Dell PowerVault RD1000 User manual

Dell™ PowerVault™ RD1000
User's Guide

NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your computer.
CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates potential damage to hardware or loss of data if instructions are not
followed.
WARNING: A WARNING indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death.
Copyright © 2015 Dell Inc. All rights reserved. This product is protected by U.S. and international copyright and
intellectual property laws. Dell™ and the Dell logo are trademarks of Dell Inc. in the United States and/or other
jurisdictions. All other marks and names mentioned herein may be trademarks of their respective companies.
2015-03 Rev. A00

Index
Introduction
Quick Start Installation
Using the Drive
Using the Removable Disk Utility
Troubleshooting
Specifications
Regulatory
Appendix: Using the Linux Operating System
Information in this document is subject to change without notice.
Export Regulations
Customer acknowledges that these Products, which may include technology and software, are subject
to the customs and export control laws and regulations of the United States (U.S.) and may also be
subject to the customs and export laws and regulations of the country in which the Products are
manufactured and/or received. Customer agrees to abide by those laws and regulations. Further,
under U.S. law, the Products may not be sold, leased or otherwise transferred to, or utilized by an
end-user engaged in activities related to weapons of mass destruction, including without limitation,
activities related to the design, development, production or use of nuclear weapons, materials, or
facilities, missiles or the support of missile projects, and chemical or biological weapons.
Initial Release: March 2015

Introduction
Overview
The Dell PowerVault RD1000 is a removable, robust, hard disk drive system. It features backup
application compatibility, high speed transfer rate for fast backups, portable cartridges and high level
of data reliability. The RD1000 is available as an internal SATA device (see Figure 1) or external USB
device (see Figure 2).
Figure 1. RD1000 Internal Drives
3.5-inch Internal SATA Drive
5.25-inch Internal SATA Drive
Figure 2. RD1000 External Drive
External USB Drive

Capacity and Transfer Rates
The capacity and transfer rate of the RD1000 data storage system are dependent upon the inserted
RD1000 media. Capacity and transfer rate will vary depending on the RD1000 cartridge type. The
average transfer rates are listed in the table below.
Table 1. RD1000 Specifications
Characteristic
Storage capacity varies by individual cartridge capacity
Transfer Rate
Dependent on system configuration (see below)
Configuration
Theoretical Transfer
Rate
Maximum Burst
Transfer Rate
Typical Transfer Rate
RD1000 USB 2.0
USB 2.0 Host
USB 2.0 Cable
480 Mbps (60 MB/s)
35 MB/s
25 MB/s
RD1000 USB 3.0
USB 2.0 Host
USB 3.0 Cable
480 Mbps (60 MB/s)
35 MB/s
30 MB/s
RD1000 USB 3.0
USB 3.0 Host
USB 3.0 Cable
5 Gbps (625 MB/s)
230 MB/s
80 MB/s
SATA
1.5 Gbps (187.5 MB/s)
45 MB/s
35 MB/s
Average access time (msec)
15
Function
Removable disk drive
Logical block size
512 bytes
Supported file system
ext2, ext3, FAT32 and NTFS*
*NTFS is the default file system on the cartridge. If you are using Linux then the cartridge that comes
with your system will need to be re-formatted to support a file system that is compatible with a Linux
based operating system (see section "RD1000 Cartridge File System Considerations" in the appendix).
Supported Media
The RD1000 hard drive system supports any Dell RD1000 cartridge. RD1000 cartridges are available
in different capacity configurations depending on your storage requirements.

Operating System Requirements
The RD1000 hard drive system is supported on the following operating systems:
Windows 2003 Service Pack 1 or later
Windows 2008 R2 Service Pack 1 or later
Windows 7
Windows 8 / 8.1
Windows Server 2012 / 2012 R2
Linux (see "Linux Compatibility" section for more details)
Software
Backup Software
The RD1000 device works with industry backup applications that support removable disk media. See
your backup software manual for instructions on backing up data.
Windows Software
The RD1000 Utility provides essential Windows®software for use with the RD1000 unit. The RD1000
Utility Software can be downloaded at www.Dell.com/support. The RD1000 Utility software for
Windows installs:
A removable disk utility that provides basic diagnostic tests capabilities
An application update that enables the eject button to operate correctly under the Windows
operating system
An application that allows the right-click eject to operate in user-mode under the Windows
operating system
An application that automatically sets the SATA connection to DMA mode for improved
performance
See "Installing Unit Software for Windows" and "Using the Removable Disk Utility" sections for more
information on these applications.
Linux Software
There is no special software necessary when running Linux operating system. See "Using the Linux
Operating System" appendix for more information on using the RD1000 with Linux.

