ATTO Technology ExpressSAS H644 Adapter, ExpressSAS H608 Adapter, ExpressSAS H680 Adapter, ExpressSAS H60F Adapter, ExpressSAS H6F0 GT Adapter Installation And Operation Manual

ATTO ExpressSAS Host and RAID Adapter

Installation and Operation Manual

ExpressSAS H644 Adapter
ExpressSAS H608 Adapter
ExpressSAS H680 Adapter
ExpressSAS H60F Adapter

ExpressSAS H6F0 GT Adapter

ExpressSAS R644 RAID Adapter
ExpressSAS R608 RAID Adapter
ExpressSAS R680 RAID Adapter
ExpressSAS R60F RAID Adapter

ATTO Technology, Inc.

155 CrossPoint Parkway
Amherst, New York 14068 USA

www.attotech.com

Tel [phone]
Fax [phone]

Sales support: [e-mail]
Technical support: Monday -- Friday, 8am-6pm EST

[e-mail]
[phone] ext. 242

© 2012 ATTO Technology, Inc. All rights reserved. All brand or product names are trademarks of their respective
holders. No part of this manual may be reproduced in any form or by any means without the express written
permission of ATTO Technology, Inc.

10/2012

.. ... ..... ....... ........ .... . . ........ ...... ..... .... ..... ... ............ .......... ............ ...,,,,,,,, ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

PRMA-0389-000MD

Contents

1 ATTO Provides Storage Solutions ...................................................................1

ExpressSAS Host Adapters
ExpressSAS RAID Adapters

2 Install Drivers .....................................................................................................6

Downloading drivers from the ATTO website
Windows
OS X
Linux
VMware ESXi 5 (ExpressSAS H6xx and H6F0 GT only)
VMware ESX/ESXi 4.1 (ExpressSAS H6xx and H6F0 GT only)
VMware ESX 3.5 (ExpressSAS H6xx and H6F0 GT only)

3 New Windows OS Installation ...........................................................................11

Install the driver into a new version of Windows 2000, XP, Server 2003
Install the driver into a new version of Windows 8, 7, Vista, Server 2012, 2008

4 New OS X Installation ........................................................................................13

5 Install Hardware .................................................................................................15

Installing the adapter
Installing CacheAssure (6Gb RAID Adapters only)
Non-Volatile (NV) Memory Card Installation
Power Module Installation
Bracket details
Adapter board details
Install storage

6 Data Path and LED Control ...............................................................................26

LED Control for Internal SAS Connectors

7 Troubleshooting .................................................................................................37

Appendix A Glossary ............................................................................................i

Glossary

Appendix B Configuration and Management .....................................................iii

Driver Configuration
Adapter Management

Appendix C Standards and Compliances ...........................................................vi

Appendix D Safety and Warranty ........................................................................vii

1 ATTO Provides Storage Solutions

Note

ATTO Technology ExpressSAS low-profile host adapters provide 3Gb and 6Gb SAS/SATA II connectivity for IT
and digital video environments.

The ATTO ExpressSAS host adapter family provides
enhanced reliability and performance thanks to more
than 20 years of ATTO experience with SCSI
hardware and storage connectivity solutions. Using
the latest in PCI Express bus technology, the ATTO
ExpressSAS host adapters deliver blazing-fast
performance with transfer rates.

ATTO provides industry standard PCIe to SAS control
using Serial SCSI Protocol (SSP), Serial ATA
Tunneling Protocol (STP), and Serial Management
Protocol (SMP).

An easy-to-use utility, the ATTO ConfigTool,
configures, manages and monitors the ExpressSAS
adapters. The tool is included in your installation CD.

Installation procedure

The ExpressSAS RAID adapter has a Getting Started
Guide. If you have not used this guide or you are
installing an ExpressSAS host adapter, follow the
instructions in this manual.

In general you must:
1 Ensure you have the equipment and software

you need for the installation:

• ExpressSAS adapter

• ATTO ExpressSAS CD including drivers,
user manuals and utilities (Installation CD)

• The optional low-profile bracket and its
installation procedure

• A computer with an available x8 or x16 PCI
Express expansion slot. The ExpressSAS
adapter has been optimized for x8 electrical
slots. Check your computer’s
documentation

• SAS/SATA storage, cables and connectors

2 Install drivers from the Installation CD for your

operating system. Refer to Install Drivers
page 6.

3 Install the configuration software, the ATTO

ConfigTool, found on the Installation CD. Refer
to the ATTO Utilities Installation and Operation
Manual for details.

4 Install the adapter. Refer to Install Hardware

page 15.

5 Attach SAS/SATA storage. Refer to Install

storage on page 25.

on

on

6 Configure your storage and adapter, including

RAID, using the ATTO ConfigTool.

Default settings are appropriate for most
systems but you may change settings using
the ATTO ConfigTool.

ExpressSAS features

• Improved performance over traditional
ULTRA320 SCSI with SAS, SATA and SATA II
attachment

• Increased bandwidth through x8 PCI Express
host interface

• Point-to-point technology delivers full throughput
to each connected storage device

• One-click installation

• User-friendly ATTO ConfigTool provides a
simple host-based utility for effortless
configuration; a BIOS setup utility provides
flexibility for custom applications

• Fully Thunderbolt aware, including hot plug and
daisy chain support in a PCIe expansion slot

• For RAID adapters, a user-friendly GUI allows
quick and easy RAID setup

• ADS™ technology alleviates data transfer
bottlenecks and moves data more efficiently
while managing latency

• DriveAssure™ is an ATTO exclusive
combination of features, for the ATTO RAID
series HBAs, that performs predictive and
corrective actions to allow the continued
operation of marginal drives, while ensuring
continued and uninterrupted access to data.

• CacheAssure™ provides confidence that your
cached data will remain intact in the event of an
unexpected power loss, while offering an
environmentally friendly, maintenance-free
solution. (6Gb RAID Adapter only)

• Driver support for Windows®, Linux®,

Mac® OS X, and VMware® ESX/ESXi Server

• RoHS compliant

• 3-year standard warranty

1

ExpressSAS Host Adapters

ATTO ExpressSAS Host Adapters are engineered for
the most stringent IT server and digital media
workgroup environments and are compatible with
multiple operating systems, applications, and drives.

Providing SAS/SATA II connectivity to up to 1,024 end
devices (H6F0GT supports up to 2,048 end devices),
the ATTO SAS Host Adapter is ideal for both IT and
digital video environments that require a high level of
performance.

H644 technical specifications

• Four internal, four external ports

• Up to 6-Gb/sec per port performance

• Form factor conforms to PCI low-profile
specification

• Length: 6.600”

• Height: 2.713”

• Operating temperature: 0-40 °C (32 °F-104 °F)

• Operating humidity: 5 - 95% non-condensing

• Storage temperature: -40-70 °C (-40 °F-157 °F)

• Storage humidity: 5 - 95% non-condensing

• Power (typ): 12V @ 0.6A; 3.3V @ 0.2A, 8W

• Airflow: 100 lf/m minimum

H680 technical specifications

• Eight external ports

• Up to 6-Gb/sec per port performance

• Length: 6.600”

• Height: 2.846”

• Operating temperature: 0-40 °C (32 °F-104 °F)

• Operating humidity: 5 - 95% non-condensing

• Storage temperature: -40-70 °C (-40 °F-157 °F)

• Storage humidity: 5 - 95% non-condensing

• Power (typ): 12V @ 0.6A; 3.3V @ 0.2A, 8W

• Airflow: 100 lf/m minimum

H608 technical specifications

• Eight internal ports

• Up to 6-Gb/sec per port performance

• Form factor conforms to PCI low-profile
specification

• Length: 5.600”

• Height: 2.713”

• Operating temperature: 0-40 °C (32 °F-104 °F)

• Operating humidity: 5 - 95% non-condensing

• Storage temperature: -40-70 °C (-40 °F-157 °F)

• Storage humidity: 5 - 95% non-condensing

• Power (typ): 12V @ 0.6A; 3.3V @ 0.2A, 8W

• Airflow: 100 lf/m minimum

2 ATTO Technology Inc. ATTO ExpressSAS Host & RAID Adapter Installation and Operation Manual

H60F technical specifications

• 16 internal ports

• Up to 6-Gb/sec per port performance

• Form factor conforms to PCI low-profile
specification

• Length: 8.638”

• Height: 2.918”

• Operating temperature: 0-40 °C (32 °F-104 °F)

• Operating humidity: 5 - 95% non-condensing

• Storage temperature: -40-70 °C (-40 °F-157 °F)

• Storage humidity: 5 - 95% non-condensing

• Power (typ): 12V @ 1.6A; 3.3V @ 0.8A, 22W

• Airflow: 100 lf/m minimum

H6F0 GT technical specifications

• 16 external ports

• Up to 6-Gb/sec per port performance

• Length: 6.600”

• Height: 2.713”

• Operating temperature: 0-55 °C (32 °F-131 °F)

• Operating humidity: 10- 90% non-condensing

• Storage temperature: -40-70 °C (-40 °F-157 °F)

• Storage humidity: 5 - 95% non-condensing

• Power (typ): 12V @ 1.6A; 3.3V @ 0.6A, 22W

• Airflow: 100 lf/m minimum

H6F0 technical specifications

• 16 external ports

• Up to 6-Gb/sec per port performance

• Length: 5.600”

• Height: 4.376”

• Operating temperature: 0-40 °C (32 °F-104 °F)

• Operating humidity: 5 - 95% non-condensing

• Storage temperature: -40-70 °C (-40 °F-157 °F)

• Storage humidity: 5 - 95% non-condensing

• Power (typ): 12V @ 1.6A; 3.3V @ 0.6A, 22W

• Airflow: 100 lf/m minimum

3

ExpressSAS RAID Adapters

ATTO ExpressSAS RAID adapters are ideal for both IT
and digital video environments that require a high level
of protection and performance, supporting up to 256
end devices.

