LACIE 5BIG THUNDERBOLT 2 USER MANUAL Click here to access an up-to-date online version of this document. You will find the most recent content as well as expandable illustrations, easier navigation, and search capability.
INTRODUCTION WHAT IS IN THIS MANUAL Welcome to the User Manual for the LaCie 5big Thunderbolt™1) 2. The LaCie 5big is a desktop direct-attached storage, or DAS.
MINIMUM SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS Client types ■ ■ Mac OS X 10.9 and later A computer that supports Thunderbolt 2 technology or first generation Thunderbolt technology. To take advantage of the higher performance offered by Thunderbolt 2 technology, your computer must have a Thunderbolt 2 technology port (see LaCie 5big Thunderbolt 2: Advanced Storage Technology). Important info: Your LaCie product's performance can be affected by such external forces as type of cable, hardware, distance, and setup.
LACIE 5BIG THUNDERBOLT 2: ADVANCED STORAGE TECHNOLOGY THUNDERBOLT 2 TECHNOLOGY The LaCie 5big Thunderbolt 2 uses Thunderbolt 2 technology, the fastest, most versatile connection for your computer. While first generation Thunderbolt technology transfer rates are 10Gb/s bi-directional, Thunderbolt 2 technology provides 20Gb/s bi-directional. Additionally, Thunderbolt 2 technology gives priority to the video stream, apportioning the required bandwidth for playback.
LaCie 5big Thunderbolt 2 technology: hardware RAID for protection and performance Featuring hardware RAID, the LaCie 5big is a rarity in the world of high-end DAS. While most DAS must choose between high transfer rates or data protection, the LaCie 5big offers both extraordinary performance and built-in protection.
SYSTEM OVERVIEW The LaCie 5big Thunderbolt 2 is a desktop hard drive enclosure that houses up to five 3.5-inch hard drives. Enclosures shipped with hard drives feature high-performance Seagate Desktop HDD. In case of hard drive failure or, the need to expand storage capacity, each individual hard drive is hot-swappable and field replaceable. New or replacement hard drives must meet the following requirements: ■ ■ ■ SATA I or higher 3.
Temperature ranges Ambient environment Temperature range Standard (operating) +5ºC to +40ºC Storage (non-operating) -20ºC to +60ºC Humidity Environment Humidity range Standard (operating) 10% to 60% non-condensing Storage (non-operating) 5% to 85% non-condensing Electrical Power supply: 100-240VAC; 50/60Hz; 150W Note on the power supply: The included power supply is meant for use with the LaCie 5big Thunderbolt 2. It is not compatible with other models of the LaCie 5big enclosure.
VIEWS Front panel view 1. Status LED/power button: The LED indicates that the device is powered on and provides status signals (see System LEDs). It is also the power button. A short push will spin down the LaCie 5big’s hard drives and place the system into idle mode. A long push is for emergency use only since it cuts power to the system without spinning the hard drives down. See Operation for more details. For details on LED behavior. See System LEDs.
Rear panel view 1. Hard drive status LEDs: Indicates hard drive activity and health (see System LEDs). 2. Swappable hard drive trays: Hard drive trays can be unlocked and removed to replace failed hard drives. The LaCie 5big storage is hot-swappable. 3. Cable management clasp port: Connect the included cable management clasp to this port. 4. Power input: Insert the AC adapter supplied with the LaCie 5big. See Setting Up. 5. Thunderbolt 2 ports: The ports are not preconfigured with specific roles.
SYSTEM LEDS The LaCie 5big Thunderbolt 2 LEDs provide information on the system status. Review the illustrations below for the LED locations on the chassis. FRONT 1.
REAR 1.