Front Panel Features
The front of the RD1000 unit has the following features and indicators:
1. Cartridge Indicator (located on cartridge)
2. Emergency Eject Hole
3. Eject Button/Power Indicator
Figure 3. Front Panel Features
Table 2. Power Indicator
The eject button is illuminated by a power indicator. Table 2 describes the operation of this indicator:
Indicator Status
Meaning
Description
OFF
No
Power /
Low
Power
Mode
Unit is in Low Power Mode (see below), or unit does not have power
Steady GREEN
Ready
Power is on and the RD1000 unit is working properly

Blinking GREEN
Ejecting
Unit is ejecting the cartridge
Steady AMBER
Fault
RD1000 unit has detected a fault condition. For more information, run a
diagnostic application (see section "Using the Removable Disk Utility").
Blinking AMBER
Prevent
Host computer is accessing the media, and the user has pressed the eject
button. The unit will blink amber for a few seconds then return to a steady
green. The unit will eject the cartridge after the host access completes.
Table 3. Cartridge Indicator
The cartridge indicator displays the current status of the cartridge. Table 3 describes the operation of
this indicator:
Indicator Status
Meaning
Description
OFF
Not
Ready
Cartridge is not inserted properly, the unit is in Low Power Mode, or the unit
has no power
Steady GREEN
Ready
Cartridge is ready
Blinking GREEN
Activity
Reading, writing, seeking
Steady AMBER
Fault
RD1000 unit has detected a cartridge fault condition. For more information,
run a diagnostic application (see section "Using the Removable Disk
Utility").
Low Power Mode [RD1000 USB 3.0 External only]
If the USB cable is unplugged from the USB 3.0 External dock, or the system that the dock is
connected to is turned off or in standby mode, the dock will enter Low Power Mode and the
dock Power Indicator will turn OFF.
If the media is inserted in the dock while in Low Power Mode the cartridge indicator will also
be turned off.
To eject a cartridge from the dock when it is in Low Power Mode, push and hold the Eject
button for approximately 10 seconds. The cartridge will be ejected, and the dock will go back
into Low Power Mode.
The dock will resume normal operation once the USB cable is reconnected to the computer.

Quick Start Installation
CAUTION: Before performing any of the procedures in this section, read and follow the
safety instruction in your Product Information Guide.
Dell-Installed PowerVault RD1000 Internal Drive
Dell performs the installation of a RD1000 Internal drive that is shipped as part of a system. If you are
running Windows®you will need to install the software included on the RD1000 User's Guide and
Utilities DVD, which includes essential Windows software for use with the RD1000 unit. In this case,
installation instructions are provided below in the "Installing Unit Software for Windows" section. If
you are using the Linux operating system see the appendix "Using the Linux Operating System".
Store the software DVD/diskette that came with your system in a safe place in case you ever need to
reinstall the software. If the software is misplaced it can be downloaded from www.Dell.com/support.
User-Installed PowerVault RD1000 Internal Drive
(Customer Kit)
This section describes how a user can install the PowerVault RD1000 Internal drive, in case it did not
come pre-installed by Dell.
Before You Begin
The RD1000 unit ships ready to install in a standard 3.5-inch or 5.25-inch half-high drive bay
depending on the configuration you order.
Depending on your computer you may need a standard (flat-blade) or Philips screwdriver to remove
the computer cover and install the drive in your computer.
Important Information on Electro-Static Damage
To protect your computer and drive from electro-static damage (ESD), follow these guidelines:
Before you open your computer or remove the RD1000 unit from its antistatic bag, ground
yourself by touching the metal chassis of your computer or some other grounded object. For
optimal protection, use an electrostatic grounding strap.
NOTE: Your computer must be plugged into a grounded electrical outlet to be properly
grounded.
Do not touch any printed circuit boards or electronic chips on your RD1000 device or in your
computer.
Turn your computer and any peripheral devices off before installing the RD1000 unit.

