Qx2 (USB 3.0): Arrays, Rebuilds, and Formatting Options

Created on: May 19, 2013
Last updated: April 19, 2022

This document addresses some common points of confusion. Please use see the user manual for more detailed information.
http://eshop.macsales.com/tech_center/manuals/mercury_elite/OWCMANMEQX3_R3.pdf 

The Qx2 uses built-in hardware rather than software to set up your RAID drive. Other than Independent mode, each time you change the RAID mode the Qx2 will group two or more drives inside the enclosure and then configure them to follow the desired RAID behavior. This process is also called rebuilding the array (RAID stands for Redundant Array of Independent Disks). When this rebuild takes place, all data on the drive is destroyed!  For this reason always make sure you have a full backup of your data elsewhere before changing the RAID mode.

It's also important to understand that once an array has been rebuilt, it needs to be formatted so your operating system can read from and write to the Qx2. The array can also be partitioned into multiple drive volumes, the same as non-RAID drives. To learn more about parititions in OS X and Windows please visit:

https://eshop.macsales.com/owcpages/tech_support/drive-formatting-tips.html

Occasionally you may run into a scenario where, due to a drive failing and being replaced or other reason, the RAID needs to rebuild itself. Depending on the amount of data being rebuilt by the array this can take several hours or up to a day or more. In such a scenario if you already have a full backup on another device and you wish to create and then partition a new array (using the same RAID mode), follow the steps below.

If you follow the steps below without having a full backup elsewhere, your data will be lost!

1. Turn off the Qx2.

2. Change the RAID mode.

3. Using a paperclip or thin screwdriver, press and hold the Confirm button.

4. Turn the Qx2 on and wait for the lights to stop blinking.

5. Turn the Qx2 off again.

6. Change the RAID mode back to the original mode then repeat steps 3 and 4.

7. Open the OS X Disk Utility or your chosen formatting utility and partition the newly created disk array.

For more information on changing RAID modes and on protecting your data please check the user manual.