To RAID or not to RAID...that is the question

[Frodo]

My old computer is definately on its last legs and I am in the process of having a new computer custom built. I want it to be a Ferrari, yet dependable. Other than GPO I have some large music libraries that I will house on a separate D drive, but as for my operating C drive I would like it to be as fast and powerful as the law allows. I understand two separate drives utilized as one "C Drive" with RAID 0 striping is supposed to be good for performance, but I have also heard that it is not very stable and may even be overkill for DFD. Anyone use RAID 0 on their systems or have any suggestions re: the RAID dilemma?

Frodo

[JonFairhurst]

I would recommend a Raptor without RAID for a fast, yet reliable system drive. If you do go with RAID 0, use a separate hardware controller from a top manufactuer. Don't go with the on-board RAID controllers. The on-board controllers often aren't as fast (they sap CPU power), nor as reliable as the dedicated ones. There are many on NSS who have lost their drive content with on-board-controlled RAIDs.

Also, if you go with a RAID 0 array, spend some time and money on a good backup system - you may need it!

[johnmarkpainter]

Sounds like a bad idea. You need lots of RAM and CPU power more than a faster C Drive.