RAID improves data accessibility and reliability during
normal operations. A RAID group is a virtual,
independent single drive with data written to physical
drives according to a RAID algorithm.

DriveAssure™ lets you run longer, faster and
smoother without interrupting data flow while avoiding
the unnecessary cost of replacing functional drives.

The ATTO ExpressSAS RAID adapters support
JBOD, DVRAID™, RAID Level 0, 1, 4, 10, 5 and 6 and
advanced features such as read caching, Hot Spares,
automatic RAID group rebuilding, hot swap and
Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP).

R644 technical specifications

• Four external & four internal ports

• Up to 6-Gb/sec per port performance

• Form factor conforms to PCI low-profile
specification

• Length: 6.600”

• Height: 2.713”

• Operating temperature: 0-40 °C (32 °F-104 °F)

• Operating humidity: 10 - 90% non-condensing

• Storage temperature: -40-70 °C (-40 °F-157 °F)

• Storage humidity: 5 - 95% non-condensing

• Power (typ): 12V @ 0.8A; 9.6W

• 12V @1.22A; 3.3V @ .06A, 15.05W
(NVCACHE charging), 12V @1.00A;

3.3V @ .06A, 12.34W (NVCACHE
charged)

• Airflow: 150 lf/m minimum

R680 technical specifications

• Eight external ports

• Up to 6-Gb/sec per port performance

• Form factor conforms to PCI low-profile
specification

• Length: 6.600”

• Height: 2.713”

• Operating temperature: 0-40 °C (32 °F-104 °F)

• Operating humidity: 10 - 90% non-condensing

• Storage temperature: -40-70 °C (-40 °F-157 °F)

• Storage humidity: 5 - 95% non-condensing

• Power (typ): 12V @ 0.8A; 9.6W

• 12V @1.22A; 3.3V @ .06A, 15.05W
(NVCACHE charging), 12V @1.00A;

3.3V @ .06A, 12.34W (NVCACHE
charged)

• Airflow: 150 lf/m minimum

4 ATTO Technology Inc. ATTO ExpressSAS Host & RAID Adapter Installation and Operation Manual

R608 technical specifications

• Eight internal ports

• Up to 6-Gb/sec per port performance

• Form factor conforms to PCI low-profile
specification

• Length: 6.600”

• Height: 2.713”

• Operating temperature: 0-40 °C (32 °F-104 °F)

• Operating humidity: 10 - 90% non-condensing

• Storage temperature: -40-70 °C (-40 °F-157 °F)

• Storage humidity: 5 - 95% non-condensing

• Power (typ): 12V @ 0.8A; 9.6W

• 12V @1.22A; 3.3V @ .06A, 15.05W
(NVCACHE charging), 12V @1.00A;

3.3V @ .06A, 12.34W (NVCACHE
charged)

• Airflow: 150 lf/m minimum

R60F technical specifications

• Sixteen internal ports

• 1/2 height form factor

• Up to 6-Gb/sec per port performance

• Length: 8.638”

• Height: 2.846”

• Operating temperature: 0-40 °C (32 °F-104 °F)

• Operating humidity: 10 - 90% non-condensing

• Storage temperature: -40-70 °C (-40 °F-157 °F)

• Storage humidity: 5 - 95% non-condensing

• Power (typ): 12V @ 2A, 25W

• Airflow: 250 lf/m minimum

5

2 Install Drivers

ATTO ExpressSAS host adapters require a current device driver and hardware flash for proper operation.

Your adapter was properly flashed before shipment.
However, you must add ExpressSAS drivers to your
computer before continuing with installation.

If you already have one or more ExpressSAS adapters
installed and you have the latest drivers found on the

Exhibit 2-1 The Installation CD splash screen. for the ExpressSAS RAID host adapter.

ATTO web site, or you followed the instructions in the
Getting Started Guide, you do not need to perform
of these procedures.

Drivers for Windows, OS X and Linux are supplied on
the Installation CD and on the ATTO web site.

any

Downloading drivers from the ATTO website

Use this procedure if you need to update drivers. The
latest driver for your adapter can be found on the
ATTO website.

1Go to www.attotech.com.
2 On the splash screen menu, put your cursor

over Downloads then click on Product

Downloads.

3 Register or log in if previously registered.
4Select SAS/SATA Host & RAID Adapters

from the product list.
5 Select your model.
6 From the table, find your Operating System.

7 Click on the entry for the latest driver.
8 A download window appears. Follow the

instructions for downloading the driver.

Internet Explorer users may select Run to
automatically run the downloaded self­extracting executable file.

All other browser users select a download
destination and run the self-extracting
executable file.

9 Continue with the driver installation as

described on the following pages for your
Operating System.

6 ATTO Technology Inc. ATTO ExpressSAS Host & RAID Adapter Installation and Operation Manual

Windows

Installing from the ExpressSAS
Installation CD

1 Power on your system.
2 Log on to Windows as the system

administrator.
3 Insert the Installation CD into a CD or DVD

drive. The CD begins automatically and

displays the Installation Guide. If the CD fails

to begin automatically, navigate to the root of

the CD, and run Autorun.bat.
4Select Windows Drivers from the items on the

left side of the screen.
5 Select the appropriate CPU-based operating

system from the operating system choices. If

you do not know which version to select,

contact your system administrator or refer to

your operating system manual.
6Select Install Windows Driver.

For Windows 8, 7, Vista and Server 2012,

2008: If you have User Account Control

enabled, you are asked for permission for the

installer to continue. If you do not have

administrator privileges, you are also asked for

an administrator user name and password.

complete the required fields and click

Continue.
7 Click Install.

8 Follow the on-screen instructions to complete

the driver installation.
9 Continue on to Install Hardware

on page 15.

Installing from the ATTO Technology
website

1 Power on your system.
2 Log on to Windows as the system

administrator.
3 Follow the instructions in Downloading drivers

from the ATTO website on page 6.

For Windows 7, Vista and Server 2008: If you
have User Account Control enabled, you are
asked for permission for the installer to
continue. If you do not have administrator
privileges, you are also asked for an
administrator user name and password. Fulfill
the required fields and click Continue.

4 Click unzip. The driver files are extracted and

the driver installer is launched.
5 Click Install.
6 Follow the on-screen instructions to complete

the driver installation.
7 Continue on to Install Hardware

on page 15.

Installing from a directory containing the
ExpressSAS driver

1 Power on your system.
2 Log on as the system administrator.
3 Navigate to the directory containing the

ExpressSAS driver.
4Run Setup.exe.

For Windows8, 7, Vista and Server 2012, 2008:

If you have User Account Control enabled,

you are asked for permission for the installer to

continue. If you do not have administrator

privileges, you are also asked for an

administrator user name and password. Fulfill

the required fields and click Continue.
5 Click Install.

For Windows 8, 7, Vista and Server 2012,

2008: If you have User Account Control

enabled, you are asked for permission for the

installer to continue. If you do not have

administrator privileges, you are also asked for

an administrator user name and password.

Fulfill the required fields and click Continue.
6 Follow the on-screen instructions to complete

the installation.
7 Continue on to Install Hardware

on page 15.

OS X

1 Power on your system.
2 Insert the Installation CD.
3 After it mounts, open the ExpressSAS volume.
4 Select the Drivers folder.

5 Launch the installer.
6 Follow the on-screen instructions.
7 Continue on to Install Hardware

on page 15.

7

Linux

Note

ExpressSAS adapters are not supported
under Linux kernel 2.4.

1 Power on your system.
2 Log in as root.
3 Verify that the kernel header files, usually

included with the Linux kernel development

package, are installed.
4 Insert the Installation CD.
5 Mount the CD to your chosen mount point such

as /mnt/cdrom.
6 Open your File Browser and browse to

/mnt/cdrom/Linux/Drivers.

7 Click on the driver:

• for the ExpressSAS adapters, the driver
filename appears as
lnx_drv_esashba_XXX.tgz where XXX is
the driver’s current version number.

