How does one use the RAID IDE channels on the Abit KR7-RAID to connect normal HDDs (not in an array)?

[Epsil0n00]

Hey,

I just got my Abit KR7-RAID. I don't want to use RAID at this point, but I would like to connect my HDD to the RAID connectors so that all my IDE devices can have their own channels (they're spoiled and not so good about sharing). The mobo users manual doesn't mention how to set up a drive on the RAID connectors, but use them like 2 more normal connectors. Is there anything special I have to do, or do I just plug it in like normal and proceed with the OS installation? Please let me know, especially if you have this mobo and particularly if you're running a single HDD on the RAID channels. Thanks.

{BTW, it is snowing like crazy here in Ohio and I love it! Yeah for SNOW!]

Epsil0n

 

[So]

You can plug them in and go, all you need to do is be sure to install the HPT372 drivers when installing Windows XP or 2k (hit f6 when it offers the option early on in the install, then when it asks, give it the driver disk and follow the instructions)

 

[Epsil0n00]

when it "offers" what "option" specifically? What exactly does the WinXP installer say that should let me know to install the HPT drivers at that point. Thanks again for the info!

 

[So]

This is from paul's Kr7a/kg7 faq ( Paul's Faq)



<< Install Windows (note: if your installation hangs during the first screen of the installation, check your floppy is connected correctly!!). Under Windows NT, 2000 and XP you should hit F6 at the beginning of the installation and install the latest Highpoint drivers if you intend using the Highpoint (RAID) controller.. >>



That is not a very clear explanation, so I will try to expand on it, but I thought that I could offer you the best KR7 resource on the web (just incase you weren't aware of it already).

That you have to do is press F6 when the grey bar at the bottom of the inital (dos like) XP installer says something like "press f6 if you have additional devices" (just press f6 when it tells you what f6 does). The installer will contiune on it's merry way for a while intil it gives you a screen with instructions, tell it that you want to specify the drivers and give it the floppy. Choose the windows XP driver and then continue with the install normally.

Actually, now that I think of it, if you are still confused, I think that XP has drivers for the HPT370 built in, these should work for the install, as long as you update the drivers from the disk after the install.

Edit: Fixed link.

 

[Epsil0n00]

thanks for the clarification!

 

[So]

Glad to help.