Installation Instructions
1. Carefully unpack the unit and accessories.
2. Turn off the computer.
3. Open the computer cover, using a screwdriver if necessary.
4. Mount the unit. Slide the RD1000 unit into an unused drive bay until the bezel is flush with the
front of the computer. Secure the unit using mounting screws, being careful not to over-
tighten the screws (see Figure 1 below).
5. Attach the power cable to the power connector (see Figure 1 below).
6. Connect the SATA data cable to the SATA data connector (see Figure 1 below).
7. Check all cables in your computer system. Before you reinstall your computer cover ensure
that all cables are correctly routed so that they will not bind or become crimped. Also, make
sure that no cables have loosened during the installation.
8. Replace your computer cover.
9. Turn on the computer.
10. During power-up press F2 key, or other hot key, to enter BIOS set up mode. Enable the SATA
port connected to your RD1000 unit. Save changes and exit from BIOS.
11. If running Windows install the RD1000 software (see "Installing Unit Software for Windows").
12. If you are using the Linux operating system see the appendix "Using the Linux Operating
System".
NOTE: If you choose to install a new operating system on your computer with an RD1000 unit
attached, make sure the cartridge is removed. This prevents the operating system from confusing
the removable drive with the system drive.
Figure 1. RD1000 Internal SATA Connectors
3.5-inch Internal SATA Drive
5.25-inch Internal SATA Drive
1
Mounting Screws
2
Power Adapter Cable
3
Mounting Holes
4
SATA Data Cable

Installing the Dell PowerVault RD1000 External Drive
1. Carefully unpack the unit and accessories.
2. Attach the USB cable to USB port on the back of the RD1000 unit and connect it to an available
USB 2.0 port on the computer (see Figure 2 below).
3. Attach the power cable to the power connector (see Figure 2 below) and plug it into an outlet.
4. Select a convenient location for the PowerVault RD1000 External drive that is flat, sturdy, level
and close to the host server. The drive can be oriented horizontally or vertically.
5. If running Windows install the RD1000 software (see "Installing Unit Software for Windows").
6. If you are using the Linux operating system see appendix "Using the Linux Operating System".
Figure 2. RD1000 External USB Connectors
1
AC Power Adapter
2
USB 2.0 Connector (black)
3
USB 3.0 Connector (blue)
USB Cables
The USB2 device will only accept USB 2.0 cables and is not compatible with a USB 3.0 cable (see
“connector detail” in Figure 2).
The USB3 device will accept both USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 cables.
Note: Using a USB 2.0 cable with a USB3 device will not optimize the performance of the USB3 device
(see the section on “Unit Performance Seems Slow”)

Installing Unit Software for Windows
The RD1000 Utility provides essential Windows®software for use with the RD1000 unit. The RD1000
Utility Software can be downloaded at www.Dell.com/support. The RD1000 Utility software for
Windows installs:
A removable disk utility that provides basic diagnostic tests capabilities
An application update that enables the eject button to operate correctly under the Windows
operating system
An application that allows the right-click eject to operate in user-mode under the Windows
operating system
An application that automatically sets the SATA connection to DMA mode for improved
performance
NOTE: If the RD1000 software is not installed the eject button and right-click eject method may
not work properly.
To install the software (Microsoft®Windows Server 2003 / 2008 / 2012, Windows 7 / 8):
NOTE: You must be logged in as the Administrator or have administrator privileges to install the
software.
1. Go to www.Dell.com/support to download the RD1000 Utility.
2. Click on the executable setup file to install and follow the instructions.
3. Re-start the computer.
Your new Dell™ PowerVault™ RD1000 is ready for use. See your backup software manual for
instructions on backing up data.

Using the Drive
Operating the RD1000 Unit
This section describes typical activities involved in operating and maintaining the RD1000 unit. For
instructions on using your backup software, see the manual that came with your software.
Handling the RD1000 Cartridges
Although RD1000 cartridges are robust, the best practice is to handle them with extra care. This will
ensure data integrity and long life. Observe the following precautions:
Store cartridges in their protective cases when you are not using them.
Do not stack RD1000 cartridges.
Keep cartridges away from dust, dirt and moisture.
Avoid direct sunlight, heat sources and temperature extremes or rapid changes in
temperature.
Never try to force the cartridge into the unit. If it is difficult to insert, check the orientation
and insure correct alignment using keyed corner as a guide.
Loading and Unloading Cartridges
The front of your unit has an opening for inserting RD1000 cartridges. A protective door covers the
opening. Below and to the right of the door is the power indicator that doubles as a cartridge-eject
button.
To Load a Cartridge
Insert the cartridge in the unit with the keyed corner facing the upper left corner of the unit and the
write-protect tab on the back right (see Figure 1). The cartridge only fits in one orientation. Push the
cartridge gently into the unit until it is locked in place with a clicking sound.