• for ExpressSAS RAID adapters, the driver
filename appears as
lnx_drv_esasraid_XXX.tgz where XXX is
the driver’s current version number.

8 Copy the driver file to a directory such as

/usr/src.

9 Open a Terminal session.
10 Change to the directory where you stored the

driver.

11 Extract the driver source:

• for ExpressSAS adapters: tar xfz
lnx_drv_esashba_XXX.tgz.

• for ExpressSAS RAID adapters: tar xfz
lnx_drv_esasraid_XXX.tgz.

12 The driver files are extracted to a directory

called lnx_drv_esashba_XXX or
lnx_drv_esasraid_XXX.

Navigate to that directory.

13 Compile and install the driver using ./install.sh.

The driver is now installed and ready to use.

14 Add the following line to /etc/modprobe.conf

after installing the driver:

• for ExpressSAS adapters: alias
scsi_hostadapterX esashba where X is the
next available adapter number.

• for ExpressSAS RAID adapters: alias
scsi_hostadapterX esasraid where X is
the next available adapter number.

15 Continue on to Install Hardware

on page 15.

VMware ESXi 5 (ExpressSAS H6xx and H6F0 GT only)

Driver CD as an Update

You can add an ATTO adapter and install the driver
after installing ESXi 5.

1 Download the Driver Bundle from the VMware

or ATTO website for your ATTO Adapter. Unzip
the contents of the bundle on your local
workstation. Within the bundle you will find the
Driver VIB file (.vib) for your ATTO Adapter.

2 Use the Datastore Browser in the vSphere

Client to upload the VIB file to your ESXi host.
Alternatively, you can use a program like
winscp on Windows or scp on Linux to upload
the file directly to your ESXi host.

3 Log in to the ESXi host on the Local Tech

Support Console (ESXi), or through an SSH
client.

4 Install the VIB using the following command on

the ESXi host:

# esxcli software vib install -v <full path to VIB file>

5 Once the VIB is installed, reboot the ESXi host.

Some ATTO drivers for ESXi 5.0 are provided as
Community Supported drivers. These are not certified
by VMware. Please contact ATTO Technical Support
for questions about these drivers.

To install an ATTO Community Supported driver on
ESXi 5.0, the acceptance level must be changed with
the following command:

esxcli software acceptance set --

level=CommunitySupported

Including Driver in boot image

VMware vSphere 5 includes the ability to dynamically
construct boot images for your ESXi 5 servers. This
allows you to include ATTO drivers as part of a boot
image and install or boot ESXi 5 with that image. The
end result is that your server(s) will boot and have
ATTO drivers included without any additional steps.
Consult the VMware vSphere 5 documentation for
more information on using vSphere Image Builder.

8 ATTO Technology Inc. ATTO ExpressSAS Host & RAID Adapter Installation and Operation Manual

VMware ESX/ESXi 4.1 (ExpressSAS H6xx and H6F0 GT only)

Note

Driver CD usage during ESX Installation
(ESX only)

During ESX 4 installation, you may choose to install
additional drivers. This will allow you to install ESX
onto storage that is attached to your ATTO adapter.
You will need to burn the appropriate ATTO driver ISO
image to CD media.

1 During ESX installation, select Yes to install

custom drivers and click Add.

2 The installer will prompt you to insert the media

containing the ATTO device driver.

3 After you add the ATTO driver, the installer will

prompt you to reinsert the ESX installation
media and continue with the installation.

4 When the installer reaches the point to choose

the location for the ESX install, you can choose
local storage, or storage that is attached to your
ATTO adapter.

Driver CD as an Update (ESX or ESXi)

You can add an ATTO adapter and install the driver
after installing ESX/ESXi 4.

1 Mount the Driver CD ISO on your local

workstation. This may require the use of a
thirdparty ISO reader. Microsoft Windows Vista
and later include a built-in ISO reader. On
Linux, use the mount command and the
loopback interface. For example,

# mkdir -p /mnt/cdrom

# mount -r -l loop <path to driver ISO> /mnt/cdrom

2 Copy the offline bundle from the ISO image to a

local folder on your workstation. This ZIP file is
located in the offline-bundle folder of the ISO
image (ex. offline-bundle/celerity8fc.zip).

3 Use the Datastore Browser in the vSphere

Client to upload the ZIP file to your ESX/ESXi
host. Alternatively, you can use a program like
winscp on Windows or scp on Linux to upload
the file directly to your ESX/ESXi host.

4 Log in to the ESX/ESXi host on the Service

Console (ESX) or the Local Tech Support
Console (ESXi), or through an SSH client.

5 5.Install the offline bundle using the following

command on the ESX/ESXi host:

# esxupdate --maintenancemode update -

-bundle <path to driver bundle ZIP file>

6.Once the package is installed, reboot the ESX/ESXi
host.

Some ATTO drivers for ESXi 4.x are provided by and
directly supported by ATTO Technology Inc. These
drivers are not certified by VMware.

To install an ATTO supported driver on ESX/ESXi 4.x,
the "-nosigcheck" flag must be used during
installation. For example,

esxupdate --maintenancemode --nosigcheck update -

-bundle <path to driver bundle ZIP file>

VMware ESX 3.5 (ExpressSAS H6xx and H6F0 GT only)

Creating and using the Driver CD.

1 Download the correct driver .iso file from the

VMware Drivers & Tools Download site.
2 Write the .iso image to a CD-ROM..
3 Use the CD-ROM as a Boot CD or an Update

CD.

Driver CD as a Boot CD Only

The following procedure describes how to
use the driver CD as a boot CD. Use this CD
as a boot CD only if the new driver must
enable the target device on which ESX
Server 3.5 will be installed.

1 Place the driver CD in the CD-ROM drive of the

host machine.
2 Start the host machine.
3 When prompted for an upgrade or installation,

press Enter for graphical mode.
4 Choose the language you prefer.
5 Select a keyboard type.
6 After you are prompted to swap the driver CD

with the ESX Server installation CD, insert the

ESX Server 3.5 installation CD and continue

with ESX Server installation.
7 After ESX Server is installed and the system

reboots, log in to ESX Server.

9

8 Verify that the driver is installed successfully:

Note

Note

a. Run the esxupdate query command. A

message containing the information about
the driver appears.

b. View the PCI ID XML file in the

/etc/vmware/pciid/ directory. The driver
information is available in the file.

c. Check for the latest version of the driver

module in the following directory:

/usr/lib/vmware/vmkmod/

d. To verify that the driver is loaded and

functioning, enter vmkload_mod -l
command. The driver is listed in the
displayed list.

9 After driver installation, please reboot host.

Once the host is back online, go to Storage and
create VMFS datastore. If storage does not
appear, perform a rescan using the VMware
Storage option. If your storage does not
present itself, thereafter, please contact your
SAN administrator.

Driver CD as an Update CD Only

The following procedure describes how to
use the driver CD to update or add the driver
on an existing ESX Server 3.5.

1 Start the ESX Server machine and log in to

service console as root.
2 Place the driver CD in the CD-ROM drive of the

server.
3 Mount the driver CD.
4 Change the directory to the

VMupdates/RPMS/ on the driver CD.
5Run the esxupdate update command.

If the hardware is not already installed on the
system, run the esxupdate command with
the

--noreboot option

machine manually, install the hardware, and
then boot the host machine. This allows you
to install in a single boot.

The server reboots after the driver update.
6 Remove the driver CD from the CD-ROM drive

before the system reboots.
7 After the system reboots, log in to ESX Server.
8 Verify that the driver is installed successfully:

a. Run the esxupdate query command and

verify that the information about the driver
is mentioned in the resulting message.

b. View the PCI ID XML file in the

/etc/vmware/pciid/ directory. The driver
information is available in the file.

c. Check for the latest version of the driver

module in /usr/lib/vmware/vmkmod/

To verify that the driver is loaded and functioning,
run the vmkload_mod -l command. The driver is
listed in the displayed list.

9 After driver installation, please reboot host.

Once the host is back online, go to Storage and

create VMFS datastore. If storage does not

appear, perform a rescan using the VMware

Storage option. If your storage does not

present itself, thereafter, please contact your

SAN administrator.

, shut down the host

10 ATTO Technology Inc. ATTO ExpressSAS Host & RAID Adapter Installation and Operation Manual

3 New Windows OS Installation

When you install a new or different copy of the Windows operating system on a disk attached to an ATTO
ExpressSAS host adapters, you must reinstall the ATTO ExpressSAS drivers.

If you are changing the version of Windows you are
using or installing a fresh copy of your current version
onto your system, you must ensure Windows
recognizes your ATTO ExpressSAS and uses its
drivers.

You may either create an installation media (disk, CD
or USB flash drive) from the Installation CD or create
an installation media (disk, CD or USB flash drive)
from a file from the ATTO website, then use that media
to install the adapter and its driver to the new version
of Windows.

Follow these procedures after you have completed
installation of the ExpressSAS adapter and you have
connected storage devices (refer to
on page 15).

