Intel RAID Basic Troubleshooting Guide

Intel® RAID Basic Troubleshooting Guide Tips and Tricks
Revision 2.0
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3. Tips and Tricks
3.1 Setup Tips
 Check cables for proper connection.
 Verify that all the cable ends are properly seated and the pins are not bent.
 Verify that an approved cable is used. Cables must be speed compatible and meet
signal integrity specifications.
Note: SATA cables are designed to connect directly from the RAID controller to the hard drive
or drive enclosure.
3.2 Debug Tips
 Improvements in RAID controller and hard drive communication and control are
frequently incorporated into updated versions of RAID controller and hard drive firmware.
It is generally recommended to review the release notes for firmware updates and apply
the updates as warranted.
 Review firmware updates for the server board and backplane and apply as warranted.
 Drives with grown defects may not reflect a failing drive, but if the number of grown
defects is large or the number is increasing, the drive may be in the process of failing.
The drive should be replaced.
 Drives with bad block redirections may not reflect a failing drive, but if the number of
redirections is large in number or the number is increasing, the drive may in the process
of failing. The drive should be replaced.
 Parity errors in a log may indicate a failing controller, failing drive, or a controller memory
issue. Replace the controller and / or hard drive. Some RAID controllers include a DIMM
site; verify that the memory in the DIMM site is listed on the RAID controller’s tested
memory list. If errors persist, try changing the memory module or the RAID controller.
 Write compare errors indicate a failing controller or failing drive. Replace the controller
and / or hard drive.
 Do not re-use a failed drive.