Replace disk to increase capacity of RAID 6

[FedericoCoppola]

Hi All,
I need to increase capacity of a server.
The server model is ProLiant DL360 Gen10 with just four slot for hard drive.
At the moment all slots are busy with 900GB  drive using RAID 6.

The RAID controller is "HPE Smart Array P408i-a SR Gen10".
Is it possible to replace one disk at a time to increase the capacity of the raid?
Can this controller manage this stuff?

After that, is possible expand RAID volume?

Thanks so much!

Federico

[Torsten.]

Yes, this is possible.

[FedericoCoppola]

Thanks so much for your reply.

How can I know if my RAID controller can do it?

Thanks
Federico

[Jimmy Vance]

Yes this can be done using the server and controller you have listed.  You will need to weigh the time and effort of expanding the array vs yank and rebuild from scratch.

To expand the array, you will need to replace each drive individually and wait for it to finish rebuildong each drvie in teh current array configuration. Once this is complete, you then exapnd the array in SSA to reclaim the new extra unused space. Once this is complete you then use tools in the OS to expand tthe OS partitions, or create new partitions with the unused space.

Anytime your going to change or modify a controller or disks, make sure you have a valid data backup

[FedericoCoppola]

Hi @Jimmy Vance,

Thanks for your confirm about this task.
I can not rebuild the raid from zero due to it is production server.
 I will keep all steps that you suggested!

Thanks
Federico

[Torsten.]

It may take several days but it will work.

[FedericoCoppola]

Very good, thanks!

Federico

[DougFiore]

Did this work for you? 

[Il_Le]

I have the same server and controller. I'm just prepaping for the replacement, so haven't anything done yet. When I check the SSA options, I can't see any 'expand logical drive' there. Is it hidden yet?

[Vinky_99]

@Il_Le

Good day!

You may consider the below instructions:

>> Ensure that your RAID controller's firmware and the related drivers are up-to-date.

>> Depending on the version of the SSA software you're using, the option to expand the logical drive might be within an advanced configuration menu or under a different name. Look for terms like "Array Configuration" or "Array Management" within the SSA interface.

>> The SSA interface typically has built-in help or documentation that can guide you through various tasks. Check if there's any information on expanding logical drives in the help section.

>> If you're unable to find the option to expand the logical drive in the SSA interface, you might consider reaching out to HPE support. They can provide guidance based on the specific version of the controller firmware and SSA software you're using.

>> Look for online resources, guides, or videos specifically related to expanding logical drives on the HPE Smart Array P408i-a SR Gen10 controller.

Hope this give some insights! Let me know