1. Introducció
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.
Les característiques clau inclouen:
- 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.
- Pro baixfile 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. Informació de seguretat
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.
- Discharge any static electricity from your body by touching a grounded metal object before handling the card. Use an anti-static wrist strap if available.
- Handle the card by its edges to avoid touching components or connectors.
- Install the card in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating.
- Refer to your server or computer system's manual for specific installation guidelines.
3. Contingut del paquet
Comproveu que el vostre paquet contingui els elements següents:
- LSI MegaRAID SAS 9361-8i RAID Controller Card
- Pro baixfile bracket (may be pre-installed or included separately)
- 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. Producte acabatview
Figura 1: De dalt a baix 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: En angle view of the LSI MegaRAID SAS 9361-8i RAID Controller card.
Aquesta imatge ofereix un angle view of the LSI MegaRAID SAS 9361-8i RAID Controller, showcasing és baix en profile 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. Configuració
5.1 Requisits del 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 Instal·lació de maquinari
- Prepara el sistema: Power off your server or computer and unplug all power cables. Open the system case.
- Localitzeu una ranura PCIe: Identify an available PCI Express 3.0 x8 or x16 slot on your motherboard.
- Instal·leu la targeta: 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.
- Connecta les unitats: 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.
- Tanca el sistema: Once all connections are made, close the system case and reconnect power cables.
Nota important: 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. Funcionament
6.1 Instal·lació del controlador
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 Configuració 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.
- Configurar recanvis en calent globals.
- Perform array rebuilds or reconstructions.
6.3 Gestió de programari
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. Manteniment
- Actualitzacions de firmware: Reviseu periòdicament el fabricant website for firmware updates. Keeping the firmware up-to-date can improve performance, stability, and compatibility.
- Seguiment: Regularly monitor the health of your RAID arrays and individual drives using the provided software utility. Pay attention to any warnings or error messages.
- Refrigeració: 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. Solució De Problemes
| Problema | Causa possible | Solució |
|---|---|---|
| El sistema no ha detectat el controlador. | Card not seated properly; faulty PCIe slot; insufficient power; driver issue. | Reseat the card; try a different PCIe slot; ensure adequate power supply; install/update drivers. |
| Cannot access RAID BIOS utility during boot. | Incorrect key press; USB keyboard not recognized. | Ensure correct key is pressed at the right time; try a PS/2 keyboard or PS/2 to USB adapter. |
| Drives not recognized or disappear. | Loose cable connections; faulty drive; controller failure. | Check all cable connections; test drives individually; if problem persists, controller may be faulty. |
| Controller runs excessively hot. | Insufficient system cooling; dust buildup on heatsink. | Improve system airflow; install additional case fans or a dedicated fan card; clean heatsink. |
| Long boot times due to RAID controller initialization. | Normal operation for some controllers; firmware settings. | This can be normal. Check firmware settings for any options to speed up initialization, though often limited. |
| Missing mounting screws or slot covers. | Contingut del paquet incomplet. | Contact your vendor or manufacturer for replacement parts. |
9. Especificacions
| Característica | Detall |
|---|---|
| Marca | LSI |
| Número de model | 05-25420-08 |
| Interfície del maquinari | SAS, SATA (PCI-Express 3.0) |
| Ports | 8 internal 12Gb/s SAS/SATA ports |
| Velocitat de transferència de dades | 12 Gb/s |
| Dispositius compatibles | Servers, Storage Enclosures |
| Memòria (RAM) | 1024 MB DDR3 SDRAM |
| Velocitat de memòria | 1866 MHz |
| Suport del sistema operatiu | Linux (and others with appropriate drivers) |
| Pes de l'article | 9.1 unces (0.26 quilograms) |
| Dimensions del producte (LxWxH) | 6.61 x 2.54 x 2.01 polzades |
10. Garantia i Suport
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) website or contact their customer support directly. Keep your purchase receipt and product serial number handy when seeking support.
Official support resources typically include:
- Descàrregues de controladors i firmware.
- Knowledge base articles and FAQs.
- Technical support contact information (phone, email, online portal).
