Hello,
First let me appologize for my lack of knowledge on RAID Systems. I know enough to get by, as I have had to take over our small server as part of downsizing (not part of my normal daily routine).
The problem we are facing is inadequate storage. We have a Dell System that has 5 slots for Hot-Swapable SCSI drives which contain 4 36GB drives in a RAID and the 5th slot contains a 76GB drive for backups. The 4 drives are then partioned off approximately 10GB for the OS, and 60GB for the Storage (D Drive). I am exploring upgrade options, one of which would utilize what we have with no additional purchase. After talking to DELL support, i realize a few options i have, but wanted to run this by someone not at Dell.
According to the DELL rep, if i were to introduce a larger hard-drive into the RAID system, only 36GB would be used. (and even if all 4 were switched, it would still use 36GB unless i redid the RAID setup). However, he said that the space not used for RAID, could be used for storage.
If i were to (is it possible) introduce the 76GB drive into the RAID (all 5 drives used), i am assuming this would provide the overall RAID with an additional 36GB, which would equate to 18GB additional usable space? Leaving 36GB Non-RAID for other storage? Which partiton would get the additional space?--Is this something configured upon introducing the new drive to the RAID?
Another option i have is to replace the 4 drives with bigger drives, leaving the 36's unused unless i buy a "PowerVault" -- Dell charges about $2,500 just for this vault, which is high for our company/situation. Any other options / hardware that can be setup to use these drives?
Thank you for your time.
hb
Start Free Trial
