) s Drive mirroring (RAID 1) s No fault tolerance (RAID 0) SMART-2DH Array Controller Reference Guide Writer: Pamela King Project: SMART-2DH Array Controller Reference Guide Comments: 295469-002 File Name: B-CH01.DOC Last Saved On: 2/27/98 11:23 AM COMPAQ CONFIDENTIAL - NEED TO KNOW REQUIRED