EqualLogic: How to change a hard disk on a 48 Disk EQL PS65x0 Array

Summary: This guide explains how to access the disk drawer in a Dell EqualLogic PS65x0 array.

This article applies to This article does not apply to This article is not tied to any specific product. Not all product versions are identified in this article.
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Instructions

The PS6500 is a 48 disk drive platform. The disks are inserted from the top once the chassis has been carefully pulled out of the rack.

The top cover should not be removed unless when servicing the array. If the cover is left off for an extended length of time, then it disturbs the air flow consistency within the chassis. 
itemized product parts displayed

The bezel can be removed by inserting the bezel key to unlock it. Then push the bezel release latch to release the bezel from the chassis. This then reveals the front panel. 
Front panel displayed
  1. Array Hardware Status LEDs
    • Six LEDs
    • Located on each side of the Power switch
  2. Power button
    • Blue when on
  3. LCD Panel
    • Identifies hardware failures
  4. Disk Drive LEDs
    • Green indicates that the disk is present and powered up
    • Flashing indicates activity
  5. Cam Screws
    • Secures the front panel
A closer view of the Cam screws:
Cam Screws
Once the screws on each side have been removed, pull the front panel to be able to access the disks.
access the disks
Disk drive numbering Disks are numbered from 0-47. The disk drives are separated into two 24 sections with the channel card between the disk drive sections.

The left section has disk drives 0-23 with disk 0 being in the front row lower left.
The right section has disk drives 24-47. Disk 47 is located in the far upper right.

Affected Products

Equallogic PS6500, Equallogic PS6500e, EqualLogic PS6500ES, EqualLogic PS6500X, Equallogic PS6510, Equallogic PS6510e, EqualLogic PS6510X
Article Properties
Article Number: 000105242
Article Type: How To
Last Modified: 09 Jul 2025
Version:  4
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