Figure 1. Loading the Cartridge
1
Keyed Corner
2
Write Protect Tab
To Unload a Cartridge
To unload a cartridge using the mouse right-click method (Windows only):
1. While running Windows®Explorer locate the drive letter for the device.
2. Right-click on the device and select Eject.
3. When the cartridge has been ejected by the unit, grasp the exposed sides of the cartridge and
pull the cartridge straight out (see Figure 2).
To unload a cartridge using the eject button:
1. Push the eject button.
2. When the cartridge has been ejected by the unit, grasp the exposed sides of the cartridge and
pull the cartridge straight out (see Figure 2).
To unload a cartridge when the unit is in Low Power Mode [RD1000 USB 3.0 External only]:
1. Push and hold the eject button for approximately 10 seconds.

2. The cartridge will eject, and the dock will return to Low Power Mode.
NOTE: If the RD1000 software is not installed the eject button and right-click eject method may
not work properly (see section "Installing Unit Software for Windows").
NOTE: Under proper operation, the drive bay will make an audible noise during the ejection
process. If the cartridge does not eject see the "Troubleshooting" section for more details.
Figure 2. Unloading the Cartridge
1
Cartridge Indicator (located on cartridge)
2
Emergency Eject Hole
3
Eject Button/Power Indicator
To Eject a Cartridge in Emergency
NOTE: Do not emergency eject a RD1000 cartridge while the cartridge activity indicator is flashing.
If the cartridge does not eject, using either the eject button or the right-click eject methods then use
the following emergency eject hole method to recover the cartridge:
1. If using the RD1000 Internal device, turn off your computer. If using the RD1000 External
device, unplug the power cable.

2. Insert a large straightened paper clip (or similar object) into the Emergency Eject Hole (see
Figure 2). Do not insert the object in the hole at an angle. Keep the object straight and
apply some force to eject the cartridge.
3. When the cartridge has been ejected by the unit, grasp the exposed sides of the cartridge and
pull the cartridge straight out (see Figure 2).
4. Re-start your computer to reset the RD1000 unit. If using the RD1000 External device, re-plug
in the power cable for the unit and then re-start your computer.
Copying Files
The RD1000 device operates just like other disk drives attached to your computer. As a result, you
can use file browsers such as Windows Explorer to drag and drop files to the RD1000 cartridge.
To Copy Files to an RD1000 Cartridge (Windows only):
1. Insert a cartridge into the RD1000 device.
2. Double-click on My Computer to see the list of devices attached to your computer.
3. Double-click on the removable disk drive to view the files on the RD1000 cartridge.
4. Drag and drop files into the browser window to copy files to the cartridge.

Using the Removable Disk Utility
Overview
The RD1000 Utility is a Windows®application that allows you to diagnose problems with your RD1000
device. With the utility, you can:
Identify RD1000 devices attached to your computer.
Retrieve device and cartridge status information.
Test the unit and the cartridge.
Using Removable Disk Utility
To run the RD1000 Utility for Windows:
Click StartAll ProgramsRD1000RD1000 Utility.
For instructions on using removable disk utility, click Help (see Figure 1 below).
Figure 1. RD1000 Utility
If the software is not installed on your computer, see the section "Installing Unit Software for
Windows" for installation instructions.

Troubleshooting
The Power Indicator is OFF
RD1000 Internal Drive
If the power indicator is off, the RD1000 Internal unit does not have power. Follow these steps to
verify the cable connections in the rear of the unit:
1. Turn off the computer.
2. Check the SATA power and SATA data cable connections in the rear of the unit.
3. Turn on the computer.
RD1000 External Drive
If the power indicator is off, the RD1000 External unit does not have power, or the unit is in Low
Power Mode. Follow these steps to verify the cable connections in the rear of the unit:
1. Check power connection at the back of the unit.
2. Check that the power adapter is plugged into an outlet.
3. If plugged into an outlet strip make sure that it is turned on.
4. [RD1000 USB 3.0 External only] If all of the above are OK, the unit may be in Low Power
Mode. Check the USB connection between the unit and the computer. If the USB cable is not
connected to the computer, or the computer is OFF, the unit will be in Low Power Mode.
The Power Indicator is Steady AMBER
If the power indicator is a steady amber, the RD1000 unit is not working properly. The error is due to
one of the following conditions:
The unit cannot eject the cartridge due to an obstruction.
The internal electronics are damaged or malfunctioning.
Follow these steps to remove a stuck cartridge:
1. If using the RD1000 Internal device, turn off your computer. If using the RD1000 External
device, unplug the power cable.
2. Insert a large straightened paper clip (or similar object) into the Emergency Eject Hole (see
Figure 2 in the "Using the Drive: Loading and Unloading Cartridges" section). Do not insert
the object in the hole at an angle. Keep the object straight and apply some force to eject
the cartridge.
3. When the cartridge has been ejected by the unit, grasp the exposed sides of the cartridge and
pull the cartridge straight out.
4. Re-start your computer to reset the RD1000 unit. If using the RD1000 External device, re-plug
in the power cable for the unit and then re-start your computer.

