====== RAID ======

This section will help you decide which RAID mode is right for your application.  For instructions on how to adjust the RAID mode, refer to section [[raid#changing-the-raid-mode|Changing the RAID Mode]].

<note tech>**Technical note:** Capacity varies depending upon RAID mode. \\ \\ BIG (RAID 0) = 100% total accessible capacity \\ Safe (RAID 1) = 50% capacity</note>

===== BIG (RAID 0) =====

{{:static:raid:diagram-raid0-2disk-en.png?300|}}

BIG (also called RAID 0 or "Spanning" in some LaCie devices), allows for the fastest data transmission and capacity of the different RAID settings.  Requiring at least 2 drives, RAID 0 stripes data onto each disk. The available capacities of each disk are added together so that one logical volume mounts on the computer. 

If one physical disk in the array fails, the data of all disks becomes inaccessible because parts of the data have been written to all disks.

<note important>**Important info:** In BIG mode, if one physical disk fails, the data of both disks become inaccessible.</note>

==== Applications ====

RAID 0 is ideal for users who need maximum speed and capacity. Video editors working with very large files may use RAID 0 when editing multiple streams of video for optimal playback performance. A RAID 0 array is more suited for actively working with files (editing video, for example) and should not be used as a single storage backup solution or on mission critical systems.

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===== SAFE (RAID 1) =====

{{:static:raid:diagram-raid1-2disk-en.png?300|}}

SAFE mode (also referred to as RAID 1) is a secure RAID mode that requires at least 2 drives and works with pairs of drives. One logical volume mounts on the computer and the combined available capacity of both drives is limited to the capacity of the lowest-capacity disk. If one physical disk fails, the data is available immediately on the second disk. No data is lost if one disk fails.

==== Applications ====

RAID 1 provides maximum data safety in the event of a single disk failure, but because data is written twice, performance is reduced slightly when writing. RAID 1 is a good choice when safety is more important than speed.

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===== Changing the RAID Mode =====

Before you change the RAID mode of the LaCie Hard Disk MAX, familiarize yourself with the drive’s RAID modes.  See [[raid|]].

<note caution>**Caution:** Changing configuration modes destroys data stored on the Hard Disk MAX.  Back up data before following these steps.  Before changing the RAID mode, be sure to copy the User Manual to your computer.  If for any reason you lose your User Manual, you can download it from the LaCie website: [[http://www.lacie.com/support/|http://www.lacie.com/support/]] \\ \\ Disks must be inserted correctly in the Hard Disk MAX before configuration can be changed.  LaCie recommends limiting contact with the disk drives as much as possible.</note>

<note important>**Important info:** Your LaCie Hard Disk MAX comes preconfigured in BIG (RAID 0) mode. BIG mode allows access to the whole storage capacity but does not provide any security. If a drive fails, all data will be lost. If you are concerned about data security, LaCie highly recommends a Safe (RAID 1) configuration. See [[raid|]].</note>

==== To Change the RAID Mode ====

  - Unmount or safely remove the Hard Disk MAX volumes from your computer and turn off the Hard Disk MAX.   It is important to allow the disks to cool before touching them. 
  - Insert a small, flat-blade screwdriver into the groove on the switch and move the screwdriver up or down to select a different mode. \\ {{:products:neil-poulton-max-usb2:neil-poulton-max-usb2-raid.png?400|}}
  - Turn on the Hard Disk MAX.
  - Reformat the disks (refer to [[formatting|]]).

<note important>**Important info:** You must partition the disk drives after changing the storage policy configuration. See [[formatting|]].</note>

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====== Removing and Installing Drives/Enclosures ======

If you have discovered that one of the hard drives has failed (see [[LED|LED Indicators]]) or the chassis no longer works, please contact your LaCie reseller or LaCie Customer Support. If the product is still under warranty, a LaCie Customer Support representative will instruct you on how to return the drive or casing for replacement. See [[help|Getting Help]] for contact information. \\ 

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