Adding an Addn HDD to Existing RAID 5 Array?

[wutang01]

Hi.

I already have a RAID Array setup: four WD 500GB SATA2s.

I'm wondering if I can simply add another one or two 500GB hard drives, without redo-ing the RAID array again (I don't want to do the backup and reformatting processes again).

Can I just simply plug the two hard drives, and somehow go into the Intel Storage Controller (CTRL+I) to add the 2 to the array?

Btw, I'm using an ASUS P5B Deluxe motherboard so my RAID controller is hardware-based.

I'm asking this, because I'm considering adding another two. They're only AUD129 each!

Also, one last thing. If I decide to add another 2 HDDs (and if it's allowed), does it have to be 500GB? What if I decide to get 2x 750GB ones?

Thanks for your help guys!

Gracias,

~wutang01

[shihchiun]

I guess it depends on the specific controller and RAID setup, but there are some cases where you can just add on. The "right" way is still to recreate it entirely.

You can use 750 GB drives, but just know that you'll be effectively wasting 250 GB (per drive) if you do.

[wutang01]

Hmm, ok. Looks like I may need to backup everything to my My Book, delete RAID array, recreate it again, then reinstall Vista again ...

Oh, I might as well buy 2x 500GB HDDs then ... stuff the 750s haha.

Thanks shihchiun for the help! :)

[randomnut]

Most arrays will let you just expand to include the extra disks, at least every array i've ever built has had that option (Y)

[+PeterUK MVC]

The ASUS P5B Deluxe has a ICH8R controller that only allows a max of four drives for RAID 5, but you are allowed to setup with your existing four disk RAID 5 a two disk RAID 0 or 1.

[wutang01]

The ASUS P5B Deluxe has a ICH8R controller that only allows a max of four drives for RAID 5, but you are allowed to setup with your existing four disk RAID 5 a two disk RAID 0 or 1.

Oh. Lucky I haven't deleted my RAID5 Array yet then lol!

I guess I'll have to run RAID0 when I get the 2 extra HDDs.

Thanks for the help guys!