5
Installing the Controller and Disk Drives
This chapter explains how to install your Microsemi Adaptec RAID controller, and how to install and connect
internal and external disk drives.
5.1
Before You Begin
• Read
Safety Informationsafety information
• Familiarize yourself with your RAID controller's physical features and the RAID levels that it supports
(see
Standard RAID Controller FeaturesRAID controllers controllerscontrollers standard features
• Ensure you have the right number of disk drives for the RAID level you want to use for your arrays (see
Selecting Disk Drives and Cables controllers disk drivesdisk drives
).
• If you are installing the RAID controller into a low-profile computer cabinet, replace the original
full-height bracket with the low-profile bracket included in the kit (see
Replacing the Full-Height Bracket
5.2
Installing the Controller
This section describes how to install the RAID controller into your computer cabinet. Microsemi Adaptec
RAID controllers come in two basic configurations: standard and zero maintenance cache protection with
batteryless backup (ZMCP). ZMCP uses flash memory and a supercapacitor module to protect the cache
without a battery.
Follow one of these sets of instructions:
• To install a Microsemi Adaptec RAID controller without zero maintenance cache protection, see the
next section.
• To install a Microsemi Adaptec RAID controller with zero maintenance cache protection, see
.
Caution: Be sure to handle the controller by its bracket or edges only.
5.2.1
Installing a RAID Controller without Zero Maintenance Cache Protection
To install a Microsemi Adaptec RAID controller without zero maintenance cache protection:
1. Turn off your computer and disconnect the power cord. Open the cabinet, following the manufacturer's
instructions.
2. Select an available PCIe expansion slot that's compatible with your RAID controller and remove the slot
cover, as shown below. (PCIe bus compatibility is marked to the controller figures in
Controllercontrollers figurescontrollers descriptions
.)
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Microsemi Proprietary and Confidential. Installation and User's Guide Revision 5
Installing the Controller and Disk Drives