If you have an ExpressSAS RAID adapter, you must
configure a RAID group to install the operating system
using the BIOS Utility from the ATTO Utilities program
found on your Installation CD or downloaded from the
ATTO website.

Install Hardware

Creating ExpressSAS installation media
from the Installation CD

1 Insert the Installation CD into a CD or DVD

drive. The installation starts automatically. If it
does not, navigate to the root of the CD and run

autorun.bat.

2Select Windows Drivers from the items on the

left side of the screen.

3 Select the appropriate CPU-based operating

system from operating system choices.

4Select Create Scsiport Driver Diskette or

Create Storport Driver Diskette or Create
Driver Installation Media.

5 Follow the instructions to complete the

installation.

6 Continue with Install the driver into a new

version of Windows 2000, XP, Server 2003 or
Install the driver into a new version of Windows
8, 7, Vista, Server 2012, 2008 on page 12.

Creating ExpressSAS installation media
from a file

1Go to www.attotech.com.

2 Put your cursor over Downloads then click on

Driver downloads from the splash screen

menu.

3 Register or log in if previously registered.

4Select SAS/SATA Host & RAID Adapters

from the product list.

5 Select your model.

6 From the table, find your Operating System.

7 Click on the entry for the latest driver.

8 A download window appears. Follow the

instructions for downloading the driver.

Internet Explorer users may select Run to

automatically run the downloaded self-

extracting executable file.

All other browser users select a download

destination and run the self-extracting

executable file.

9 Uncheck When done unzipping open

\Setup.exe.

10 Select a destination folder and click Unzip to

extract the driver files.

11 The expanded software package contains a

Scsiport driver in the base directory and a

Storport driver in the Storport directory.

Navigate to the folder with the desired

ExpressSAS driver.

Select Scsiport for Windows 2000 and XP.

Select Storport for all other versions of

Windows.

12 Run makedisk.exe.

13 Follow the instructions to complete the

installation.

14 Continue with Install the driver into a new

version of Windows 2000, XP, Server 2003 or

Install the driver into a new version of Windows

8, 7, Vista, Server 2012, 2008 on page 12.

11

Install the driver into a new version of Windows 2000, XP, Server 2003

Note

Note

Note

7 Press Enter.

You must have a floppy disk with the
ExpressSAS driver available. Refer to

Creating ExpressSAS installation media
from the Installation CD
ExpressSAS installation media from a file

on page 11

1 Start Windows text mode setup as described by

your Windows documentation.

2 Press F6 when the first blue window, called

Windows Setup, appears.

3 Setup continues to load files. A new window

asks you to specify additional mass storage
devices. Press S.

4 Insert the ExpressSAS installation media into

the appropriate slot.

5 Press Enter.

6 A screen which would normally ask you to

select a driver appears which lists ExpressSAS
adapters instead. Select your adapter.

or

Creating

8 Windows Setup loads the files from the

installation media and displays the window

described in Step 3

device is listed as detected.

Repeat steps Step 3

other vendor-supplied driver installation media.

9 After all other drives have been processed,

press Enter.

10 Continue with the remainder of the Windows

installation procedure.

You may be asked to insert the ExpressSAS
installation floppy disk again. this is normal:
the first time Windows loaded the drivers into
memory; the second time Windows copies
the driver to you hard drive.

11 Update to Windows Server 2003 SP1 or later

when installation is complete.

. The ATTO ExpressSAS

through Step 7 for any

Install the driver into a new version of Windows 8, 7, Vista, Server
2012, 2008

6 Windows Setup searches for drivers matching

devices in your system. If the ExpressSAS

You must have the ExpressSAS installation
CD or a USB flash drive with the
ExpressSAS driver software available. Refer
to

Creating ExpressSAS installation media
from the Installation CD
ExpressSAS installation media from a file

on page 11.

1 Start Windows text mode setup as described by

your Windows documentation.

2Select Custom installation.

3The Where do you want to install Windows

message appears. Click Load Driver.

4 Insert the ExpressSAS installation media into

the appropriate slot.

5 Click OK.

or

Creating

adapter is not in the Select the driver to be
installed, click Browse and locate the driver.

7 Select the ExpressSAS adapter from the list.

8 Click Next.

9The Where to you want to install Windows

window appears. Your devices should be listed.
Remove the ExpressSAS installation media.

10 Configure and select a partition for installing

Windows.

11 Click Next.

12 Continue with the remainder of the Windows

installation procedure.

12 ATTO Technology Inc. ATTO ExpressSAS Host & RAID Adapter Installation and Operation Manual

4 New OS X Installation

Note

Note

Boot support is available on Intel-based systems only

Adjusting adapter settings with the EFI

8 When exiting the configuration utility, if you

Configuration Utility

9 At the prompt, enter exit to return to the rEFIt

The EFI Configuration Utility is not
compatible with the ExpressSAS H6F0 GT
adapter.

Depending on your configuration, it may be
necessary to adjust adapter NVRAM
settings prior to performing the OS X
installation. For example, you made need to
modify the device wait time. The EFI
configuration utility can be launched from an
EFI shell. Unfortunately, an EFI shell is not
included with Intel Macs. ATTO
recommends rEFIt, which is available for
free from http://refit.sourceforge.net
you have downloaded the DMG for rEFIt, do
the following to open the EFI Configuration
Utility:

1 Burn the rEFIt DMG file to a CD. Do not remove

the CD.

2 Shut down the system and install the

ExpressSAS adapter.

3 With the rEFIt CD inserted, boot the system

while pressing and holding the C key. This will
boot the rEFIt CD.

4 The rEFIt boot menu will appear which contains

a series of icons. Release the C key and use
the arrows to highlight the Start EFI Shell icon.
Press Return to enter the EFI Shell.

5 At the prompt, enter the drivers -b command.

Scroll through the list of installed EFI drivers
and find the ATTO ExpressSAS driver. There
may be more than one entry based on the
number and type of adapter(s). Note the two or
three digit hexadecimal driver handle on the far
left of the screen.

6 At the prompt, enter 'rvcfg -s {handle} where

{handle} is the hexadecimal number from the
previous step. This will launch the EFI
Configuration Utility for the associated adapter.

7 Use the on-screen menus to configure your

adapter. Help is available at the bottom of the
screen.

. Once

Installing OS X Snow Leopard, Lion or
Mountain Lion onto a disk attached to
an ExpressSAS adapter

1 Install your ExpressSAS adapter and connect

2 If you are launching the OS X installation by

3 If you are launching the OS X installation from

4 Select the volume on the disk where you want

5 Click Install and proceed with the rest of OS X

6 When OS X installation completes, install the

.

changed any settings, the system will restart
the adapter so the new settings take effect.

boot menu or reset to restart the system.

If you are installing an ATTO 6Gb ESAS
RAID card with Leopard, please use the
method described in

Leopard or Tiger onto a disk attached to
an ExpressSAS adapter on page 14

your storage.

booting the installation DVD:

a. Launch the installation and proceed to

the Select the disk where you want
to install Mac OS X screen.

b. If you need to partition your disk, open

Disk Utility from the Utilities menu.
Once you partition your disk and exit,
the newly created volume will appear in
the installer window.

an existing OS X installation:

a. If you need to partition your disk, open

Disk Utility from
/Applications/Utilities. Partition your

disk and exit.

b. Launch the installation DVD and

proceed to the Select the disk where
you want to install Mac OS X screen.

to install OS X.

installation.

latest ExpressSAS driver from the ATTO

Technology website.

Installing OS X

.

13

Installing OS X Leopard or Tiger onto a

Note

disk attached to an ExpressSAS
adapter

Due to limitations of the Mac OS X
Installer, two systems are required to
complete this procedure. These will be
referred to as the 'target' and 'host'
systems. The target system will contain
your ExpressSAS adapter and storage.
The host system will only be used during
the installation and must be an Intel-based
system capable of booting the OS X
installation CD. However, it does not have
to be the same type of system as the target
system. For example, you may use a
MacBook Pro to install OS X on a Mac Pro
containing your ExpressSAS adapter.
Both systems must have an available
FireWire port.

1 On the target system, install the ExpressSAS

adapter and connect your storage.

2 Connect the target and host systems with a

FireWire cable.

3 Power on the target system while pressing and

holding T. This will boot the target system in
target disk mode. You may release the key
when the FireWire symbol appears.

4 On the host system, insert the OS X installation

disc and begin installation. Proceed through the
installation wizard until you reach the
destination volume selection window.

5 Select a volume on the storage attached to the

ExpressSAS adapter. If a volume is not
present, open the Disk Utility from the OS X
Installer menu to create a volume. The storage
will appear in Disk Utility as AAPL FireWire
Media. Exit the Disk Utility when finished and
select the newly created volume.

6 Finish the OS X installation, restart the host

system when prompted, and complete the OS
X setup wizard. You may now remove the OS X
installation disc.

