Going from 2 RAID1 SSDs to 4 RAID10

[TedKord]

OS: Win 8.1 64bit
MB: MSI Z87-G45
Hd: 2 X 128GB Corsair Force GS Series


I have the above mirrored in RAID0. I'm running up against the end of the drives (just over 3gb left thanks to my son's Steam games).

I'd like to add 2 more SSD drives, increasing the overall drive size, while keeping the mirroring, so RAID1+0. Is this possible with the MB/OS I have, and if so can I stripe a 256GB with a 128gb, then mirror that with an identical stripe for a total 384GB, or do all 4 need to be the same size (or the bigger is limited to the smaller size)?

If so, would the easiest route be to just image the current drive setup, then put the image back on the 1+0 setup after? Or will setting it up as 1+0 automatically redistribute the data?

Sorry for the lengthy question. I read the post about increasing an already setup 1+0 setup going from 4 to 6 drives, but I'm not sure it covered going from 1 t0 1+0. TIA for any info.

 

[dave_the_nerd]

Changing raid configurations will wipe everything.

Get a cheap 2TB hdd for your kids games.

 

[bigi]

Looks like you may look into getting a good dedicated RAID controller.

You'll run out of space eventually again and will face same dilemma.

IMO, you are wasting 1/2 of your total SSD space due to raid. I'd keep it simple and focus on backups.

I'd get a controller and nice multiple hot swap bay. Changing the drives later and switching RAID levels will be much simpler and quicker.

 

[saratoga172]

With the speed of SSD's you aren't really gaining much with a raid setup on them. I'd get a nice 1 or 2 TB spindle drive for games and move them there. Then un raid the drives and you've just doubled your ssd space. Games only benefit from ssd on launch. Otherwise they are pretty equal.