LED BEHAVIOR General LED behavior The list of colors below will help you identify the general status of your LaCie 5big: Color State Solid blue Ready Slow blinking blue Idle mode Fast blinking blue Startup and shutdown Blinking red and blue RAID synchronization Blinking red Warning Solid red Error LaCie 5big Thunderbolt 2 User Manual 12
Status and disk LEDs The status and disk LEDs work together to provide up-to-date details on your LaCie 5big’s health. Status LED Behavior Disk LEDs Behavior State Fast blinking blue Blinking blue Startup and shutdown Slow blinking blue Off Disks have spun down and the Thunderbolt 2 ports are in idle mode, allowing for daisy chain Solid blue Solid blue The DAS is ready. Solid blue Blinking blue for working disks The hard drives are being accessed (read/write).
CABLES AND CONNECTORS THUNDERBOLT Your LaCie product features Thunderbolt 2 technology, the most flexible interface ever created. When connected to a computer that supports Thunderbolt 2 technology, your LaCie device can reach up to 20Gb/s, bi-directional, on a single port, the fastest data connection available on a personal computer. You can also use Thunderbolt 2 technology storage devices with computers that support first generation Thunderbolt.
CABLE MANAGEMENT This product includes a cable lock, a small plastic clasp that prevents cords from accidentally disconnecting. Important Info: It is impossible to disconnect the cable lock without destroying it. To use the cable lock: 1. 2. 3. 4. Insert the clasp's locking head into the lock slot. Make sure that the interface cable is connected to the product. String the interface cable through the open cable lock gate. Close and snap in place the cable lock gate.
SETTING UP The LaCie 5big Thunderbolt 2 is shipped with the following installation components: ■ ■ ■ LaCie 5big Thunderbolt 2 Power supply cable Thunderbolt cable The instructions below are also available on the Quick Install Guide included with the LaCie 5big. STEP 1 - DOWNLOAD AND INSTALL LACIE RAID MANAGER LaCie RAID Manager is the software utility that manages the LaCie 5big’s storage. Before connecting the enclosure to your computer, download the installer for LaCie RAID Manager.
STEP 2 - THUNDERBOLT 2 CONNECTION Connect the included Thunderbolt cable to: 1. The LaCie 5big 2. The computer Note on a Thunderbolt daisy chain: You can also connect a second Thunderbolt cable to daisy chain compatible devices to the LaCie 5big. A Thunderbolt daisy chain supports up to seven devices, including the computer. See Daisy Chain for further information.
STEP 3 - POWER CONNECTION Connect the power supply in the following order: 1. The LaCie 5big power input 2.
STEP 4 - POWER BUTTON Apply a short press to the front LED button to power on the LaCie 5big. Note:Make certain that the LaCie 5big is connected to a computer that is powered on. The computer must also support Thunderbolt 2 technology or first generation Thunderbolt technology.
LACIE 5BIG STORAGE The LaCie 5big storage is ready for use. It is: ■ ■ Formatted HFS+ for Mac Configured as RAID 5 (see RAID. You can manage and configure the LaCie 5big storage using LaCie RAID Manager. See the LaCie RAID Manager User Manual for instructions.
OPERATION STARTING THE LACIE 5BIG THUNDERBOLT 2 Caution: Do not operate the LaCie 5big until the ambient temperature is within the specified temperature range (see System Overview). If the hard drives have been recently installed, make sure they have had time to acclimatize before operating them. The LaCie 5big is ready to be powered on when: ■ ■ It is connected to a computer that supports Thunderbolt 2 technology or first generation Thunderbolt technology. It is plugged into a live power outlet.
The LEDs blink blue while the disks spin up. You can start using the storage once all LEDs are solid blue. POWERING OFF THE LACIE 5BIG HARD DRIVES: IDLE MODE 1. 2. 3. 4. Make certain that the LaCie 5big is not in use and that there are no active transfers. Eject the LaCie 5big volumes from your computer. Apply a short push on the power button. See the explanation below regarding a short push and a long push. The status LED will blink slowly while the disk LEDs turn off.
