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Accepted
Ari
Asked: 2011-06-06 08:52:05 +0800 CST

Replacing a Hard Disk in RAID 5 Array with Newer Version

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Recently, 1 out 4 disks in my RAID 5 array failed. I searched for a replacement part and learned that only a newer version of the hard disk is available. This "newer" version has the exact same specs as it's predecessor. When I called the customer service department to order the replacement part the tech vehemently claimed that the newer version of the HD woud most likely NOT work in the RAID array. I was surprised by this claim, I thought the newer version would most likely work.

So the question is, will the "newer" version of the HD (with the same specs as the other HDs) work in the RAID 5 array?

Server Details

  • Manufacturer and Model #: Dell PowerEdge 2900
  • SCSI and RAID Controllers: PERC 5/i Integrated RAID Controller
  • HD: Western Digital Caviar Blue 160GB Part #: WD1600JS (Newer
    Version Part #: WD1600AAJS    )
raid raid5 hardware-raid

2 Answers

  1. Best Answer

    I was in the EXACT same situation as you. I had a drive die on my PE 2900 with a PERC 5/i last week actually. The server is probably 5-6 years old at this point, and original drives are not available. Dell sent me out a new drive which was not identical to the original, but advised me that it would work perfectly.

    I pulled the old dead drive and installed the new, and the array immediately started a rebuild with no interaction from me. So, yes, you will be fine.

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  2. I have been in this exact situation with Dell servers, and they have sent me newer versions, and of course, they worked. You should be more specific as to what kind of server, RAID controller, and drive models you are talking about, but my initial instinct is that it will work.

    I would also consider calling back the customer service people, and get a second opinion from them. The second guy might give you a different answer.

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