How Do I Maintain Sequence of RAID-5 Array Members?

Our Answer:

Maintaining the sequence or order of connection for RAID-5 array member drives is as simple as properly tagging the physical disk drive units, so that if/when any given drive member is disconnected from the system backplane or controller, there is never a worry as to getting it reconnected correctly.  We recommend tagging the basic drive unit itself, and not simply the tray or sled the drive is mounted in, because during trouble-shooting it's not uncommon for drives to be removed or swapped from their mounting hardware, thereby creating a loss of element connection sequence information.

Tagging should be accomplished while everything is fully functional, and certainly, if trouble does arise and it hasn't been accomplished yet, BEFORE any trouble-shooting begins.  It is strongly advised to document all the physical hardware information as soon as a known-working configuration can be established.  Always know about and observe precautions for handling and tagging these delicate high-technology electromechanical devices relative to antistatic concerns.