topic Re: Adding disk to array with P400i controller in ProLiant Servers (ML,DL,SL)

Adding disk to array with P400i controller

Evelyn Daroga — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 13:34:44 GMT

I have a DL360-G5 server with a P400i array controller.
The server has 4 disk bays, 3 of which comprise a single logical disk, and thus a single array. I have added a 4th disk, and want to extend the array to include the new disk. In the HP Array Configuration Utility, I can see the new disk in Bay 4. However, when I select the array that I want to extend, the wizard presents no option for extending. The only options are: Controller Settings, Delete Logical Drive, Clear Configuration, and Create an Array. When I right-click on the array I want to extend, the options are: Spare Management, Delete, and More Information.

In researching this problem, I believe my choices are:
1. backup the entire server; delete the existing array; build a new array to include all 4 disks; restore the server to the new array; OR:

2. upgrade the server with a Battery-backed Write Cache kit, which would include:
417836-B21 – Battery attach kit
Plus one of the following:
383280-B21 – Battery-backed write cache upgrade
405148-B21 – 512Mb Battery-backed write cache upgrade

Questions –
1. I’m assuming the upgrade would be required, based on the problem I’m having. How can I confirm that this server does NOT already have the battery-backed write cache installed?

2. Assuming the upgrade is indeed required, what would be the impact if I purchased the 3832380-B21 as opposed to the 405148-B21 cache upgrade?

3. Is there anything else I may need to purchase or download?

4. Are there any other options besides what I’ve outlined?

Thanks!

Re: Adding disk to array with P400i controller

asqwq — Sat, 01 Aug 2009 11:37:31 GMT

hi
you can use acu and then expand your array

Re: Adding disk to array with P400i controller

Oskar Teran — Sat, 01 Aug 2009 19:37:02 GMT

I'd suggest booting the server with the correct smartstart CD and using the ACU (array configuration utility) to make the necessary changes.

IMHO, this is the simplest, most reliable way to do this.

Oskar

Re: Adding disk to array with P400i controller

Dhanesh Amirthalingam — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 05:45:33 GMT

Hi Evelyn Daroga,

They are two way to reach the ACU

1.using smart start cd...
2.After os installation completd install the PSP and go to ACU

Supported array controller details given below

NOTE: If High Performance Model features are desired, Storage Controller is
included in the Performance Pack part numbers in Step 3 below.
HP E200i Controller FIO
NOTE: If selected, must choose one of the two cache modules below.
399548-B21
HP Smart Array E200 64MB FIO Cache
NOTE: Supports Smart Array E200 Controller only.
405102-B21
128MB Battery-Backed Write Cache with Battery Housing
NOTE: Supports Smart Array E200i Controller.
346914-B21
Smart Array P400i controller for DL360 G5
NOTE: If selected, must choose one of the two cache modules below.
413741-B21
HP Smart Array P400 256MB Cache FIO
NOTE: Supports Smart Array P400 Controller and Smart Array P400i Controller only.
405139-B21
512MB Battery-backed cache upgrade
NOTE: Supports Smart Array P400 Controller and Smart Array P400i Controller only.
405148-B21
HP Smart Array P600/256 BBWC Controller
NOTE: Requires PCI-X Riser option (PN 405154-B21).
NOTE: Requires HP SAS 4i to Mini SAS 4i 31 inch/.79 meter cable (PN 411100-
B21).
337972-B21
HP Smart Array 6402/512 FIO Controller 441508-B21
HP Smart Array 6404/512 FIO CNTRLR 452240-B21
NOTE: If High Performance Model features are desired, Storage Controller is
included in the Performance Pack part numbers in Step 3 below.

you need to update the driversin the given below link

http://h20000.www2.hp.com/bizsupport/TechSupport/SoftwareIndex.jsp?lang=en&cc=us&prodNameId=3288144&prodTypeId=15351&prodSeriesId=1121486&swLang=8&taskId=135&swEnvOID=1005

Re: Adding disk to array with P400i controller

Pieter 't Hart — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 07:41:26 GMT

1. Iâ m assuming the upgrade would be required, based on the problem Iâ m having. How can I confirm that this server does NOT already have the battery-backed write cache installed?
=> in the controller setting you should be able to change cache read/write ratio if battery is allready present.
alternatively you can open the case and see if the battery is allready present.

2. Assuming the upgrade is indeed required, what would be the impact if I purchased the 3832380-B21 as opposed to the 405148-B21 cache upgrade?
=> the first option only adds the battery with the standard ammount of cache; as the second adds more cache, so more performance improvement can(/will) be achieved.

4. Are there any other options besides what Iâ ve outlined?
=> older firmware may have no option to extend the array.
==>> check if you got the latest firmware + ACU.

Re: Adding disk to array with P400i controller

Evelyn Daroga — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 13:06:12 GMT

To asqwq, Oskar Teran, and Dhanesh:

Iâ m not having trouble getting into the ACU. Itâ s in the ACU that I can see the disk I want to add, and the array I want to add it to. The problem is there is no option in there to Expand the array.

To Dhanesh:
Thanks for the detailed list of components. Some of your part numbers are different from what I found â probably more current. Iâ ll use those if I end up ordering.
Also, your link was extremely helpful in locating firmware and drivers.

To Pieter â t Hart:
1. I am unable to change the cache read/write ratio in the ACU, which seems to confirm that I indeed do not have the required battery option. Pysically opening the case would be a challenge â itâ s not easily accessible. I would do it only as a last resort.

2. Thanks for the clarification on the difference between the two cache upgrades. Itâ s what I thought.

3.Iâ ll check for the latest firmware. Good suggestion â thanks

-- Thanks to all for replying.