Questions and Answers
Compaq Smart Array 5300 Controller User Guide
H-3
COMPAQ CONFIDENTIAL
Writer: John Turner File Name: r-apph questions and answers.doc
Codename: SilverHammer Part Number: 135606-004 Last Saved On: 5/23/02 9:55 AM
Q:
I am planning to install several hard drives in my Compaq servers. Can I
install each drive in any drive bay?
A:
Yes, you may install these drives in any drive bay; they do not need to be
installed in contiguous bays.
Q:
I ordered my server with a pre-installed Smart Array controller. How do I
order cables to connect to my Compaq external storage enclosure?
A:
The required cable is supplied with the external storage enclosure. If you lose or
misplace an external cable, see the cable information in this guide, or refer to the
cable guide on the Compaq website for a complete listing of correct cables for your
array controller and enclosure.
Q:
I do not have any hard drives in my server, but I am connecting it to a
Compaq StorageWorks Enclosure 4300, which has several hard drives. Which
SCSI port do I use?
A:
If you have
no
hard drives installed in your server, you can connect the
StorageWorks Enclosure 4300 to either of the available external ports (SCSI
connectors).
If your server has hard drives installed, you must connect the StorageWorks
Enclosure 4300 to the unused port on the controller. You cannot connect devices to
both the internal and external connectors of the same port.
Q:
How do I interpret a POST error message referring to the Smart Array
Controller?
A:
Write down the POST error message and refer to Appendix G, “POST Error
Messages,” for detailed information. If you still do not know what to do, run the
Array Diagnostics Utility.
Q:
Can I use third-party drives (those not manufactured by Compaq) on the
Smart Array controller?
A:
Yes. However, experience in Compaq testing laboratories reveals that you might
have problems such as time-outs or data corruption. The Smart Array controller takes
full advantage of tagged-command queuing, something that can be a problem in the
firmware of many third party drives.