LSI MegaRAID SAS 9361-8i RAID Controller User Manual

1. Introduzione

The LSI MegaRAID SAS 9361-8i is a high-performance 8-port 12Gb/s SATA+SAS PCI-Express 3.0 RAID Controller designed for server and storage enclosure environments. This controller offers advanced data protection and high bandwidth capabilities, making it suitable for critical applications. It supports up to 128 SATA or SAS drives and features CacheVault flash cache protection for enhanced reliability.

Le caratteristiche principali includono:

• High performance 12Gb data transfer rates.
• Support for CacheVault flash cache protection.
• Connectivity for up to 128 SATA or SAS drives via eight internal 12Gb/s SATA and SAS ports.
• a basso profilofile form factor with side-mounted SAS connectors, ideal for rack-mounted servers.
• PCI-Express 3.0 connectivity for critical, high-bandwidth applications.
• Automatic resume after loss of system power during array rebuild or reconstruction.
• Single controller Multipathing support.

2. Informazioni sulla sicurezza

Always observe the following safety precautions when handling and installing the RAID controller:

• Ensure the system is powered off and unplugged from the power source before installation or removal.
• Scaricare l'elettricità statica dal corpo toccando un oggetto metallico con messa a terra prima di maneggiare la carta. Utilizzare un braccialetto antistatico, se disponibile.
• Handle the card by its edges to avoid touching components or connectors.
• Installare la scheda in un'area ben ventilata per evitare il surriscaldamento.
• Refer to your server or computer system's manual for specific installation guidelines.

3. Contenuto della confezione

Verifica che il pacco contenga i seguenti articoli:

• LSI MegaRAID SAS 9361-8i RAID Controller Card
• a basso profilofile staffa (può essere preinstallata o inclusa separatamente)
• Documentation (e.g., quick start guide, driver CD/USB - if applicable)
• Any necessary mounting screws (ensure correct size for your system)

Nota: Some components, such as a CacheVault module or battery, may be sold separately or included depending on the specific product variant. Verify your purchase details.

4. Prodotto finitoview

Figura 1: Top-down view of the LSI MegaRAID SAS 9361-8i RAID Controller card.

This image shows the LSI MegaRAID SAS 9361-8i RAID Controller from a top-down perspective, highlighting the PCI Express connector, the main processor with its heatsink, and the eight internal SAS/SATA ports.

Figura 2: Angolato view of the LSI MegaRAID SAS 9361-8i RAID Controller card.

Questa immagine fornisce un'angolazione view of the LSI MegaRAID SAS 9361-8i RAID Controller, showcasing è a basso costofile bracket, the heatsink, and the side-mounted SAS connectors, designed for rack-mounted server environments.

The card features a PCI Express 3.0 interface for high-speed data transfer to the host system. It includes a large heatsink to dissipate heat from the main controller chip. Eight internal SAS/SATA ports are available for connecting storage drives, typically via SFF-8643 (Mini-SAS HD) connectors.

5. Impostazione

5.1 Requisiti di sistema

• Available PCI Express 3.0 x8 or x16 slot.
• Compatible server or storage enclosure system.
• Operating System: Linux (other OS may require specific drivers).
• SATA or SAS drives (up to 128 drives supported).
• Sufficient power supply for the system and connected drives.
• Adequate system cooling to manage heat generated by the controller.

5.2 Installazione hardware

1. Preparare il sistema: Power off your server or computer and unplug all power cables. Open the system case.
2. Locate a PCIe Slot: Identifica uno slot PCI Express 3.0 x8 o x16 disponibile sulla scheda madre.
3. Installa la scheda: Carefully align the RAID controller with the chosen PCIe slot and press down firmly until it is securely seated. Secure the card with the retention mechanism or screw provided by your system case.
4. Connetti unità: Connect your SATA or SAS drives to the internal ports on the RAID controller using appropriate cables (e.g., Mini-SAS HD to SATA breakout cables). Ensure all connections are secure.
5. Chiudere il sistema: Once all connections are made, close the system case and reconnect power cables.

Nota importante: This controller can generate significant heat. Ensure your system has adequate airflow and cooling solutions, such as dedicated fan cards, to prevent overheating and ensure stable operation.

6. Operativo

6.1 Installazione del driver

After physical installation, you may need to install the appropriate drivers for your operating system. Drivers are typically available from the manufacturer's support website. For Linux, drivers are often integrated into the kernel or can be installed via package managers.

6.2 Configurazione RAID

The RAID configuration is primarily managed through the controller's BIOS utility, which is accessible during system boot-up. You will typically see a prompt to press a specific key (e.g., Ctrl+R) to enter the MegaRAID BIOS Configuration Utility.

Nota: Some users have reported that accessing the controller's BIOS utility may require a PS/2 keyboard, as USB keyboards might not be recognized at that stage of the boot process. If you encounter issues, consider using a PS/2 keyboard or a PS/2 to USB adapter if your motherboard lacks a PS/2 port.

Within the utility, you can:

• Create new virtual drives (RAID arrays) using various RAID levels (e.g., RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, 10).
• Manage existing virtual drives.
• Configure global hot spares.
• Perform array rebuilds or reconstructions.

6.3 Gestione del software

For ongoing management and monitoring of your RAID arrays within the operating system, LSI (now Broadcom) provides a graphical user interface (GUI) utility. This utility allows for easier provisioning, monitoring of drive health, and performance management without needing to reboot into the BIOS utility.

7. Manutenzione

• Aggiornamenti del firmware: Controllare periodicamente le istruzioni del produttore websito per gli aggiornamenti del firmware. Mantenere il firmware aggiornato può migliorare prestazioni, stabilità e compatibilità.
• Monitoraggio: Regularly monitor the health of your RAID arrays and individual drives using the provided software utility. Pay attention to any warnings or error messages.
• Raffreddamento: Ensure that the system's cooling remains effective. Dust buildup can impede airflow and lead to increased temperatures. Clean dust from fans and heatsinks as part of routine system maintenance.
• Battery Backup Unit (BBU) / CacheVault: If equipped with a BBU or CacheVault, monitor its status and replace it if it indicates failure or low capacity to ensure cache data protection during power outages.

8. Risoluzione Dei Problemi

9. Specifiche

10. Garanzia e supporto

For information regarding warranty coverage, technical support, and service for your LSI MegaRAID SAS 9361-8i RAID Controller, please refer to the official LSI (now Broadcom) webo contatta direttamente l'assistenza clienti. Tieni a portata di mano la ricevuta d'acquisto e il numero di serie del prodotto quando richiedi assistenza.

Le risorse di supporto ufficiali in genere includono:

• Download di driver e firmware.
• Knowledge base articles and FAQs.
• Technical support contact information (phone, email, online portal).