Replacing an Array Controller - Data Loss?

[MorganA]

I have a hp 6401 array controller with dual RAID 5 setup. I need to replace this controller with a new one. Will I loose data or partition information when I remove the existing controller?

Does the array controller hold the array information or is it the RAID5 on the hard drives?

 

[Big B]

You have a better chance of recreating the array if it's another HP 6401 card (or another card with the same RAID chip(s) on it). I really haven't worked much with RAID functions, but I would say you should back up before you swap cards---if possible.

The data is on the hard drives. RAID 5 uses one hard drive to store the parity information, and the rest for data. You have to have at least 3 hard drives in order to make a RAID 5 array...I'm not sure how this plays out with a new RAID card. If you set it up correctly, you should be alright. Again, this is getting into territory I'm not all that familar with, and the specifics may vary on the card you use.