VIA RAID Installation Guide

About this manual

The BIOS section describes how to enter the BIOS configuration utility, create or delete RAID arrays, and select a boot array. It details the steps for RAID 0, RAID 1, and JBOD, including block‑size selection and warnings about data loss.

The Windows section covers the VIA RAID software, showing how to create, remove, and manage RAID arrays, add or remove spare disks, synchronize mirrors, and repair broken arrays for Windows 2000/XP/Vista systems.

What's inside

• Introduction of RAID
• RAID Configuration Precautions
• BIOS Configuration Utility
• Create Disk Array
• Delete Disk Array
• Select Boot Array
• Windows RAID Installation Guide
• Add/Remove Spare
• Synchronize Mirror Disk
• Repair Broken Disk Array

Specifications

Frequently asked questions

How do I create a RAID 0 array in the BIOS?

Enter the BIOS Configuration Utility, highlight Create Array, choose RAID 0 as the array mode, select a block size, and start the creation process.

Can I create a RAID 1 array in BIOS when using Windows Vista?

No, creating RAID 1 under BIOS is not allowed for Windows Vista/Vista 64‑bit; you must use the VIA RAID software in Windows.

What happens to data when I delete a RAID 1 array?

When a RAID 1 array is deleted, the data on the two drives is preserved and the drives become normal disks.

How can I keep the operating system data when creating a RAID array in Windows?

During the Windows RAID setup, select the option to keep OS data; the software will preserve the OS disk while creating the array.