Important info: LaCie does not recommend applying a long push to power off the enclosure. See the note for long push below. Short push Important info: Always eject the LaCie 5big volumes from your computer before applying a short push. A short push is a manual depression on the LED power button that lasts no longer than one second. When the product is operating, a short push will spin down the hard drives within the enclosure. The Thunderbolt 2 ports remain active and are available for daisy chaining.
POSITION AND STACKING Always make certain to place the LaCie 5big on a flat, even surface designed to support the heat output and airflow of a professional hard disk enclosure. For proper heat dissipation, the LaCie 5big is designed to stand on its rubber feet, situated on the bottom of the enclosure. DO NOT place the enclosure on its side when it is powered on. When using multiple enclosures, you can stack one LaCie 5big Thunderbolt 2 on top of another LaCie 5big Thunderbolt 2.
DAISY CHAIN Use the enclosure's two Thunderbolt 2 technology ports for: ■ ■ Direct connection to a computer that is compatible with Thunderbolt 2 technology or first generation Thunderbolt technology. Daisy chaining with devices and displays that are compatible with Thunderbolt 2 technology and first generation Thunderbolt technology DAISY CHAIN: THUNDERBOLT 2 TECHNOLOGY AND FIRST GENERATION THUNDERBOLT TECHNOLOGY Thunderbolt 2 technology is an update of first generation Thunderbolt technology.
How to daisy chain Connect the cable to one of the interface ports on the back of the LaCie 5big and to your computer. The additional port may be used to daisy chain compatible first generation Thunderbolt and Thunderbolt 2 peripherals, such as hard drives and monitors. If you have another Thunderbolt 2 storage device, make certain to connect it to the LaCie 5big before adding first generation Thunderbolt technology devices and/or displays.
SOFTWARE The storage for the LaCie 5big Thunderbolt 2 is managed by LaCie RAID Manager. Use LaCie RAID Manager to: ■ ■ ■ ■ Configure RAID Check the health of the storage Set up storage alerts Troubleshoot the hard drives See the LaCie RAID Manager User Manual for instructions on how to manage the LaCie 5big storage.
RAID The information below provides a basic guide to the RAID modes available to the LaCie 5big Thunderbolt 2. Note that the levels of performance and protection will differ based upon the number of hard drives in a volume. For instructions on how to configure RAID, see the LaCie RAID Manager User Manual. RAID EXAMPLE The level of RAID is contingent upon the amount of disks.
RAID 0 RAID 0 is the fastest RAID mode since it writes data across all of the volume's hard drives. Further, the capacities of each disk are added together for optimal data storage. However, RAID 0 lacks a very important feature: data protection. If one hard drive fails, all data becomes inaccessible.
RAID 1 RAID 1 provides enhanced data security since all data is written to each disk in the volume. If a single disk fails, data remains available on the other disk in the volume. However, due to the time it takes to write data multiple times, performance is reduced. Additionally, RAID 1 will cut disk capacity by 50% or more since each bit of data is stored on both disks in the volume.
RAID 5 RAID 5 writes data across all hard drives in the volume and a parity block for each data block. If one physical hard drive fails, the data from the failed hard drive can be rebuilt onto a replacement hard drive. While the files stored on a RAID 5 volume remain intact should one hard drive fail, data can be lost if a second hard drive fails before the RAID is rebuilt with the replacement hard drive. A minimum of three hard drives is required to create a RAID 5 volume.
RAID 6 RAID 6 writes data across all disks in the volume and two parity blocks for each data block. If one physical disk fails, the data can be rebuilt onto a replacement disk. With two parity blocks per data block, RAID 6 supports up to two disk failures with no data loss. RAID 6 synchronizing from a failed disk is slower than RAID 5 due to the use of double parity. However, it is far less critical due to its double-disk security. A minimum of four disks is required to create a RAID 6 volume.
