Before we can understand RAID recovery we must first have a general knowledge what RAID systems are and how they work. What is a RAID system? It is simply a collection of hard drives connected to each other in specified manners so as to quickly respond to calls for data. Think of it this way. Many smaller disks can respond faster to data requests than one large one. Initially the thought in creation of RAID systems was that these coupled disks allowed greater storage at a lower cost. Today that is no longer true and the real strength of RAID systems is their inherent redundancy. As microscopic precision will soon create large solid state digital storage RAID systems will evolve to be strictly based on redundancy as protection to logical failure as opposed to the current need for arrays to guard against both a physical and logic crash.

An interesting note on RAID systems is their use of built in programs for parity. Should one drive on the array fail the mirror image of that drive continues in its stead, but parity logic also creates a further progression of imaging so as to repair the original failed drive. Indeed RAID control systems are in reality more complicated than the actual drives used in RAID systems.

RAID, or Redundant Array of Independent Disk systems are complicated assemblies for digital storage that are used primarily in financial and technical applications where a system failure would prove to be real world catastrophe. Consider what would occur if a major bank were to lose access to all of its financial records? Even if but for a few hours, the losses would amount to millions lost for both bank and customers. RAID systems avoid this by placing the same information on a physical network in such a way that if a section of the storage fails another section will bring the data forward. So, to continue our banking analogy, the deposit that is made at 12PM is posted on an array in several places. IF the primary access should fail automatically the RAID system answers the call from the next closet storage sector.

RAID systems are built to 6 basic levels distinguished by the degree of redundancy created and the placement or striping of data. RAID systems are divided into processes tiered from 0 to 6. Each of these levels has specific benefits as well as disadvantages.

A level 0 RAID system is strictly an array built for retrieval of data at high speeds with no duplication of information. It is a string of drives with data divided for fast access. Should on disk fail the information on that disk must be recovered using conventional data recovery techniques. As stated, RAID 0 allows for no mirroring of information and as such any parity for reconstruction. When such a system fails you must have it repaired by the fastest best-equipped RAID repair firm available.

RAID 1 allows for complete mirroring of data and the equivalent parity controls. But 100% redundancy results in a very slowly responding system. Data recovery on such a system is almost never required as in a sense the system continues to evolve and repairs itself. Of course the actual failed components must be replaced and repaired so as to perpetuate the array.

RAID 2 systems are no longer in use as they have proven to be too cumbersome. Also RAID 2 systems are so interwoven as to striping that should more than one disk fail the entire array will collapse.

Each of the remaining RAID systems 3,4, and 5 has specific applications where it performs best.
The key to fast responsive RAID systems is an exact balance of striping (data placement) to duplication of data.

If there is any one area of computer repair that cannot be attempted by amateurs it is that of RAID recovery. When we discuss RAID recovery what we must address the twin issues of data recovery from failed disks and actual physical damage to the controlling system. RAID recovery must address both the failed system and the application of said system so as to determine if the application places too high a demand on the array.

Should a business be dependent on a RAID system it must always have on call a qualified RAID recovery and repair team. Not only do RAID systems require repair in an ISO certified cleanroom, they must also be configured by technicians with access to both analysis for RAID systems software and the experience needed to reconfigure these systems to a more precise application. Simply put when a RAID recovery is required one must engage the services of a firm that can not only repair the array but can set up the system so as to avoid risk for a repetitive failure. The complexity of RAID systems guarantees a high degree of difficulty in the process of removing the broken disk and connecting it for data recovery. From hardware standpoint RAID systems are delicate and complex. Physical repair of these systems requires the equivalent motor skills of those needed for neurosurgery. Once physically repaired the system must then be configured for operation and reintegrated into the network it operates. This action requires the highest level of computer operating system programming skills. RAID data recovery requires an intense combination of physical and mental ability.

RAID recovery worldwide is available through only a handful of specialist companies. These technical repair companies have developed proprietary programs for RAID recovery analysis. They also have understanding of the various control programs available for RAID systems. Finally they are staffed with the best “hands on” technicians in the world.