PowerEdge HDD: How to physically replace an HDD (Hot Swap procedure) ?

Note: This article is part of the Server Tutorials: "Raid and Disks" available here .

Pre-Removal Instructions

1. If installed, remove the Front Bezel.
2. From the management software, prepare the hard drive for removal. Wait until the indicators on the hard-drive carrier signal that the hard drive can be removed safely. For more information read the physical drive LEDs tab.
   This article explains how to switch the disk offline using OpenManage Server Administrator.

Physical Drive Disassembly

1. Press the release button to open the hard-drive carrier release handle.
2. Slide the hard-drive carrier out until it is free of the hard-drive slot.

    

   Note: To maintain proper system cooling, all empty hard drive slots must have hard drive blanks installed.

    

3. Remove the screws from the slide rails on the hard drive carrier.
4. Lift the hard drive out of the hard drive carrier.
5. If you are not replacing the hard drive immediately, insert a hard drive blank in the empty hard drive slot.

Physical Drive Reassembly : Steps to replace

1. Insert the hard drive into the hard drive carrier with the connector end of the hard drive toward the back.
2. Align the screw holes on the hard drive with the set of screw holes on the hard drive carrier.
3. When aligned correctly, the back of the hard drive is flush with the back of the hard drive carrier.
4. Attach the screws to secure the hard drive to the hard drive carrier.
5. If a hard drive blank is installed in the hard drive slot, remove it.
6. Insert the hard drive carrier into the hard drive slot until the carrier connects with the backplane.
7. Close the hard drive carrier handle to lock the hard drive in place.
    

Add physical drive in Virtual Disk Group​

To start the rebuild assign the disk as hot spare to the virtual drive. Check "Assign as Hotspare" tab