RAID 10 RAID 10 combines the protection of RAID 1 with the performance of RAID 0. Using four disks as an example, RAID 10 creates two RAID 1 segments, and then combines them into a RAID 0 stripe. Such configurations offer exceptional data protection, allowing for two disks to fail across two RAID 1 segments. Additionally, RAID 10 writes data at the file level and, due to the RAID 0 stripe, gives users higher performance when managing greater amounts of smaller files.
RAID 5+Spare and RAID 6+Spare A RAID+Spare volume gives you a “hot-spare” that is ready to synchronize data immediately should a hard drive fail. If a hard drive in the volume fails, the data starts to synchronize with the spare. The clear advantage for a RAID volume with a spare is that you do not have to wait for a replacement hard drive. However, the spare cannot be used as storage during standard operation since its sole task is to take over should a hard drive fail.
HARD DRIVE MAINTENANCE Important info: Refer to the product's Warranty Information before performing any hardware repairs or maintenance that is not described in this manual. PRECAUTIONS ■ ■ ■ “Hot-swapping” means that you can perform maintenance or upgrade hardware while the DAS is powered on. The LaCie 5big Thunderbolt 2 features hot-swappable hard drives. During operation, the hard drives should remain in their slots for optimal air flow. Airflow and fan performance are regulated by temperature.
REPLACING A HARD DRIVE You can replace a hard drive if: ■ ■ You want to expand the available storage space by adding a hard drive with a larger capacity. The hard drive has failed. If a failed hard drive is under warranty, make certain to contact LaCie support to receive a replacement disk (see Getting Help for contact information). When adding or replacing hard drives, consider using Seagate Desktop HDD that are optimized for use with your LaCie 5big Thunderbolt 2.
3. If you are replacing a failed hard drive with a full disk tray, skip to Step 5. Continue here if you replacing the hard drive using the same disk tray: 1. Using a Phillips head screwdriver, carefully unfasten all four screws from the four tray slots and slide the disk out of the tray. Repeat the process if you are installing multiple disks. 4. Install the new hard drive into the disk tray: 1. Place the empty disk tray onto the flat work area with the handle on the bottom left. 2.
5. Carefully insert the full disk tray into the empty disk slot. Gently push the disk tray handle firmly until you feel it snap into place. The disk tray handle should be flush with the back of the enclosure. Repeat if you are adding multiple disks. 6. Use the disk lock tool to lock the disk(s) in place.
7. See the LaCie RAID Manager User Manual for instructions on how to manage the LaCie 5big storage. When replacing disks that are members of an active RAID configuration, the disk LEDs will blink red and blue indicating that the RAID is synchronizing data. You can continue to use the LaCie 5big storage but performance will be reduced until the synchronization is complete.
GETTING HELP If you are having problems with your LaCie product, consult the table below for a list of available resources. Order Source Description Location 1 Quick Install Guide Concise steps to follow for getting your Either a printed leaflet or accessory box and included in the product up and product box, or download PDF from the product page running 2 Support Pages Includes interactive troubleshooting topics for most common problems www.lacie.
TROUBLESHOOTING TOPICS Note: Interactive troubleshooting, a highly effective way to resolve problems with your product, is available from www.lacie.com/support/. Select your product, then click the “Troubleshooting” tab. The LaCie 5big Thunderbolt 2 will not turn on. Q: Can you confirm that the LaCie 5big is properly connected? A: Make certain: ■ ■ ■ The power supply is properly connected to a live power source.
The LaCie 5big Thunderbolt 2 is unresponsive. Q: Have you tried to restart the system? A: Eject the volume from the computer and shut down the LaCie 5big by applying a short push on the front button. If nothing happens after a few minutes, you can force the LaCie 5big to turn off by applying a long push (more than four seconds), then release it. Once off, restart the product by pushing and immediately releasing the front button.
Q: I connected a cable that supports Thunderbolt technology to my new Mac but the LaCie 5big Thunderbolt 2 does: (a.) not power on and/or (b.) not receive sufficient power. A: The enclosure must also receive power via the included power supply. See Setting Up.
