Member Avatar for sklingb1

I am slowly growing out of my hard drives on my server. I am running SBS 2003 and I have 2- 160 GB hard drives running in an array. I would like to replace them but I am not sure how I should do this. If I replace one of the drives will data from the other automatically write to the new drive? I am trying to see if there is a way to avoid having to copy all the data and putting it onto the new hard drive.

Thanks

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As pointed out, the exact behavior depends on how the mirror is implemented. Since confirmed this is RAID‑1, a single replaced drive will usually be rebuilt from the surviving member automatically — but the steps differ for a hardware RAID controller (typical in HP servers) versus a Windows software mirror (dynamic disks). Identify which is in use before proceeding.

To identify the implementation: open Computer Management -> Disk Management (diskmgmt.msc). If disks show as "Dynamic" and the volume is labeled "Mirror", it is a Windows software mirror. If there is a vendor RAID/array controller listed in Device Manager or a RAID BIOS message at boot (HP Smart Array, etc.), it is controller‑based hardware RAID.

Practical, high‑level procedures:

  • Hardware RAID (HP Smart Array etc.): if the server/chassis supports hot‑swap, remove the failed drive and insert an equal‑or‑larger compatible drive. The controller typically assigns it as a spare and begins rebuilding automatically. Monitor progress with the controller utility (HP Array Configuration Utility / ACU or the controller BIOS). If the server is not hot‑swap capable, power down, replace, then allow rebuild.
  • Windows software mirror (dynamic disks): add or attach the new disk, initialize it as dynamic, then right‑click the mirrored volume in Disk Management and choose "Add Mirror..." onto the new disk. Windows will resynchronize the mirror.

Important cautions: always verify a current backup first (rebuilds stress the remaining disk). Match interface, sector size and at least the same capacity (watch >2TB and MBR/GPT limitations). Perform the work during low load and with a UPS. Wait for the full rebuild and verify disk/volume health before replacing the second drive or expanding capacity. If unsure, post the RAID controller model or a screenshot of Disk Management so exact, controller‑specific steps can be provided.

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Member Avatar for sklingb1

Is there an easy way to tell which RAID array I have?

Member Avatar for Salem

Sorry, I thought you were the sysadmin for this rig.

Make a backup, then hire a professional.

I'm not going to describe what to do to someone who can't even figure out "what kind of raid array" they have. That's just begging for a screw-up and data loss.

Member Avatar for sklingb1

I am the system admin!

I do have a back up.

I am not sitting infront of the terminal so I cannot figure out which RAID array it is so I thought I might be able to have someone that has access to the terminal right now tell me which it is. I will find out in the morning which it is and post back.

You kind of jumped down my throat there for asking the question. I thought all questions are good questions. I should have been more clear on my question and asked if there is an easy way to instruct someone else to get that information for me.

Member Avatar for sklingb1

It's a RAID 1 array.

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