7 On the host system, obtain and install the latest

version of the ExpressSAS OS X driver from
the software CD that came with your adapter or
the ATTO Technology website

8 On the host system, open System Preferences

and restore the Startup Disk to the disk that the
host system booted from before performing this
procedure. After restarting, you may disconnect
the FireWire cable from the target system. The
host system is no longer needed.

9 Power off the target system and power it back

on again normally. If you previously had an OS
X installation present, it will boot that version of
OS X. Otherwise, the new OS X installation will
be booted.

10 On the target system, open System

Preferences and set the Startup Disk to the new
OS X installation and restart.

.

14 ATTO Technology Inc. ATTO ExpressSAS Host & RAID Adapter Installation and Operation Manual

5 Install Hardware

CAUTIONCAUTION

WARNING

CAUTIONCAUTION

CAUTIONCAUTION

Use this chapter as a guide to install the ATTO ExpressSAS adapter into a PCI Express expansion slot on your
computer. If you have followed the Getting Started Guide successfully, you do not need to read this chapter.

• A computer with an available x8 or x16 PCI
Express 3.0/2.0/1.2 expansion slot. Check your

Back up your system data before
changing or installing any hardware.

System requirements

The ATTO ExpressSAS host adapter package
contains

• ExpressSAS adapter

• ATTO ExpressSAS CD including drivers, user
manuals and utilities (Installation CD)

• A low-profile or standard bracket and the
installation procedure

• A warranty and registration card

If any of these items are missing, contact your ATTO
authorized sales representative.

In addition you must have:

computer’s documentation.

• SAS/SATA storage, cables and connectors.
See

Bracket details

details

on page 21 for details of the adapters and

brackets.

on page 19 and

Adapter board

SAS address

Each ATTO ExpressSAS adapter has a unique SAS
address designated by the Institute of Electrical and
Electronic Engineers which allows the system to
recognize the ATTO ExpressSAS host adapter as a
unique part of your configuration.

The address is marked on the back of the board for
easy identification. Please keep a reference copy of
the number in a safe place.

Installing the adapter

ATTO ExpressSAS Host Adapters contain
components that are sensitive to
electrostatic discharge (ESD). ESD can
cause damage to the ATTO ExpressSAS
host adapter. Please follow standard
methods to avoid ESD.

1 Install system drivers before you begin

hardware installation. Refer to Install Drivers
page 6.

2 Power down the computer and unplug the

computer from all power sources.
3 Open the case.
4 If applicable, attach the low profile or standard

bracket to the adapter.

a. Remove the original bracket from the

adapter, being careful not to damage the
board.Use an ESD-safe #1 Phillips
screwdriver to remove the Phillips screws
at the top and bottom edges of the board.

on

Make sure the screwdriver is centered in
the top of the screw to prevent damage to
the screw. Damaging the screw can void
the warranty.

b. Set the bracket and screws aside.
c. Place the adapter on top of the

replacement bracket, positioning the
bracket so that the holes in the bracket are
aligned with the openings in the board.

d. It is recommended that you dip the screws

into Loctite® 242 to decrease the chance
of the threads becoming loose.

e. Use an ESD-safe #1 Phillips torque

screwdriver to e tighten the screws. The
screwdriver should be set to a maximum
torque of 3.98 in/lbs (0.45N m).

Do not exceed the torque specification to
avoid damaging the board, connectors or
screws.

15

5 Insert the ATTO ExpressSAS host adapter into

any open 3.0/2.0/1.2 PCI Express expansion

slot. If you have questions about how to install

an expansion card in your system, consult your

computer’s documentation.

6 Close the case on the computer and power it

up.

7 Installed drivers are loaded.

For Windows 2000, XP and Server 2003

• Windows detects your ExpressSAS Adapter
and the

Found New Hardware wizard

appears. Proceed through the wizard with
the default settings for each adapter
channel. Insert the ExpressSAS installation
disk when prompted.

• After adapter installation is complete, the

Found New Hardware wizard shows an
ATTO Phantom Device for each channel.

Proceed through the wizard with default
settings to complete the installation.

For Windows 8, 7, Vista and Server 2012, 2008

• Windows detects your adapter and
automatically installs the required drivers.

If drivers do not load, refer to Install Drivers
page 6 and Troubleshooting

on page 37.

on

8 Turn off power to the computer.
9 Continue to Install storage

on page 25.

16 ATTO Technology Inc. ATTO ExpressSAS Host & RAID Adapter Installation and Operation Manual

Installing CacheAssure (6Gb RAID Adapters only)

WARNING

CAUTIONCAUTION

Adding CacheAssure to your Host Adapter (marked ‘A’ in Exhibit 3-1) requires the installation of two modules;
Non-Volatile Memory Card (B) and Power Module (C).

Exhibit 5-1 ESAS RAID Adapter with CacheAssure

ATTO CacheAssure modules and Host
Adapters contain components that are
sensitive to electrostatic discharge (ESD).
ESD can cause damage to the ATTO
ExpressSAS host adapter. Please follow
standard methods to avoid ESD.

Non-Volatile (NV) Memory Card Installation

----------------------------------------------------------------------­1 Power down the computer and unplug the

computer from all power sources.

2 Open the case.

If you have purchased the ESAS RAID
Adapter bundled with CacheAssure, the NV
Memory Card is pre-assembled to the RAID
Host Adapter. If so, please go directly to the

Power Module Installation

are adding CacheAssure to a previously
purchased SAS RAID Adapter, continue to
step 3.

3 Gently remove your ATTO 6Gb SAS Adapter

from the PCI Express expansion slot. If you
have questions about how to remove an
expansion card from your system, consult your
computer’s documentation.

4 Remove the NV Memory Card from its

electrostatic safe packaging.

section. If you

----------------------------------------------------------------------­5 Holding the RAID adapter firmly, plug the NV

Memory Card into the RAID Host Adapter with
ATTO logos in matching direction and the
standoff mounts closer to the adapter’s bracket.
See Exhibit 5-2

Exhibit 5-2 NV Memory Card Installation

.

Make sure the NV Memory Card is evenly
aligned on both sides. If the card is
placed incorrectly, damage to the
Memory or Host Adapter Card may occur.
This may void your warranty.

17

6 Make sure the NV Memory Card is firmly

Note

WARNING

seated by gently pushing the card down onto
the ATTO RAID Adapter, as shown:

Power Module Installation

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

It is the user’s preference to install the Power
Module while the ATTO Host Adapter is
outside of the computer, or install the Power
Module while the Host Adapter is seated in
it’s PCI Express slot. If you have questions
about how to remove an expansion card
from your system, consult your computer’s
documentation. In these directions, we will
assume the card is seated in its PCI Express
slot.

7 Turn the Host Adapter over so that you can see

the back of the printed circuit board. Use the
two supplied screws to finish secure the NV
Memory Card onto your RAID adapter.

8 Use an ESD-safe crosshead screwdriver to

secure the screws.

----------------------------------------------------------------------­4 Remove and expose the other side of the

adhesive.
5 Mount the Power Module into the computer.
6 Plug the Power Module power cord into the

Non-Volatile Module (on the RAID adapter).

1 Remove the Power Module from its

electrostatic safe packaging.

2 Select an area for placement of the Power

Module inside of the computer. Make sure it
can be mounted securely and that the Power
Module’s power cord can reach the Host
Adapter, specifically the NV Memory Card’s
power jack.

3 Use the heavy-duty, industrial adhesive, shown

in Exhibit 5-3

to mount the module. Remove
one side of the paper backing and apply it to the
Power Module.

Exhibit 5-3 Applying mount adhesive

The plug is keyed so that it can only be plugged
in one way. Make sure that the plug is fully

inserted.
7 Close your computer case.
8 You may power on your system.

Be careful handling the Power Module after it
has been installed and powered. It may be live
with power. If the board is mishandled while it is
attached it may become shorted and/or damaged.

18 ATTO Technology Inc. ATTO ExpressSAS Host & RAID Adapter Installation and Operation Manual

Bracket details

Exhibit 5-4 ExpressSAS H644 Adapter brackets.

Exhibit 5-6 ExpressSAS H680 Adapter brackets.

Exhibit 5-5 ExpressSAS H608 Adapter brackets.

Exhibit 5-7 ExpressSAS H60F Adapter brackets.

19

Exhibit 5-8 ExpressSAS H6F0 Adapter bracket.

Exhibit 5-10 ExpressSAS R644 Adapter brackets.

Exhibit 5-9 ExpressSAS H6F0 GT Adapter brackets.

Exhibit 5-11 The ExpressSAS R608 Adapter brackets

20 ATTO Technology Inc. ATTO ExpressSAS Host & RAID Adapter Installation and Operation Manual

Exhibit 5-12 ExpressSAS R680 Adapter brackets. Exhibit 5-13 The ExpressSAS R60F Adapter brackets

Adapter board details

Exhibit 5-14 ExpressSAS H644 Adapter board.

21

Exhibit 5-15 ExpressSAS H608 Adapter board.

Exhibit 5-16 ExpressSAS H680 Adapter board.