Q: Are both ends of the Thunderbolt technology cable securely attached? A: ■ ■ ■ ■ Only use a cable that supports Thunderbolt technology. Check both ends of the Thunderbolt cable to make sure they are fully seated in their respective ports. Try disconnecting the Thunderbolt cable then wait 10 seconds before reconnecting it. If the volume is still not recognized, restart your computer and try again. Problem: I'm receiving file transfer error messages and Time Machine does not work.
Problem: The bandwidth for the LaCie 5big Thunderbolt 2 is not as fast as I had expected. It has the same transfer rates as my first generation Thunderbolt technology storage device. Q: Does your computer support Thunderbolt 2? A: The LaCie 5big Thunderbolt 2 must be connected to a computer that supports Thunderbolt 2 technology to attain Thunderbolt 2 technology transfer rates.
SAFETY GUIDELINES Important info: Do-it-yourself repairs not covered in this manual will invalidate the warranty. SAFE HANDLING The LaCie 5big Thunderbolt 2 must run with all of its parts and units in place. In order to comply with applicable safety, emission, and thermal requirements, no covers should be removed. All parts must be installed according to the instructions (see Setting Up). Permanently unplug the unit if you think that it has become damaged in any way.
ENVIRONMENT A safe electrical ground connection must be provided to the power cord. Check the grounding of the enclosure before applying power. Provide a suitable power source with electrical overload protection to meet the requirements laid down in the technical specification. Never expose your device to rain, or use it near water, or in damp or wet conditions. Never place objects containing liquids on the enclosure, as they may spill into its openings.
POSITION AND STACKING Always make certain to place the LaCie 5big Thunderbolt 2 on a flat, even surface designed to support the heat output and airflow of a professional hard disk enclosure. For proper heat dissipation, the LaCie 5big Thunderbolt 2 is designed to stand on its rubber feet, situated on the bottom of the enclosure. DO NOT place the enclosure on its side when it is powered on. When using multiple enclosures, you can stack one LaCie 5big Thunderbolt 2 on top of another LaCie 5big Thunderbolt 2.
WARRANTY INFORMATION Please read this page carefully in order to understand your warranty rights and responsibilities. 1. If your product's warranty is still valid and you wish to receive support, please contact LaCie technical support. In order to do this, you must first create an account here. 2. LaCie discourages customers from performing repairs to the product that are not explained in this manual. 3. Please contact LaCie technical support before performing hardware repairs. 4.
its sole discretion to (i) repair or replace the product at no charge to you; or, if a repaired unit or replacement product is not available, (ii) to refund the current market value of your product. You acknowledge and agree that replacement product, at the sole option of LaCie, may be a new product or a remanufactured product.
EXCEPT FOR THE LIMITED WARRANTY SET FORTH ABOVE, ALL PRODUCTS ARE SOLD “AS IS” AND LACIE EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ALL WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, WHETHER EXPRESS, IMPLIED OR STATUTORY, INCLUDING THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY, NONINFRINGEMENT AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
Read carefully all information related to warranty and precautions of use of your new LaCie product in the user manual. For products purchased in the United States, you may contact LaCie at 22985 NW Evergreen Parkway, Hillsboro, Oregon 97124. Email: sales@lacie.com. Website: www.lacie.com. Customer service: 503-844-4503. Service DOA On rare occasions, a newly purchased LaCie product may be delivered in non-working order.
LEGAL INFO COPYRIGHTS Copyright © 2014 LaCie. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior written consent of LaCie. CHANGES The material in this document is for information only and subject to change without notice.
firmware programmed at the factory to match the intended destination. The firmware setting is not accessible by the end user. WEEE This symbol on the product or on its packaging indicates that this product must not be disposed of with your other household waste. Instead, it is your responsibility to dispose of your waste equipment by handing it over to a designed collection point for the recycling of waste electrical and electronic equipment.
