Installing the Hardware8 3ware 9000 Series Serial ATA RAID Controller Installation GuideBefore You BeginThe next few pages describe some factors you may want to considerduring installation, and the tools and equipment you will need.Installation ConsiderationsCable Length, Routing Space, and Air FlowWhen you are installing multiple drives with a controller, make surethere is adequate space in the chassis for the required cables. It isimportant that the cables do not obstruct the air flow or preventproper ventilation of the system.Selecting the Slot in Which to Install the ControllerConsider these factors when deciding on the slot in which to insertthe controller: Cable routing may be easier if you install the 3ware RAIDcontroller next to an open slot.The amount of clearance you need will depend on the numberof drives you will be connecting to the controller. While the 3ware RAID Controller runs properly in any PCI orPCI-X slot, not all slots give equal performance due to thearchitecture of the PCI bus.These slots typically give the best performance: Slots closest to the Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP), ifincluded. 64-bit PCI slotsAlthough the controller fits in both 32-bit and 64-bit PCI orPCI-X slots with 5V as well as with 3.3V, install it in a 64-bit slot to take full advantage of the controller’sperformance.
