The original post: /r/datahoarder by /u/ark1one on 2024-05-29 02:47:59.

Request for Help: Dell PowerEdge R730XD Server Not Recognizing RAID Card Connected to NetApp DS4246 JBOD

Server and Hardware Details:

• Server: Dell PowerEdge R730XD
• JBOD: NetApp DS4246
• HBA Card: Sun Oracle 7047853 8-port 6Gbps SAS-2 HBA SGX-SAS6
• Cables: Two CAB-QSFP to SFF-8088 Hybrid Mini SAS Twinax Copper Passive Hybrid Mini SAS Cables

Current Setup:

• The Sun Oracle HBA card is installed in the Dell PowerEdge R730XD server.
• The hybrid mini SAS cables connect the HBA card to the NetApp DS4246 JBOD.

Issue:

• The Dell server does not recognize the RAID card via BIOS or iDRAC.
• The internal LED on the HBA card is blinking green slowly.
• The link light on the JBOD port is inactive.

Steps Taken and Observations:

1. Swapped Cables:
   • I switched the hybrid mini SAS cables to rule out any cable-related issues. Despite this, the server still did not recognize the RAID card, and the JBOD link light remained inactive.
2. Tried Another Identical HBA Card:
   • I used a second, identical Sun Oracle HBA card to check if the first card was defective. Unfortunately, the server still did not detect the RAID card, indicating the problem might not be with the HBA card itself.
3. Tested Different PCI Slots:
   • I installed the HBA card in various known working PCI slots within the server to ensure there was no issue with the PCI slot. This did not resolve the problem, as the RAID card was still not recognized.
4. Updated Firmware:
   • The server is running the latest version of Dell's firmware. I confirmed this to rule out any compatibility issues due to outdated firmware.
5. LED and Link Light Observations:
   • The internal LED on the HBA card blinks green slowly, suggesting some activity or standby mode. However, the link light on the JBOD port is not lit, indicating a lack of communication or recognition between the devices.
6. Connected to Windows Machine:
   • I connected the HBA card to my Windows machine, and it was recognized correctly. This confirmed that the card itself is functional. I proceeded to update the firmware on the card.
7. Firmware Update on HBA Card:
   • I updated the HBA card to the latest firmware. Now, both the Dell server and the HBA card are running the latest firmware.
8. Attempting JBOD Firmware Update:
   • Updating the firmware on the NetApp DS4246 JBOD has been a significant challenge. The website requires waiting to access their third-party software to manage the controller and update the firmware. This process has been extremely cumbersome, with numerous hoops to jump through just to get the firmware updated.

Challenges and Need for Help:

1. Firmware Validation:
   • Challenge: I am unsure how to check and update the firmware for both the Sun Oracle HBA card and the NetApp DS4246 JBOD.
   • Need Help: Guidance on how to validate and, if necessary, update the firmware for both devices. This might help ensure they are compatible and functioning correctly.
2. JBOD Configuration:
   • Challenge: I am unclear on how to configure the NetApp DS4246 JBOD to properly recognize and communicate with the HBA card.
   • Need Help: Step-by-step instructions or resources on configuring the JBOD to establish a proper connection with the HBA card. This includes any necessary settings or procedures that need to be followed.
3. Diagnostic Tools and Methods:
   • Challenge: The system lacks a web front-end and outputs only to SolarWinds servers, which I prefer not to set up. I tried using PRTG Network Monitor but could not read any output ports.
   • Need Help: Recommendations for alternative diagnostic tools or methods to monitor and validate the connection between the server and the JBOD. Any tips on interpreting the LED signals or other diagnostics would also be appreciated.

Summary: Despite my efforts in swapping cables, trying another identical card, testing different PCI slots, updating the server firmware, and even confirming the HBA card's functionality on a Windows machine, I am still unable to get the Dell PowerEdge R730XD to recognize the RAID card or establish a proper connection with the NetApp DS4246 JBOD. The firmware update process for the JBOD has been particularly frustrating and convoluted. I am looking for advice on firmware validation, JBOD configuration, and effective diagnostic tools to resolve this issue.

Thank you in advance for any help and suggestions you can provide!