
DataDirect Networks EF2800 FC RAID Storage System User Guide (V 1.0)
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Array Basics
EF2800 RAID controllers let you set up and manage disk arrays. A disk
array (array) is a group of disks that appears to the system as a single
virtual disk. This is accomplished through software resident in the
RAID controller. RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) refers
to disk arrays in which part of the array storage capacity may be used
to store redundant information. The redundant information lets you
restore user data if a disk in the array fails.
The host system views the EF2800 system as a single FC disk drive. It
is actually an array of physical disks behind a RAID controller. The
EF2800 system is managed by software to appear as a single, very large
physical disk. Depending on the array type, the virtual disk has
advantages in fault-tolerance, cost, performance, or a combination of
these. This section explains the different array types and the disk
requirements for each type.
Tip: Choosing the right RAID level for your needs will improve
performance. The following are examples of storage needs and
appropriate RAID level. EF2800 RAID controllers also provide methods
of tracking statistical data to aid in the process.
Figure 75 shows some example applications and RAID levels.
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Figure 75. RAID Levels and Example Applications
RAID Level Application
Volume Testing multiple operating systems or software development
(where redundancy is not an issue)
RAID 0 Fast temporary storage or scratch disks for graphics, page
layout, and image rendering
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