Optimizing Storage Detection: Troubleshooting an HBA Card in a Windows Server Environment
Introduction
Setting up a reliable server environment with extensive storage capabilities can be a complex endeavor, especially when hardware components do not perform as expected. One common challenge is ensuring that your Host Bus Adapter (HBA) cards recognize connected drives correctly. If you’ve recently installed an HBA card and your drives are visible in the BIOS or management software but not detected by the operating system, you’re not alone. This article explores a real-world scenario and offers professional guidance to troubleshoot and resolve such issues effectively.
Use Case Overview
The goal is to establish a robust server with high-capacity storage using four refurbished HGST 4TB drives. The intended configuration involves RAIDZ2 for data redundancy, utilizing Proxmox VE on bare metal with a layered setup:
- Proxmox VE for hypervisor management
- TrueNAS Scale VM for storage services
- Additional VMs for Docker, Pterodactyl, and Roon server
Hardware Details
- Motherboard: Aorus ELITE WIFI 6E
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 9 9900X
- Memory: 48GB DDR5-5600
- Power Supply: 550W PSU (reused from a personal PC build)
- Storage Drives: 4x HGST 7K6000 4TB drives
- HBA Card: LSI 9300-16i flashed with IT mode firmware (16.00.20.00)
- Connection Cables: MiniSAS to SATA breakout cable, some drives powered via SATA power, others via Molex
Problem Statement
Despite correctly flashing the HBA with IT mode firmware and connecting drives via a MiniSAS to SATA breakout cable, the drives are not detectable within Windows. They are visible within MegaRAID Storage Manager but show no available drives, and the BIOS/UEFI screens do not list the connected disks. Power seems to be supplied to the drives connected directly to SATA power, but drives powered via Molex-to-SATA adapters may not be receiving power.
Troubleshooting Steps and Recommendations
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Verify Hardware Connections and Power
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Power Supply Check: Confirm that all drives connected via Molex-to-SATA adapters are receiving power. Use a multimeter or test with known working adapters if possible.
- Cable Integrity: Inspect MiniSAS to SATA breakout cables for damage or compatibility issues.
- Drive Functionality: Test drives individually in
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