Exhibit 5-17 ExpressSAS H60F Adapter board.

22 ATTO Technology Inc. ATTO ExpressSAS Host & RAID Adapter Installation and Operation Manual

Exhibit 5-18 ExpressSAS H6F0 Adapter board.

Exhibit 5-19 ExpressSAS H6F0 GT Adapter board

23

Exhibit 5-20 ExpressSAS R644 Adapter board.

Exhibit 5-21 ExpressSAS R680 Adapter board.

Exhibit 5-22 ExpressSAS R608 Adapter board.

24 ATTO Technology Inc. ATTO ExpressSAS Host & RAID Adapter Installation and Operation Manual

Exhibit 5-23 ExpressSAS R60F Adapter board..

Note

Install storage

1 Connect your SAS/SATA storage to the ATTO

ExpressSAS adapter.

Consult with your storage vendor for the
proper connectors and cables to interface
with your storage

• External connectors: use
SFF-8088 connectors.

• External connectors: use

SFF-8644 mini-SAS HD
connectors (GT only).

• Internal connectors: use
SFF-8087 internal
connectors.

• For SATA, use cables which

are no longer than 1 meter.

• For SAS, use cables which
are no longer than 7 meters.

2 Plug in your computer and storage and power

them on.

3 If required, configure your storage and adapter,

including RAID, using the ATTO ConfigTool
found in ATTO Utilities on the Installation CD or
the ATTO web site. Default settings are
appropriate for most systems but you may
change settings using the ATTO ConfigTool.

25

6 Data Path and LED Control

This chapter provides the instructions that define the internal cable connections for data path and LED control,
needed for hard drive backplanes. This section applies to the following models: R608; R60F; H608; and H60F.
These adapters have been designed to affect LED Control functionality through an SGPIO interface or an I2C
interface. These interfaces require different cable connections and those connections are specified in this
chapter.

Connections on the H608 and H60F

The following diagrams show the connections for Mini-SAS cables and I2C cables on the H608 and H60F.

Exhibit 6.1-1 H608 connectors

Exhibit 6.1-2 H60F connectors

26 ATTO Technology Inc. ATTO ExpressSAS Host & RAID Adapter Installation and Operation Manual

Connections on the R608 and R60F

Overall Count

PHYs Label of Mini-SAS Connector

0-3 J3 J1 J2 J1
4-7 J2 J2 J1 J2
8-11 n/a J3 n/a J4

The following diagrams show the connections for Mini-SAS cables and I2C cables on the R608 and R60F.

Exhibit 6.1-3 R608 connectors

Exhibit 6.1-4 R60F connectors

Exhibit 6.1-5 ESAS HBA and RAID Adapter summary

R608 R60F H608 H60F

Number of I2C Buses 2 2 2 4
Number of I2C Headers 2 4 2 4
Number of Mini-SAS

2 4 2 4

Connectors

I2C BUS I2C Headers

1 – 1st header P7 P8 P6 P5
1 – 2nd header n/a P9 n/a n/a
2 – 1st header P6 P6 P5 P6
2 – 2nd header n/a P7 n/a n/a
3 – 1st header
4 – 1st header

n/a
n/a

n/a
n/a

n/a
n/a

P7
P8

12-15 n/a J4 n/a J3

27

Connecting data cables to hard drive backplanes

Mini-SAS

PHYs Backplane Backplane

R608 - 2 x4 Backplanes (See example 1.)

J3 0-3 1 1-4
J2 4-7 2 1-4

R60F - 1 x4 Backplanes

J1 0-3 1 1-4
J2 n/a n/a n/a
J3 n/a n/a n/a
J4 n/a n/a n/a

J1 0-3 1 1-4
J2 4-7 2 1-4
J3 8-9 2 5-7
J4 n/a n/a n/a

Exhibit 6-2 Connect an R608 or R60F to several different backplane configurations

Connector

R608 - 1 x6 Backplane

J3 0-3 1 1-4
J2 4-5 1 5-6

R608 - 1 x8 Backplane

J3 0-3 1 1-4
J2 4-7 1 5-8

(Examples start on page 35)

Slots

R60F - 1 x6 Backplanes

J1 0-3 1 1-4
J2 4-5 2 5-6
J3 n/a n/a n/a
J4 n/a n/a n/a

R60F - 1 x4 & 1 x6 Backplanes (See example 3.)

R60F - 1 x16 Backplane

J1 0-3 1 1-4
J2 4-7 1 5-8
J3 8-11 1 9-12
J4 12-15 1 13-16

28 ATTO Technology Inc. ATTO ExpressSAS Host & RAID Adapter Installation and Operation Manual

Exhibit 6-3 Connect an H608 or H60F to several different backplane configurations

Mini-SAS

PHYs Backplane Backplane

H608 - 2 x4 Backplanes (See example 1.)

J2 0-3 1 1-4
J1 4-7 2 1-4

H60F – 2 x4 Backplanes

J1 0-3 1 1-4
J2 4-7 2 1-4
J4 n/a n/a n/a
J3 n/a n/a n/a

J1 0-3 1 1-4
J2 4-7 2 1-4
J4 8-9 2 5-7
J3 n/a n/a n/a

(Examples start on page 35)

Connector

H608 - 1 x6 Backplane

J2 0-3 1 1-4
J1 4-5 1 5-6

H608 - 1 x8 Backplane

J2 0-3 1 1-4
J1 4-7 1 5-8

H60F - 1 x6 Backplanes

J1 0-3 1 1-4
J2 4-5 2 5-6
J4 n/a n/a n/a
J3 n/a n/a n/a

H60F - 1 x4 & 1 x6 Backplanes (See example 3.)

H6F - 1 x16 Backplane

J1 0-3 1 1-4
J2 4-7 1 5-8
J4 8-11 1 9-12
J3 12-15 1 13-16

Slots

chapter)

29

Connecting an internal Mini-SAS to SATA
Fan-out cables

A mini-SAS to SATA fan out cable has a mini-SAS
connector (SFF-8087) on one end and four SATA
connectors on the other end. Plug the mini-SAS
connector into the appropriate 'Jn' connector on the
adapter. Plug each of the SATA connectors into the
drive backplane. The cable attached to each SATA
cable should have a number that indicates the
connection order within the mini-SAS connector. The
number on the cable indicates the order that the SATA
cable should be connected to drive slots on the
backplane. Consult the documentation for your

backplane to determine the relationship from the SATA
connector to drive slot.

Connecting an internal Mini-SAS to
internal Mini-SAS cables

A mini-SAS to mini-SAS cable has a mini-SAS (SFF-

8087) connector at each end of the cable. Plug one
end into the appropriate 'Jn' connector on the adapter.
Plug the other end into the appropriate connector on
the drive backplane. Consult the documentation for
your backplane to determine the relationship from the
Mini-SAS connector to drive slot.

LED Control for Internal SAS Connectors

This section provides the instructions that define the
cable connections needed to exercise LED Control for
hard drive backplanes. This section applies to the
following models: R608; R60F; H608; and H60F.
These adapters have been designed to affect LED
Control functionality through an SGPIO interface or an
I2C interface. These interfaces require different cable
connections and those connections are specified in
this chapter.

Using SGPIO for LED Control

SGPIO with an internal mini-SAS to mini­SAS cable

The signals for SGPIO are included within the Mini­SAS connector located on the adapter. These signals
are routed to the hard drive backplane based upon the
cable used for the backplane connection. Consult the
documentation for your backplane to determine if it
supports SGPIO.

SGPIO with an internal Mini-SAS to SATA
Fan-out cables

Follow the instructions for a connection with internal
Mini-SAS to SATA Fan-out cables. The fan out end

should have an additional connector that is an 8 wire
connector. This connector must be connected to an
SGPIO header on the hard drive backplane. (See
Example 2) Consult the documentation for your
backplane to determine the relationship from the
SGPIO connector to the drive slots.

Note, the SGPIO sideband connector is not standard
and the connector must match the connector on the
backplane. Please see the backplane's and cable's
documentation for more details

Using SES-I2C for LED Control

The signals for LED Control via I2C are generated at
the I

2

C headers of the adapter. The signals are carried
on a 3 wire cable and connected to the hard drive
backplane. Consult the documentation for your
backplane to determine if it supports LED Control via
I

2

C.

In general an I
four drives. However, there are hard drive backplanes
that have more drives per I
should be connected according to the table on the next
page.

2

C cable is needed for each group of

2

C cable. The I2C cables

30 ATTO Technology Inc. ATTO ExpressSAS Host & RAID Adapter Installation and Operation Manual

Exhibit 6-4

Mini-SAS

I2C Header PHYs Backplane Backplane

I2C

R608 - 2 x4 Backplanes (See example 1.)

