Enabling the onboard cache on a RAID adapter card significantly enhances performance - especially in RAID 5 and RAID 6 scenarios - by accommodating both read caching and write caching of data. But data stored in the cache for write caching can be lost if the cache is not protected against a power or system failure.
Read more about protecting your data with Adaptec's third generation Zero Maintenance Cache Protection (ZMCP) for Adaptec Series 8 (12Gb/s) and Series 7 (6Gb/s) RAID adapters.
The Adaptec RAID 81605ZQ and Adaptec RAID 81605Z come with flash backup circuitry built into the adapter (no need for daughter board) for maximum efficiency and a best-in-class Green IT solution. Other Series 8Q and 7Q RAID adapters include the AFM-700 Flash Module. Series 8 and Series 7 RAID adapters can also be used with the AFM-700, as an add on module.
No batteries, no worries: RAID adapters typically employ battery backup units (BBUs) to protect cached data, but BBUs require constant monitoring and expensive maintenance, and can only preserve data for a maximum of 72 hours during a power loss.
Zero-Maintenance Cache Protection: The AFM-700 Kit for Series 8 and Series 7 RAID adapters features SLC based NAND flash memory and super capacitor technology that work together to save cached data in the event of system power loss. The super capacitor charges while the system is booting to provide instant cache protection upon startup. When the module detects loss of power, the super capacitor keeps critical parts of the adapter active long enough to allow data to be copied from the onboard adapter cache to the flash memory.
Once the data has been copied, the flash memory can store it for years without power. When power is returned to the adapter, the data in the flash memory is copied back to the onboard adapter cache and operation resumes as normal with all outstanding I/O requests intact.
With its new monitoring features (Real-time Health and Instant Capacity Monitoring), data center administrators can instantly check the temperature, capacity and remaining lifetime of the super capacitor through Adaptec maxView Storage Manager, a web-based interface that makes it simple to view, monitor, and configure all Adaptec RAID adapters in a system, without disrupting operations or impacting performance.