Good SAS controller for imaging drives

[data-medics]

Hi guys,

I'm setting up a dedicated RAID recovery computer right now and I'm trying to decide on an SAS controller card. I need one that is stable, supports hotswap, and preferably can handle drives with a few bad sectors. I really don't care about it's RAID functionality as I always use virtual RAID. In fact I'd prefer one that is non-RAID or can simply override most RAID functions and operate drives individually. I just don't have much experience with SAS controllers as the drives rarely fail, but I want to be prepared for that eventuality.

Anyone know of a good one they can recommend?

Thanks,
Jared

[data-medics]

Oh, and I'd prefer at least 8 ports. And support for 4Tb drives.

[labtech]

LSI have been good for me.

[DR-Kiev]

i second about LSI

[lcoughey]

If you are getting a lot of SAS drives, you might want to get a DeepSpar SAS Imager. I use an a adaptec 1405 non RAID SAS adapter for most SAS related activities.

[ici_lemmy]

I use an a adaptec 1405 non RAID SAS adapter for most SAS related activities.

Me too... "non RAID" are the key words...