J3 P7 0-3 1 1-4 C0
J2 P6 4-7 2 1-4 C0

R608 - 1 x6 Backplane

J2 P9 4-7 2 1-4 C2
J3 n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a
J4 n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a

R60F - 1 x6 Backplanes

J1 P8 0-3 1 1-4 C0
J2 n/a 4-5 1 5-6 n/a
J3 n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a

J1 P8 0-3 1 1-4 C0
J2 P8 4-7 1 5-8 C2
J3 P6 8-11 1 9-12 C0
J4 P6 12-15 1 13-16 C2

SES-I2C Wire chart for R608 or R60F (Examples start on page 35)

Connector

Slots

J3 P7 0-3 1 1-4 C0
J2 n/a 4-5 1 5-6 n/a

R608 - 1 x8 Backplane

J3 P7 0-3 1 1-4 C0
J2 P6 4-7 1 5-8 C2

R60F – 2 x4 Backplanes

J1 P8 0-3 1 1-4 C0

J4 n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a

R60F - 1 x4 & 1x6 Backplane (See example 3.)

J1 P8 0-3 1 1-4 C0
J2 P6 4-7 2 1-4 C2
J3 n/a 8-9 2 5-6 n/a
J4 n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a

R60F - 1 x16 Backplane

Address

31

Exhibit 6-5 SES-I2C Wire chart for R608 or R60F

Mini-SAS

I2C Header PHYs Backplane Backplane

I2C

H608 - 2 x4 Backplanes (See example 4.)

J2 P6 0-3 1 1-4 C0
J1 P5 4-7 2 1-4 C0

H608 - 1 x6 Backplane

J2 P6 4-7 2 1-4 C0
J4 n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a
J3 n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a

H60F - 1 x6 Backplanes

J1 P5 0-3 1 1-4 C0
J2 n/a 4-5 1 5-6 n/a
J4 n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a

J1 P5 0-3 1 1-4 C0
J2 P6 4-7 1 5-8 C0
J4 P7 8-11 1 9-12 C0
J3 P8 12-15 1 13-16 C0

(Examples start on page 35)

Connector

Slots

J2 P6 0-3 1 1-4 C0
J1 n/a 4-5 1 5-6 n/a

H608 - 1 x8 Backplane

J2 P6 0-3 1 1-4 C0
J1 P5 4-7 1 5-8 C0

H60F – 2 x4 Backplanes

J1 P5 0-3 1 1-4 C0

J3 n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a

H60F - 1 x4 & 1x6 Backplane (See example 5.)

J1 P5 0-3 1 1-4 C0
J2 P6 4-7 2 1-4 C0
J4 n/a 8-9 2 5-6 n/a
J3 n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a

H60F - 1 x16 Backplane

Address

I2C Header Pin-out

The following chart specifies the pin-out for I2C
headers on the ESAS RAID and ESAS HBA adapters.

Pin Signal

1Data
2 Ground
3Clock

32 ATTO Technology Inc. ATTO ExpressSAS Host & RAID Adapter Installation and Operation Manual

Example Configurations

Example 1 R608 with 2 Intel x4 backplanes. The backplanes are controlled by SES-I2C

Example 2 R608 with 2 Intel x4 backplanes. The backp

Example 3 R60F with an Intel x6 backplane and an Intel x4 backplane. The backplanes are controlled by SES-I2C

lanes are controlled by SGPIO

33

Example 4 H608 with 2 Intel x4 backplanes. The backplanes are controlled by SES-I2C

Example 5 H60F with an Intel x6 backplane and an Intel x4 backpl

ane. The backplanes are controlled by SES-I2C

34 ATTO Technology Inc. ATTO ExpressSAS Host & RAID Adapter Installation and Operation Manual

7 Troubleshooting

Note

Note

This chapter contains solutions for the most common problems you might encounter. If you need additional
assistance, please refer to the ATTO Technology web site (
authorized representative.

www.attotech.com

) or contact an ATTO Technology

General suggestions

• Check each cable connection on every device.

• Verify all cables are in proper working condition.
Loose or broken cables are often the cause of
errors or problems.

• Check that devices are plugged into an AC outlet
and are turned on before you add power to your
computer.

• Ensure you have the latest driver for your
operating system and that the driver is installed
(refer to Install Drivers

• Ensure the ExpressSAS adapter is installed
properly in the computer (refer to Install

Hardware on page 15).

on page 6).

If the RAID adapter is not accessible

1 Open the ATTO ConfigTool from the ATTO

Utilities found on the Installation CD or
download from the ATTO web site. Refer to the

ATTO Utilities Installation and Operation
Manual for additional information.

2 If the adapter does not appear in the

Listing

PCI slot.
a. Remove power from the PC.
b. Remove the case.

, make sure it is properly seated in the

Device

c. Check the PCI slot.
d. Replace the case.
e. Apply power.

If it is properly seated and devices are still
not accessible, contact an ATTO Technology
authorized representative.

3 Verify the driver is loaded.

a. Click on the adapter name in the

Listing

b. If the

Unknown: driver not loaded, reinstall the

driver. Refer to Install Drivers

c. If reinstalling the driver does not fix the

problem, contact an ATTO authorized
representative.

4 Reset the NVRAM for all channels to defaults

and reboot. If the problem persists, contact an
ATTO authorized representative.

For OS X systems, when calling ATTO
Technical Support, please have a printout of
the IOreg listing and output from the Apple
System Profiler available.

to view the Basic Info screen.

Driver Information section indicates

Device

on page 6.

37

Appendix A Glossary

Glossary

Some terms used in the SAS/SATA industry are defined below. More information is available through the
ATTO Technology website (
(

www.snia.org

Term Definition

ANSI American National Standards Institute

Auto Negotiation Hardware senses and automatically responds depending on configuration

Bit Smallest unit of data a computer can process: a single binary digit with a value of either 0 or 1

Bus A collection of unbroken signal lines used to transmit information from one part of a computer

Byte An ordered set of 8 bits

CPU Central Processing Unit: the portion of the computer that actually performs computations

Device Driver A program that allows a microprocessor to direct the operation of a peripheral device

DMA Direct Memory Access: a way to move data from a storage device directly to RAM without using

DMA bus master Allows a peripheral to control the flow of data to and from system memory by block as opposed to

Host A processor, usually a CPU and memory, which communicates with devices over an interface

I2C

I2C Header I2C header is a connector on the adapter used to connect an I2C cable

LED Light-emitting diode: a type of diode that emits light when current passes through it; visible LEDs

Parity Checking A method which verifies the accuracy of data transmitted over the SCSI bus by adding one bit in

PCI Peripheral Component Interconnect. Allows peripherals to be connected directly to computer

PHY

Port An access point in a device

Port Address Also port number; the address, assigned by the PCI bus, through which commands are sent to a

Port Number See port address

SCSI Small Computer Systems Interface: a processor-independent standard for system-level interface

SEP SCSI Enclosure Process. A SEP is a device, typically a backplane, that is capable of executing

SES SCSI Enclosure Services. A SCSI specification that defines SCSI commands for controlling an

).

system to another; taps on the lines connect devices to the bus

the CPU’s resources

allowing the processor to control the data by bytes (PIO or programmed I/O)

(Inter-Integrated Circuit) is a multi-master serial single-ended computer bus that is used to attach
low-speed peripherals to a motherboard, backplane or embedded system

are used as indicator lights on all sorts of electronic devices

the transfer to make the sum of all the bits either odd or even (for odd or even parity); an error
message occurs if the sum is not correct

memory, bypassing the slower ISA and EISA busses

A physical connection between the adapter and a drive on the backplane. Each mini-SAS
connector carries signals for four phys

host adapter board

between a computer and intelligent devices including hard disks, floppy disks, CD-ROM, printers,
scanners, etc.

SCSI SES commands

enclosure. These commands include the capability to control LED indicators on an enclosure

www.attotech.com

), or the Storage Area Networking Industry Association

i ATTO Technology Inc. ATTO ExpressSAS Host & RAID Adapter Installation and Operation Manual

Term Definition

SES-I2C SES over I2C. I2C is used to transport the SES protocol instead of SCSI, SAS, Fibre Channel etc

SGPIO A serial GPIO protocol used to control LED indicators on a backplane

Sideband

Connector on Mini-SAS cables used to carry an SGPIO signal

Connector

Transfer Rate The rate at which bytes or bits are transferred, as in megabytes or gigabits per second

ii

Appendix B Configuration and Management

Driver Configuration

Use the esxcfg-module command to query and
configure the ATTO adapter driver parameters. In the
examples that follow, <driver name> should be
replaced with the ATTO driver name.

To obtain a list of available driver parameters:

# esxcfg-module -i <driver name>

To list the driver parameters that have been set:

# esxcfg-module -g <driver name>

To set a driver parameter:

# esxcfg-module -s param=value <driver

name>

PARAMETER DESCRIPTION

atto_log_mask Defines the log mask for sending ATTO driver

information to the system log. Default is 0 (none).

atto_max_sectors Maximum number of disk sectors in a single data

transfer. Default is 65535 (largest possible value).

can_queue Maximum number of commands per adapter

channel. Default is 128.

