I've just set up a new Lenovo ThinkSystem ST650v3 server to run SUSE 15 SP6 as a database server for a client's new business application. The server has two RAID controllers: a RAID B540i-2i for the SUSE OS and a RAID 5350-8i dedicated to the database. However, I'm encountering a kernel panic during installation because the RAID drivers for the B540i aren't included by default. Currently, I'm using a driver update disk (DUD) to get it working, but this only serves as a temporary fix until the next update, which rebuilds the initramfs and triggers the same issue. I'm considering adding two more drives to the 5350-8i, creating a new RAID1, and moving the OS from the B540i to this new RAID1 setup. Lenovo support isn't able to assist with the problem, and while SUSE support has suggested using the DUD, I'd really like to find a more permanent solution. Any thoughts on this approach or alternative suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
2 Answers
Hey there! I used to work with SUSE, and I totally remember dealing with similar issues. It sounds like putting the RAID controller in JBOD mode might help. This mode lets the OS see individual drives, allowing you to create a software RAID1 for the OS. You can manage it with `mdadm`, which doesn’t require additional drivers, so it should minimize your problems during updates. If the hardware doesn’t support JBOD, then sticking with the DUD approach may still be your only option. Just a heads up though—consider JBOD for both controllers if possible, as Linux software RAID is pretty solid these days. Good luck!
Appreciate the insight! I’ll pass this on to the main tech handling it and see what they think.
Hey! Your plan to move the OS to the 5350-8i is a solid approach. It’s supported by SUSE out-of-the-box, which means you won't face the pesky DUD issues anymore. Here’s a quick guide on steps:
1. **Add two drives** to the 5350-8i and set them up as RAID1.
2. **Install SUSE** onto this new RAID1—either fresh or by cloning the current setup using tools like `Clonezilla` or `rsync`.
3. **Update your boot loader** to point to the new RAID1.
4. **Boot and test** the system using the 5350-8i.
5. If everything works fine, you can remove the old RAID setup from the B540i.
Overall, avoiding the B540i for the OS is key unless they provide native support for it down the line. If you run into any further questions while migrating, don't hesitate to ask!
Why rely on an AI for advice? It’s better to connect with actual users who’ve been through this.
Thanks! We're definitely looking for practical experiences from others too.
What about using BTRFS in RAID-1? It might simplify things a bit. If the controller’s in JBOD, it could be a good fit.