Raid Controller Requiement for single disk install

[DarrenMul]

I have a requirement to test an application with a Windows Server OS on physical hardware to compare its performance when ran on a VM, with the view of purchasing a new BL460 G7 if performance was significently improved.

For a test, I removed one of our BL465c G7s from the ESX Cluster and purchased and installed a new 72 GB 15K SAS drive, but have since discovered these blades did not have Smart Array controllers installed, as they just booted from SD Card for ESX.

Is it possible to configure and run with a single Hard Drive without the presence of an Array controller??

Other BL465c 's in our chassis have got a P410i array controller. 

Thanks

Darren

[scharchouf]

you can do it, but if the hard drive fails, then how virtual machines will they work? 

there is a huge risk in the case of production, in a test environment that you could give false results because the controllers cards vary in data transfer according to the installed cache.

[DarrenMul]

Many thanks for your response.

Yes, I fully understand the risks involved in running with only 1 drive, but i am happy to continue for test purposes.

Is this something I can configure in the BIOS, or do I just have to format from another source before inserting into the BL465c?

Thanks

Darren

[scharchouf]

Yes please check under BIOS, Boot Order and Boot controller 

for Installation use USB Key

[Torsten.]

I think without the smart array the disk slots are just not connected to the system. You need the optional smart array controller, IMHO.

[scharchouf]

HP ProLiant BL465c G7 Server Blade - Standard Models

==> Smart Array P410i RAID controller with 1GB cache flash-backed write cache (FBWC)

it's integrated on motherBoard

check the joint PDF :)

[Torsten.]

HP ProLiant BL465c G7 Server Blade quickspec:

Smart Array P410i storage controller (available as an option in
factory integrated models)

http://h18000.www1.hp.com/products/quickspecs/13654_div/13654_div.pdf

It has spare part# 598256-001 - HP Smart Array P410i Controller and cache module capacitor pack

scharchouf, please read the question at the top again ;-)

[Jimmy Vance]

Torsten is correct, the Smart Array is an option on this model server and is not embedded on the system board.  It is included with some of the standard shipping models, but is an option for CTO/BTO builds