[apsoul]

If i wanted to eventually have a 0+1 raid setup for all of my data/programs (uses 4 HDD's if i understand everything correctly) and then a separate SSD for my OS. I would need 6 SATA connectors on my MOBO to have a DVD drive with all of that correct? I had my heart set on the M4A79 Deluxe am2/am2+/am3, but it only has 5 onboard SATA connections. I'm not sure i'll ever make it to the 0+1 + dedicated OS SSD, but i want to know if my thoughts are correct or not.... to make things simple

4 sata HDD's + 1 SSD + 1DVD drive = 6 onboard SATA needed correct?

[Hefemeister]

You are correct. You could run raid5 (3 disks) 1 os and 1 dvd. Or you could get a pci-e raid card and do whatever you want. (look to spend at least $100 for this option) Or you could get a cheap sata card to run your dvd drives. or you could get another board.

Do you really need a raid 10 or 0+1 setup?

[apsoul]

I definitely do not NEED it. But the want factor is rather high haha. As long as i know there would still be a way, then I'm happy as can be. SATA card for dvd drives would probably be the route i would take if i ever get there. thanks again

[Hefemeister]

Just remember that raid is not a replacement for backups. I would consider a raid 0+1 array in a high end business server where you need speed and a fail-safe for drive failure as in your company looses money if a computer goes down during the day. Then the IT guys can rebuild it at night with now down time for employees.

But hey it would be fun to have.

[apsoul]

would be fun. If I were to go the raid controller route, any brands i should look at? also any specs is should be looking at?

[Hefemeister]

Adaptec makes good cards. They can be expensive. This one is reasonable and will do raid10 for you with 4xsata ports:
Newegg.com - Adaptec 2241000-R PCI Express x4 SATA II 1430SA SGL - Controllers / RAID Cards

[kmote]

My new (some parts are anyway) server boots from a RAID10 on an adaptec 2405. According to diskinfo I get about 366MB/s - not too shabby for kmote.