The Power Indicator is Blinking AMBER, and the Cartridge Does
Not Eject
If the power indicator is blinking amber after you press the eject button, the Host computer is
accessing the media. The RD1000 unit will eject the cartridge after the Host access completes.
If the cartridge does not eject after the Host computer access completes, you may not be running the
correct unit software. See the "Installing Unit Software for Windows" section for instructions on
installing the software.
If the cartridge still does not eject, use Windows Explorer to eject the cartridge. In Windows®
Explorer, right-click on the drive letter for the RD1000 unit (i.e. F:), and select Eject.
The Cartridge Indicator is Steady AMBER
The cartridge indicator is located on the front of the cartridge. If this indicator is amber, the cartridge
is not working properly. The error is due to one of the following conditions:
The cartridge is not compatible with the RD1000 unit.
The cartridge has been severely damaged.
The cartridge has not been fully inserted.
Run the removable disk utility to obtain more information about the failure. See section "Using the
Removable Disk Utility".
The Cartridge Does Not Eject
If the cartridge does not eject, verify that you have installed the unit software. For instructions on
installing the software, see the "Installing Unit Software for Windows" section.
[RD1000 USB 3.0 External only] If the unit is in Low Power Mode (power connected, computer
OFF/standby, or USB cable not connected), press and hold the Eject button for approximately 10
seconds. The cartridge will be ejected and the unit will return to Low Power Mode
Follow these steps to remove a stuck cartridge:
1. If using the RD1000 Internal device, turn off your computer. If using the RD1000 External
device, unplug the power cable.
2. Insert a large straightened paper clip (or similar object) into the Emergency Eject Hole (see
Figure 2 in the Using the Drive: Loading and Unloading Cartridges section). Do not insert the
object in the hole at an angle. Keep the object straight and apply some force to eject the
cartridge.
3. When the cartridge has been ejected by the unit, grasp the exposed sides of the cartridge and
pull the cartridge straight out.

4. Re-start your computer to reset the RD1000 unit. If using the RD1000 External device, re-plug
in the power cable for the unit and then re-start your computer.
NOTE: When the emergency eject is used the computer's operating system will lose recognition of
the RD1000 media. Therefore, one of the following options can be preformed to restore
recognition.
1. Re-start the computer (recommended).
2. Follow steps 1-4 in "The Unit does Not Appear in the Device Manager (Windows)" section if
re-starting the computer is not desired.
The Unit Does Not Appear in the Device Manager (Windows)
If the unit does not appear in the Windows Device Manager and the power indicator is green, follow
these steps to rescan the hardware:
1. Bring up the Device Manager:
1. Right-click on My Computer
2. Select Manage
3. Select Device Manager
2. Right-click on the top folder (this should be your computer’s name).
3. Select Scan for Hardware Changes.
4. You should see your RD1000 device listed under Disk drives. If the device does not appear,
re-start the computer.
Unit Performance Seems Slow
RD1000 Internal Drive
Some system SATA ports do not by default operate in DMA mode for the RD1000 Internal device. This
results in slower performance and weaker data protection. Reinstall the unit software for Windows to
set the SATA ports to the correct mode. Refer to "Installing Unit Software for Windows" section.
RD1000 External Drive
The RD1000 External device may appear slow based on the type of USB port the device is attached
to.
a) If your RD1000 drive supports USB 3.0 make sure your unit is connected to a USB 3.0 port instead
of a USB 2.0 port. For best performance, connect directly to a USB 3.0 root hub on the PC and not an
external hub.
NOTE: If your host system does not support USB 3.0, then a host adapter card supporting USB
3.0 may be required for your PC.