Configuration changes made with the esxcfg-module ­s command are persistent across system reboots.
However, the changes will not take affect until the
system is rebooted.

The following table lists the configurable parameters
along with a brief description.

change_notification Enable notifying the OS of the arrival and

departure of target devices. Default is 1 (on).

cmd_per_lun Maximum number of commands per LUN. Default

is 16.

cmd_retry_count Maximum number of retries allowed for a

command. Default is 20.

event_log_mask A bit mask of events to report to the system log.

Default is 0x00000001 (crtitical events only).

heap_initial Initial heap size allocated for the dirver.

heap_max Maximum attainable heap size of the driver.

io_time_out Time (in seconds) before an I/O command is timed

out by the driver. Set to 0 for no timeout. Default is

30.

num_sas_addr Number of SAS addresses to assign to the

adapter's PHYs. Addresses are assigned
sequentially from the base address. Valid settings
are 1, 2, 4, 8. Default is 1.

num_sg_lists Number of SGL pages. Default is 256.

iii ATTO Technology Inc. ATTO ExpressSAS Host & RAID Adapter Installation and Operation Manual

PARAMETER DESCRIPTION

num_targets Maximum number of target devices. Default is 256.

old_device_reset Use the old device reset method. Default is 0 (use

new method).

sg_tablesize Maximum number of entries in a scatter/gather

table. A value of 255 means that the S/G table be
any size. Default is 255.

sgl_page_size Scatter/Gather List page size in number of S/G

entries. Default is 128.

use_tm_completions Wait for task management commands to complete

before returning from handler. Default is 1
(enabled).

use_transport_layer Attached to the SCSI transport layer. Default is 1

(enabled).

Adapter Management

On VMware ESX/ESXi you can identify and manage ATTO adapters using the VMware vSphere Client, or the
Service Console. On ESXi, the Service Console is referred to as Local Tech Support Mode.

vSphere Client

With VMware vSphere Client, you can identify ATTO
adapters on a VMware ESX/ESXi system, and view
the attached storage devices.

1 Start vSphere Client from your local workstation

and select the host containing one or more
ATTO adapters.

2 Click the Configuration tab, and then select

Storage Adapters under Hardware in the left
pane.

3 A list of all storage adapters in the system is

displayed. The Model, Identifier (SAS address)
and Targets are shown for each adapter
channel.

Service Console

Using the Service Console, information about each
adapter channel can be found in the /proc/scsi
filesystem, under /proc/scsi/<driver name>.

To view details on a specific adapter channel, run the
following command:

# cat /proc/scsi/<driver name>/<channel>

This command displays the following information:

• Adapter type

• Driver, BIOS and Firmware versions

• Driver Parameters

• Adapter Model and Identifier (WWN or SAS
address)

• Virtual Port Information

• Discovered Targets

• Driver Statistics

A sample output is shown below:

~ # cat /proc/scsi/esas2hba/6
ATTO ExpressSAS 6GB Adapter
Driver version 1.60b1
Flash version 09/27/2011
Firmware version 1.16.16
Copyright 2001-2011
http://www.attotech.com

iv

Driver Parameters:

Note

-----------------­num_sas_addr=1, sgl_page_size=512,

num_targets=256, event_log_mask=0x00000001,
num_sg_lists=1024, cmd_per_lun=7,
can_queue=128, sg_tablesize=255,
atto_max_sectors=65535, cmd_retry_count=20,
io_time_out=30, change_notification=1,
old_device_reset=0

ATTO CLI Tools

ATTO provides a set of Command Line Interface (CLI)
tools for managing ATTO adapters from the Service
Console of an ESX/ESXi host. These tools are
distributed in a compressed TAR file with the name:
vmw_app_hbacli_{date}.tgz. Replace {date} with the
actual date-string.

To install ATTO CLI Tools on an ESX/ESXi host:

Adapter Information:

-------------------­Model: ATTO ExpressSAS H680
SAS Address: 50010860:00104a40

Discovered Devices:

# TargID SAS Address

---------------------------------­None

Statistics:

----------­Time elapsed (ms) : 86530
Commands completed : 0
Outstanding commands : 0
Max outstanding commands: 0

1 Copy the TAR file to the ESX/ESXi host.
2 Extract the contents of the tar file using: tar xvzf

<tar file>

3 Change to the extracted directory using cd

vmw_app_hbacli_{date}

4 Run the installer: ./cli_install.sh
5 Follow the instructions to complete the

installation.

The following ATTO CLI tools are available:

atinfo

- View basic information about ATTO adapters

and their attached devices.

atflash

- View and update the flash version of ATTO

adapters.

atfcnvr

- View and modified parameters in the
NVRAM of ATTO Celerity adapters to fine-tune
adapter performance and behavior. You can save and
restore NVRAM settings from a file using this tool.

v ATTO Technology Inc. ATTO ExpressSAS Host & RAID Adapter Installation and Operation Manual

atsasnvr

- View and modify parameters in the NVRAM
of ATTO ExpressSAS adapters to fine-tune adapter
performance and behavior. You can save and restore
NVRAM settings from a file using this tool

On ESX 4.x, the ATTO CLI Tools should
NOT be installed on a VMFS volume.
Instead, they should be installed in an
appropriate location on the local disk, such
as /usr/sbin. On ESXi 4.x and ESXi 5.0, the
CLI tools should be installed on permanent
storage, such as a VMFS volume.

Appendix C Standards and Compliances

The equipment described in this manual generates and uses radio frequency energy. The Technical Specification
sheet for the ATTO ExpressSAS Host Adapter shows certifications for each model.

FCC standards: radio and television interference

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B
digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to

provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential
installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and
used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause interference to radio communications. However, there
is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause
interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the
user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna

• Increase the separation between the equipment

and receiver

Canadian standards

This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe A est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.

• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit
different from that to which the receiver is
connected

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV
technician for help

European standards

Declaration of Conformity

This following statement applies to the ATTO ExpressSAS Host Adapter.
This device has been tested in the basic operating configuration and found to be compliant with

the following European Union standards: Application of Council Directive: 89/336/EEC
Standard(s) to which conformity is declared:

EN55024:2002; EN55022:2002 CLASS B
This Declaration will only be valid when this product is used in conjunction with other CE approved devices and

when the entire system is tested to the applicable CE standards and found to be compliant.

The ATTO ExpressSAS Host Adapter cards comply with Directive 2002/95/EC on the
Restriction of the Use of Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment
(RoHS). Contact your ATTO representative regarding RoHS compliant products.

vi

Appendix D Safety and Warranty

All ATTO host adapter products have been tested to meet applicable safety standards when operated in proper
electrical and thermal environments.

Safety

Please review the specifications for your specific host adapter before installing and operating it in any computer
system to ensure compatibility.

Installation

Before installing an ATTO host adapter product into your computer system, unplug the computer from its electrical
power source and allow adequate time for electrical discharge and the internal components to cool down before
removing the computer system cover. This will decrease the risk of personal injury from electrical shock or
touching the hot surface of an electrical component.

Once an ATTO host adapter is installed in a computer system, the computer cover must be reinstalled properly
before turning the computer system back on.

Operation

ATTO host adapters require adequate cooling to function properly. If you have any questions as to the airflow
provided by your computer system, please refer to your computer system manual or contact your computer
system manufacturer.

To facilitate proper air circulation, ATTO host adapters should never be operated in a computer system without
the cover installed or with an inoperable fan as this may cause safety or thermal problems which could damage
the ATTO host adapter and void the warranty.

ATTO Technology, Inc. limited warranty

ATTO Technology, Inc. warrants to the original purchaser of this product that it is free from defects in material and
workmanship as described in the ATTO Technology website,

ATTO Technology, Inc. liability shall be limited to replacing or repairing, at its option, any defective product. There
is no charge for parts or labor should ATTO Technology, Inc. determine that this product is defective.

Products which have been subject to abuse, misuse, alteration, neglected, or have been serviced, repaired or
installed by unauthorized personnel shall not be covered under this warranty provision. Damage resulting from
incorrect connection or an inappropriate application of this product shall not be the responsibility of ATTO
Technology, Inc. Liability is limited to ATTO Technology, Inc.product(s); damage to other equipment connected to
ATTO Technology, Inc.product(s) is the customer’s responsibility.

This warranty is made in lieu of any other warranty, express or implied. ATTO Technology, Inc. disclaims any
implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.

ATTO Technology, Inc. responsibility to repair or replace a defective product is the sole and exclusive remedy
provided to the customer for breech of this warranty. ATTO Technology, Inc. is not liable for any indirect, special,
incidental, or consequential damages irrespective of whether ATTO Technology, Inc. has advance notice of the
possibility of such damages.

No ATTO Technology, Inc. dealer, agent or employee is authorized to make any modification, extension or
addition to this warranty.

www.attotech.com

, for three years.

vii ATTO Technology Inc. ATTO ExpressSAS Host & RAID Adapter Installation and Operation Manual